Tissue expanders may be used in both immediate and delayed breast reconstruction surgery to expand the skin, creating a shaped pocket for the breast implant to later occupy. The tissue expander is inserted unfilled during the breast reconstruction procedure. Sterile saline fluid is then gradually added by inserting a small needle through the skin into the tissue expander’s filling port. Your breast tissue expands to accommodate the growing size of the tissue expander. Your surgeon will remove the tissue expander and replace it with the implant you have selected when your tissue has reached the appropriate size.

MENTOR^® Tissue Expanders

• FDA approved
• Filled with saltwater solution similar to the fluid found in the human body
• Flexible volume, can be adjusted by your doctor
• 2 shell surface options: Smooth or Textured (SILTEX® Texture)

CONTOUR PROFILE® Tissue Expanders

Description: CONTOUR PROFILE® Expanders are designed to expand primarily in the lower portion of the breast, so the resulting pocket will accommodate your selected breast implant and slope like a mature breast. CONTOUR PROFILE® Expanders also have an integral injection dome that allows your surgeon to add saline solution to the expander and gradually stretch the breast tissue over a period several months. The addition of a SILTEX® Texture texturized shell promotes a reduction in shifting with the goal to minimize capsular contracture.

CPX2™ Tissue Expanders

Description: CPX2™ Expanders have a natural shape, an easy-to-find integral injection dome, and the BufferZone® Self-Sealing Patch for security and reliability. CPX2™ Expanders are available in 3 heights to meet your eventual breast implant needs.

CPX3™ Tissue Expanders

Description: CPX3™ Expanders offer the same reliable features as our original CONTOUR PROFILE® Expanders, but with the added convenience of suture tabs for enhanced stability. Tabs give your surgeon the ability to fixate the CPX3™ Expander, preventing shift and/or rotation for a more predictable result and optimized outcome. CPX3™ Expanders also come in 3 heights for best results.

SPECTRUM^™ Post-Operatively Adjustable Saline Breast Implant

In some immediate reconstruction procedures, a combination tissue expander/breast implant can be used in a one-stage procedure that bypasses traditional tissue expanders. SPECTRUM™ Post-Operatively Adjustable Saline Breast Implant are the only post-operatively adjustable saline breast implants that allow your surgeon to adjust the size of your implant for up to six months after your procedure. The SPECTRUM® Implant functions as both a tissue expander and a long-term saline breast implant. It can be placed with minimal volume during your initial surgery, and your surgeon can gradually increase the fluid volume over time, expanding your breast tissues. To read more about SPECTRUM® Saline Breast Implants, please click here.