title: Implant-based reconstruction.
abstract: Prosthetic reconstruction of the breast, either with standard or adjustable implants or as a staged procedure with tissue expanders followed by implants, has evolved into a reliable method for breast reconstruction. Advances in implant technology and biomaterials allow for low complication rates, good aesthetic outcomes, and consistent results. Potential advantages over other reconstructive techniques include the relative simplicity of the procedures, the use of adjacent tissue without significant donor site morbidity, reduced operative time, and quicker patient recovery. Although some may still consider autologous tissue reconstruction as the gold standard, today's prosthetic reconstructions play an equally important role in the reconstruction of the breast for many women.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC 20007, USA. spears@gunet.georgetown.edu
authors.forename: Scott L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Spear
authors.forename: Ali N
authors.initials: AN
authors.lastname: Mesbahi
mesh_terms: D018427:Breast Implants; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000379:methods*; D008408:Mastectomy; D015625:Tissue Expansion Devices