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Direct to Implant

Direct-to-implant breast reconstruction offers a streamlined approach by combining mastectomy and implant placement in a single surgery. For patients with sufficient healthy breast tissue, this technique eliminates the need for a tissue expander, providing immediate results. Upon completion of the mastectomy, your surgeon can place a permanent implant, creating a well-defined breast shape. This “one-step” procedure offers the benefit of waking up with a reconstructed breast, enhancing both the aesthetic outcome and your emotional recovery.

Aesthetic and Reconstructive Procedures in New York and New Jersey
Direct to Implant

Key Information/What to Know

  • Both silicone (more common) and saline implants are used. You will discuss with your surgeon to choose the type of implant best suited to you. 
  • Implants can be placed either over (prepectoral) or under (subpectoral) your pectoralis muscle. 
  • A biologic matrix is often used around the implant to help secure the implant position   
  • Patients come out of mastectomy procedure with well defined breast volume and shape 
  • Minor revision procedures to fine tune shape, symmetry, and size may be needed in future. 

Types of Procedures for Direct to Implant Breast Reconstruction

In this procedure, the breast implant is placed immediately after the mastectomy, without the need for a tissue expander. It’s ideal for patients with enough healthy, stretchable skin, allowing for a quicker and more efficient recovery with the implant serving as the final reconstruction.

For patients with insufficient breast tissue or those seeking added volume, a tissue flap (like a DIEP flap) can be combined with direct-to-implant placement. The tissue flap provides additional coverage and support for the implant, helping to achieve a more natural look, especially in patients who have undergone a mastectomy and have little skin or soft tissue left.

In some cases, fat grafting is used alongside direct-to-implant placement to enhance the shape and volume of the reconstructed breast. Fat is typically harvested from another part of the body and injected around the implant to improve contour and achieve a fuller, more natural aesthetic.

For patients who are candidates for nipple-sparing mastectomy, the direct-to-implant procedure can be performed with the preservation of the nipple and areola. This allows for a more natural-looking outcome while still benefiting from the one-step implant placement.

In this approach, the implant is placed above the chest muscle (pre-pectoral), rather than beneath it (sub-pectoral). This method can reduce post-surgical discomfort and recovery time while providing a softer, more natural appearance.

Direct To Implant

Why Choose Specialized Plastic Surgery for Direct to Implant

At Specialized Plastic Surgery, we specialize in direct-to-implant breast reconstruction, offering a streamlined, one-step approach to mastectomy and implant placement. Our experienced, board-certified surgeons tailor each procedure to your unique anatomy, ensuring natural, long-lasting results. With a focus on patient comfort, minimal downtime, and advanced techniques, we strive to provide you with a smooth, confident recovery. Choosing us means receiving expert care in a supportive, compassionate environment, where your aesthetic goals and emotional well-being are our top priorities.

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