Breast reconstruction with a subcutaneous tissue expander followed with a polyurethane-covered silicone breast implant.

We have reexamined the subcutaneous route of reconstruction of the breast following mastectomy. For either delayed or immediate reconstruction of the breast, we have used a subcutaneously placed Radovan tissue expander, followed by expansion of the skin flap, then capsulotomy and insertion of the polyurethane-coated implant. The results of these procedures are presented after follow-up periods ranging from one and one-half to three years, with more than satisfactory results.