
TWO-STAGE VS. DIRECT-TO-IMPLANT RECONSTRUCTION
The biggest advantage of this two-stage approach is that small-breasted women who wish to have reconstructed breasts larger than their natural size are able to. Additionally, this technique allows the patient to choose the final size during the expansion period by living with the expanders at different sizes, as they are filled over time.
Direct-to-implant reconstruction is a new alternative to the two-stage approach, and involves a single surgery. The technique involves reconstructing the breast immediately with a permanent implant, eliminating the need for a tissue expander or second surgery. The obvious advantage is that, in most cases, it allows for the patient to have their mastectomy and final reconstruction in only one procedure. The direct-to implant approach continues to increase in popularity among patients due to its efficiency and excellent esthetic outcomes.