Implant-only Reconstruction
In implant-only reconstruction (one-stage reconstruction), an implant is placed in the breast pocket without prior expansion, meaning a second operation is not usually needed.
| POTENTIAL ADVANTAGES |
POTENTIAL DISADVANTAGES |
| Shorter operation |
| Shorter hospital stay |
| Quicker recovery |
| No donor-site complications (such as muscle weakness, pain, bleeding or infection) |
| Fewer scars |
| May be less painful versus autologous reconstruction |
| Avoids a second operative site |
|
| Possibility of multiple operations |
| Foreign implant in patient's body could lead to complications |
| Risk of scar tissue formation and capsular contracture (particularly in radiated breasts) |
| Possible differences in size and shape of both breasts |
| Bleeding, pain, wound infection and bruising may occur after operation |
| Risk of damage or rupture of the implant |
| Risk of infection and implant loss |
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