Even though plastic surgeons often give preference to autologous reconstruction if patients are suitable for it, reconstruction using implants is easier on a practical level. It is simple, less costly, less traumatic, and much faster. Breast reconstruction using implants is the most commonly used technique for restoring breasts after a mastectomy.

Direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction is an alternative approach to the traditional expander-implant breast reconstruction. It allows the plastic surgeon to place a breast implant right after a mastectomy is completed.

In most cases, the DTI procedure is executed with the help of AlloDerm, a dermal matrix an acellular dermal matrix, a patch that stabilizes the implant position and allows for complete implant coverage. This offers excellent results and reduces the procedure to a single-step breast reconstruction surgery

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction?

There are a variety of factors that can help determine if you will make a suitable candidate for a direct-to-implant breast reconstruction procedure. You are an ideal candidate if:

  • You do not have any medical conditions that can impair the healing process.
  • You have a positive outlook and realistic goals.
  • You don’t smoke, or you’re ready to give it up for a few weeks before and after the surgery.
  • You’re ready to restore your breasts and your body image.

A critical factor to examine in possible candidates is if the leftover skin, in combination with AlloDerm, can successfully accommodate the breast implant volume. It is also important for the remaining breast skin to be healthy.

By undergoing the direct-to-implant breast reconstruction, patients are able to forego a preliminary stage present in expander-implant breast reconstruction. During this stage, the surgeon inflates the temporary expander implants over a period of time to stretch the overlying muscle and skin.

In the DTI breast reconstruction procedure, the placement of the filled breast implant takes place when you are still under the effects of general anesthesia from the mastectomy.

The DTI Procedure

During the direct-to-implant breast reconstruction procedure, your plastic surgeon will position the implant on your chest wall and place it behind your pectoralis major muscle. An acellular dermal matrix will also be secured to your chest wall (along outer and lower breast folds) to provide extra soft-tissue support. This is done right after the completion of a mastectomy.

There are numerous factors that determine the success of any breast reconstruction surgery. The most important one is selecting the right size and shape of the implant. In addition to this, your plastic surgeon will also discuss the different types of implants that can be used for the DTI breast reconstruction procedure.

The most common breast implant options includes silicone and saline breast implants. These implants are FDA approved and offer high-quality outcomes for breast reconstruction surgeries. Your surgeon can suggest the best implants for you after a detailed breast analysis.

Contact Our Office

To learn more about the procedure, contact the Plastic Surgery Institute of Dayton to set up a consultation. Our surgeons are highly skilled and ready to assist you from start to finish. We can help you get the look you desire with excellent service and care.