Tissue Expansion

Tissue Expansion

Scars, skin loss, or the effects of surgery can alter your appearance and affect your self-confidence, sometimes in ways that creams or non-surgical treatments cannot address. Whether caused by breast removal, an accident, or a congenital condition, these concerns often require a specialized solution.

At Northstate Plastic Surgery in Chico, CA, we offer tissue expansion to naturally create new skin for reconstruction. By utilizing your body’s own tissue, this procedure yields results that appear authentic and feel natural, helping to restore both function and confidence.

What Is Tissue Expansion?

Tissue expansion is a relatively straightforward procedure that enables the body to “grow” extra skin for use in reconstructing almost any part of the body. By gradually stretching the skin, surgeons can create tissue that matches in color, texture, and thickness, resulting in natural-looking and feeling outcomes.

It is most commonly used for breast reconstruction following breast removal, but it’s also used to repair skin damaged by birth defects, accidents or surgery, and in certain cosmetic procedures. Because the technique relies on your own skin, it reduces the risk of rejection and often provides more seamless, long-lasting outcomes compared to grafts or synthetic materials.

How Tissue Expansion Works

A silicone balloon expander is inserted under the skin near the area to be repaired and then gradually filled with salt water over time, causing the skin to stretch and grow. This process takes place in small, controlled steps during office visits, where we carefully add saline to gently expand the tissue.

As the skin stretches, your body naturally generates new cells, creating extra tissue that can be used for reconstruction. Once enough skin has been produced, the expander is removed in a second procedure, and the newly grown tissue is used to complete the repair or reconstruction.

Benefits of Tissue Expansion

Natural Skin Match

Because the procedure uses your own skin, the new tissue blends seamlessly with the surrounding areas. This creates a more natural look and feel compared to grafts or artificial materials.

Lower Risk of Rejection

Since the tissue comes from your own body, there’s virtually no risk of rejection. This reduces complications and helps ensure a smoother healing process.

Large Amounts of Tissue

Tissue expansion can generate significant amounts of new skin. This makes it useful for both small and large reconstruction needs.

Improved Aesthetic Results

The expanded skin better matches the tone and texture of the surrounding areas. This results in less noticeable scars and more natural-looking repairs.

Durable and Long-Lasting

The results of tissue expansion are permanent because the skin is naturally grown. Once the reconstruction is complete, the improvements remain stable over time.

Tissue Expansion vs. Other Reconstruction Options

There are several ways to restore skin after surgery, injury, or congenital conditions, and tissue expansion is just one of these options. Unlike skin grafts, which involve transferring skin from another area of the body, tissue expansion uses your own nearby tissue. This creates a better color, texture, and thickness match, reducing the appearance of scarring and improving overall results.

Flap procedures, where tissue is moved from one part of the body to another, can also be effective but are often more invasive and require a longer recovery period. Tissue expansion, by contrast, is a less complex procedure that produces durable results with a lower risk of complications, such as rejection. For many patients, it offers the most natural and long-lasting outcome.

What to Expect with Tissue Expansion

Before Your Procedure

If your doctor is recommending tissue expansion, this will give you a basic understanding of the procedure — when it can help, how it’s performed, and what results you can expect. It can’t answer all of your questions, however, since much depends on your individual circumstances. Please be sure to ask your surgeon if there is anything you don’t understand about the procedure.

During the Procedure

The first procedure involves placing a silicone balloon expander beneath the skin in the area where new tissue is needed. This is typically performed under anesthesia, and most patients can return home the same day. Some swelling and soreness are normal, but these usually improve quickly in the days that follow.

Expansion Process

Over the next several weeks to months, you’ll return for regular office visits. At each appointment, the expander is gradually filled with saline solution, stretching the skin to create new tissue. Patients often describe a feeling of tightness or mild pressure after each fill, but it generally resolves within a day or two.

After Expansion and Reconstruction

Once the skin has stretched to the desired amount, a second procedure is performed to remove the expander and complete the reconstruction. Recovery varies depending on the type of repair but usually involves taking it easy for a short period before resuming normal activities.

Recovery and Downtime for Tissue Expansion

Recovery and Downtime

Healing after tissue expansion is a gradual process that occurs over several weeks to months, depending on the amount of skin required and your overall treatment plan. Understanding the timeline can help you feel prepared and more comfortable with each stage of the process.

First Few Days

After the expander is placed, you may notice swelling, bruising, and mild soreness around the surgical site. Prescription or over-the-counter pain relief can help manage discomfort, and most patients can return home the same day.

1 to 2 Weeks

Within one to two weeks, most patients resume their light daily activities, although some may experience some tightness or tenderness that persists. You’ll also begin follow-up visits, where your surgeon gradually fills the expander to gently stretch the skin.

Expansion Phase

Over the next several weeks, you’ll continue with scheduled office visits to add saline to the expander. Mild pressure or tightness is common after each fill but usually improves within a day or two.

After Expansion and Reconstruction

Once the skin has stretched enough, a second procedure is performed to remove the expander and complete reconstruction. Recovery from this step is similar to that following the first surgery, with most patients returning to their normal routines within one to two weeks.

Final Results

Over time, the new skin blends seamlessly with the surrounding areas, creating a natural look and feel. Scars gradually fade, and with good care, the results of tissue expansion are long-lasting and reliable.

Preparing for Tissue Expansion Surgery

Preparing for tissue expansion is a crucial step in ensuring a safe procedure and a smooth healing process. Your surgeon may recommend quitting smoking or nicotine use several weeks beforehand, since these can affect circulation and slow down recovery. You might also need to pause certain medications, supplements, or over-the-counter pain relievers that increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. Depending on your health history, additional lab work or a medical evaluation may be requested before surgery.

It’s also important to plan for your immediate recovery needs. Arrange for someone you trust to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you during the first day or two. On the morning of surgery, wear relaxed clothing that’s easy to take on and off, and leave jewelry, makeup, and nail polish at home.

To make recovery more comfortable, prepare a quiet space stocked with essentials such as pillows, water, light snacks, entertainment, and any supplies your surgeon has recommended. Following your pre-surgery instructions carefully, including fasting guidelines and hygiene routines, will help ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

Ideal Candidates for Tissue Expansion

Tissue expansion may be recommended for patients who need additional healthy skin for reconstructive or cosmetic purposes. Ideal candidates are in generally good health, do not smoke, and have sufficient skin elasticity in the area to be treated.

This procedure is often best suited for individuals recovering from mastectomy, trauma, or burns, as well as those addressing congenital conditions. During your consultation, Dr. Kevin D. Myers will review your health history, examine the treatment site, and determine whether tissue expansion is the right option for your goals.

Risks and Considerations for Tissue Expansion

Tissue expansion has been used safely for decades and offers reliable results in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Still, it is a surgical procedure, and understanding the potential risks is an important step in making an informed decision. Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety and prepare you for a smoother recovery.

Possible complications include infection, bleeding, scarring, or temporary discomfort during the expansion process. In rare cases, the expander may leak, deflate, or cause skin thinning over the treatment area. Some patients may also experience changes in skin sensation or notice the temporary bulge of the expander beneath the surface.

While these risks are uncommon, especially under the care of a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Kevin D. Myers, your safety is always our top priority. You’ll receive a personalized risk assessment and detailed aftercare instructions to help minimize complications and support the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tissue Expansion

How long will the expander stay in place?

Most expanders remain in place for several weeks to a few months, depending on the amount of new skin required. We will monitor the progress during each office visit and determine the right time to move forward with reconstruction. In some cases, expanders may be left in place for a longer period if additional tissue is required or if healing takes longer.

Can I continue with my normal activities during the expansion process?

Most patients can continue working, exercising lightly, and performing daily routines while the expander is in place. You may experience some tightness after a fill, so you may need to adjust certain movements; however, restrictions are generally minimal. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided until your surgeon gives clearance.

Is it possible for the skin to overstretch?

Loose, soft clothing is usually most comfortable while the skin is stretching. For breast reconstruction, a supportive bra without underwire may help reduce movement and provide comfort. For other areas of the body, breathable fabrics and non-restrictive fits are recommended to avoid added pressure on the expander site.

What should I wear while the expander is in place?

Loose-fitting, soft clothing is usually the most comfortable option. Some patients choose supportive garments or bras (for breast reconstruction) to reduce movement and ease mild pressure around the treatment area.

What happens if I decide not to continue with tissue expansion?

If you choose not to complete the process, the expander can be removed at any time. We will then discuss alternative reconstruction options that may be appropriate for your situation.

How much does tissue expansion cost, and are financing options available?

The cost of tissue expansion depends on several factors, including the area being treated, surgical time, anesthesia, and whether additional reconstruction procedures are needed. At Northstate Plastic Surgery, you’ll receive a personalized estimate during your consultation. Financing options are available through trusted providers, making it easier to move forward with treatment in a way that fits your budget.

Why Choose Northstate Plastic Surgery for Tissue Expansion?

Patients across Chico and the greater Northstate region trust Dr. Kevin D. Myers for his expertise in advanced reconstructive procedures like tissue expansion. With years of surgical training and a reputation for precise, natural outcomes, Dr. Myers approaches every case with careful attention to both function and appearance.

At Northstate Plastic Surgery, you’ll find a supportive environment where your concerns are heard, and your treatment is tailored to your needs. We focus on safety, compassion, and results that restore not only your skin but also your confidence. You deserve to feel whole, comfortable, and truly yourself again.

Begin Your Tissue Expansion Care in Chico, CA

Skin loss or scarring doesn’t have to define your appearance or your confidence. Tissue expansion offers a proven method for restoring healthy skin using your body’s own tissue, resulting in natural-looking and long-lasting outcomes. At Northstate Plastic Surgery, we combine advanced techniques with compassionate care to support you every step of the way.

If you’re ready to explore your options, schedule a private consultation with Dr. Kevin D. Myers. Call (530) 345-5900 or reach out online. We proudly serve patients throughout Chico and the Northstate region.

Additional Resources

For more information, visit The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.