Experience with the Mentor Contour Profile Becker-35 expandable implants in reconstructive breast surgery

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Established breast expander implants include round (Becker 25/50) and firm gel anatomical prostheses (McGhan Style 150).
• Drawbacks of existing options led to the selective adoption of the anatomical Becker-35 expander with soft cohesive gel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes and complications of the Contour Profile Becker-35 expandable implant in breast reconstruction.
• To assess the suitability of this implant for various reconstructive scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients undergoing reconstructive breast surgery with the Becker-35 implant over two years.
• Analysis of indications, implant details, inflation procedures, complications, and outcomes.
• Inclusion of patients undergoing immediate reconstruction, delayed postmastectomy reconstruction, and congenital asymmetry correction.

Main Results:

• 39 Becker-35 expanders were used in 36 patients (mean age 48.9 years).
• 20% overall revisional surgery rate (8/39 breasts) including hematoma, infection, capsular contracture, and palpable rippling.
• 21% capsular contracture rate, linked to chest wall radiotherapy; 10% asymptomatic rippling.

Conclusions:

• The Becker-35 expander is effective for single-stage breast reconstruction with early complication rates similar to alternatives.
• This implant expands surgical options but requires further study to establish its definitive role.
• Capsular contracture rates may be influenced by radiotherapy, warranting careful consideration in patient selection.