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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion

Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion

Published on: October 20, 2023

Becker expander implants: truly a long term single stage reconstruction?

B K Chew¹, C Yip, A D Malyon

¹Canniesburn Plastic Surgery Unit, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK. ben.chew@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery : JPRAS

|August 7, 2009

Summary

Becker expanders for single-stage breast reconstruction show high explantation rates within five years, particularly after mastectomy. However, they demonstrate better long-term retention for congenital hypoplasia cases.

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Area of Science:

Plastic Surgery
Reconstructive Surgery
Biomaterials

Background:

Becker expanders offer single-stage breast reconstruction.
Previous studies with short follow-up periods (<3 years) suggest good outcomes.
Long-term durability of Becker expanders remains uncertain.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the long-term outcomes and durability of Becker expanders in breast reconstruction.
To compare expander retention rates in post-mastectomy patients versus those with congenital hypoplasia.

Main Methods:

Retrospective review of 68 Becker-only breast reconstructions performed between 1993 and 1998.
Mean follow-up period of 12.5 years.
Analysis of explantation rates and reasons for removal, stratified by indication (oncological mastectomy, risk-reducing mastectomy, congenital hypoplasia).

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion

Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion

Published on: October 20, 2023

Main Results:

High overall premature explantation rate: 68% removed by 5 years.
Mean explantation time: 23 months; 'half-life' of expander removal: 30 months.
Congenital hypoplasia group showed better retention (67% at 10 years) compared to oncological (2%) and risk-reducing mastectomy (7%) groups.

Conclusions:

Becker expanders do not appear to fulfill their design goal for lasting single-stage breast reconstruction in post-mastectomy patients.
Becker expanders demonstrate significantly better longevity when used for congenital hypoplasias.