Acellular dermal matrices in primary breast reconstruction: principles, concepts, and indications

Prosthetic breast reconstruction using acellular dermal matrix is currently used by many plastic surgeons. As our understanding of these matrices expands, our results and outcomes are becoming more reproducible and predictable. As with most new technologies, there is a learning curve associated with using acellular dermal matrix. There are principles and concepts that should be heeded when considering their use. The purpose of this article is to review some of the important principles and concepts to improve our understanding of how these matrices perform and what can be expected of them.