What's New in Acellular Dermal Matrix and Soft-Tissue Support for Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction

Of the nearly 90,000 implant-based breast reconstructions performed in the United States, the majority use internal soft-tissue support. Aesthetically, these constructs may allow for better positioning of prosthesis, improve lower pole expansion, and increase projection. They may have particular utility in direct-to-implant, nipple-sparing mastectomies, and prepectoral reconstructions. In recent years, new permutations of acellular dermal matrices have evolved with diverse shapes, sizes, form-factor innovations, and processing characteristics. The literature is largely limited to retrospective studies (and meta-analyses thereof), making robust comparisons of 1 iteration vis-à-vis another difficult. Although synthetic mesh may provide a cost-effective alternative in primary and secondary reconstruction, comparative studies with acellular dermal matrix are lacking. This review aims to provide a balanced overview of recent biologic and synthetic mesh innovation. As this technology (and concomitant techniques) evolve, the reconstructive surgeon is afforded more-and better-choices to improve care for patients.