[Forum on tissue expansion. Conclusion. How to master expansion...]

The author presents several reflections based on more than ten years of experience with skin expansion. In order to master expansion, a number of rules must be respected at each step of the procedure:--start by defining the treatment plan,--choose appropriate material,--apply the expander(s) according to a rigorous approach,--prevent and treat all complications,--ensure sufficient expansion to eradicate the entire lesion. The authors views are illustrated by particular clinical examples using expanded transposition flaps: treatment of extensive baldness, ear reconstruction, repair of major sequelae of thoraco-abdominal burns.