Pre pectoral breast reconstruction

Prepectoral breast reconstruction is a surgical technique designed to restore the breast shape after a mastectomy by placing the implant in front of the pectoral muscle, just beneath the skin.

Unlike the submuscular method, this approach avoids manipulating the muscle, which leads to less post-operative pain and faster recovery.

This technique is recommended for patients who have undergone a mastectomy, whether due to breast cancer or for preventive purposes.

It is particularly suitable for patients with good skin quality and adequate tissue coverage. It may also benefit those seeking a quicker, less painful recovery, or patients engaged in sports or physical activities that require full pectoral muscle function.

At MIB Center Paris, the procedure is carried out under general anesthesia and typically lasts one to two hours. The surgeon prepares the reconstruction site and places the implant in front of the pectoral muscle.

To enhance implant support and reduce complication risks, a dermal matrix or synthetic mesh may be used. This structure provides additional reinforcement and encourages proper tissue integration.

Once the implant is in place, the incisions are carefully closed, and temporary drains may be inserted to prevent fluid accumulation.

The patient is closely monitored after the procedure to ensure optimal recovery.

First, the prepectoral technique leads to faster and less painful recovery, as it avoids trauma and tension on the pectoral muscle. This results in less muscle pain, reduced inflammation, and greater comfort for the patient.

Additionally, placing the implant above the muscle allows for a more natural breast contour, as the implant aligns better with the body’s natural curves. This is especially beneficial for slender patients, where submuscular placement might result in visible rippling or unnatural contours.

This technique also reduces the risk of animation deformity, a complication where the implant moves or distorts during muscle contraction. By positioning the implant in front of the muscle, such movement is avoided, which is especially helpful during physical activities.

Furthermore, prepectoral reconstruction minimizes the risk of complications related to muscle manipulation, such as muscle weakness or loss of function. This is particularly important for patients who engage in activities requiring upper body strength, including sports or manual work.

Lastly, this method allows for greater flexibility in future adjustments, such as revisions or implant replacements if needed.

In summary, prepectoral breast reconstruction provides significant advantages in terms of comfort, aesthetic outcome, recovery time, and reduced complications, especially when compared to the traditional submuscular approach.