Becker expander-prostheses for breast reconstruction. Still a valuable technique in the era of perforator flaps?

Background of study: Despite the progress in autologous techniques, Prostheses either alone or in combination with the latissimus flap are still a widely used technique for breast reconstruction. The present analysis reflects our recent experiences with the single stage reconstruction using an adjustable expander (Becker) prosthesis. Materials, methods: 162 breast reconstructions were performed between 2003 and 2006 in our department, 82 as immediate and 80 as delayed procedures. 77 were done with microsurgical autologous flaps and 45 with a latissimus dorsi flap. In 50 cases a prosthesis was implanted, either a…