OBJECTIVETo investigate the indications, surgical methods and esthetic results in patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction with expandable implants.

METHODSFrom January 2002 to March 2006, immediate breast reconstructions were carried out with expandable implants following mastectomy in 30 breast cancer patients. Nipple-areola were preserved in 5 patients.

RESULTSVery satisfactory results were achieved. Minor complications were recorded in 3 patients, two with local skin necrosis, and another with partial necrosis of nipple-areola complex.

CONCLUSIONSThe techniques provide better results for the patient who is not a candidate for simple implant reconstruction. These techniques also eliminate the need for a second major surgery to replace a temporary expander with a permanent implant in those patients needing soft tissue expansion. It is a simple procedure with advantages of no additional scarring, short time for convalescence.