Becker's expander breast implant with injection bubble, by Mentor, USA, late 20th century.
Explanted.
This implant would be used in breast reconstruction following a mastectomy, where there is insufficient skin to cover an implant. After being surgically implanted, the implant would be fillled with saline over a period of several weeks, allowing the skin to grow gradually. The patient may be able to leave hospital during this period. When sufficient skin has been created, the implant may be left in, or replaced with a different implant. This technique can also be used to encourage the growth of skin on other parts of the body.
