Alloderm, Neoform or Flex HD are dermal grafts obtained from deceased human donors, which can be used for immediate mastectomy reconstruction as a "sling" to cover the lower outer quadrant of the reconstructed breast, thereby redefining the base and outer limits of the breast. It fuses with the mastectomy flap and serves to put the chest wall muscle on stretch, so that the entire expander (temporary device) or implant is more fully covered. Depending on how much skin the surgical oncologist leaves, it is sometimes possible to do a "direct to implant" breast reconstruction by placing a permanent breast implant. Even if the PS elects staged reconstruction with a tissue expander, the provision of a "thickening" layer allows additional support.
Finally, these dermal grafts can be used in nipple reconstruction to provide additional projection and substance for the reconstructed nipple. Hope this is helpful. Good luck.
