Like many surgeons, I've used Alloderm for reconstructive and cosmetic purposes since 1996. My patients have been universally enthusiastic with their results. By contrast, its use for post mastectomy breast reconstruction is relatively new and as a consequence, depending on where you live and who you are insured with, the technique may be denied as "experimental". Like any innovation, insurance companies want to ensure that they are not being obliged to pay for something which will not yield better results.
While it is feasible to reconstruct a mastectomy defect without Alloderm, you should consider asking your PS his/her experience with and without. Since adopting this technique, anecdotally, my patients and I have experienced:
1) less mastectomy flap breakdown;
2) less lateral pole rippling;
3) less displacement of either the tissue expander or implant;
4) less relapse of nipple projection and
5) higher rates of single stage"direct to implant" reconstructions;
6) slightly longer 1-2days drainage.
Refer your physician to the LifeCell website, which provides assistance in writing an Appeal letter. Good luck.
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