What happens if the Alloderm isn't incorporated on the lower breast skin flap? If it is free floating in the breast pocket?

Question

Ian Lytle, MD · Answer

If the AlloDerm graft does not incorporate to the tissues, it will be free floating. The AlloDerm graft will not be reabsorbed and will eventually "ball up" and turn into thickened scar tissue. If the graft does not take and become vascularized, there is also a higher risk of infection. Good luck.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Yes, if  for some reason the acellular dermal matrix doesn't incorporate as planned, it can be "free-floating". Unfortunately, if this does occur, it can be a potential source of infection.  On the other hand, it may not cause a problem. Best wishes.

Joel M. Stewart, Jr., MD · Answer

Though rare, non-incorporation happens. The alloderm does not develop cellular integration and new blood vessels within the tissue to which it was transferred. In this case, the graft can be sterile and in the same capsule as the breast implant or tissue expander. Sometimes this can be a problem, but most of the time doctors and patients are unaware.In most cases, there is only a portion of the alloderm that is not incorporated and when I encounter this in breast reconstruction patients, for example when the expanders are changed for implants, I will remove the portion that is not integrated.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

I have used Alloderm for a variety of reconstructions and it does incorporate.  In instances of inadequate fluid drainage or infection it will take longer to incorporate of be unable to do so until the wound has been treated appropriately.

Mark T. Boschert, MD · Answer

Yes the part that is not attached can be free-floating. However it is pretty rare to have the entire piece not incorporate. Therefore, even with only a few spots incorporate they will hold the entire piece of Alloderm in place. If it was free floating you would be able to feel that as a mobile lump and I doubt that will ever happen.Good luck!

What happens if the Alloderm isn't incorporated on the lower breast skin flap? If it is free floating in the breast pocket?

Answers (9)

Answer: Alloderm does incorporate

Answer: Alloderm does incorporate

Answer: Alloderm

Answer: Alloderm

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What happens if the Alloderm isn't incorporated on the lower breast skin flap? If it is free floating in the breast pocket?

Answers (9)

Answer: Alloderm does incorporate

Answer: Alloderm does incorporate

Answer: Alloderm

Answer: Alloderm

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about AlloDerm

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.