Alloderm and Strattice in Orange County
Acellular tissue matrix
Products like Alloderm and Strattice are used when the patient's soft tissue is compromised and does not offer adequate support to the internal body structures. To provide reinforcement, a plastic surgeon can implant tissue sheets of Alloderm or Strattice. Techniques using Alloderm and Strattice can be used in many plastic surgery procedures at UC Irvine in Orange County.
Reasons to Choose Alloderm Or Strattice
If you are undergoing any of these procedures, your surgeon may recommend Alloderm or Strattice:
- Implant based breast reconstruction
- Revision breast augmentation
- Hernia repair or abdominal muscle separation
A tissue matrix like Alloderm or Strattice is generally used as-needed during some type of reconstructive procedure. Your surgeon can help you determine if one of these products can benefit you.
FAQ About Alloderm and Strattice in Orange County
Here are some of the basic questions that patients ask about Alloderm and Strattice. If you have a question, please call or email the Orange County plastic surgery practice at UC Irvine.
What is Alloderm made of?
Alloderm is a dehydrated sheet of sterile tissue that is donated from human cadaver skin. By stimulating production of natural tissues, Alloderm creates a scaffolding for new tissues. The product, made by LifeCell, is very pliable and versatile for many procedures.
What is Strattice made of?
Strattice is also a sheet of sterile tissue, but the source is porcine (i.e. from a pig). Like Alloderm, the product stimulates natural tissue production mechanisms to create a scaffolding for new tissue. Strattice is a firmer product, however.
How do these products treat tissue deficiencies?
In reconstructive surgery, Alloderm and Strattice are shaped, rehydrated and implanted with absorbable sutures. Once implanted, they act as an internal body support structure, as well as a scaffold to promote new tissue growth.
What procedures are aided by acellular dermal replacement?
Alloderm is frequently used in breast reconstruction with implants, especially in patients who lack the breast tissue needed to support the breast implants while maintaining a smooth, natural appearance. It is similarly effective in revision breast augmentation procedures such as correction of deformities like double bubble or symmastia.
In breast surgery, the tissue matrix creates a kind of internal bra that helps to prevent migration of the implant and preserve the natural breast folds and borders. They help to mask ripples and edges that show in patients with thin skin and large breast implants. Because it is a firmer tissue sheet, Strattice is preferable when stronger structure is needed, such as abdominal wall repair.
What happens after a procedure with Alloderm or Strattice?
These tissue supplements are only a component of reconstructive surgery, and their implantation does not affect the recovery period. The body will not reject the tissue matrix. However, patients are encouraged to stop smoking and cease any activity that would interfere with healing and new tissue growth. Your surgeon at UC Irvine will provide specific instructions for your recovery after reconstructive surgery with Alloderm or Strattice.
To learn more about how Alloderm and Strattice can improve your reconstructive surgery procedure, please email or call the plastic surgeons of UC Irvine. We are located in Orange County and frequently see patients from Los Angeles, Anaheim, Garden Grove and other communities in southern California.