In principle, skin expanders are also implants, but they are only used temporarily in the so-called donor region. Expanders have a similar function as a balloon: when implanted, they are initially quite flat and then gradually, over several weeks or months (max. 6 months), filled by a valve. This process exerts pressure or pulling on the skin and promotes the emergence of new cells and new tissue. Once sufficient tissue has formed, it can be deployed to a different location on the body.