Methods and systems for a tissue expander according to various aspects of the present invention may function in conjunction with an extended tissue expander, such as an extended tissue expander to be temporarily implanted into a patient to form a pocket for a permanent implant. Systems and methods according to various aspects of the present invention may comprise an extended tissue expander configured to increase and/or customize the size and/or shape of a tissue pocket beyond the size and/or shape provided by a conventional tissue expander. The extended tissue expander may comprise a tissue expander coupled to an extension portion. In one embodiment, the extended tissue expander may preserve a breast pocket with a desired teardrop shape that does not need extensive surgical modification before placement of a final breast implant or a tissue flap. In another embodiment, the extended tissue expander may be modified to the precise dimensions of a final breast implant for the simple exchange of the extended tissue expander for the final breast implant.
