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Monday, October 20, 2008 Donna Beaudoin asks

Q: Tissue Expander Complications

Has anyone ever heard of a tissue expander being replaced rather than getting the implant because the original expander didn't do enough to accomodate for the new implant? I'd feel better about my plastic surgeon if there was someone who heard this could happen.

Thanks.

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10/20/08 1:30pm

Hi Donna - I just sent you a message.

 

What he's doing sounds about right now that I've heard the explanation.  My doctor is constently reminding me to "massage" my expanders downwards cause they shifted and I need to help them move to the correct place so that area stretches out.  We've talked in the past about how they keep expanding, and he's told me upon my final surgery he will build pockets to help hold the implants in.

Your doctor is just wanting to ensure that they look good - which is great, cause he's not just one of those doctors that want to crank out the surgeries, but rather it's more like art to them.  They want to make sure it's astetically pleasing.  You don't want them up too high, down too low, or too in or out.  Trust me, my L side is low and is bothering my rib!

Good luck.  Hopefully in 6 weeks they will look beautiful!

Angi

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