Stopping reconstruction after installation of tissue expander
1 year after a mastectomy, I decided to go for reconstruction and had the tissue expander installed. I found it to be very painful. I missed my scheduled appointment for follow up due to pneumonia that left me too weak for several weeks.
My surgeon has since retired, and I have done nothing since the orignal installation. Is it safe to leave the tissue expander inside. My oncologist was unsure, but I continue to have mamograms.
Shelagh, Angi would be the one to answer this. My opinion, I think you need to find another surgeon, one who does reconstruction, and ask him/her about leaving the expander in. Good luck to you - PJH
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Shelagh
I've had these expanders in since Feb. which is when my dr swapped them out for larger ones. I had the previous set in for 3 months on 1 side, and 6 months on the other. I'm in llimbo at the moment cause my cancer came back and I had to undergo radiation and soon chemo, so I'm about 3 months out till I can start injections again.
Leaving them in for a year is ok, but you cannot leave them in forever. Even implants only have a 10 year shelf life. The problem with expanders is the little metal piece where the valve is. That tiny metal piece is enough where you wouldn't be able to have an MRI if ever need be. As for metal detectors I'm not sure if that little piece would set it off or not.
I would highly recommend you consulting with a new plastic surgeon and have them either replaced with implants or removed all together - especially if they were to burst and cause other health problems.
Good luck
Angi
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Please.. don't leave them in.. we all have setbacks , I am sorry about your pneumonia.. but you have to take a deep breathe and find a new plastic surgeon who can finish work..even if it is just a slight inflation. If you have to travel plan it on a friday so you can take your time getting home. Ask for information on pain management.. and please walk.. or move everyday.. it will decrease the pain.. and help to prevent a pneumonia reoccurance.. it can be done quickly.. i will get mine out next week.. had them put in in May.. I can't wait they are very uncomfortable...why be uncomfortable all the time with these teflon things in you... at least silicone is softer to sleep on..you will be fine... take a deep breathe and call some medical center next to you for a doctor's name.. or call your insurance company for a name (they usually have nurses 24 hours of rquestions) good luck...
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