Has anyone had a tissue expander inserted at mastectomy befo

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Hi

Wondered if anyone has had a tissue expander inserted at mastectomy before they had rads?

Thanks

Jaynex

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Hi Jayne

Yes, I had this done at the same time as mx and node clearance. It started out with only a little volume immediately after the mx, then it was inflated every few weeks. This was a simple procedure, didn’t hurt, just felt pressure as it stretched the skin. I found the port a bit uncomfortable at times, but manageable . I had mine over-inflated to allow for the best result when I had it exchanged for a gel implant a few months after rads finished. Hope that helps a bit.
Do PM me if you want to ask any questions.
C xx

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Thanks for that i have sent you a PM

Jx

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Hi Jayne,
I had a tissue expander put in 4 weeks before i started rads and had it expanded weekly. I have opeted to leave the tissue expander in atleast until I have a breast reduction on the other side to balence me up. I have decided to give my body 12 months to recover. I currently use a filler prosthesis to balence me out! Like Murdo I found the filler port uncomfortable, I ellected to have it removed under local anaesthetic, not for everyone i Know but I wanted to avoid another anaesthetic. I went for the tissue expander option because I did not want either of the other surgical options which felt too big for me.

All the best Jano xx

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Thanks for that Jano it’s good to here how other people have been with it.

Many thanks

Jayne x