Hi all I am 2 weeks post op with tissue expander an 4 lymph node removal. Prior to this had 6 rounds of chemo and awaiting results to see if more chemo and radiation is needed.
I just wanted to ask what were people’s experiences and feelings with a tissue expander?
The first week I was okay, when i went to have the drain removed they discovered that it has been blocked simce day 2, removed it an fluid did release however as the expander was filled they said they was not expecting too much fluid build up. The 2nd week I have experienced more pain and what feels like a pulling down my arm which i think could be cording? Also under my arm feels swollen like my arm wont sit flat against my body but it is. The back of my arm has also gone from numb to a bit more painful to touch. Bit hard to explain all these niggles and strange feelings have started to make me worry incase this is not normal which my surgeon at last appointment told me it was. Just wondered what other people’s experiences have been and how long this uncomfortable feeling will last. Thanks for reading x
The bit that you mention about your arm feeling like it wasn’t sitting flat against your side sounds like what I experienced which went away as the feeling came back in my side/armpit area. I think it was down to the fact that I couldn’t feel it touching my side, my brain convinced me that it wasn’t actually doing so. It’s like when your arm goes all numb after sleeping on it.
Dear bincat,
Well done, to you for getting this far with your treatment.
I’m not medically trained, however I think a quick call to your breast cancer team would be a good idea just in case off infection.
Wishing you well, going forward with a big hug Tili 
Thanks for your response. Yes I did this today she is going to check with the consultant to see if she wants me to come in before my next appoinment on Monday or wait until then. I am still on antibiotics so hopefully no infection x
Excellent news, good luck with your next appointment
Hugs Tili