How long does breast reconstruction with expanders take?
During this surgery, the expander is removed and an implant is inserted in its place. The surgery lasts about one to two hours and is followed by a hospital stay of four to 24 hours. This is done in a single operation that takes about one to two hours.
Are tissue expanders painful?
Because of the stretching involved, tissue expanders can be painful or uncomfortable. However, there are a variety of ways to deal with the discomfort as you begin the process of breast reconstruction.
What can go wrong with tissue expanders?
The most common cause of tissue expander explantation was infection [85 women (52 percent)], followed by mastectomy flap necrosis, implant exposure or wound dehiscence, implant leak, deflation or rupture, seroma, pain, hematoma, and capsular contracture (Table 2).
How do you sleep with tissue expanders?
During the first two weeks after your expander placement, you should sleep on your back. We recommend that women who want to sleep in bed place pillows under their head and knees to support their body. However, many women find that it is more comfortable to sleep in a recliner chair for a while.
What is the best type of breast reconstruction?
Your overall health (including issues that might affect your healing,such as smoking or certain health conditions)
What are the best implants for breast reconstruction?
– Base, which is the side with which the implant rests on the rib cage and can be round, short or oblong – Profile, which can be round or dome-shaped or anatomical or teardrop-shaped – Projection means how much the breast implant extends forward in front of your chest. It generally can be low, moderate, high or extra high
What is the first step of breast reconstruction?
– There will always be some type of asymmetry – The reconstructed breast may not have normal sensation – You may have visible scars on your breasts and other parts of your body – You may require secondary procedures – There may be weakness or tightness in the donor area
Why to consider breast reconstruction?
Enough skin and muscle must remain after mastectomy to cover the implant