Tissue expander pain happens

Otto Joseph Placik, MD answers: Do breast reconstruction tissue expanders cause any pain as they expand?

It seems like a tissue expander would be painful as it stretches the skin - am I crazy?


Otto Joseph Placik, MD
10 months ago

In my experience as related by my patients, it is not unusual for patients to tolerate the expansions as they occur. However, they often reported discomfort 4-6 hours later which could be managed with tylenol or pain medications.

If a patient experienced pain or excessive tightness during the expansion injection, I would simply remove some fluid until relief was felt.

1 of 1 found this helpful
Helpful?
Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.