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Can Some of the Fluid Be Removed from Tissue Expanders?

asked 3 years ago by Annamae in Washington DC
Latest answer by Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS
Question viewed 361 times

I recently had tissue expanders put in on both breasts due to breast cancer diagnosis. I feel that they have been filled beyond the size that I would like my breast to be. Can some of the fluid be removed or do I have to stay this size?

4 answers to Can Some of the Fluid Be Removed from Tissue Expanders?

+2

Fluid can be inserted and removed

It is typical to over-expand the expanders in order to achieve a softer end result.  If your volume in the expanders is above the minimum required for that particular expander, saline can be removed and make them smaller.  Talk with your doctor as this is best addressed by them.
Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS

Seattle Plastic Surgeon
+2

Yes

Saline can be removed from the expanders. If they were overfilled, they can be reduced to the recommended range of volume. If they are at the minimum fill volume, they can still be reduced and a smaller implant placed at the second stage. This is the advantage of expanders..adjustability!
Michael S. Beckenstein, MD

Birmingham Plastic Surgeon
+2

Breast reconstruction expander fill volume

Annamae: The simple answer is yes some of the fluid can be removed, but your surgeon is in the best position to answer your questions. He or she knows much more about your situation. In breast reconstruction, tissue expanders are used to produce a suitable result for implants that will simulate your breasts. Generally that means stretching skin to provide adequate skin contour and volume. Each tissue expansion visit is tailored to a patient's comfort, not too tight so as to cause... more
Sutton Graham II, MD

Greenville Plastic Surgeon
+2

Tissue expander deflation

You can remove fluid from your expander but there is a reason why your surgeon may want to over-inflate your size in order to make the final implant fit more comfortably. This depends on the type of implant reconstruction he is performing. You should discuss his strategy with him or should have already. If you are experiencing discomfort because of the tightness, then it might be reasonable to deflate a bit to your level of tolerance.
Robin T.W. Yuan, MD

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

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