What is a Typical Post-op Visit Schedule After Implant Reconstruction?

Every surgeon differs in their postoperative routine. I perform a large number of breast reconstructions with expanders and implants and my schedule is the following: Week 1: 1-2 visits in the first week post-surgery for first drain removal, mastectomy flap check, and monitoring. Week 2: Second drain removal and first fill of the expander. Weeks 3-?: Weekly fills of the expander until desired volume is achieved. Overfill the following week then wait for 4-6 weeks for... more

Based on your question, i gather that you have tissue expanders and are about to undergo exchange to silicone implants. Since this is outpatient surgery, I prefer to see you back the next day to evaluate for any fluid collection or bleeding and to review postop incision care instructions. In most cases, a drain is not necessary during the exchange procedure. I then see you back at 1 week postop to evaluate your incision and ensure there are no signs of... more

Whenever possible then every 2-3 days until drains are out, then weekly depending upon chemo and radiation. I wait at least 2-3 months after chemo before performing surgery. Radiation can mean 6 month delays before revisional surgery. I overexpand as much as possible prior to final implant and then plan on revisions at six months to one year after final expansion/chemo/radiation.