Breast Expanders, how much to fill first time?

Question

Had surgery,Feb 24, All went well I had a follow up with my plastic surgeon on that following Friday everything looked good. I then had another appointment on March 4 I still have both drains in,one on each side. She asked if it would be alright for her to fill each side with the a hundred cc of saline solution. I Wasn't paying much attention, and said yes even though I had read that usually only 50 to 60 mL are used as a fill first time out.

Michael McClure, MD · Answer

This really depends on the mastectomy flaps.  Putting too much fluid in an expander can compromise the blood supply to the mastectomy flaps and cause necrosis of the flaps.  Most people generally start with 50-100 cc.  I believe it is wise to stay on the conservative side as flap necrosis can be  a terrible problem.

Khashayar Mohebali, MD, FACS · Answer

There is no standard for the amount used.  I use anywhere from 50cc to 100cc per expansion. It all depends on the skin quality, size of expander, and goal volume.  Good luck on the rest of your expansion.

Breast Expanders, how much to fill first time?

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