Can an Expander Flip on Its Own and if So How?

Question

I recently had to have my expander replaced. My 1st surgeon who put the expander in relocated and I had to find another doctor to complete my breast reconstruction surgery. Upon finding a new surgeon she informed me that my expander had to be replaced due to it being inserted backwards or it had somehow flipped over. Upon changing the expander my surgeon informed me that the old expander was full of needle holes due to the 1st surgeon doing injections anywhere in the expander. Is this common?

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

It is very rare for expanders to change position, but it can happen.    Reconstruction is a process and each stage will get you closer to a more natural breast.   I wish a safe and healthy recovery.

	 

	Dr. Gill

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

If an expander flips inside a pocket then you have the potential to obviously fill it through the implant shell instead of the fill port. Thuis is an unfortunate situation but I am happy that you found someone and it wast sorted out. PLase be pateint and complete you journey through the breast reconstruction process.

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

A tissue expander can move/flip.   The good news - this is all behind you now.  Wishing you all the best with the remainder of your breast reconstruction journey.

	Dr. Basu

	Houston, TX

Michael Novia, MD (retired) · Answer

Unfortunately tissue expanders don't always stay where we put them.  They can even flip over.  It sounds like you are back on track now.  Good luck with the rest of your breast reconstruction journey.

Can an Expander Flip on Its Own and if So How?

Answers (4)