Is my expander infected with Candida? 4 mths ago had BM due to LCIS L breast. Had immediate reconstruction w/implants.

Question

The skin on the L breast was too thin and not healing, so L implant removed & expander inserted. Swab Cultures showed Candida. Took Fluconazol 1st expansion after 6 weeks, wound opened and liquid started to drain. Wound got closed w/Stitches and a culture swab showed Candida again (no meds sent this time). As of today no expansions because serum is still accumulating. Wound closed, no fever, but infectious decease Dr says liquid = Candida & Expander needs to come out. Do I have any other option

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

With the limited history I have, I really dont think there is an option other than to have the expanders removed. The pocket needs to be irrigated, a drain placed, and you need to begin or continue with the medication your infectious disease physician perscribes. 
There are many options we have to reconstruct the breast. This will delay your reconstruction however it is necessary to move on. I am very sorry that you are having to deal with this in the first place, but know that you will have other options to reconstruct your breast. Discuss  this with your plastic surgeon. Best Wishes

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Your infectious disease specialist is right.The expander needs to be removed. Proper anti fungal and antibacterial medication per infectious disease.Would not contemplate any reconstruction for six months to a year then consider your own tissue for reconstruction.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

In my over the internet guess you need ALL foreign material/implants removed to allow ID to treat your infections and immune deficiency.>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

I am disappointed that you are having these issues.  I think there are options for you but they require using your own tissue.  I have done these reconstructions for over a decade.  I use the skin and fat of the abdomen to create a natural feeling breast reconstruction.  I do this when the patient desires this form of reconstruction, has had implant failures, or is BRCA+.  Here is a short video describing the procedure for one of my BRCA+ patients.

Is my expander infected with Candida? 4 mths ago had BM due to LCIS L breast. Had immediate reconstruction w/implants.

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Is my expander infected with Candida? 4 mths ago had BM due to LCIS L breast. Had immediate reconstruction w/implants.

Answers (4)

Answer: Breast reconstruction revision

Answer: Breast reconstruction revision

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.