I had a breast reduction, which led to a BMX with expanders which I had a terrible reaction to. PS drained off 300ml of fluid in the exchange. But it created pockets that were way too big for the 270cc implants. Four months on, they are sliding down my ribcage and into my armpits. PS refuses to reduce the size of the pocket in repair. He says just internal stitches will suffice but with this much implant mobility I am highly skeptical. Is there any reason why I can't do a GAP flap now?
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Answers (1)
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Sounds like the mastectomy flap didn't have sufficient blood flow for healing. This doesn't mean your body is rejecting the expander. The options are to remove the exposed expander or salvage the reconstruction by revising that side. Check with your plastic surgeon and your oncologist with...
Hi Kathleen,
Congratulations on getting through your mastectomy and being cancer free! The expansion process is a frustrating time, but it is much easier if you use your surgeon to help you navigate it. These are good questions to ask at the time of your expansions-- my patients and I are c...
Hello,
Swelling can take several months to resolve after flap reconstruction as both the native breast skin and the transferred flaps will take time to heal. Subtle swelling can take up to 6-12 months to completely resolve; the transferred tissue will encourage a new healthy blood supply to your...
