I recently had tissue expanders replaced by silicone breast implants after a double mastectomy. I am 81 years old, and am curious about how they are anchored, and whether I have to worry about their shifting.
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Pre-pectoral breast reconstruction involves placement of the implant/expander on top of the pec muscle rather than the traditional under the muscle (sub-pectoral) technique at the time of mastectomy. Pre-pectoral is also sometimes called "subcutaneous" implant/expander placement because the dev...
Zooey,Tissue expansion can apply quite significant pressure locally, and rib fracture, though not common, can occur as a complication. Nonetheless, a good x-ray exam of the fracture site is appropriate to be sure that nothing else is going on that could cause bony weakness. After...
I find that it can take even a few weeks to begin to feel less "tight." Once the tissues begin to relax a bit, you should have less discomfort. I cannot remember a patient who loved their expanders, but with placement of the true implant will likely help you feel better.