How are tissue expanders filled?
Implant breast reconstruction is the most commonly performed method of reconstruction in the US. For most patients it is performed as a multiple-step procedure starting with tissue expanders.
The tissue expander is either placed at the time of a mastectomy or any time later.
The temporary implant is placed either below or above the pectoralis muscle. The expanders are usually partially filled at the time of the initial surgery. Further expansion is performed in the office until desired breast size is achieved. This expansion process can require several weeks, depending on the amount of expansion needed.
Here’s what you can expect during a “fill” appointment:
Once the expander is sufficiently filled, a second surgery is required to exchange the expander with the permanent breast implant.
Have questions about tissue expanders or implant breast reconstruction? Let us know in the comments below!
Author: Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo and Courtney Floyd
This expansion process can require several weeks, depending on the amount of expansion needed.
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Are expander fills in doctors office considered surgical procedures
July 21,2020
Good question Mary. They are not considered surgical procedures.
July 21,2020
Are you able to work the same day after getting fluid in the expanders?
July 21,2020
Every patient is different, but in most cases patients are able to return to work the same day as a fill appointment.
July 21,2020
I had a double mastectomy and I am going for my first expander fill next week and I am very scared that the needle will hurt. Please tell me if the needle hurts. Thank you
July 21,2020
Every patient is different, but in most cases patients are able to return to work the same day as a fill appointment.
July 21,2020
I’m still numb on my left breast and feel nothing. I do feel a tiny stick for a second when they put it in the right one. But that’s all. I don’t feel it any more. I’m a weeny when it comes to pain and can honestly say, it is fine.
July 21,2020
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Breast Cancer Specialist Panel Live Q&A Replay
Will Having Prior Abdominal Surgery Impact DIEP flap Breast Reconstruction Outcomes?
Mary Michelino
Are expander fills in doctors office considered surgical procedures
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Good question Mary. They are not considered surgical procedures.
Linda gibbs
Are you able to work the same day after getting fluid in the expanders?
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Every patient is different, but in most cases patients are able to return to work the same day as a fill appointment.
Kim
I had a double mastectomy and I am going for my first expander fill next week and I am very scared that the needle will hurt. Please tell me if the needle hurts. Thank you
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Every patient is different, but in most cases patients are able to return to work the same day as a fill appointment.
Mona
I’m still numb on my left breast and feel nothing. I do feel a tiny stick for a second when they put it in the right one. But that’s all. I don’t feel it any more. I’m a weeny when it comes to pain and can honestly say, it is fine.
Cindy
The discomfort comes from the pressure when it gets filled but the sticking part I also scared of, BUT I felt nothing when the needle went in. Easier than my port to be honest.
Tracey
Very interesting! Thank you for posting this video. Do I need to take a muscle relaxer or Tylenol before my appointment? I’ve found out I have a high pain tolerance. I didn’t need my pain meds after day 3 or 4 after my double mastectomy.
PRMA Plastic Surgery
You shouldn’t need to 🙂
Donna
Is there a charge when a patient comes in for tissue expander fill?? If so, what code is used. Thank you in advance.
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Good questions Donna! There is not a charge for tissue expander fills.