Expanders-No fills but breast is getting bigger Is this normal?

KRadey

I had my expander put in at the time of my mastectomy 2 1/2 weeks ago.  I know he filled the expander with fluid but I am not sure how much.  I have NOT had any put in since.  My breast is progresively getting bigger.  Is it because the muscle is not as tight and is allowing the original fluid to fill out my breast?  I am worried that it might be a build of of fluid from the surgery although I had my drainage tube taken out a week ago.  Thanks ahead of time for any input you can share with me.

SpecialK

Several possibilities - the swelling is going down universally, so the true size of the expander is becoming more apparent by comparison, or the pectoral muscle is relaxing a bit so the expander appears to be increasing in size, or you may have a seroma (fluid) forming.  You should probably discuss this with your PS so they can check you out.  Good luck!

DiveCat

I would definitely get it checked out if it seems peculiar. Indeed it may be that swelling has gone down so in comparison the TE(s) looks larger against your chest, but if you really feel you are getting "bigger" you need to rule out a seroma.

ThinkingPositive

How can they tell its a seroma? That is what has been happening to me. I feel it swelling sometimes and it seems bigger. Was thinking that it was breast / truncal lymphedema. Have been going to PT for this but they have not told me I have it or I don't yet. .. Starting to get very frustrated with the feeling... seems like my underarm area is feeling weird lately since I have been doing exercises from PT. I have cording and we are trying to work on that.. just really worried.