Explantation recovery experiences?

Dlsa

I had a BMX in January 2015 with TEs placed and exchange done 3/15. I have begun experiencing pain and my PS agrees that it is likely encapsulation and I should get them removed. I will have the surgery in November and would like to go breast free after implant removal. Can anyone tell me about their experience with recovery after explantation? How long did recovery take? Was it as painful as the mastectomy? Were you able to drive and go back to work soon after? And how did insurance work with explantation and then prosthesis?

Thank you!

Moderators

Hi Dlsa-

Have you read through our thread on TE Troubles? It's in the reconstruction forum, but it's a very extensive thread with lots of info from other members who've had trouble with their TE's, had them removed, etc.: https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/44/topics....

Hopefully you find some helpful/useful info there!

The Mods

Dlsa

I will take a look; thanks. I would still appreciate any advice anyone can offer!

BarredOwl

Hi Disa:

Here is a thread that may be of interest to you:

https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/82/topics/823502?page=10

BarredOwl

Dlsa

Thanks!

kle

Hi Dlsa,

In August I had 1 left MX , and the other side my silicone implant of 8 years removed, so that I could be flat after a new diagnosis. The implant removal recovery was nothing compared to the MX. I had a drain again, but so little was draining that as soon as they allowed (2 days) it was out. I was allowed to drive as soon as the drain was out. Since the other side was a MX, I used the implant side as the healthy side, and maneuvered quite well. I think if it was only implant removal I may have been ready for work after a week ( I have a desk job).

You will feel so much more comfortable after the surgery, look forward to that!

Kle

Dlsa

Thanks, Kle! You've eased my mind. I've been worrying about being out of commission for long periods of time and appreciate the possibility of being back to work within a week and being functional sooner than that!