Tissue Expanders not level...is this common?

Caries00

I had bliateral mastectomy with tissue expander placement on 11/17. I have had one fill and my expanders are noticeably different heights and the right one is higher. It is also causing a flap of skin between expander and armpit which is chafing and painful. The left side looks great, but the right side is too high and pushed out laterally. What should I do? Is this normal? I have more fill appts coming up, but just don’t know what to expect and don’t want uneven foobs for the rest of my life

Moderators

Hi Caries00 and welcome to Breastcancer.org!

We're so sorry for the reasons that bring you here, and for the trouble you're having with your tissue expander, but we're really glad you've found us. You're sure to find our Community and incredible source of information, advice, encouragement, and support -- we're all here for you!

You're sure to get some great responses here shortly, but in the meantime, you may also want to introduce yourself and your story on the TE TROUBLE thread, where many members share issues they've run into with their tissue expanders.

We hope this helps and that you find relief and some advice soon! Let us know if we can do anything to help!

--The Mods

MinusTwo

Caries - yup it's normal. The "normal" for TEs abounds in weird & odd circumstances. Once you have another fill, you'll see them change yet again. Worst thing I've gone through - including all other surgeries.

MikaMika

From my experience this can cause further problems with reconstruction in terms of symmetry. Don't be shy and ask your PS (through email or patient portal) what is their plan. I hope your situation will improve with more expansions.