Swelling around expander perimeter?

Rosemarysgranddaughter

Hi all,

I’m a week and a half out from my BMX with over the muscle expander placement, and in the last couple of days I’ve become aware of a lot of swelling and tenderness in the area between my collarbone and armpits on both sides. It seems to follow the line of the top edges of my expanders, and it doesn’t look red or bruised or show any sign of infection, but it feels like it’s bothering me more not less as time goes on. The output from my drains has been dropping steadily, and I have no inflammation below the expanders or to the sides; but it feels like because this upper area isn’t reaching the drain inlets inside the breast pockets, I’m not getting any relief. I did call my home nursing service and they didn’t seem concerned about it; I’m not worried myself exactly, more just wondering if this is something that other people have experienced? And if so, does anyone have any suggestions? Thank you in advance

Nikkyb09

I'm kind of in the same boat as you, I had my BMX on feb 25th and I feel like the last day or two I've had more pain. To me, it feels more like I pulled my pec muscles? I wonder if this is the same type of pain you're feeling. I see my PS on monday to have the remaining drains removed, I'm hoping she will tell me this is normal.

OnTarget

I wish I could help! My TEs felt progressively better, except after fills, when they severely dug into my pec muscles.

I hope your PS can answer your questions!

MinusTwo

My TEs felt horrible for the entire 6 months they were in. I got a little relief when I insisted they cut the fill rate in half, but still... Hope your doc has some answers.

Rosemarysgranddaughter

Hi OnTarget, it actually does help to hear that your expanders gradually started to bother you less! Hoping it will go the same for me

OnTarget

Rose, I hope yours feel better! I have had a ton of luck this time by keeping my fills lower. I'd give that a shot!