Just had breast expanders inserted

Options
Hobojack
Hobojack Member Posts: 2
edited November 2014 in Breast Reconstruction

Been one week since I've had my breast expanders put in.  My chest feels very tight.  I have a lot more movement in my arms but it really is sore in the area of the incision.  I've had a shower every day which makes me feel wonderful  have been pretty good but today feeling flu like  no fever  just achy and tired  I see my PS in 3 more weeks for a fill.  Hope this tightness is gone by then.  Suppose to have the drains out tomorrow and can't wait.

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • Blessings2011
    Blessings2011 Member Posts: 4,276
    edited October 2014

    Hi, Hobojack, and welcome to the forum!

    Yes, tightness in the chest is very common with Tissue Expanders (TEs). We have a good thread here called TEs - A Beginner's Primer https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/44/topic/819027?page=31#idx_918

    and in it you will find questions and answers and tips from women who have been there and done that.

    If you are just one week out of surgery, I'd say you're doing very well!!! Congratulations on getting your drains out - that will make you feel better. 

    Wishing you the best on getting your first fills.... and come on over to the TE thread. We have LOTS of newbies there!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Leslienva
    Leslienva Member Posts: 489
    edited October 2014

    hi,

    I'm a month out from surgery and the tightening has lessened but I'm due for my first "fill" on Friday. The PS gave me neurotin for the weird sensations I've been having. The drains were the worst, I had four and got the last one out on Friday. 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Hobojack
    Hobojack Member Posts: 2
    edited October 2014

    well that's something to look forward to.  Let me know how your first fill goes.  I'm due for my first on Nov 11.

    I only have 2 drains and they drive me crazy.  Can't wait to get them out.

    I took a couple of Advil and starting to feel less flulike.  The problem is with all the stuff they give you it creates bowel problems which is a whole other issue.  You can't win.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited October 2014

    Welcome to BCO Hobojack. We're glad you found this group of knowledgable and compassionate ladies, who have already given you some feedback.

    It is a big shock to both your mental and physical being to go through this process and we hope all goes well with your recovery- will be great to have those drains out.

    All the best

    The Mods

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • globalgal19
    globalgal19 Member Posts: 62
    edited November 2014

    Welcome HoboJack.

    I got my TE's on March 26.  Started with 300  and got 150 added every three weeks.  The last was 150.  I did get sharp pains from time to time.  Been explained that was nerves waking up.  Not fun.  However as I time passes I would just look at myself and LAUGH. I was so big and hard and looked so unnatural.  I had my exchange op on July 30 and I'm doing fine.    The tightness will improve. 

    My feeling is that at least I have something rather than being flat. I hated that.  

    My nipple recon was done in docs office using skin from breast.  Healing very nicely and I get my tattoo next Wednesday.

    You can get thru this. Promise!  And it's worth it.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories