Immediate Implant Reconstruction

[tg409]

I am scheduled for bilateral skin sparing mastectomy with immediate expander/implant reconstruction in three weeks.  I am very nervous as to how the final results of the reconstruction will turn out.  My questions are (1) I am currently a B/C cup, so how long will it take to fill my expanders to this size? (2) Do you always need to have expanders first or can immediate implants be placed?  (3) How different will the reconstructed breasts look? (Only immediate family knows of my situation).  and (4) How long will it take to recover in order to resume work (desk job)?  Thanks for your help.

[Archibald S Miller III, MD,FACS]

Tissue expanders take the longest to get to final results. It can take up to a year to get your final permanent implants placed and nipple reconstructions done. We get acceptable results with expansion, but you must be patient.

                        arch s miller ms md facs

[sabrena50]

Listen, don't have high expectations of any reconstructive surgery. However, it's amazing what they can do!!  Answer to question 1) I am a B cup, it took approx. 2 1/2 months to get expanders to that size, it depends on how frequently your doctor has you come in.  2) you always need expanders first. you will be flat for the first month, time for your stitches to heal and your skin. Then they slowly start the procedure, your skin needs time, it will be in shock! 3) they do look different, however to the outside world you will look 'normal', but, they really try hard to make them look as real as possible. If you are worried about the look consider having nipples put on also. That comes later when they take the expanders out and put your permanent implants in, or you might have another surgery for the nipples..depends on your doctor. 4) Recovery depends on how your body reacts to surgery and all. You can't do too much until your drainage tubes come out, and that varies,but, typically 7 to 10days after your initial surgery. (Mine took 3 weeks to stop draining!!) Hope this info helps you out.

A 2yr bilateral mastectomy reconstructive cancer survivor!!