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Pain with tissue expander and radiated skin

Future
Future CSN Member Posts: 133 Member
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I am going through delayed breast reconstruction. I had a right modified mastectomy in may 03 and chemo and radiation. Recently had lattismus flap and expander. Part of my skin on the right (edge where radiated skin is) is red and constantly hurts. Only get a few hours relief with pain meds. I'm at wits end -- any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Doctor did not expand the right last week because I was feeling tightness but it seems to be getting worse. I've tried aloe vera and vitamin e on the area with minimal results.
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  • AuthorUnknown
    AuthorUnknown CSN Member Posts: 1,537 Member
    #2
    Sorry you are having problems with the expansion on your radiated side. I am beginning to go through the same process. My docs all told me that
    the tissue on my right side (treated with radiation in 1997) might not expand as well or at the same rate as the left side, because of the effects from the radiation. Have you tried any topical (prescription) anesthetic creams - there are several that are used, and they give good relief. Good luck, you are in my prayers.
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  • sandyk
    sandyk CSN Member Posts: 7
    #3
    AuthorUnknown said:

    Sorry you are having problems with the expansion on your radiated side. I am beginning to go through the same process. My docs all told me that
    the tissue on my right side (treated with radiation in 1997) might not expand as well or at the same rate as the left side, because of the effects from the radiation. Have you tried any topical (prescription) anesthetic creams - there are several that are used, and they give good relief. Good luck, you are in my prayers.

    I too am going through same procedure. I'm so tight and full that I feel like popping. One more 50 cc expansion this Wednesday and scheduled for implant in July. Rather than using any topical ointments I try to let my breast mounds air out. I wear loose, bagg and no camisole or sports bra for first couple of days after an expansion. My doc has been expanding me very slowly. I had lattismus flap on right side 1.31.05. The right side isn't as nice as the left which has a simple expander. Last fill up was painful for couple of days. I'm down to 2-3 weeks for the last couple of sessions. It's very tight, full and not comfortable. I know however that they need to stretch beyond what you will actually end up with. This way it allows for removal of any scar tissue and a natural slope. Best to you.
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