Exchange Surgery

Exchange
Hi, I think I may offer some insight to you, but not sure.... I got the expanders in, and then switched them out for the permanent implants. That procedure went well. It is not as bad as the mastectomy, but be prepared to take it easy. For me, the adrenaline was high, the initial pain wasn't bad. I was feeling strong enough and resumed many things in 2- 3 wks, but it depends on you and your work, etc. Listen to your body, take it slow.

shellywahl said:

Thanks for Posting
Hi taiga. Thanks for posting this question, I have been wondering the same thing. My expanders will be changed out in mid November, assuming all goes well w/current chemo. Will look forward to more posts.

Do you have any trouble with your expanders? I find the expanders to be awkward and tight. Doc says they will soften a bit once the skins stretches, but I'd like to hear from others about their experience as well. This is all so new and I'm a bit tired of hearing 'everyone is different and will have a different experience'. I think/hope we all get that by now, it's just nice to hear other's perspectives. Thanks again for the post!

Stretching your skin is sore
Hi Ladies,

In my case with the dmx, there was alot scar tissue on both sides because I am so thin, there was no fat. So I want to preface this by saying, I think I am experiencing more pain than they typically expect. Also, I have had no chemo or rads. The expanders phase was exciting, but very sore, with an everpresent ache. I took pain medication along with ibuprofen. From what I understand, they overfill them at the end of this stage because they have to have extra skin stretched to manipulate the exchange. Yes, the new ones are much softer, and less pointy. The expanders have a cashew like shape and are functional in broadening you skin, you will be happier with the implants. For me they were centered more closely than the expanders. Cleavage gets better, it all will improve. Don't rush it, I know that is hard. I always like to say how much exercise helped my body maintain, because it is more uncomfortable when things get too stiff. Good luck in finding your balance, try to stretch gently.
Annie

Implants Superior to Tissue Expanders
Dear Taiga,

There is no comparison. Exchange is a piece of cake. I referred to Tissue Expanders as Steel Bullets. The implants on the other hand were soft and supple. Have Mentor Silicone Memory Gel. My exchange was 4 years ago. Memory does become cloudy with time but I tend to think that there was very little pain or no pain with the exchange. You are going to love them.

Lots of Hugs,
Janelle