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What Timeline Can I Expect My Reconstruction To Follow?
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The duration of your reconstruction varies, depending on two variables. First and most importantly, it depends upon your post-operative treatment course (radiation, chemotherapy, etc.). Any additional surgery following your mastectomy and tissue expander will not be performed until this is completed and you have healed. Secondly, the length also depends upon the number of expansions necessary to get you to your desired size. Typically, it is best to wait at least three months from your initial mastectomy before any additional surgery occurs.
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How Large Will I Be After The First Stage Tissue Expander Reconstruction?
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We add fluid to the expander at the time of surgery that takes up the excess skin without putting any tension on the skin. This usually results in a breast slightly smaller than you were prior to surgery.
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How Many Expansions Will I Need? How Often Can They Be Done?
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The number of expansions you will needs depends on your desired size and the size you are immediately after surgery. If you want to be the same size as you were prior to surgery, this usually takes 1-3 expansions. If you want to be larger than you were prior to surgery, this may require 3-6 expansions. Each expansion takes place in the office and can be done once a week. If you want to take more time in between expansions, that is okay.
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Can Expansions Be Done During My Other Treatments?
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Expansions can be done during chemotherapy, but not during radiation therapy.
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When Can I Start Expanding?
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Expansions typically begin 2-4 weeks following your mastectomy, given that your skin has healed as expected.
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Does Expanding Hurt?
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Most women do not have sensation in the area where the expansion occurs. It is possible to feel pressure, but rare that it is painful.
I can’t say enough about Dr. Fine. I had a surgery 10 years ago from another doctor that I was completely unhappy with the outcome. Dr. Fine met with my husband and I for about 45 minutes. During my consultation, he made sure I completely understood everything and that he took the time to answer all of my questions. He performed my surgery two weeks later. The outcome exceeded my expectations!
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