How Long Until Implants After Mastectomy?

I know another gal who went in 3 different times to expand her breast before receiving the implant.

Thank you

Two months

Because I had radiation I have to wait at least 6 mos for reconstruction. Expanders are uncomfortable but manageable. Some people are able to do direct to implant mastectomy and reconstruction in the same surgery.

My expanders were filled halfway they were put in. I went in for 2 expansions and waited 4 months for my 2nd stage recon. It took about 6 weeks longer than planned because of scheduling.

Cat… Is there a reliable source for a medication list? Update: I recently got accepted into Mayo Clinic, which happened unexpectedly. Previously, I was told I didn't qualify as a new patient due to the size of my tumor, yet I currently reported the same size on an form & suddenly they are pushing me to come ASAP. I'm impressed by their system, which includes a 2.5-hour appointment with a Breast Nurse to navigate care, and the option to request a doctor with a conservative approach.

Susan G how are you doing with the expanders? I had mine put in a couple weeks ago and getting stabbing pain on the right one.

Got my expander in August...finally going in for reconstruction in June

Also an August expander install, still have them. Plastic surgeon said I could move to implants after six months from finishing radiation, but I don’t want the post-surgery down time over the summer. My breast surgeon says they used to wait a year. Expanders are tight but not overly uncomfortable. Aiming to swap after completing a July bike adventure. Life goes on!

Had my double mastectomy in August, was going for fills of expansers while doing chemo. 6 months of chemo, 4 weeks to heal after that. Just got implants 2 weeks ago. Now on to radiation in a few weeks.

Had expanders. Cancer was in my left breast. The right breast was really rejecting it. I told my plastic surgeon I needed the implant put in. It was an hour procedure and I didn’t miss a day of radiation!!!

Mitch E. My expanders were sewn to my chest wall with permanent sutures. Which meant they would not move or rotate, but I could feel each of the 4 sutures on the top of each breast. Certain movements like swinging a pickleball racket would cause a slight burning sensation. After working out my arms or playing racket sports they would ache.

The timing for implant placement after tissue expansion varies for each person and depends on several factors including healing progress and treatment plans. Many patients find it helpful to discuss the expected timeline with their surgical team, as they can provide personalized guidance based on individual recovery and any additional treatments that may be needed.