I had a double mastectomy with tissue expanders placed at the time of the surgery. The expanders were filled over time and approx 4 months after surgery I had 31 rounds of radiation - full chest. I had no issues at all related to the expanders. I had the usual skin issues that come with radiation. About 4 months after the last radiation session, I had the expanders replaced with implants. No issues.
Yes, some people have had radiation over their tissue expanders. Experiences can vary:
- One MyBCTeam member had an expander removed and replaced after radiation and Herceptin treatments, but the new expander got infected. They managed to save it with antibiotics
- Another member had both expanders removed due to a Show Full Answer
Yay!! I feel better, thank you! I get the feeling from my rad onc that there will be lots of problems...Thank you for letting me know it is possible to not have problems!