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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How do I if my implant is doing ok?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Georgetown, TX

It's actually a expander then later it becomes a fake boob. I hurt alot this am

August 23
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A MyBCTeam Member

DorisOradesky,
So sorry to hear that you are hurting.
If none of the conditions explained in the AI response above are a concern then it could be pain from nerve spasms- a result of the mastectomy. This is to be expected. Your doctor can prescribe a short term muscle relaxant to help.
Have you had a recent fill of the implant with saline? My expander hurt especially after my weekly fill. The plastic surgeon explained that it is due to the muscle and tissue stretching to make way for a future implant. I always took Motrin after my fill per my doctors instructions to help with the pain. All the best to you as you go through the reconstruct process.Hugs

August 23
MyBCTeam

So sorry to hear you're hurting this morning — that's really tough. Some discomfort with a tissue expander is normal, but it's important to know which symptoms need urgent attention.

Contact your doctor or get emergency care right away if you have any of these:

- Chest, chest wall, or upper back pain
- Fever or chills
- Show Full Answer

So sorry to hear you're hurting this morning — that's really tough. Some discomfort with a tissue expander is normal, but it's important to know which symptoms need urgent attention.

Contact your doctor or get emergency care right away if you have any of these:

- Chest, chest wall, or upper back pain
- Fever or chills
- Breast skin discoloration
- Discharge or fluid from the wound
- A painful, warm, swollen leg
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood

These could be signs of infection or blood clots, which need immediate medical attention. Signs that your expander may need attention (but aren't emergencies):

- Noticeable deflation or change in breast shape
- Major swelling, redness, or color changes
- New or worsening unusual sensations

Some discomfort, tightness, and strange sensations are a normal part of the expansion process. A MyBCTeam member shared that asking their doctor to do smaller fills (50cc at a time) really helped manage discomfort.

When in doubt, always call your care team — they can help figure out if what you're feeling is a normal part of healing or something that needs attention. Don't tough it out alone! 💛

August 23

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