Here is some detailed information about tissue expanders, stitches, and drainage based on the knowledge base:

Tissue Expanders
- Purpose: Tissue expanders are used in breast reconstruction to gradually stretch the skin and tissues to make room for a permanent implant.
- Procedure: They are typically implanted during the Show Full Answer

Here is some detailed information about tissue expanders, stitches, and drainage based on the knowledge base:

Tissue Expanders:
- Purpose: Tissue expanders are used in breast reconstruction to gradually stretch the skin and tissues to make room for a permanent implant.
- Procedure: They are typically implanted during the mastectomy procedure and gradually filled with saline solution over several weeks.
- Size: Having a larger breast size or expanders over 400 cubic centimeters (cc) may increase the risk of complications.
- Complications:
- Infection: Infections can occur, usually within the first few weeks of placement. Some infections can be treated with antibiotics, but severe cases may require removal of the expander.
- Rupture: Expanders can rupture, leading to deflation and swelling in the area. The body can absorb the expander contents safely, but the expander will need to be removed and replaced.
- Rejection: Factors like smoking, poor health, and hygiene can increase the risk of rejection. Symptoms of rejection include pain, swelling, and fever.

Stitches:
- Care: Maintaining good health and hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of infection at the incision site.
- Symptoms of Concern: Discharge or fluid seeping from the sutures, severe itching, and skin discoloration around the stitches should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Drainage:
- Post-Surgery: After tissue expander surgery, drainage may be necessary to prevent fluid buildup and reduce the risk of infection.
- Monitoring: It's important to monitor for signs of infection or abnormal fluid buildup, such as fever, chills, and swelling.

General Advice:
- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the progress and address any minor concerns like pain, tightness, and itching sensations.
- Emergency Symptoms: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like chest pain, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, or a painful, swollen leg.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the articles on MyBCTeam:
- [Body Rejecting Tissue Expanders? 5 Things To Know](https://www.mybcteam.com/resources/body-rejecti...)
- [Tissue Expander Size vs. Implant Size: What’s the Difference?](https://www.mybcteam.com/resources/tissue-expan...)
- [Are Expanders Needed Before Implants? When Are They Placed?](https://www.mybcteam.com/resources/are-expander...)

 This AI-generated response comes from MyBCTeam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Body Rejecting Tissue Expanders? 5 Things To Know | MyBCTeam

Tissue Expander Size vs. Implant Size: What’s the Difference? | MyBCTeam