Reconstruction Implant

Trina1970

Hello people, I have just joined this group. First post. Round two for me, decisions to make. Diagnosed 2019 RB DCIS high grade invasive, lumpectomy followed by wide local incision lymph node removal then radiation. Annual mammogram & biopsy 2024 lead to me seeing breast surgeon last week.  Time for the right breast to come off. I have always had a mind set that I was lucky enough to have children & breast feed which I thoroughly enjoyed. However never went past the thought of what would I do after if I ever needed a mastectomy. After having an abdominal hysterectomy over 10 years ago I do not wish to go through that discomfort & pain again  (natural birth with all the children) even tho their is more that enough insulation on the tummy to make another breast but with a ankle injury 2023 leaving me with not being as active (which is still being managed thankfully found out yesterday that it is NOT osteomyelitis ) menopause & gravity has taken over 😊 As a Teacher aide (behaviour support) & support worker I am worried about loosing strength from the back with lifting /transfers.
At this point I am thinking reconstruction at the time of removal. Cost unfortunately is a big factor, more time off work as I have already had a considerable amount of time off with my ankle and still not back to pre existing duties … public/private... SO may things to think about..... Have a great support work around me. My mind is on hyperdrive typing this .. but I am also mindful of self care. Needing to make another appointment with surgeon to have another chat.. I have a list pro cons etc etc... I also totally understand many people have bigger decisions & roads to travel so sending energy to you all during a difficult time. I would like to hear from others who have gone down reconstruction path with implant. 🌻 

arpie

Welcome to the group, @Trina1970 ... it's great that you've found us - I haven't had a mastectomy/major reconstruction (tho my surgeon did a mini one at the time of surgery - just shifting some fat around!)
Feel free to jump onto this link, to read up on some other areas in the forum that you may be interested in.  We do 'off topic' subjects, like art & craft, hobbies, gardens and 'funnies' ('cos we all need a laugh now & then!)   Whack up any questions that you have in mind .... and all the best with your ongoing surgeon appointments xx
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/23477/a-big-welcome-to-all-new-online-network-members#latest

With your Wide local excision - how much breast is remaining? ... Was much of the breast removed, or just the cancerous bit?  Did you have reconstruction on that breast? Is that the breast that you are considering removing?

Consider joining our 2 x private groups - one for reconstruction & the other for choosing to remain flat - so you get both sides of the argument xx

https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/group/29-flat-chat-no-breast-reconstruction

https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/group/1-choosing-breast-reconstruction

take care & all the best 

May2024

I replied in the recon group but have copied onto here too

Hi @Trina1970. I had a double mastectomy in Nov with immediate implamt & nipple sparing. (I'm 52)  It was a rocky start but two months on I'm happy with the results. The implants will need to be replaced in approx 10 years. My story & photos are on the recon group. Please reach out if there's any specific questions you have.