2nd Stage Reconstruction with fat transfer

Hi Ladies,

I'm interested to know how you were after your surgery? I'm doing the rounds of plastic surgeons at present trying to work out what is the best reconstruction for me. I had a mastectomy on December 22nd last year, 3 weeks after having a lumpectomy. At the time when I knew I needed more surgery, a mastectomy seemed the best bet as it gave me better reconstruction options if I didn't need to have radiotherapy. This surgery was too rushed to be able to get a plastic surgeon at the same time just before Christmas. I decided to give myself time to recover from chemo and think about my options. I'm also trying to decide if I should have a prophylactic mastectomy as well. My BC was grade 3 and 21mm long, and didn't show up on 2 mammograms 3 months apart. the ultrasound found a small 4mm cyst, that showed DIC. This is what they were looking for when I had my first lumpectomy. I know I will be followed up well, but as I will always question a mammogram, I'm seriously considering removing the other breast at reconstruction and then not worrying about a new BC. The 2 options that would work best for me are, tissue expanders / implants, or the DIEP. I'm concerned that the TRAM would leave too much muscle weakness. I saw a great surgeon on Friday who specialises in the DIEP, but he seemed surprised that I would want to do both breasts. The surgery could take 10 - 12 hours for both breasts and I don't have enough tummy fat for 2 the size I am now, which is only B cup. From all my research, the TRAM or DIEP give the best results, but I'm put off by the lengthy surgery. How long were you under for, and how long did it take you to recover?

Any suggestions or advice from anyone would be greatly appreciated. I'm 53 this month, and still want to look normal in clothing. I find my bra and prosthesis tend to slide abit and my mastectomy cavity becomes visible.

Chris xx