Depends on how it's done.
I had a bilateral reduction skin sparing mastectomy with immediate tissue expanders inserted and filled to 300mls with a matrix sling. I've just had my changeover to permanent implants (photos on breast reconstruction group) My nipples weren't saved. I had 1 x 100ml fill after chemo and prior surgery (each side)
I found it did take 6 weeks to recover from. I was quite weak in the arms, couldn't push or pull (or even turn handles for a few days ) due to weakness. By 6 weeks though it was good. The changeover was quite simple with minimal pain for me. Beeding a stay in 48 hours fir IV antibiotics only.
It can be done straight to implant it just depends on surgeon and possible treatment needs.
I was very teary leading up to surgery but relieved to be rid of the cancer. The changeover lead up brought those feelings back up but feeling much more positive now and certainly comfortable with my appearance, which I was from the initial surgery. It looked much better than I imagined.
Anything else just ask. Kath x
