Forum Discussion

Jennifer1982's avatar
Jennifer1982
Member
9 years ago

Double Mastectomy: to reconstruct or not?

Hi Everyone,

I went through surgery last September + re-excision on October for Stage 1 bilateral disease. Lots of DCIS with a very small invasive component. I have avoided Chemo/Radio for the time being. I lost both nipples. I opted for immediate recon, but during surgery surgeon chose to put in tissue expanders. I haven't had the full recon yet and now I've got doubts about going ahead with the full recon. Part of me just wants to take the expanders out and call it a day.

I had large breasts (12DD). At the time, recon seemed to be the right decision because it was all so fast. Opting for the double op seemed like a big enough decision. But the tissue expanders are pretty weird, being nipple free is too. Also, there's no sensation of course. So it's purely for the lumps. Now I'm at this point, I don't know how much I care about the cosmetic. I am really flip flopping all over the place. One day I think, yeah, at least I can still play with being a busty babe and then other days I think how neat it would be to be a flat top and just free of the extra weight! I'm 34. Married. And, you know, I am a bit vain. I like to look good. I feel as though I have a second chance at life coming through with my diagnosis, so I working hard at living well and appreciating every day. But at the same time, I can be vain and also enjoy life with boobs or not, right? I just don't know! It is a weird space to be in.

I am seeking stories from other women who've had mastectomy surgery (single/double, recon/not). And, in particular, anyone who's been through a bit of a struggle with the decision. I know it is my decision at the end of the day, but I am just curious to hear stories.

Thanks all and take care,
Jen

 
mastectomy
Reconstruction
surgery
  • mum2jj's avatar
    mum2jj
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi there,
    I always wanted a reconstruction. I lived with one breast for 2 1/2 years. I live in the tropics and found wearing a prosthesis so hot and heavy. The type,of clothes I wear in this hot climate, I couldn't wear with my prosthesis as I needed tops with higher necklines etc. my reconstructed breasts don't look anything like my real breasts but they look ok. In clothes they look fine. I do love them and being able to wear what I like again. The simple things like being able to wear a sarong or a towel wrapped around my top and it doesn't fall down. Having said that I know women who have chosen to be "flat and fabulous" and love that too. Don't let the expanders influence your decision, I haven't had them but reading what other ladies who have had them say, they are nothing like the implants. Just remember they are just shapeless bags whose purpose it is to sketch your skin out. Most people describe them as two bags of cement on your chest. I'm sure some ladies who have implants can let  you know the difference in feeling they have. My reconstruction was a TRAM flap so my breasts are soft and realistic feeling (just numb). 
    Thats my story. Good luck with whatever you decide. 
    Paula xx
  • Glemmis's avatar
    Glemmis
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi Jen, I am 57 & had single mastectomy last year, nearly finished chemo & then starting radio. In July I am having a mastectomy on the other side & reconstruction of both. I can't wait to get the other one done but that is just for my own reassurance & hate having 1 breast. As for reconstruction I want to feel a bit normal again & want a cleavage. There are a lot of my dresses I can't wear at the moment also looking at the scar is a reminder every day. But it is a huge procedure so am thinking very carefully about it at the moment. Good luck with your decision xx
  • SoldierCrab's avatar
    SoldierCrab
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi Jen, I was 52 when diagnosed had bilateral mastectomy. 
    I choose to be flat n fabulous... now nearing 57.. very happy with my decision.