Forum Discussion

sueh's avatar
sueh
Member
11 years ago

Reconstruction Surgery Problems

Hi

I am new to this website, in 2013 I had my right breast removed, and 6 months later had reconstruction with a Silicone Implant, and a lift and reduction on the left breast.  I have been feeling quite sick since the implatn has been in, such as  intense burning pain, tiredness, immune disorders, fatigue, confusion, headaches.  I have read a lot of information regarding silicone poisoning from people who have had this done.  I not sure what to do now, as I know I would not be able to look at myself without a breast. But in reality if this is causing my sickness, I should have it removed.  My reconstruction Surgeon does not want to discuss this matter as he said that implants are very safe. Has anyone had similar experiences.  Thanks

Sue

Reconstruction

4 Replies

  • TonyaM's avatar
    TonyaM
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Sue,what a worry for you.All your symptoms indicate a problem but whether it's the implant,it's hard to say.Burning pain can also be nerve pain and the other symptoms could be drug side effects. BUT whatever it is, you need answers and you need to get better.Have you had an ultrasound to check the implant?Have you had all your bloods checked?You say you have immune issues- is that since the implant?if so, that would be of concern.Keeping pushing for answers Sue,get second opinions and ultimately,listen to your inner voice. Could you get your implant exchanged for a saline one? I hope you get it sorted out soon. Big hug,Tonya xx

  • Deb_Lancaster's avatar
    Deb_Lancaster
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Sue, I had a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction in June 2014. I had ADM grafts and silicone implants.  I am also on Tamoxifen therapy.  I have had similar symptoms which have seemed to settled a little with time.  I originally had to do a lot of lymphatic massage and drainage for the first few months (probs 6months in total, every morning and night).  I was getting a lot of tightness, swelling and warmth and the lymphatic drainage seem to give relief. I now only do this on an as needed basis.  I still get tightness and some warmth mainly when I exert myself and push the upper body a bit too hard.  We have discovered that I am having side effects from the Tamoxifen, but cannot stop the treatment, I am making adjustments to these and listening to my body.  One thing I can recommend is that never be afraid to ask or get a second opinion, as this is your journey and you should feel confident and reassured in the journey. This group is a great way to connect and obtain reassurance and advice.

    xx Deb

  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    11 years ago
    Hello and welcome to the online network:) Like Deanne,I have not had an implant,but I would like to say also,that there can be many ,many reasons for your symptoms.There is a reconstruction group on here,that you can request to join.Perhaps some ladies on there may have similar issues, or someone from the group may see your post on here and reply.All the things you describe can really wear you down,so it IS important to get to the bottom of it.The blog is typically quiet on the weekend,so give it a few days.Cheers Robyn.xox
  • Deanne's avatar
    Deanne
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Sue

    It must be terrible having these questions and doubts and not really getting any answers from your doctors. I am wondering if you had chemo and/or if you are on hormone therapy at all. Many of your symptoms are fairly common after treatment or while on hormone therapy, even for women who have not had silicone implant reconstruction. I have certainly experienced tiredness, burning pain, fatigue, confusion and headaches as well as a few other things too! Most of these things are slowly improving (I had treatment finishing in Nov 2013) but I think tamoxifen and some haywire hormones are contributing to the issues for me. (I have not had silicone implant reconstruction).

    It can be so hard to work out what exactly causes what after treatment for BC. Peace of mind is so important and maybe a discussion with your oncologist or even GP might help you to figure things out. Hope you can get some answers that make sense to you. Take care. Deanne xxx