Reconstruction surgery

I think of my reconstructed breasts as memorials of my breast. I miss the sensation of my breasts but I do feel complete. It takes time to accept all that goes with this canxer journey I think. 

As someone who has had a reconstruction, I agree with @nikkid. It has definitely been an integral part of my recovery. Simply put, I would not feel as recovered as I do (which frankly I don't particularly feel very much yet) if I hadn't had a recon. It's not for everyone but it was very much for me. K xox

Less than 10% of Australian women opt for breast reconstruction - much fewer than in the US or Europe.

Also, when discussing reconstruction, it's vital that we are careful in the language we use. Reconstruction is NOT cosmetic; it's not just for 'girly girls'. For many of us, it is an essential part of our recovery post BC.

The key is not to judge anyone for the choices they make, but to celebrate that they are able to make them :).

@Diannes48 Hi I also would like to offer sympathy for your losses. I think adding information about the types of reconstruction on offer and the pros and cons. Also if some procedures are eliminated for different reasons. Thank you xx

Hi @Diannes48  - I am So sorry to hear of your family loss and recurrence!  :(

Great topic - lots of info all on the one thread.

I have a half a dozen friends who've had mastectomies & some have & some haven't had reconstruction.

Most of my buddies have chosen NOT to have reconstruction - for a variety of reasons.  One has had her prosthetic replaced when it ruptured when she had a followup Mammogram - the pressure of the machine being too much for it.  Most have NOT had it, mainly due to the additional surgery & risks involved & the added costs.  Some have been disatisfied with the shape, feel & look of the fake boobs ..... and there is evidence of some inserts that actually become cancerous recently (none of my buddies, luckily - at this point in time!) 

I guess it all breaks down to your age, your own image of yourself & feel 'as a woman'?  

If I had had to have a mastectomy, personally, I don't think I would go for a reconstruction - but it is a very personal & private decision to make - I am also 65 and have never been a 'girly girl'.  Not sure if that makes any difference?

Looking forward to reading more comments.

@kmakm yes exactly. By having a reconstruction it just means I won't need to muck around with a falsie in the bra or be lopsided. Not hoping for a lot beyond that.

@Vangirl I know there are different opinions out there on this subject, but I feel very clear that a reconstruction is not a replacement. I don't have new boobs. They're sacks of belly flesh for a cosmetic outcome only. They don't give me sexual pleasure, they have little sensation at all. I feel to think of them a breasts is a path to disappointment. I'm very pleased I've done it, but I don't have breasts anymore.

Hi
Thanks to everyone whos commented its a subject we need more information about. Keep comments coming and i will keep you all updated
Di

I have approached the decision from the perspective of which is the least worst rather than what is the best option. I hope my eyes are open to the reality that what I will have after surgery will not replace what I currently have.

It's hard to decide isn't it? I thought most women did have reconstruction, and that I was the odd one out, but no, lots of us don't. I didn't ever feel strongly in favour - I didn't fancy implant replacements when nearly 80, and didn't want any more surgery if I could avoid it. Mainly, I didn't have a problem about how I looked, but it's very easy to understand that's a big issue for many women, particularly after bilateral mastectomies. Many women are very glad that they did have reconstruction, irrespective of time, cost and procedures but no-one loses out with more information. Like chemo though, you may not really know how you will feel till you try. So my only wish, in addition to the practical suggestions already made, is for women to know a bit more about living without breasts as an option too.