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hippyviv's avatar
hippyviv
Member
13 years ago

Reconstruction

Hello out there all you brave ladies. I feel I have no right to be moaning as there are so many ladies out there who would be glad if my problem was there only trouble but I need to talk about this and would love some imput as I am feeling really low about all this.

I came up for my reconstruction and was so excited. I had to make a decision about the three optiions and after much research and deliberation I decided to go for the simpler procedure. I now regret that decision. I have had the reconstruction and I am really disappointed with the result. I know it is early days and I am only 2 weeks out from the op but it is nothing like I expected and nothing at all like a breast.  I went for the reconstruction because I wanted to able to wear things without worrying about my prosthesis and to be able to look in the mirror without having that crestfallen feeling I used to get when I just had the scar. Now I still am so disappointed when I look in the mirror and I still have to be careful what tops I wear as the reconstructed boob is smaller than my other one and is sitting to the left and down a fair bit. Noticeably. I am really feeling down about this. I know I should just feel lucky to be alive and there are women on this network who are battling far greater odds than just not being happy with their breast. But I was so looking forward to getting back a semblance of the life I had before I got breast cancer but it was not to be. Has anyone else felt similar feelings or am I just over reacting and had unrealistic expectations in the first place. I would love any input on this. I feel selfish for feeling like this, and alone because no one seems to understand. 

Thank you ladies  you are all wonderful and I salute you all.

Reconstruction

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  • TonyaM's avatar
    TonyaM
    Member
    13 years ago

    How disappointing for you but it's early days yet and you may still have some swelling.What did your plastic surgeon say? Don't feel guilty for having a moan -that's what this network is for.I know what it's like to look in the mirror and see a gnarled scar where your breast used to be -your heart sinks. I am too much of a scaredy cat to have reconstruction.Because I had radiation,I could only have the diep flap and that is very long surgery and recovery.If I put myself in your shoes,I think I'd go see the plastic surgeon and see what he had to say.If he is willing to tweek things and discuss your options,then good.But if he thinks he's done a good job then I 'd be getting a second opinion.Now I know you wouldn't want more surgery but you also don't want to stay unhappy with your new boob.That's my take on it anyway.Other ladies here who have had the same reconstruction maybe more helpful.It is such a shame- you have waited so long only to be disappointed.No wonder you are down but don't just put up with it.

                                      Tonya xx