Hi again PMerlo, I didn't read your post properly. You already had a mastectomy and know what it's like! But I did have a good experience in the public hospital. A year and a half between mastectomies and expander exchange but it's okay, it has not seemed that long and I think I have been lucky. All the best. Sarah.
Hi, PMerlo
Hope you're feeling well. I can tell you about my reconstruction experience and hope it helps. I had bilateral risk reducing mastectomies in August 2010 in the public hospital system. The plastic surgeon recommended the expanders followed by implants. The other method where they use your own tissue from somewhere else on your body would have been a longer operation and longer recovery period. (But I didn't have enough fat for that according to him). The operation was okay, not better or worse than I expected, When you come round you have no pain but feel as if someone has parked a truck on your chest. But try to be patient because all that does pass. I was back at work after two weeks, but I admit I did not feel completely okay until the 8 week mark. I did not have private insurance and probably would not have been able to pay the gap fees even if I had. I am going to have my expanders exchanged for implants on Feb 16th which according to our Chris here is a bit of a doddle compared to the mastectomy!. Relieved to hear! I was happy with my experience in the public hospital. It was a little bizarre finding myself on the gynaecological cancer ward (the only above the waist patient in the place) - my surgeon's private breast patients were on another ward several floors above!) My only problems have been that one expander rotated almost straight away but looks okay with clothes on, both expanders are uncomfortable to sleep on but you just get used to it. Minor itches and mild pains and blotchy skin underneath (no explanation). But nothing too bad. Any questions just ask. Love Sarah
Hi,
Im following Chris. Having 2nd boob off next week as precaution and have double recon with implants. Nervous but excited to be moving on.
Hope mine go as well as Chris had. Im having it done in Adelaide which is 5 hours from home, so just getting organised to go.
This site is great for gathering information.
Good Luck
Ann
Hi,
Im following Chris. Having 2nd boob off next week as precaution and have double recon with implants. Nervous but excited to be moving on.
Hope mine go as well as Chris had. Im having it done in Adelaide which is 5 hours from home, so just getting organised to go.
This site is great for gathering information.
Good Luck
Ann
Hi Pam
I haven't yet had a reconstruction, but was on a consumer group to evaluate a new publication regarding types of reconstruction.
Although it is a very long operation, the DIEP flap seemed the way to go. No muscle being shifted meant less tummy problems in later years (hernia.)
The state of your skin following radiation, how much belly fat you have, your age, your ability to withstand a very long operation and the type of reconstruction offered by your Plastic Surgeon will all help to determine the type you eventually decide on.
Not all Plastic Surgeons offer all types of reconstructions, you may need to ring around.
I have spoken to many women who have had the muscle shifted from under their armpit to the breast with an implant behind it, many are happy, some have lost some use of the arm and one can no longer play golf which was her passion.
Investigate all potential side effects before you decide.
Query re your tumour status, triple negative and estrogen positive?
With love
Joy K
