Hi Happy Days, I was diagnosed in August with 1.3cm IDC and had a left nipple sparing mastectomy. Fortunately it was Stage 1, Grade 1 so I didn't need any chemo or radiation. I am not big breasted so my surgeon believed I would be a good candidate for an immediate reconstruction using a silicone implant. He did a great job matching size to my healthy breast.
I am now 5 months post op and am completely happy with my decision. The scar underneath is barely visible and other than some fading blue tinges from the sentinel node dye you would not be able to tell it is fake.
There was minimal pain after surgery though my implant felt tight for a few weeks due to bruising. It was put under my pec muscle so there was also some tenderness at the top of my chest while the muscle healed but this didn't last long.
The numbness did take a bit of getting used to and at first I hated touching my new breast with its loss of sensation.
But this too passed. Still numb, but it is the new normal now. Strangely, I have recently got a few little spots where I have some sensation. No feeling in my nipple but it does still respond to pressure.
I have just returned from 6 weeks overseas in below zero temperatures. Absolutely no change in temperature of my reconstructed breast - the implant is nicely tucked away under my muscle. I haven't felt any change from heat either.
I've noticed in the past few weeks that it has softened and feels more natural. I can't feel it and it doesn't feel like I have a foreign body inside me but I guess I am aware of it. I'm definitely "protective" and find myself shielding my left side but maybe that would happen even without the implant!
Sleeping is fine. It probably took a few weeks before I could comfortably sleep on my surgery side. I'm still sleeping in a thin cropped sports top but no problem going braless during the day. I just feel a bit more secure being supported while I asleep. I haven't tried lying on my stomach - probably OK on a soft surface I guess.
Good luck with your decision. If you would like to see some post op pics message me and I can send them to you.
Feel free to ask if you have any other questions.
