Breast Reconstruction after Radiation

Hi Kelley, I had a lumpectomy and chemo, radiation in 2009/2010. In March 2011 had a reoccurrence in same breast and had a mastectomy, and more chemo. I finished chemo August 2011. During my chemo I developed lymphedema in my arm/hand. After much thought and research I have decided to have a prophylactic mastectomy of my other breast... As both my diagnosis were 6 and 8 months after clear mammograms and quite large(3cm) tumors. My general surgeon was keen to do the second mastectomy and put expanders and then implants in. I went to see a plastic surgeon for a second opinion. He used to do this sort of surgery but no longer does as it was often(not always) unsuccessful. He suggested either a tram/diep and double reconstruction or the lat dorsi. I was concerned about the lat dorsi as he said he would "muck around" in my armpit a bit and I was concerned it may cause problems with my lymphedema. I have decided on the tram/diep reconstruction. I am not a big lady but thankfully have a bit of a "muffin top" for which I am now grateful LOL. My surgeon said he should be able to get me a set of 12B's which I will be happy with as I never was large breasted. I hear you when you say we are not defined by our breasts, but I so want to be able to have an even set and just throw my togs on and hop in the pool without having to worry about a prosthesis!! I live in the tropics so that is a big part of my life. I am scheduling surgery for April next year when it will be a bit cooler to recover in. My sisters friend did have expanders and implants put in earlier this year after radiation and so far no problems. I also have a friend who had mastectomy and expanders put in immediately and then went on to have chemo and radiation and finally the implants after treatment completed. She said the side she had radiation on is very hard and sometimes painful, but she is happy with it. I hope this helps a little and does not totally confuse you. It has taken me 18 months of research and thinking to finally come to my decision ... Good luck with yours. Paula :)