Mastectomy vs Reconstruction

From what I  have  read, it is not necessary to replace implants after a certain amount of time. It is often only necessary to do so if there is something wrong with them. Many can last 20+ years.

Hi Cory, I had a mastectomy then chemo and rads and my surgeon won't consider a reconstruction until next year.  However, I am still undecided about whether I want to put my body through more trauma.  And you know what, as far as I'm aware, there's no rush.  Just because you are having a mastectomy, it doesn't mean that you have to make the decision then.  Ask your surgeon what your options are, and exactly what they entail - not just whether it's implants or tissue, but how big an op it would be, realistically how long your recovery would be, what it is likely to look and feel like afterwards, and of course, how much it will cost.  Be aware that with implants, you need to replace them after so many years.  And ask what would happen if you had the mastectomy and put off the decision about reconstruction.  Is it going to impact on what you can have or on the waiting times to have it done?  I'm not trying to put you off but I think it's really important to go in with your eyes open.  As I said, I am still undecided.  Good luck.

Hi Cory. Welcome. I was like you in that I made an instant decision but the other way! I knew I wanted a reconstruction, and that I didn't want implants if I could help it.

My story is in the Breast Reconstruction group, Kate's DIEP. It's long and detailed! But it will give you an idea of what you're in for if you have this type of recon.

The short version: for me it was long and difficult but 100% worth it. No regrets, I'd do it again.

See you over there in the group! K xox

Hi @Cory51. I am 63. I had a breast reconstruction after left sided mastectomy, 14 years ago. I also have implants. Best thing to come out of breast cancer!

Hi @Cory51
I had the same thought process as you. I didn't know at the early stages of diagnosis that reconstruction didn't necessarily mean implants and I knew I didn't want an implant. Having talked to the breast surgeon I was encouraged to think about DIEP flap reconstruction and having radiotherapy before surgery to enable this.
I am lucky enough that the option was available to me in the public system locally so there were no out of pocket costs at all. There was also no waiting list as the surgery includes removal of the cancer so you are fast tracked.
I'm now just over five weeks out of surgery, with a couple of small complications along the way, but recovering well. My initial stay in hospital was just a week.
I can't say I am used to my new body just yet but it feels more comfortable every day and I predict that I'll be fine with it in time. 

hi Rosie, I did go through the BRECONDA and thought it was fantastic. I stopped before i answered questions myself as I haven't seen the plastic surgeon yet and don't feel ready to make a decision. Thanks, jenny

Hi @Cory51, there is also an excellent decision assist tool available through the BCNA website https://www.bcna.org.au/news/2017/01/breast-reconstruction-decision-making-tool-breconda-available/
I've had great feedback from people who've used it. 

Thanks I'm in!

Hi @Cory51, I've sent you an invite - not sure why it didn't just go through by clicking join etc. @Giovanna_BCNA, could you keep an eye out and make sure that Jenny's application appears for us? Thanks! 

hi Jane, I clicked on the group, then join then wrote something and got the message I needed to be invited to join and so clicked ok but then nothing happened, ie the box didn't go away so i don't know if my request went through or not. Thanks, Jenny