Forum Discussion

Chestnut's avatar
Chestnut
New member
12 hours ago

reconstruction or remain flat?

Hi everyone,

 

Back in March, I had an ultrasound and a 3D mammogram because I experienced bloody nipple discharge. The ultrasound showed an abnormality in one of my milk ducts, so I underwent a small surgery. The pathology came back as DCIS and florid LCIS.

 

Shortly afterward, I had a second breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy). Unfortunately, the pathology still showed extensive florid LCIS and positive margins. At that time, my doctor suggested starting radiotherapy after about a month.

 

However, before I began radiation, I had another episode of bloody nipple discharge, so I had a breast MRI. The MRI showed abnormalities in both breasts, and I then underwent biopsies. The biopsy results showed that I still have florid LCIS in my right breast, while the lesion in my left breast turned out to be a benign papilloma.

 

I also underwent genetic testing and transferred my care to Peter Mac. My new surgeon told me that I need a right mastectomy, including removal of the nipple. As for the left breast, we're waiting for the genetic test results. If the results are negative, the current plan is to only remove the right breast.

 

I have a fairly small chest, and to be honest, I don't feel a strong desire to have reconstruction. At the same time, I'm worried that I might regret not doing it later.

 

I'd really like to hear from people who have had a mastectomy, both those who chose not to have reconstruction and those who did. What were your reasons for your decision, and how have you felt physically and emotionally after surgery?

 

For those who chose reconstruction, I'd also love to hear from people who had autologous (flap) reconstruction versus implant reconstruction. What has your experience been like, and are you happy with your decision?

 

This is such a difficult decision, and hearing about your real-life experiences would mean a lot to me. Thank you so much for taking the time to share.

diagnosis

2 Replies

  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    7 hours ago

    Hi

    I had a mastectomy nearly 14 years ago and have remained mono-boobed ever since. Lots of women never have reconstruction, for all manner of reasons. I just didn’t fancy it - a fake boob on the outside was fine (I’m a 16 DD!) but not on the inside. I’ve never regretted it. Had I been small breasted my decision would have been even faster. I wear a prosthesis, don’t find it difficult or uncomfortable ( I accept that some women in very humid climes do) and I get almost the full cost of the prosthesis rebated every two years. 

    My surgeon was keen to do reconstruction and would do it now ( he’s long forgiven me) so worth checking - in many cases you can do it years later if you change your mind. 

    Neither I nor my partner have any issues about what it looks like (just lopsided) so all’s well. Many women feel much better after reconstruction, it’s normalising and if so, go for it. But the alternative is perfectly fine for me. Best wishes whatever you decide. 

    • Chestnut's avatar
      Chestnut
      New member
      4 hours ago

      Thank you so much for your thoughtful reply. It means a lot to hear your personal experience, especially after so many years. I really appreciate that you shared both the practical side and how comfortable you feel with your decision. It’s encouraging to know that there isn’t just one "right" choice. Thank you again, and I wish you continued good health and happiness.