Hi Sally, sorry you have had to join us.
We have a reconstruction group you may like to join where you can view photos and read more stories if you like.
14 months ago I underwent a bilateral skin sparing reduction mastectomy with immediate delayed reconstruction. And a sentinal node biopsy where they took 3 nodes. A mouthful. Basically means big boobs ...and not needing all the skin saved. Insertion of tissue expanders with a dermal matrix sling which enabled a near full expansion and preserved my breasts in their original position. 12 days ago I underwent my changeover surgery to my silicon implants.
The initial surgery was a bit challenging but most of my issues was related to nausea post op and hurting my back. It is a bit tricky getting up out of bed as you can't use your arms and I never had my bed controller in a spot to reach until the last day. It was up too high. My back went as it got stiff laying aroubd too much.
I'd love to say it wasn't painful but I found it difficult as I couldn't tolerate most oral painkillers but eventually found a regime that was good. Initially your chest feels somewhat tight and the lower stiches feel like you have a tight bra on. As I'm a side sleeper it was hard but once home, lots of different pillows and a wonderful husband who got used to stuffing one behind my back when I turned a little on my side helped. (And a back brace for a few days) The tiny U Shaped pillows (like a neck pillow) were a must and I was able to position it in such a way it provided support to the wounds but allowed the boob through the hole so no pressure. I wore a post op bra 24/7 for 6 weeks which helped with the support and found hugging a flat normal pillow also helped.
I'm sure you will find it quite okay if you got through those previous ops and yes there are good pain medication choices out there. Within about 5.5 weeks I felt completely comfortable, needed the odd panadol and was back on the treadmill at least at the gym. By 3 weeks I was doing hydro pool exercises. Certainly the changeover surgery was easy pain wise and I only required panadol once on the ward.
The beginning is challenging with the fear, the tests and the decisions. You will feel relieved once surgery is done. I hope all gies well. Feel free to ask anything you like and we'd love you to join our reconstruction group too. Take Care. Kath x
http://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/group/1-choosing-breast-reconstructionAlso @socoda went straight to implant so she may be able to give you more information about this.
