dont take this personally ladies . . . but I had really hoped not to find myself back here <3 2015 wide local excision, chemo 6 months, rads 6 weeks and 2 years Letrazole later I find myself back in the club that none of us wanted to join, but so grateful to know I am not alone.New scan shows THREE new primary tumours in my other breast. Thankfully other tests show no spread to bones, liver or lungs, and lymph nodes are not enlarged on scan. Much to be grateful for.so because this is not a recurrence or a secondary, but, lucky me, a whole new bc x 3, the surgeon is recommending bilateral mastectomy. I agree with him that sadly it is necessary. Ive been looking up mastectomy without reconstruction on the internet. There are some good sites like Flat & Fabulous that recognise not everyone wants reconstruction after mastectomy. I am a 38DD & the thought of not having heavy breasts interests me. Just think, no more sore shoulders and strap marks :D I had almost decided to remain flat after surgery when I saw some great results with DIEP flap reconstruction. Would really like to hear from anyone who has had bilateral mastectomy and either no recon or a flap recon. Did you get recon straight away, or after chemo? How did you decide and what has life been like for you since?How on earth do you make this decision?Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I WILL FEAR NO EVIL amen

The prostetic pulls a little when you bend over but sits in the mastectomy bra well. I get the bras with the lace paneling though that gives a bit more protection. To be honest I got to the point where I felt although I need some modesty, it is what it is and if someone gets a glimpse of scar when I bend over then so be it.

I too have a silicon prosthesis (they last about 2 years, I am on my second) and find it easy and simple. I know some people in tropical climates seem to find them hot but I have never had a problem (was recently in 38 degree Spain and hot and humid Singapore). Bra with a pocket, no slipping, either out or sideways. Wash like you wash your body. After a couple of years they get a bit wrinkly, the cost (I also paid $400) is rebatable. Every two years too. I got mine fitted at home, also could choose bra options at home too. I won't have a reconstruction - I wasn't keen from the start, had a long term seroma so wary of more surgery and I don't think I need one. I am comfortable with how I look, a big test was a communal wash room before a hot spa in Iceland last year. Icelanders don't fuss and I felt utterly comfortable in my natural lop sidedness. Everyone has different wants and needs, but I am happy with my prosthesis.

Hi @Traceyt62, I had a DIEP Recon 11 weeks ago...as did @melclarity. Our photo stories are in the Breast Reconstruction Group - it's a closed group so you just need to request to join.I am very very happy with the DIEP results, as it's so natural...but it isn't for everyone and we all make decisions that are right for us. Only around 10% of women in Australia who are diagnosed with BC actually end up having reconstructions.....Anyways, we are there to help with any queries you may have...just join the group :).Nikki x

Thanks Nikki, I thought the group was for those who have had a recon, didn't realise it was also for those of us still exploring the options. So glad you are happy with your results.hugs, Tracey

No...for anyone thinking about it or having or had it :)

FLAT AND FABULOUS? | BCNA Online Network

22 Replies

Hulos
Member
8 years ago
Hi, i had my mastectomy on 14/6 /17 and not considered reconstruction.
I'm wearing an ahh bra with double the padding on left side and I don't see a reason for reconstruction, i dont feel any less of a women at all, I cannot think of any further ops at this point, my size was 14c...have lost 4-5 kgs in the last 6 months without trying. ..the taste buds had gone and only ate to keep the energy levels..
SoldierCrab
Member
8 years ago
I had double mastectomy in Oct 2012 no reconstruction, I didnt want and still dont want... I was 18/20DD/E I lost 8kgs in my surgery and I have not looked back all the problems I had with heavy breasts is gone....
I run a group on facebook called Breast Cancer and Beyond for all those who are still deciding to reconstruct or not....
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bcnoffaaduaustralia/
Tracey62
Member
8 years ago
Hi everyone, thank you so much for your stories, it's so reassuring to hear from you. Saw the Onc yesterday who said chemo & rads then recovery time before any potential recon. The public system usually does recon at 2 yrs, so that takes the pressure off making more decisions than I can cope with at the moment. Funny how you think you're coping ok but your brain just will not work logically. Will be "glad" when the surgeon gives me a date. Hope you all have a lovely day, Tracey xXx
LMK74
Member
8 years ago
Thanks Tennille, somehow I imagine being out in public and bending over and having the fake boob fall to the ground lol.
Tennille
Member
8 years ago
Yes you can do prostetics in singlets. I do because of the lace panel bra. I dont usually get any more sweaty than with a normal bra. Just need a good cotten pocket.
LMK74
Member
8 years ago
Tennille and Afraser, thanks for the input. Living in Brisbane the summers are humid and I live in singlets. Will this be doable with prosthetic.
Afraser
Member
8 years ago
My very good surgeon left me with a tiny amount of cleavage. A small thing (in every way) but very useful and much appreciated!
Tennille
Member
8 years ago
The prostetic pulls a little when you bend over but sits in the mastectomy bra well. I get the bras with the lace paneling though that gives a bit more protection. To be honest I got to the point where I felt although I need some modesty, it is what it is and if someone gets a glimpse of scar when I bend over then so be it.
LMK74
Member
8 years ago
Afraser, that's reassuring to hear.
Afraser
Member
8 years ago
I too have a silicon prosthesis (they last about 2 years, I am on my second) and find it easy and simple. I know some people in tropical climates seem to find them hot but I have never had a problem (was recently in 38 degree Spain and hot and humid Singapore). Bra with a pocket, no slipping, either out or sideways. Wash like you wash your body. After a couple of years they get a bit wrinkly, the cost (I also paid $400) is rebatable. Every two years too. I got mine fitted at home, also could choose bra options at home too. I won't have a reconstruction - I wasn't keen from the start, had a long term seroma so wary of more surgery and I don't think I need one. I am comfortable with how I look, a big test was a communal wash room before a hot spa in Iceland last year. Icelanders don't fuss and I felt utterly comfortable in my natural lop sidedness. Everyone has different wants and needs, but I am happy with my prosthesis.