Information on reconstruction after Mastectomy please

Hi@Joanne66
My cancer was also lobular - called the “ sneaky” breast cancer as it often doesn’t show on a mammogram and also often ends up more extensive than first thought.
Initially my breast cancer surgeon was discussing a choice of a lumpectomy or a mastectomy but after the MRI the advice was firmly in favour of mastectomy due to the size of the tumour.
I ended up having double mastectomy  with delayed DIEP flap surgery 8 months after my radiotherapy was finished ( most don’t have radiotherapy after a mastectomy but I was recommended it due the size of my tumour).
I was 62 on diagnosis and asked my plastic surgeon if I was too old for reconstructive surgery and he said he had done women in their 70s and general health was just as important.
These are difficult decisions made at a time of extreme emotional upheaval .
If you ask to join the private group on here “ Choosing Breast Reconstruction “ there are lots of personal stories and photos I found very helpful in coming to my decision.
I talked to my GP, breast care nurse and also was lucky enough to have a friend who knew some one who had recently had a double mastectomy with DIEP flap surgery and I was able to tell with her which was extremely helpful.
I am happy with my decision but many women choose to go flat as well and that’s fine too - these are very personal decisions.
I had always been big breasted so the idea of going flat was a bridge too far for me but with my age I did go through a lot of anxiousness in coming to my decision.
Also  double  mastectomy versus single is also a big decision not for everybody .
Take care .
If you add your location yo your profile others may be able to give more targeted advice.
I am in Sydney and had my operations at St Vincent’s Private.

@Joanne66

We can all understand what a shock it is and making decisions is the last thing you want to do right now. It’s usually possible to have some type of reconstruction long after the mastectomy, just as it’s possible to have immediate reconstruction. My surgeon preferred to wait which suited me well as I wasn’t sure (I was 67 and ultimately decided against reconstruction). Your best option for reconstruction may need an immediate decision, but maybe not. It’s important to have a discussion with your surgeon about all your options as soon as possible, so you can make an informed choice. Best wishes.