Second time round. . .

Hi there Tess,

I am so sorry to hear your news with your latest diagnosis.

For many of us, the fear of a recurrence is forever in the back of our minds. At times we can put it aside but I am sure there is that feeling in the pit of your stomach each time you go for an annual check-up. I know it was the same for me. 

Like you, I also experienced a recurrence. Mine was 4 years after my initial diagnosis. It is so frightening, I totally agree.

I was also told the same by both my bc surgeon and the plastic surgeon - unable to have an implant due to radiotherapy.

So, I was advised to have a mastectomy using autologous reconstruction using Latissimus Dorsi Flap.

As I am petite (152 cm, 42 kg's and have small breasts -12B which due to the stress induced weight loss went to 12A), this was found to be the best option for me.

It was done in the same operation - about 5-6 hours and I spent 5 days in hospital with community nurse visits at home for a few weeks afterwards. I went home with a few drains - 1 from the mastectomy and the other from the flap. These remained in for a few weeks and then removed in the rooms of my plastic surgeon.  

I found that I wanted this done all in the one procedure as I felt like I could not "cope" without my breast - I was only 41 at the time - and also I was fearful of having to go back and have more surgery.

The nipple was not able to be saved but was cut around it. The choice was then up to me if I wanted to have a nipple tattooed later on (I decided not to as when I am fully clothed with the right fitting bra then I look no different to any other woman). Today, almost 10 years down the track, my nipple looks as though it has been "bleached" and it is not a concern for me.

Also, being plastic surgery, I could not justify any more money spent on me - would rather spend it on a family holiday or major home renovations so everybody benefits.

Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions.

My plastic surgeon gave me his card with his mobile # on it - I rang him several times after hours for reassurance and clarification regarding several parts of the procedure.

Totally natural to be scared, frightened, unsure - everything you are feeling is normal.

Welcome to the forum and I am sure you will get many responses from the lovely ladies on the site including our great Admin team.

Also have you received your My Journey kit ? See link - https://www.bcna.org.au/understanding-breast-cancer/my-journey-kit/order-my-journey-kit/ ;

Wishing you all the very best Tess.

Regards Sheryl xxx