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mlk489's avatar
mlk489
Member
14 years ago

Bilateral masectomy & reconstruction (Tram Flap)

Hi everyone,

I've had two lumpectomies done last year, chemo & radiation completed. Now, I'm going to have bilateral masectomy and reconstruction at the same time in three months time as a precautionary, because of a very rare type of cancer called "Adenosquamous" that has a high recurrance.  

I've got mixed feelings - is it worth it to have the big operation? The plastic surgeons advised me that it takes between 8 to 14 hours of operation - that kind of freak me out (never had operation that long).  

  • Have anyone had this surgery?  
  • What did it feel like after the surgery?  
  • How did you cope?
  • Was there any complications?
  • How long is the recovery time?  

I appreciate your respond, thanks.

26 Replies

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  • suew's avatar
    suew
    Member
    14 years ago

    I had the right breast removed and reconstructed DIEP flap on the 21/2/12 and am still recovering.  At this point I wish I hadn't had it the stomach is taking a long time to recover and the Diep method doesn't remove muscle, but am told down the track I will be happy with it.  It is very major surgery and not to be taken lightly.

  • suew's avatar
    suew
    Member
    14 years ago

    I had the right breast removed and reconstructed DIEP flap on the 21/2/12 and am still recovering.  At this point I wish I hadn't had it the stomach is taking a long time to recover and the Diep method doesn't remove muscle, but am told down the track I will be happy with it.  It is very major surgery and not to be taken lightly.

  • Shazinoz's avatar
    Shazinoz
    Member
    14 years ago

    I didn;t have this surgery but I have had a Left mastectomy and immediate silicone implant reconstruction and am having the other one done after I finish chemo becasue I am High risk due to family history etc.

    I know the surgery sounds long, but as long as you are fit, well and healthy the length shouldn't be an issue. They wouldn't do it is they didn't think it would be all OK.

    I had the option of the TRAM flap surgery but I would have had to go to Sydney to have it done (and I can still choose that option later if I wish).

  • Shazinoz's avatar
    Shazinoz
    Member
    14 years ago

    I didn;t have this surgery but I have had a Left mastectomy and immediate silicone implant reconstruction and am having the other one done after I finish chemo becasue I am High risk due to family history etc.

    I know the surgery sounds long, but as long as you are fit, well and healthy the length shouldn't be an issue. They wouldn't do it is they didn't think it would be all OK.

    I had the option of the TRAM flap surgery but I would have had to go to Sydney to have it done (and I can still choose that option later if I wish).