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Louise_Macgrego's avatar
Louise_Macgrego
Member
11 years ago

Bilateral mastectomy TRAM recon update

Hi guys

Just thought I'd update you on my progress. I am now 6 weeks post surgery from bilateral mastectomy with immediate TRAM reconstruction, and I am going really well. No longer have to wear compression bra and girdle which is nice. I have some cording on my left side, so it's still a bit tight, but I have been having Physio which has really helped and I can now extend both my arms fully above my head, 3 weeks ago I could only get half way. My Physio is using a treatment called Scenar Therapy, and I can thoroughly recommend it. It is an amazing machine that achieves faster results than just normal Physio, so look for a Physio that uses Scenar therapy, it is fantastic. I am really enjoying my flat stomach, and have even had to buy new clothes as everything I had is now too big! I am very happy with my result, my surgeons have done a fantastic job. I am also very glad I made this choice and my breast surgeon said I no longer need to have mammograms as well which is another bonus! I'm happy to answer any questions anyone has about this procedure or about my experience, for me it has been very positive with a great outcome. Love Louise xx

4 Replies

  • Louise_Macgrego's avatar
    Louise_Macgrego
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Karen, thanks so much for your words of encouragement. I turned 50 earlier this year, I was 48 when first diagnosed. I feel I have been one of the lucky ones, detected early, (DCIS only .6mm) so no radium or chemo, and genetic testing (I tested BRCA2 positive) gave me the opportunity to make the decision I have, which was definitely the right decision as my pathology of my removed breasts tissue showed atypical change in both breasts (original cancer only found in left breast). If left there, this would have eventually turned cancerous. I have been surrounded by expert surgeons every step of the way, who have all taken such good care of me and I am very happy with the result. It was a big operation, almost 13 hours, but all in all I have come through it all very well, thank God. You sound like a very strong positive person, and I think that's really important to your healing and progress. I pray that all will continue well for you and I wish you all the very best. Let me know if I can help with any questions any time. Rest up and heal well. Love Louise xx

  • Louise_Macgrego's avatar
    Louise_Macgrego
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi, would be happy to post some pics, but not sure if everyone would want to see them publicly, if there's a private way to show you the result I'm happy to send them to you. Cheers Louise xx

  • Kazzi's avatar
    Kazzi
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Louise,

    Congratulations on your new breasts!

    I'm just home from having a mastectomy during the week and learning to cope with a new body.  Immediate reconstruction wasn't possible, in my case, because I still may need radiation and I didn't want any complications to delay starting chemo. My long term aim is to have reconstruction in a year or two (for my 50th), so I'm so pleased to hear of your progress. 

    Well done Louise.  Your surgery was truly a marathon effort, you're doing so well.

    Karen xx

  • Loubegg's avatar
    Loubegg
    Member
    11 years ago

    Wow!   That's great news.  Would love to see some pics.  It sounds like you're right on track! Lx