christobell

Hi Christobell,

I see you have joined the Breast reconstruction group so you should be able to access lots of posts about this type of reconstruction.

I had my bilateral TRAM in Dec 2013.  I am really happy with the results and you are correct you do get a bit of a tummy tuck as that is where they get the tissue from to make your new breast mound.  In the TRAM they also take a small amount of muscle with the tissue.  I have recovered really well from mine, whilst I can't do sit-ups any more I don't really notice it. As you are a member of the reconstruction group you should be able to access this link about TRAM flap reconstruction which has many posts from other members who have had that surgery.

Good luck.

Paula xxx

Thankyou Beppie

thankyou Jane

Hi

I had this done 18 months ago . Most painful and in hospital for 10 days. My foobie is fantastic and that's all. I have a bulge on the right abdominal side from weakness in the stomach ( no muscle ) , definitely not flat stomach! My right natural breast has had 4 attempts to get it to match the left one . They are lopsided and 3 cup sizes different. After having breast cancer twice I'm so disappointed in the result especially compared to other ladies I've seen . Most important advice I can tell you is research research research your plastic surgeon to get the best , to give you the optimal result! Good luck Bep xxx

Hi Christobell, a TRAM reconstruction involves taking a flap of skin, fat, and all or part of the underlying rectus abdominus (“6-pack”) muscle to create new breasts. You might like to read more about it here: Tram-flap fact sheet (Reclaim Your Curves).

I had a similar reconstruction called a DIEP Flap reconstruction which also takes skin, fat and blood vessels from the tummy, but no muscle, to create a breast. By taking this flap of skin and tissue you do get a "tummy tuck" and I do have a much flatter tummy now which is a nice bonus. It is however a long and complex procedure, with a good 6-8 week recovery time.

If you haven't already done so, please feel free to join the Breast Reconstruction group as there are quite a few ladies that have shared their TRAM reconstruction stories and photos and I'm sure many others would be willing to share their tips and experiences with you. 

There are a lot of choices and difficult decisions around reconstruction and it is important that you feel that you have been fully informed about what to expect. Connecting with other women who have had, or are going through reconstruction, can be a great way to get the support and information you need. Cheers, Jane xx