I am having a hard time deciding. Any thoughts on living without a breast, I feel like I will ok in theory but then I wonder what the reality will be like. I am 48 years old and married, my husband is very supportive. I just don't know if I can go through any of the reconstruciton options. Many thanks, Renae
Like Tonya, I've had breast cancer twice too (2002 and 2011). The first time I just had a lumpectomy (with chemo & radiation). This time I had a mastectomy. I'm getting sick of my prosthesis, and I've decided to get the other boob off because I had the first cancer at 34 and the second at 43 which they said is pretty young for two separate primaries. I'm booked in on 6th September for mastectomy and double reconstruction and I can't wait! Our sex life has definitely been affected by the mastectomy because I feel a bit self-conscious, and I'd like to wear clothes without a bra at home without being lopsided. I also want my cleavage back!! I can't wear certain clothes at the moment, which the reconstruction will fix. These may sound like pretty superficial reasons, but it will make me feel a lot better. I'm only 44 damn it!! I want boobs!! Good luck with your decision xx Jane
I know how you feel.It has been 2 years since my mastectomy and I'm still not sure! This was my second bout of bc(2003 had a lumpectomy).So I can only have a diep reconstruction due to radiation tightening my skin. I have had 3 ankle operations inbetween so don't feel I can do anymore surgery at the moment. I tend to forget about my prosthesis once I'm dressed but getting undressed is still hard.I don't do" naked" anymore.I sometimes have trouble shopping for tops with a higher neckline. I've adjusted but I couldn't say I'm completely ok with living with one boob.Don't rush into recon until you are very sure about it.My surgeon told me that about a quarter of her patients go for recon. I probably haven't helped you but at least you don't feel alone coping with one boob.
Tonya xx
