Decisions... Help and Advice Please
I was diagnosed with a high grade DCIS on 22/3/2011 and had a lumpectomy last Wednesday 6 April. Prior to the surgery I had "wires" inserted. It took almost an hour and a half for the procedure and...
Forum Discussion
Hi Anne-Maree
Bit of a story but here it is. I had radical mastectomies, absolutely nothing was left so new boobs had to be built. I had a double reconstruction using tram flap method (skin from my tummy used to make new boobs). So after 10.5 hours in theatre and 2 days in intensive care, the result was boobs placed too far apart and folds in my new cleavage. I've left the best till last - my 30 year old appendix scar was now front and centre on my new right boob - I kid you not.
Back to theatre few monbths later and all problems rectified with exception of appendix scar. Now that everything has settled, one boob is bigger than the other. I have another surgery coming up to have implants and once that's done we will look at having nipples tattooed. I have also had infection issues but in fairness, I'm sure my chemo belted immune system struggled.
Despite all this, I am a realist. I had cancer which I'm told would have killed me within a year. I insisted both breasts be removed, it was not negotiable and I don't regret the decision for a minute. My surgeon is well known, highly qualified and has performed umpteen reconstructions with sensational results. At the end of the day, my surgery just didn't go as well as we had hoped - that's life. But you know what, I am very grateful my biggest concern in life is a cosmetic one, there are so many women right this very moment who would trade places with me in a heart beat and I am very mindful of that.
I wish you well at your appointment tomorrow Anne-Maree and will be thinking of you.
Kath x