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Barmyfarmers's avatar
Barmyfarmers
Member
11 years ago

Done! - breast reconstruction

It has been a number of weeks since I have posted anything but this morning I felt I needec to share the next stage of my journey. I came home 5 days ago after spending two weeks in hospital. I had a single mastectomy with an immediate reconstruction involving a direct implant. Both the breast surgeon and the plastic surgeon say that they are happy with the result. I suppose I am just still trying to come to terms with the whole thing. The good thing (and definitely most important thing) is that they have confirmed to me that they are confident that all cancer has been removed. Since it showed no signs of having gone into my lymphatic system, I am extremely fortunate to not need chemo or even radiotherapy. The thing that bothers me (sorry if I seem very shallow here), is my new appearance. I am quite busty anyway, but the reconstructed breast is unfortunately about half the size of my other breast. I need to stuff my bra to try to look at all symmetrical. I admit I did not expect this. I knew that the new breast would sit high compared to my sagging old breast and expected that, but they assured my beforehand that the outcome would produce symmetry in clothes. I feel very self conscious and rather frustrated. I wish that I could have been a bit more prepared for this prior to surgery. Anyway, today I go in for my first post-op outpatient appointment. I suppose I shall discuss there what possible options I might have. Thanks, BCNA, for providing a place for us to get out our thoughts and feelings. Natalie

3 Replies

  • Barmyfarmers's avatar
    Barmyfarmers
    Member
    11 years ago
    Thanks for sharing your experience Shmoo. They have suggested possible reduction on the other side in the future. It is good to be able to hear from other people who have been down the same road. Xo
  • shmoo's avatar
    shmoo
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Natalie,

    Sorry to hear that you are disappointed with the outcome of your recent surgery. I too had a mastectomy but chose to have a double one for many reasons.  Though the dr did say that I could have a single mastectomy with a reduction and lift to the other side for symmetry.  I was a double d and chose to go a full c cup.  I had my exchange surgery from expanders to implants 2 weeks ago and came out lopsided with one breast bigger than the other.  I was told it was to do with swelling and the fact that the implant hadn't dropped into place yet.  The dr said it would take 3-6 months for the implant to be positioned correctly.  Within the past 2 weeks I have noticed a change and the breast which was looking smaller has now increased in size a bit and has a much better shape.  So am hoping that this continues and they end up equal in size.

    So maybe it is too early for you to judge just yet and if after 6 months you are still not happy I suppose you could have an adjustment made to the other breast for symmetry.

    Great news that you dont need any treatment - I was as lucky as you!

    Good luck with your continued progess.

  • shmoo's avatar
    shmoo
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Natalie,

    Sorry to hear that you are disappointed with the outcome of your recent surgery. I too had a mastectomy but chose to have a double one for many reasons.  Though the dr did say that I could have a single mastectomy with a reduction and lift to the other side for symmetry.  I was a double d and chose to go a full c cup.  I had my exchange surgery from expanders to implants 2 weeks ago and came out lopsided with one breast bigger than the other.  I was told it was to do with swelling and the fact that the implant hadn't dropped into place yet.  The dr said it would take 3-6 months for the implant to be positioned correctly.  Within the past 2 weeks I have noticed a change and the breast which was looking smaller has now increased in size a bit and has a much better shape.  So am hoping that this continues and they end up equal in size.

    So maybe it is too early for you to judge just yet and if after 6 months you are still not happy I suppose you could have an adjustment made to the other breast for symmetry.

    Great news that you dont need any treatment - I was as lucky as you!

    Good luck with your continued progess.