followup

I was 35 the first time and 42 the second time that I had mastectomies for BC and had different reconstructions each time.  The first time was a delayed TRAM flap reconstruction and I absolutely love the result - it is soft and natural looking and is easy to lie on etc.  The TRAM operation took a while to get over but certainly not 2 yrs!! The hardest thing is standing up straight after having what is in essence a tummy tuck. There was very little pain in the breast area.  I suppose it was about 6 weeks before I was really back to normal.

The second reconstruction in 2010 was a latissimus dorsi reconstruction with implant (prosthesis). This involved inserting an expander under the skin and then over a period of a couple of months it was expanded to the correct size.  Once this was achieved I had the expander replaced with a permanent silicone implant.  My surgeon made me a new nipple at the same time.  About a month later I had the nipple tattooed and the result is really good.  My husband likes the shape better than the other side but I find it really hard and not nearly as comfortable for sleeping etc.  I am actually going into hospital again on 14th March to have it replaced for a slightly smaller implant as I feel a bit lop-sided at the moment.  There was very little down time for these ops.

If you want any more info, please contact me :)

Louise