Forum Discussion

merrylk's avatar
merrylk
Member
15 years ago

happy with implants?

Hi Ladies, I'll be having surgery soon for reconstruction with expanders & silicone implants. Haven't decided whether it will be just the one side yet or both. I have seen the results of a couple of ladies & they are very happy with them, but I couldn't help noticing how "firm" they were to touch, and were also not very mobile, compared to a natural breast. Is this something that you get used to fairly quickly and do they feel like they are 'part of your body' rather than something that has been added on? Would appreciate positive feedback as I 'd like to be feeling more confident before surgery. Thanks,
Merryl

4 Replies

  • MandaMoo's avatar
    MandaMoo
    Member
    15 years ago

    I haven't had a reconstruction yet - just a mastectomy with a silicone expander - i find it very hard and unnatural so am looking planning on discussing with mu surgeon what my other options are next week when I have another fill of my expander.  I spoke with my oncologist this week about chance of recurrence in my second breast and she said it is small and doesn't recommend a mastectomy at this stage it is all clear. I would be interested to hear what your PS discusses with you tomorrow.  My onc also said it was OK to have the surgery while you are having herceptin treatment.

    Good luck with your appointment.

    Amanda 

  • MandaMoo's avatar
    MandaMoo
    Member
    15 years ago

    I haven't had a reconstruction yet - just a mastectomy with a silicone expander - i find it very hard and unnatural so am looking planning on discussing with mu surgeon what my other options are next week when I have another fill of my expander.  I spoke with my oncologist this week about chance of recurrence in my second breast and she said it is small and doesn't recommend a mastectomy at this stage it is all clear. I would be interested to hear what your PS discusses with you tomorrow.  My onc also said it was OK to have the surgery while you are having herceptin treatment.

    Good luck with your appointment.

    Amanda 

  • merrylk's avatar
    merrylk
    Member
    15 years ago

    Thanks or your reply Amy. Did you have latissimus dorsi with implants on both sides or just on the breast that had radiation? My PS is recommending just expanders & silcone implants as I haven't had radiation.

    I am going private and have finished 4 chemos but have to continue with Herceptin until January.

    I had a left mastectomy in December for DCIS & a lumpectomy in right breast for small tumour. However PS is suggesting mastectomy for right so I can get both breasts looking the same & then don't need radiotherapy etc. on right breast. I am not sure yet what to do. My PS is highly regarded & I am seeing him tomorrow to dscuss things again.

    thanks,

    Merryl

  • chemostyle's avatar
    chemostyle
    Member
    15 years ago

    Hi Merryl,

    I have been through the reconstruction route for both side - a mastectomy side and a silicon for ex-breast-feed healthy breast.  My husband and I are very happy with the result.  The ex-breast-feed looks and feels real. The mastectomy side was very hard at first, and it has soften over time.  It has been 5 months now since my Latissimus Dorsi.  

    My path was tissue expander at masterctomy surgery, expand over time before Radiation, Latissimus & basic silicon implants to match.

    My personal advise is that if you have any concern or anxiety relating to reconstruction surgery / paths, it is probably important for you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon face to face.  (bring your hubby, as you probably only catch half the conversation - when you are there!!)   He / she will work with you or provide you information regarding all the Q & A.  It is important for you to have a Trust and Caring relation with your plastic surgeon - as there are a lot of aftercare involve and you need to be comfortable.

    other bcna resource ...

    http://www.bcna.org.au/new-diagnosis/treatment/breast-reconstruction

    Are you doing this via public or private?  have you finish all your BC treatment?

    Happy to answer for personal question via email.

    chrs,

    amy