High grade DCIS
After a mammogram guided core biopsy my surgeon rang to say I had DCIS and he would need to remove a small area which would probably be all that was necessary.
A few days later he did a lumpectom...
Forum Discussion
Hi Juneebarb
As the ladies above have explained this call back happens quite often. We all hope for the lumpectomy but often end up with a mastectomy. I have not contemplated a reconstruction at the moment, it can be done years down the track if required. You need to ask your Oncologist if you need radiotherapy, this may affect when you can have the reconstruction done.
As Tonya has explained you can have an implant or a reconstruction using your own muscles and fat. These latter ones are much more technical but give fantastic results. They require a longer recovery period and have a donor site that also needs to heal.
Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap is where a flap of muscle, skin and fat is moved from the back to the chest. Often this also needs an implant as well to achieve the required size.
Transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous (TRAM) flap is where a flap of skin, fatty tissue and muscle is moved from the abdomen to the chest.
Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is where a flap of skin and fatty tissue is moved from the abdomen to the chest.
If I have a reconstruction in the future I will opt for a DIEP flap as this does not shift muscles with the possibility of future weakness in these areas.
Hope this helps
With love
Joy K