Phyllodes Tumor - Anyone else out there?

Hi Vicki and Helen,

I too have had many people question my reasons for having reconstruction immediately.  Comments have been that why would I want to put myself through more surgery when there are great prothesis out there, or that I should first experience what it is like without the breast to come to terms with my diagnosis and loss, or that I need to heal from the mastectomy psychologically first. I think there is no right or wrong way and that yes there are excellent prosthesis out there and yes some people need to go through the whole mastectomy process first and then think of reconstruction once they are ready. It is a very individual process and all the options need to be carefully considered, but ultimately the decision is yours and only you know what is right for You.

Personally for me I just want the whole thing to be completed so that I can get on with my life. I have always had to buy special bras and swimmers since I was about 16 years old as I am only little with breast that are probably too big for my body!! I decided that I don't want to then also have to have a prosthesis and still have to buy the special bras and swimmers (even though it is a little easier now than it was back then as a teen) anymore if I don't have too. I like the fact that the option of reconstruction and reduction will hopefully give me the option to walk into any shop and pick out the ones I like without being told by the shop assistant that it doesn't come in my size and I will need to go to a specialty store!!!!! I'm still a long way off this but I am hoping by summer this could be a reality :)

Helen the banner sounds great and I will be going the 5km mothers day walk with a good friend of mine on the day. Would be great to meet up!

Good luck to both of you with your continued treatment. Hope to talk again soon. Katie xx