Reconstruction after Lumpectomy and Radiotherapy

@KatieA, just re-read my post and have realised that I have misinformed you a bit. The breast reduction and implant are covered by medicare but the fat grafting is not and comes at a cost of $1000-00 per breast - I reckon when I consider I'm getting two perkies and a flat stomach thats a bargain :smiley: \o/ and considering I have never had a flat stomach I expect my self esteem to be through the roof (doesn't mean I'm going to become a belly flasher though!!) 

Hi @KatieA.  Sorry that you're on this path, but hopefully you'll find a lot of support out there.
You'll find a lot of information on website www.reclaimyourcurves.org.au  and you can also connect via the phone or online.  After you've finished radiation, there will be options for you to achieve symmetry again.  It's nothing to be embarrassed about or considered vanity - it can help in both the physical and emotional healing process after the shock of diagnosis and treatment.  
As others have mentioned, depending on your suitability, a reduction on healthy breast or small implant/fat filling on affected breast may be options for you.  When the time is right for you, seeking a couple of plastic surgeon opinions(who specialise in breast reconstruction)  would be the way to go.  Depending on what area you're in would reflect  what services are available to you.  
All the very best as you progress through treatment xx

Hi KatieA, I had a single skin and nipple sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction using silicone implant. This has meant that I have one very perky breast that is smaller in length and I am now lopsided compared to my natural breast. My surgeon will not look at doing any reduction to my natural breast for at least 12 months after my surgery (12 months in June) but will then look at doing a reduction, possible small implant and then fat grafting to both breasts to ensure that they match. This is all through the public system in NSW and it is classed as reconstruction rather than cosmetic as it is acknowledged that these issues can effect self esteem and image. Also have a good friend who is also looking at having fat grafting after having had lumpectomy and radiation to help with self image. Please do not be embarrassed, totally understand.  If you've got any questions more than happy to answer. Xx Cath

Hi KatieA,
You can definitely have a reconstruction if your breasts are affected by lumpectomy.  Radiation may also affect the breast size so definitely wait until after that.  I found this info on the reclaim your curves website that might interest you..
Paula x

Hi KatieA. I had a lumpectomy where two lumps were removed, and as I also wanted smaller breasts, the surgeon took more out of the cancer affected breast at the time. She also did a reduction on the other side. I went from. DD bordering on E to a C. Mine was all done at the same time though in the private system. My surgeon did say that she would have been concerned about me having such lopsided breasts otherwise as it could cause posture and spinal problems. Perhaps you can wait and see how small the affected breast ends up after radiation and then investigate reduction on the other side to match it. It can be difficult to estimate how much the radiation might shrink it.
I am glad I did it, even though I only get to enjoy them for the 6 months I go through Chemo as I now have to have a mastectomy.
At least the good breast is now firmer, lifted, and perkier than before.

my whole operation was partly covered by Medicare and my health fund.
I don't know if the reduction would have been covered if it was done at separate times, you would have to investigate with your surgeon.

You can have a tweak of the other breast but it might take a while in tbe public system. It wouldn't be done for a little while as you woukd need to wait until all healed after radiotherapy to see what needs tweeking. 

@mum2jj

@Alpal thought you might be able to guide @KatieA

@KatieA  there is a reconstruction group where you will be able to get some awesome answers and also discuss things like options and see photos etc of reconstructions.... 
http://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/group/1-choosing-breast-reconstruction Just go the link then ask to join ... I didnt do reconstruction so I cant answer you. 

You have a right to feel good about your body, be that reconstruction or not.... 

hugs 
Alice