reconstruction

Hi Tanya,

Thanks,

 I hope you are happy with your reconstruction.

There are quite a few options out there and yes the recovery time isa very valid consideration,also the scars that are left on various parts of the body is a consideration for me.

Cheers

Katie

Thanks Dette,

It's great to hear you are happy with your reconstruction.

I hope you go well through the rest of your treatment, I have finished mine, I am about to start Tamoxifen.

I'm looking forward to a reconstruction to gain a little normality.

Cheers

Katie

Hi Katie K

I can't help with that procedure but can say that I'm very happy with my reconstruction using latissimus dorsi flap. Admittedly my small size was a key advantage here (maximum B cup) and I took time to check out what felt right for me.

I'm not sure of your situation, but I was able to have the reconstruction at the same time as my mastectomy with a 2 month wait before radiation could commence if needed. I'm in awe of the plastic surgeon's work - I already have an amazing replacement nipple dreated from some skin from my back. Although I thought I'd experience issues with my back that hasn't been the case.

I believe an important aspect for me was the opportunity to speak with several plastic surgeons several times over a week or so. Any advice from me would include continue researching as you are until you find both a practitioner and procedure that feels right for you.

All the best, Dette

Hi Katie K

Sorry cant help with your proceedure.

I had a double mastecomy, one with expander, one skin sparing with implant.  My reconstruction was determined by the lenght of recovery (minimum) with young children at the time.

Good luck, you are doing the right thing researching what you need to know.

Tanya

Thanks Amanda,

The site was excellent, even though the podcasts were 2 to 3 years old the information was very helpful.

It seems to me that the procedure is not popular and is outdated, so I'll hace to choose another.

Cheers!

 Katie

Hi Katie

I have just listened to a podcast available on the Breacan site where a plastic surgeon talks about reconstruction options.  He did discuss this type (I think it is the type of recon you are talking about) right at the very end.  It might be worth listening too.  He did say it was a procedure he wasn't comfortable performing for a variety of reasons and that there are not many surgeons who do it. 

Here is the link - it's pretty long and he only briefly mentions using your other breast as a donor site at the very end.

All the best,

Amanda 

http://breacan.org.au/services-events/information-sessions/archive