Why I'm not having breast reconstruction
It’s one week since I found out I need a mastectomy. It feels like a month!Last Wednesday when my surgeon explained that the pathology on the surgery I’d had the week before revealed invasive cancer,...
Forum Discussion
Hi Meg
I have read yours and Michelle's comment as what I thought is intended ie your perception of yourself.
I have bilateral mastectomy and from the start did not want reconstruction. And now after chemo and radiation, having been asked by all three specialists if I have now changed my mind, I have not. I did not like the idea of foreign bodies in me nor the idea of more surgeries, and still don't although I have not spoken to any plastic surgeon.
As for the one or two off, one of the reasons was that I did not think I can live with one breast as being asymmetry, it would be a constant reminder (not that I would forget about the bc). That is having to constantly remember to take actions to ensure both are balanced. And I would feel odd....yes odd but not freakish. One would think that having both off would seem even 'odder' but my perception of my life as asymmetry breasted was worse. Yes, one probably need to live with what is in one's head.
Having said all that, I can understand how these body images and perception can affect some more than others. This is an emotional journey and we have a lot to content with.
Meg, go and prepare for your surgery. All the best with decisions and surgery.
Cis