Forum Discussion

annette's avatar
annette
Member
20 days ago

Being flat chested :(

I have had my prothesis in ,firstly my right breast for 25 years,  and then my left breast for 20 years . I so want to take them out. They have been in there a long time. And have helped me feel like I still have my breasts. But I want to remove them forever.I feel that having the prothesis in for such a long time is not healthy..... But I don't want to be flat chested. I know I should be proud to be a woman without breast. I know breasts do not determine who I am. I have watched shows about being flat chested. I really don't think I can do it. I love feeling like a woman and looking like a woman. Yes, I can get bra implants etc. Fake breasts. But I just can't be forever flat.....It's so confusing my head. Is there anyone else out there who feels the same ? 

coping

9 Replies

  • Julez1958's avatar
    Julez1958
    Member
    19 days ago

    Hiannette​ 

    This is a very personal decision and as my breast cancer surgeon said to me when I was considering breast reconstruction “ there is no right or wrong  answer, only what is right for you“.

    I had double mastectomy and DIEP flap reconstruction and was very happy with my decision.

    Many are happy with implants . And many remaining flat.

    The private groups recommended above should help you make a decision as will talking to your medical team .

     

    • annette's avatar
      annette
      Member
      17 days ago

      Thank you. It's a tough one. It's one way or the other. And when I think about it I start to tear up as its stirring up the journey of BC again. Maybe I just have to be brave again, as when I was first diagnosed, and adjust to the new look. I know I will be healthier not having them in. It all just sucks.

      • Mez_BCNA's avatar
        Mez_BCNA
        Community Manager
        13 days ago

        It truly is so tough annette​ .  Quite often we will say to people contacting BCNA's Helpline - any decisions you have to make when diagnosed with breast cancer are terribly hard given that you never expected a breast cancer diagnosis, let alone the expectation to make decisions about your body. You are doing all the right things by asking others, exploring information and then add in the guidance of the appropriate specialist. 

        In the meantime you are welcome to also check out our website page Surgery and breast reconstruction

  • Christina_BCNA's avatar
    Christina_BCNA
    Community Manager
    19 days ago

    Hi annette​, It’s completely understandable to feel torn - you’ve had your prostheses for so long, and they’ve helped you feel like more like 'yourself' at the time when you needed them. Now it sounds like ready to remove them, but not sure what this means for you....Whatever you choose, it should be what helps you feel comfortable and confident. 💛

    If you think it would be helpful, you might like to join our private community groups Flat Chat (staying flat) or Breast Reconstruction, which have images of real surgeries and communities of real people who have faced this same decision. Wishing you all the best and please keep us updated how you go :) 

    • annette's avatar
      annette
      Member
      17 days ago

      Thanks Christina. I just want to feel like a woman and look like a woman. And I know breasts don't make me that. But I think if I go flat I will really always remember BC in a more drastic way. I dont think I could look in the mirror at myself.I don't think there is an answer. Its one way or the other. 

  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    19 days ago

    Welcome to the group, annette​.  There have been some women who've had issues with their implants from 20+ years ago ... it's good that you've not had those issues!

    So, after the removals, you'd still like to have something done to give you curves again?  Have you spoken to your surgeon about alternative implants? Or are you considering using 'external' prosthesis or preferring a surgical procedure again?

    I'd suggest you join the Breast Reconstruction group and put your questions there as well.
    Group: Choosing breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network

    You can also search the forum for 'prosthesis' .... then click on NEWEST .... and check out some of those discussions xx

    take care & all the best with your decision making

    • annette's avatar
      annette
      Member
      17 days ago

      Thank you Arpie. I wish I could do a fat transplant and be natural. And then still have the breast shape. I'm thinking you can't do both. Its one or the other. I hate BC . There's always going to a reminder. 

  • kitkat5's avatar
    kitkat5
    Member
    19 days ago

    Can you chat to a specialist to see if they think it is not healthy?  Was it from their recommendation or something you have decided?    Best wishes 

    • annette's avatar
      annette
      Member
      17 days ago

      Thanks kitkat. It's my decision. I would really love like a fat transfer from my stomach to my chest. But then I ve heard the fat can move outside the breast area. I guess I need to speak to a Dr to see what options there are out there.Damn you BC. Thank you again