Bilateral Mastectomy, Expanders then Silicon Implants

Hi Sonya,

I have not decided on nipple reconstruction or tattooing as yet. At this stage, I am leaning towards just the tattooing, if I decide to do anything at all. I believe that nipple reonstruction produces nipples that appear to be constantly erect, and I really don't need that. Just perhaps a visual break in the scar line would be sufficient, I think.... That's this week - I may change my mind later! One step at a time....That's the only bit of advice I would give - take your time to recover and give yourself the time to grieve for your lost breasts and come to terms with the whole situation. There is no hurry - just do things at your own pace.

 

All the best for your recovery - happy to share expereiences any time.

Alison

Hi Paula,

Not sure where they are taking it from - probably thighs although there is a bit on my stomach, there wasn't enough to do a transfer for the reconstruction of both breasts - hence the implants. I have good saddlebags on my thighs so have enough to take for the fat transfer! Might be a chance to reduce the saddlebags at last!! :)

Alison

Hi Alison. Thanks for taking the time to send me that message. Really helpful to hear from someone further down the track. Surgery went well and no lymph involvement which I'm really happy about. Sounds like our situations are very similar. Are you having nipple reconstruction and tatooing? Sonya

I had tissue transfer surgery (tram flap) in Dec 2013. I too am looking at fat transfer. Just to give me better symmetry. I will be very keen to hear how you go. Are they taking from your thighs? That's what has been proposed to me. I am waiting on a quote to see if I can afford it!!! Good luck. Paula :)

Hi Sonya,

Just came across your post - you will be in surgery now, so I am sending lots of positive thoughts. I was diagnosed with triple negative BC in my right breast 3 October 2013. I also decided on a bilateral mastectomy with immediate implants - surgery was performed on 17th October. I recovered very well from the surgery and have since had 4.5 months of chemo - which was a lot tougher! I had no lymph node involvement so no radiotherapy required, thankfully. I am reasonably happy with the impants, although I find them a bit firm - the plastic surgeon says they are soft compared to others! I was an A cup prior to the surgery and have stayed the same cup size, although the implants were round, so had to buy new bras.From the outside, I look fine, it is still a bit challenging to see myself in the mirror with just scars across the centre of the breasts and no nipples.

Because there is no breast tissue left, I am going to have fat injections to soften and even out the profile. I am having that done on the 4th July.

 

All in all, I am OK with the new breasts. I am getting used to sleeping on my side again and all other aspects, like getting changed in the gym changing rooms! I hope you also have a good experience.

 

All the best,

Alison

Xxxxx

Radioactive isotope injections this afternoon then back in early in the morning for the surgery.

Thanks for thinking of me. 

 

Oh wow, yes you have certainly already been through a lot, Sue. I guess the second part of your journey is now beginning. I was so pleased to know I could start immediate reconstruction. I know it is a long road but I'm very pleased about that. Hopefully since you've already had radiation you won't need any more after (which I'm told messes with the reconstruction a bit).

Good luck for Thu. Would really like to hear how you go when you feel up to it.

Sonya

Hi Sue

Good to  hear from you. Have you had to wait a while for yours? I will be two weeks from diagnosis. Was a little frustrated but now really trying to appreciate the extra time I have before it all starts happening. Getting all the bills paid etc. Getting a very short haircut today. Will be a lot easier in hospital and recovery I think and hope to be a step ahead of the chemo if/when it happens. How are you spending  your last two days?

Sonya

Hi Sonya, Hope all goes well for your surgery. I know how you feel my surgery is Thursday, mastectomy and reconstruction all in one hit. Not enough hours in the day to get organised but then I have to sit and rest! Take care. Sue