Removal of remaining breast, no reconstruction

I actually said to my husband today that if a reconstruction of my right breast is not possible or I think the disadvantages are too strong, that I wish they could cut the other one off. I just find it so awkward right now clothes wise. At least with a flat chest clothes would fit easier or not sit funny.

As I'm only 6 months out from my surgery and still undergoing radiation, I am still in a lot of discomfort. I did get fitted for a prosthesis and got given two bras, but they are too small now and wearing a bra at all drives me crazy! Up until my radiation began I was wearing a bra with the soft prosthesis I first got given. But the other day I went commando for the first time at work which was quite a thing for me to do. I tried to wear a bra but couldn't stand it. Obviously around the house I don't care, but I am wondering how far down my other boob will be hanging down in the future!

Basically, I feel it's harder for me to just have one breast but I will have to put a lot of thought into reconstruction in the future.

I'm with Jennymen!

I had a L mastectomy in March last year, and never considered reconstuction. I don't want any more operations than I really need, whether for reconstruction or removal of the remaining breast. I don't usually wear a prosthesis. I am not ashamed of surviving this thing, and if other ppl find it a little confronting, I can live with that.

One interesting thing -- in not reconstructing and not wearing a prosthesis, other BC survivors sometimes recognise me as a fellow BC traveller. There's a kind of nice solidarity in that. Go well, and make your own (well-informed) decision -- whatever feels right for you.

Heather

I'm with Jennymen!

I had a L mastectomy in March last year, and never considered reconstuction. I don't want any more operations than I really need, whether for reconstruction or removal of the remaining breast. I don't usually wear a prosthesis. I am not ashamed of surviving this thing, and if other ppl find it a little confronting, I can live with that.

One interesting thing -- in not reconstructing and not wearing a prosthesis, other BC survivors sometimes recognise me as a fellow BC traveller. There's a kind of nice solidarity in that. Go well, and make your own (well-informed) decision -- whatever feels right for you.

Heather

I too has a mastectomy in Nov 11 and after considerable thought and research decided to live without a reconstruction. I am quite happy with this and my prosthesis is quite comfortable allowing me to continue my pasttimes of playing sport and bushwalking. The only time I feel slightly weird is after showering and a mirror gets in the way, but I am thankful to be here with my very supportive family. I did not want to face more surgery, but this is a personal decision so good luck with whatever you decide. Love to all the lovely ladies on this great site Sue

hi im in the same boat as you.I had a mastectomey october 2010 with no reconstruction.I want my remaining breast removed.I feel i look lopsided. I went to my surgeon with my concern and he told me he doesnt want to do it due to my age.Im 41 and he feels i should go for a reconstruction. Though to have this done they have to take muscle and fat from my stomach to build my breast. ive seen scars from this procedu!re and i dont think id be happy with the result.It will also be 2 or 3 surgeries apparantly.and their is a risk the skin and muscle may not surviue! Lordy! So im in a dilema about it.At the moment im researching being able to have a tattoo to cover my scar.Its meant to be painful but im feeling it couldnt be any worse than the prospect of recon.hope u have peace in whatever decision you make. cheers annie x