What to do after a mastectomy?
Hi, i was diagnosed in oct 2016 and started chemo in nov 2016, 4 ac followed by further 12. I still have 5 sessions to go as I've had hiccups along the way. Then an op and 6 weeks of radiation...
Forum Discussion
I am in the same predicament, Hulos. Perhaps check out the Reclaim your curves website and also the reconstruction group on this site. Click on groups at the top of the page to join up. They have helpful information.
Having to have radiation can limit your options for implants, though I have heard it may be possible.
Do I want to do it? I don't know?
it is not necessary to make up your mind immediately in a lot of cases as many reconstructions can be done several years later, trying to find out first what your likely options will be is helpful.
Some reconstruction using your own tissue is quite a major operation and can involve more than one prceedure, so it is a lot to consider.
I am 57, have had a reduction on the other side during previous lumpectomy so having the mastectomy now will not make me so radically uneven, and I may be happy with a prosthetic breast.
I am not sure for certain that I will be having radiation but it has been mentioned, so I guess my implant options may be limited too.
Having major operations that may affect my use of other muscle groups doesn't thrill me, and having more time off work for more operations doesn't thrill me either as I am self employed.
I think I will just have the mastectomy and wait to see if I want reconstruction later
As you say, there is a lot to consider.
But first of all find out which decisions have to be made at mastectomy time and which decisions can be made at a later date, that might help you to decide what to do.
Good luck, I hope you find an option you are happy with and helps you feel good about your body again.
Having to have radiation can limit your options for implants, though I have heard it may be possible.
Do I want to do it? I don't know?
it is not necessary to make up your mind immediately in a lot of cases as many reconstructions can be done several years later, trying to find out first what your likely options will be is helpful.
Some reconstruction using your own tissue is quite a major operation and can involve more than one prceedure, so it is a lot to consider.
I am 57, have had a reduction on the other side during previous lumpectomy so having the mastectomy now will not make me so radically uneven, and I may be happy with a prosthetic breast.
I am not sure for certain that I will be having radiation but it has been mentioned, so I guess my implant options may be limited too.
Having major operations that may affect my use of other muscle groups doesn't thrill me, and having more time off work for more operations doesn't thrill me either as I am self employed.
I think I will just have the mastectomy and wait to see if I want reconstruction later
As you say, there is a lot to consider.
But first of all find out which decisions have to be made at mastectomy time and which decisions can be made at a later date, that might help you to decide what to do.
Good luck, I hope you find an option you are happy with and helps you feel good about your body again.