Member: Abbydog | BCNA Online Network

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Re: Letrozole question
I think that you may be confused. I'm not aware of teeth being a problem with Letrazole. But as with most Aromatase Inhibitor drugs, many of us do get Osteopenia or Osteoporosis. And the treatment for that eg Prolia, Zometa can cause Jaw Necrosis. If starting these drugs for bone density, you should have all dental problems solved before starting. I've been on Letazole, and swapped to Exemestane for 6 years now. And have had 8 Zometa Infusions. No issues re teeth as yet.
1 month ago Place Hormone blocking therapy
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Re: Cost of breast reconstruction
I too am finding this BCNA site, not always easy. Did Dr Lodge see you as suitable then? Maybe she wants to see you in January when you have made up your mind, and then set a date? I did not have your surgery, but it was still a long one. Yours sounds longer. For her to book your date it would be her whole operating list for that day. I don't think 63 is old for this. But you probably should have general good health. I was 61 on diagnosis and 63 for Recon. I'm not sure if I'm allowed, but did you know that there is an Adelaide facebook group that has some in person get togethers. It's called Adelaide Breast Cancer Friendship Group Chat Room. Did Dr Lodge give you a price for the Recon she was offering you?
9 months ago Place Breast reconstruction
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Re: DIEP reconstruction or going flat
Did you ask the PS about future exercise, and the implications in your surgery choice? Is it just exercise, or are you highly competitive? Big decisions , I know.
9 months ago Place Early breast cancer
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Re: Cost of breast reconstruction
Did she say that you were a suitable candidate for DIEP? As you read I didn't have that surgery. She is very fussy. For my surgery, I am still very happy. I have not needed any revision surgery. I have had 2 episodes of Fat Grafting, to improve my upper fullness. During one of the fat grafting ops, she did improve a small dog ear. I had no complications with my surgeries. My main surgery was an 8hr op, but I don't believe it was microsurgery like DIEP is. I can put recent photos if you want, they now include 3D tattoos. I'd love to hear how you go. How many opinions have you had?
9 months ago Place Breast reconstruction
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Re: DIEP reconstruction or going flat
Are you being offered immediate DIEP recon? It can be done later. Do you need other treatments. I wasn't offered immediate, possibly because it was important to get on with Chemo and RT. I had a SMX with axillary clearance. 18 months later I had Recon. It is posted with photos in 'Choosing Breast Reconstruction' and labelled 'Not suitable for DIEP. My Reconstruction' I seriously considered going flat, but I decided that my body shape being a little large, would not look good flat. I am happy with my Recon choice. It certainly was a big decision. All the best with your choice.
9 months ago Place Early breast cancer
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Re: Staying flat…what’s it like being “lopsided”?
I was lopsided for 18mths, and hated it. I always wore a bra and prosthesis when out and about. I was a 18-20DD, so it would have been very obvious had I not worn my prosthesis. My Bra always twisted to the remaining breast side. I seriously considered going flat and having the other one off, for symmetry. If I had a slim shape, I would have gone that way. However after some research I decided on Reconstruction. I am very happy with my choice. It was a difficult decision. When I had the Recon(Lat Dorsi) I Also had a prophylactic Mastectomy to my other side. I now have 2 implants. Wearing clothes and being naked is ok now. I'd be happier if I was slim.
1 year ago Place General discussions
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Re: Coming off HRT for Breast surgery
I came off cold turkey too. It wasn't as bad as i expected. I was 61, so maybe had got further through menopause. But since starting Aromatase Inhibitors, I have hot flushes again. some weeks are better than others. There are a few drug options if you are going down that path. Not everything works for everyone. I have continued throughout with vaginal estrogen. This isn't recommended for everyone, but there was a discussion with my Gynecologist, Breast Surgeon and Oncologist and me. Our vaginas can get dry and fragile with age and AI drugs. I don't know if this helps. Are you having any other treatment for your BC?
1 year ago Place General discussions
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Re: Cost of breast reconstruction
Did you get any extra opinions on surgery review?
1 year ago Place Breast reconstruction
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Re: My armpits feel like they are coated with ADHESIVE!
Is there anything sticky? Like touching it with your other hand. Or another person touching it. Or could it be your perception. There can be unusual sensations after this surgery, as some nerves can be damaged. If there is stickiness, could it be residue from any dressings.
1 year ago Place Side effects
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Re: Hospital
I'm sorry you are going through this. Keep an open mind to things you hear, and try not to google too much. This usually increases anxiety. Ask important questions from reliable sources. Write down any questions before you see your doctors. Take a partner or friend with you, if possible. So they can help you to remember what is said. Some ladies have a very difficult time. But that is not everyone. I was very lucky with all of my treatments, ie Surgery, Chemo and RT. Do you know anything yet about which treatments you need? I went private. I had very good care. Also surgery was arranged very quickly. My Mastectomy was 10 days after my finding the lump. With Private you have better access to your surgeon, should any problems occur. This may be difficult if public. The only cost to me was the hospital excess. This would depend on your particular policy. Depending on your surgeon, they may have a gap. Mine was $500. If you have Private insurance, is something putting you off using it? Have you heard something bad? I'm sure you will get good care, public or private. All the best. Thinking of you.
1 year ago Place Early breast cancer
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Groups

Let's talk: vaginas, menopause & me
PRIVATE GROUP. This group is a safe, supportive space to talk about sexual health and emotional wellbeing during and after breast cancer. We discuss topics like menopause, vaginal dryness, pain during sex, UTIs, and changes in libido, and share ideas and products that may help. Whether you're navigating intimacy with a partner or reconnecting with yourself, you're not alone here. This is a place for open, respectful conversations and shared understanding.
Choosing breast reconstruction
PRIVATE GROUP. Choosing breast reconstruction after single or double mastectomy can feel overwhelming, and deeply personal. This group is here to connect you through others' stories and images. Please respect everyone’s privacy—do not copy or share content outside this space. Information is based on personal experience and is not medical advice; always consult your healthcare team for guidance. ⚠️CONTENT WARNING⚠️ Members may share photos of breast surgeries. These images or discussions may be distressing or triggering for some. If you need support, please contact the BCNA Helpline - we are here for you.

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Let's talk: vaginas, menopause & me

Choosing breast reconstruction