TUG Flap Surgery
Hi all, I'm new to the group.. Just wondering if anyone has had TUG Flap surgery (removal of upper thigh muscle used to reconstruct breast) and if they have had any complications afterwards? I had a mastectomy last August (a 50th birthday present lol), and after complications with an implant and also an expander implant, it was decided my only option for reconstruction was TUG flap surgery. So within 3 months I ended up with 5 operations and finally my thigh muscles (plus skin, fat and blood vessels) transferred to reconstruct my breast. That last surgery (TUG flap) was in November and I have had constant issues in my thighs since - constant pain, discomfort, unable to move properly, can't stretch the area and over the last few months have had 8 fluid aspirations and one further surgery to fix seroma (fluid build up). I can't seem to find anyone who has had this surgery or much information on this (I did find some info on the BCNA website), but would be keen to connect with anyone who has had this surgery and find out how they have recovered. I have been a runner all my life for mental and physical health, and I'm terrified I am never going to be able to run again. Cheers, Ness
IMPLANT OR AUTOLOGOUS FLAP
Hi ladies, I am hoping someone couold share with me what the implants are like as a reconstruction choice. I had a DIEP FLAP in May and unfortunately had many complications and after 5 operations in 12 days and 3 weeks in hospital, they couldn't save my right breast ðŸ˜so I now have an expander in there and I hate it!! IT hurts!! I have spoken with my PS to see what the plan is moving forward and he said we can try a TUG FLAP (tissue from my inner thigh) or implant. I really wanted my breast to be mine and not implants but I really dont know if I can go through this process of operations and recovery again (bit of PTSD I think!) and if I have any more scars I'm going to look like Mrs Frankenstein!! But I am worried about having one implant boob and one of my own tissue, will it look odd, will it feel odd etc etc. I am soked with my left breast, it looks great, feels soft, great size and shape, I couldnt be happier! If anyone has been in the same position as me, I'd love to chat, but I'd also like to know how people feel about their Implant choice.