Double masectomy and reconstruction

Hey, Ive just had my 4th cycle of chemo. After meeting with my surgery they have decided i need a double masectomy and has brought up reconstruction. I've only just turned 34 which was one of the reasons he recommended the reconstruction. Has anyone had either of these done? I would appreciate some feedback. 

  • I've had mastectomy and reconstruction at the same time. I'm quite happy with the results. Obviously it's not like your natural breast but they gave me a beautiful breast so quite grateful.  If your smaller chested they can put permanent silicon implant in straight away. I'm DD so I had saline implant put in which the surgeon gradually pumped up. It will be replaced with silicone at some point but I can wear a bikini now it's fully pumped lol Using your own tissue is a very complex surgery.  I wouldn't have gone with that myself ,no way. I'm happy with the implants.  Hope it goes well for you . You won't be able to lift your arm high and please don't ,even if you can ,be careful . Don't lift over 90 degrees. Also you will only be able to lift a kettle for first few weeks. So I hope you have someone to support . It will be painful at first, I could shower by myself from day 1 but getting out of bed was not easy . Nothing where you would use your chest muscle will be easy but after few weeks you can do more and more. Best of luck ,hope it goes well xx

  • Thank you Brigiita I'll im definitely swaying towards the reconstruction and masectomy at the same time. Ive always had a big chest so ill gladly take a smaller chest just dont know how I feel about having none at all. I have a great support network for when the time comes and thabk you again for your quick reply. Hope everythings good with you. 

    Many Thanks

  •  

    Hi Sb88,

    I am so sorry to hear that you need a double mastectomy at your age. 

    I had a lumpectomy 13 years ago. The following year I developed another lump in the same breast and this was another primary. I had a double mastectomy. I was a size 44C before, I can honestly say that I had less bother with the double mastectomy, than I did with the lumpectomy. Unfortunately, I was not a suitable candidate for reconstruction, due to previous non-cancer related surgeries, but I manage well with an assortment of different prostheses for various activities. I still swim, go to the gym, etc with my falsies! I lead a busy and fulfilling life despite these setbacks.

    Have you decided on what sort of reconstruction you'll have? I hope that all goes well for you.

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx