Hi Lesley,

I had a mastectomy with immediate recon 4 weeks ago. I only had it in my left as this is where my cancer was - I'm awaiting my genetics results to see what the fate of my right breast will be!

I had an implant and to give you an idea on recovery, it was so much easier than I expected. I went back to work part time after 2 and a half weeks and this week is my first week back full time (office job). I also started driving again yesterday. At the moment, the only thing I feel I can't do is heavy lifting. Do keep in mind that everyone is different though!

It is quite a bit smaller than my right breast but I think they've done a really good job! I actually love the shape and size of it... In fact, I might just ask if they can do the same on my right one!! 

Joking aside, If my genetics all come back ok, I'll more than likely have my implant removed and have DIEP surgery. As much as I love the look of my new boob, I'd still like them both to match. I'm 32 and a newly wed so my consultant is very understanding of the fact that I want to look as good as possible!

Although DIEP is a longer recovery, I've seen other women that are so happy with the results. It looks more natural and your new breasts will lose/gain weight with you. That's my main issue with the implant. Of course, if you have implants on both sides, this won't be so bad but I didn't like the idea of having a natural right breast that could fluctuate in weight and having a left breast that'll never change!! The other thing to consider with implants is that they do have to be replaced every 10-15 years. 

I have also lost my nipple and it really doesn't look as odd as I'd imagined it would! Although I will get it tattooed once I'm happy cosmetically with my breasts! 

Please feel free to ask me any other questions x

Thank you Jamie that's really helpful. Really hope everything is ok for you. Both my mum and sister had breast cancer before me and I'm having dual mastectomy and was favouring the implants because they will both (hopefully) be the same!! My   Sister had implants and grafted nipples and is really pleased with them. She's had them 20 years now so surgery I'm sure will have advanced even from then!! 
All advice is very gratefully received and it really helps to draw from other peoples experiences. Good luck with everything. 
 

lesley x