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Risk-reducing breast surgery. Reconstruction using your own tissue and laparoscopy.

Cortijera
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Hello!

I am new to this group.

I have had four weeks ago a laparoscopy and I am going to have a risk-reducing breast surgery next.  I am very scared and I have a lot of questions and doubts to ask.

I would be very grateful if somebody who has gone through that could give me some tips about what to to before and after the breast operation.   And, I would like to ask if it is normal to be in pain and have a lot of gas four weeks after the laparoscopy, because I went to work yesterday just for a three hour shift and I got to ill and in pain on the bus that I had to come back home immediately and phone the GP to extend my sick leave. Has anybody had a similar experience?  Should I worry?

Thank you very much,

  • Hello Cortijera

    Welcome to the forum. It's understandable that you have some questions and concerns ahead of your surgery next week. I know that we have ladies here on the forum who have been through this kind of reconstruction so hopefully, we can connect you with someone who can share their experiences with you. 

    You might find it useful to use the forum search function at the top of the page to look for the term DIEP, which is shorthand for the type of breast reconstruction that you've described in your post. I'm sure you will find some posts that you can read through and maybe post a message to other women who have been through this surgery. We also have some information on our website about breast reconstruction using your own tissue that you may find helpful.  

    Do you have a breast care nurse? Don't be afraid to give them a call to talk through some of the questions and concerns you have. I'm sure they will be happy to help. Alternatively, you're welcome to call our team of nurses on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    With regards to the problems you've described since your laparoscopy, do get in touch with your GP if these don't settle so they can follow up with this. Hopefully things will settle soon. 

    I hope that your surgery next week, and the recovery, go smoothly. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    Hello Jenn,

    Thank you very much for your answer. I will try to get in contact with my nurse. My surgery is not next week, unfortunately I will have to wait a long waiting list but I need to decide which surgery I want.

    Thanks a lot,

  • in reply to Cortijera

    Hello Cortijera

    My apologies. I need to remember to put my glasses on so I don't misread things! 

    It's good to hear that you've got time to make decisions about which type of reconstruction is right for you. Don't be afraid to reach out to your breast care nurse or ask to speak to the Consultant again if you have questions and concerns. 

    Sending my best wishes for when you do eventually take that next step. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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