Breast reconstruction using body tissue after radiotherapy

l am facing a hard decision and l would appreciate any information from someone that went through a similar situation.

l had a masectomy and breast reconstruction at the same time using a silicone prosthetic but after radiotherapy  it had suffered a massive change and causes a great deal of pain.

l have been adviced to consider a flap tissue reconstruction to replace the damaged implant. I know it is a surgery with a lot of risks so l would be grateful for any opinions from someone that has  gone through the same intervention. Thanks in advance!

  • Hello Mona05

    I'm sorry to hear that your recent reconstruction wasn't successful. It's understandable that you want to gain as much information as possible ahead of any further surgery. 

    We do have some information on our website about breast reconstruction using body tissue. You don't mention which type of surgery the Consultant is recommending. I know that we do have some posts from women who have undergone a DIEP or lat dorsi reconstruction. You can read through those posts using the forum search function to look for "DIEP" or "dorsi". Hopefully, you will find some of them useful in making a decision about what is the right way forwards for you.  

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator