Newly diagnosed- question on reconstruction

Hi. I've just been diagnosed with DCIS. I've got a second biopsy tomorrow on another area, the results of which will determine if it's a partial of full mastectomy. 
My consultant has said they wont be able to reconstruct my breast to its original size (I'm a 32G) even with implants. Has anyone else had a similar situation or know why this is the case ? My head is spinning with so many questions and thoughts. Many thanks for any help and support. 

  • Hi, 

    I had a partial mastectomy with a latissimus dorsi flap, which is where they take a flap of tissue/muscle from your back area. I only had small boobs - 34B. They did this as they had to take a large area away and it would leave me very lop sided. Now - 2 years down the line, my new reconstructed boob is an odd shape and smaller. I suppose with your reconstruction - if they used your own tissue, it depends how much they can take. Implant wise - have they said you will need radiotherapy? I know that often implants are done after radio as it can cause issues and to be honest - it isn't like having reconstruction for cosmestic reasons so they aren't going to endeavour to make them the same. But if you are concerned, I would ask your surgeon why this is the case.

    Good luck x

  • Hi. Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. My consultant has mentioned radiotherapy and I have read that it can affect any reconstructed breast. That's one of the reasons I'm leaning towards delayed reconstruction. I'm seeing a cancer nurse on Saturday so she might have some answers. I get it's not cosmetic, but maybe foolishly I presumed they would give you back what you had !