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Breast surgery - unsure what to do

Twinmum81
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I have early breast cancer and pre cancerous cells which will be getting removed. The doctor asked me to think about having a breast reduction as I have large breasts for my frame. I don't know what to do for the better. Remove the area of cancer and have uneven breasts or opt for the reduction. I've always had large breasts and I'm worried that because I've put weight on lately I'll look terrible with a reduction- vain I know, sorry. I know it should be about getting this out my body no matter what. Anyone been through similar have any advice. 

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    Hello.

    I had a breast Cancer almost 5 years ago.
     

    I made the choice to have a masectomy with an implant. The breasts don't look the same but I like both of them equally and I embrace this new body. It is not always easy, especially on the beach or at the pool but I feel it was the right  medical choice. It wasnt about keeping the same body image. It wasnt about beauty. It was about getting well. I knew it would be different. Do what you feel is best for you. And never feel judge and less worthly!  

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    Hi Twinmum81

    I was diagnosed in early November with a 22mm lobular breast cancer.  I had a consultation with Oncoplastic surgeon within a couple of weeks and like you I was offered a lumpectomy or to consider a bilateral breast reduction. I also have large, heavy breasts for my frame. She wanted to remove as much tissue as she could to make sure clean margins were achieved. The other reason she gave was that as I'd likely need radiotherapy it would be better overall if my breasts were smaller and be less affected by the therapy.  Larger breasts apparently can go a bit hard, I was also curious if losing some of the density would be better in the long run, which she agreed could help for future scans.

    I was more than happy to get the reduction and I had my surgery a week ago.  I was home the same day and yes its painful but I think for me it was the right choice. Recovery is going to be longer and having help at home for the first few days is necessary.  

    I'm due to have the dressings checked next week and get the results of the sentinel node biopsy, then I guess a treatment plan re radiotherapy,  hormone therapy etc.

    Hope this helps but it's definitely your choice and what's right for you.  I was a bit scared about the long surgery but the team were great. I felt so much lighter leaving hospital as well. The main thing though is to be happy and healthy .x

  • Offline in reply to eurvad

    Thank you so much for your reply. I've now made a decision I feel is right for me and my surgery is booked for the 17th of February. 

  • Offline in reply to JYM669

    Thank you for replying and hope you're recovering well from surgery. 

    After discussion with my surgeon I've decided against the reduction and I'm having the other side lifted to even me out. I feel this is the right decision for me My twin boys are 4 so I know it's going to be difficult dealing with them after surgery but thankfully I have a great Husband and family support. My surgery is on the 17th of February. 

    Good luck with the rest of your journey. Xx

  • Offline in reply to Twinmum81

    Hi 

    That's great that you've come to a good decision that suits you for your future surgery.  I'm healing nicely ( 2 weeks post surgery) still treatments ahead but I'm just taking a day at a time and trying not to stress. Good luck for your op and wishing you a speedy recovery. X

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    I had a reduction to remove as much breast tissue as possible to remove problems with my milk ducts as l have had repeated surgery trying to remove them when they are infected. I had half of my tissue removed and it's been really good the smaller breasts have not been a problem just easier to buy tops and dresses. It's a big operation and takes a while to settle down and the scars to soften, but l have been really pleased with the results. 
    l hope you have a similar experience and the reduction helps you take care

    susie

     

     

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