I have been diagnosed with recurrent DCIS, high grade with necrosis. As I had a lumpectomy with the first diagnosis 4 years ago, this time I need a mastectomy and have been offered a simultaneous reconstruction. I had radiotherapy 4 years ago so cannot have an implant alone, I will need latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction. I am very slim and have little abdominal fat, hence the reason for this surgery, but am naturally a DD cup, so even though I will be going down a couple of cup sizes, I will still need an implant together with the back muscle unless I go right down to an A cup. The surgery will be on my right side and I am right handed. I am concerned about how much the redistribution of my back muscle will have on my strength overall and as I travel a lot for work, my ability to lift a heavy suitcase. In addition I am wondering how scarred I will be with all the surgery. I am 51 years old. If anyone has any experience of this, I would be grateful for your comments. 

Hayley