I need to have a mastectomy on my right breast with immediate implant. The surgeon will reduce the size of the left breast at the same time (I wanted to go smaller!). However, now I’m wondering whether I should ask for a double mastectomy? Two reasons - first I am now worried that I will get cancer in my “good” breast as the two tumours were very difficult to find and missed in a mammogram. Secondly, I am worried that in years to come I will have one breast that droops! I am also wondering how weird it will feel to have one implant and one “normal” breast. Has anyone else had this dilemma? I may need radiotherapy after but this hasn’t been decided yet. One hospital said no but the one I’ve been referred to do it (although it will finally be up to the first hospital as that is where I would go back to for the radiotherapy). In this case I would need a special type of implant with a type of covering over it to protect it from effects from the radiotherapy. I know these are not the best implants. Has anyone else had these? They seem heavier and less natural to me. So many thoughts going through my head - getting confused and would appreciate some advice please.
Hi Kitz,
I have just had the surgery you are considering- mastectomy with implant on the right with a reduction on the left. I also asked the question about having a double mastectomy but they are very reticent to do that unless there are specific concerns as to the type of cancer it is. The operation went well, and although early days I am recovering well. Obviously discuss the different operations with the surgical team. Good luck.
Hi Kitz
I’m not sure I can help with your decision about the actual operation, but I might be able to give you some more advice on your type of implant if you are having the one I have. My implant sits on top of the muscle (“pre-pectoral” it’s called), and is in a type of sling/bag called Braxon. I had radiotherapy after my implant and it is supposed to help reduce the risk of the tissue hardening (“capsular contracture”). So I have one real and one fake. They don’t match, but I have got used to that and it doesn’t really worry me now. Everyone is different, though so it would be a good idea to ask your surgeon to show you photos of previous operations so that you can get an idea of what it will look like.
If you are having this type of implant and have any questions on the implant or implants in general, I’m happy to chat more.
I wish you all the best as you make your decision, for the operation and your recovery.
Evie xx
Hi I’m afraid I cant offer advice based on experience, but I fully understand your thoughts re a mastectomy on healthy breast. I am seeing my surgeon next week and intend to bring this option up for me.
Keep me updated on your treatment?
Thanks
Michelle