In January this year I had a right breast wide local excision and sentinel node biopsy and ICAP reconstruction - (IDC 15mm, ER/PR positive), followed by five sessions of radiotherapy in March. Generally, everything went well and I was pleased with the outcome and appearance. However, in June I developed a seroma under the right breast which was aspirated - 30mls of fluid. Throughout the summer the seroma recurred on two more occasions and was aspirated twice more. My Breast Surgeon has said that if it recurs again (and it has), I made need an operation to close the area where the fluid is forming.
I am due to see him next week and want to also ask about further reconstruction, either using my own tissue or an implant. Since having the radiotherapy, the tissues used in the original ICAP flap have gradually ‘disappeared’ and now there is no volume in that part of the breast - between my nipple and stomach. I’m 62 and previously had a 36C bust so whilst my ‘lump’ wasn’t huge, my breast has now lost at least a third of it’s volume and is very noticeable (my nipple is pointing south and is less than an inch from my stomach - well, the seroma!!). The tissue that remains is solid and painful to touch. I’ve tried various bras and padding that worked initially but I’m now requiring so much padding, it’s uncomfortable.
I know I could ask for a prosthesis but, unfortunately, feel very negative about this and would prefer a more permanent solution. My mind ‘goes to mush’ when I’m sitting in front of the doctor and thought I’d ask for your opinion first regarding the possibility of a reconstruction at the same time as having the seroma closed. Many thanks.