Have breast cancer in left breast and require masectomy, my first instinct was to have reconstruction with frontal flap reconstruction however health board reduced age to under60 due to covid (I’m 69). As this is second time with cancer on same breast and having had radio therapy my chances of rejection of artificial implant were higher so not recommended. I am resigned to simple masectomy which is scheduled for 2 weeks time. My concern is how I will cope mentally with having just one breast and then which type of false bra filler to use, one. that fits in bra or one that sticks to your skin. Any advice will be appreciated
Are you U.K. ? If so you will get a prosthesis free on the NHS…I’ve had 2 now ( they are replaced 2 yearly at my unit…or before if you significantly gain or lose weight) … mine is designed to fit into a bra pocket …but I just use ordinary bras / crop tops …so the prosthesis sits close to my skin …it’s fine…I have a nipple that sticks on…so I can chose to have it on or off depending what I’m wearing. It’s never bothered me having only one breast…I was 53 at the time and said no reconstruction straight away…my surgeon even booked the theatre out for the full day so I could change my mind but I never did…but I realise it affects people Differently…also I’m a 34 AA so my prosthesis is very lightweight and it’s not as noticeable to have only one breast at my size…I think if I had been larger it may have been more of a mental hurdle to get over.
when you go for a fitting…maybe take a couple of different bras with you so you get a feel for what it looks like…the BCN will guide you…there were 18 different sizes …with some half sizes …I wasn’t offered any that stick to the skin…maybe you can get those privately though?
I wish you well
Hi
I had a mastectomy of my left breast last week. I am 58 and I had already decided I didn’t want reconstructive surgery. After my op the breast care nurse brought me a softie, which is a fibre filled false breast. It is early days and I don’t think I can wear a proper bra but I have got some with the pockets as I feel safer with it contained!! I think you just have to go with what you feel most comfortable and safe with. I hope all goes well for you.