Im 24 yrs old and 2 weeks ago had a bilateral risk reducing mastectomy and reconstruction. Last year I was tested for the braca 1, good news as you can see ha ha, I was tested after my mother had had 2 primary breast cancers which then lead to a double mas. I have known about the chance of carrying the misprint for many years but decided that untill I was ready to make a big decision I would wait. I have no children and my career is settled this was the right time and decision for me now.
I am coping well with the pain (feels like a dull ache) although I feel as if im not coping well emotionaly im sure there are stages that we must go through, I am struggling to see the end result that where im the happy and the confident person I used to be. My scars are very tidy and im very happy with the surgeons work, he has said that it takes time and to be patient (suprising how many people say this when they cant understand your frustations).
My job is as a hair stylist and I have been trying to make good of hair and make up although I keep finding my self covering in public.
In 3 weeks I shall have more saline injected were im hoping shall make a difference to shape.
I supose im writing to see if there are any tips or anyone who shares my feelings.
Grin, I tend to balk at the word “brave” but your decision was incredibly brave. I can’t offer anything practical but had to send my admiration. A difficult choice.
Our helpliners are here to offer you support in addition to the peer support you have here, the lines are open 9-5 weekdays and 9-2 Sat on 0808 800 6000
I’m BRCA1 and had my expanders put in last March, they are being replaced this Wednesday with the permanent ones - I’m looking forward to this. It does get a lot easier though it is a bit of a long process. I was diagnosed with breast cancer so mine was a different case but I understand about the body image bit. My daughter is 19 and BRCA1 and is going for bilateral preventive mastectomy in 3 weeks time, she feels quite isolated being so young so when she is back from uni I will try and put you in touch with each other for a bit of moral support!
I haven’t called them myself, but I believe they have a lot of experience of dealing with people going through preventative mastectomies, including the daughter of the woman who runs it who had a similar op as you at 24.
I was confirmed as BRCA1 last month, so still figuring out the next stages. Unfortunately this came after being diagnosed with BC in 2010.