Hello. New here. I am a 43 yr old mum of two, and had a double mastectomy 4 weeks ago. Plan was for immediate DIEP reconstruction on both, but sadly one side failed and the flap was removed 3 days later. I now have a flap on one side and an expander in the other - scarring is very different and the future of my breasts is unknown. I’m hoping they can expand the failed side and use my tissue to fill it but I’m not sure if this is possible. I’m back with my plastics team in January (do see my nurse regularly too) but I wonder if anyone has had a similar experience and willing to share their story, or if anyone has any guidance. Thanks.
Dear Lilem,
Welcome to the forum, we are all here for you at any time.
I can really sympathise with you I was in a similar situation with the right breast, after a very bad infection, however with the removal of the implant, my consultant wouldn’t consider any further treatment for 6 months I was recommended to a very kind and supportive plastic surgeon who took me under her wing and sorted me out.
I think once again this is yet another waiting game for the area to heal, however I feel sure you will get further surgery, but you need to heal first, also you are still very young which is always a good sign.
Take one day at a time at the moment, all very easy for me to say when you’re feeling so anxious, and upset at what has happened to you (I know I did).
I wish you well, with lots of happiness ahead, please come back and let us know how you’re getting on.
With love Tili
Welcome to the forum @lilem
I’m sorry to hear what you’re going through and I hope that more forum members will be able to share their experiences with you.
We hope you find this a supportive place and please know if you ever want to chat things through, our breast care nurses are here. They can be reached on our free helpline on 0808 800 6000 which is open Monday to Friday 9am-4pm and 9am-1pm Saturday or on the Ask our Nurses your questions board.
Thinking of you,
Lucy
Thank you to you both. Lovely to know I am not alone and there are people to talk to. Hospital called yesterday and delayed the appt to go through my histology results (has happened 3 weeks in a row now). Apparently they want to do more tests on my mastectomy tissue. Everything is just a waiting game it seems.
There is support on Breast reconstruction Uk . I’m so sorry you find yourself here x
Thank you. I shall have a look.