Hi, I’m considering going flat after my scheduled mastectomy rather than having an implant. Would really like to hear from anyone who has also made this choice and about their experience of it.
Thanks so much.
Vicky
Hi there Vicky
I had a left mastectomy one year ago. I would have waited much longer for my op if I’d wanted any reconstruction, so I went ahead and thought I might have that done at a later date. But in fact I’m getting on absolutely fine being “flat”. Although I have to add that I wasn’t big breasted, around 34C or D.
It was much more straightforward when I got to radiotherapy, no worries about implants reacting to the radiation.
I’ve got a few different prosthetics- one for swimming, a silicone one for “special occasions “ and Knitted Knockers for everyday, inside an M&S crop top. But sometimes I don’t bother! I’ve got a few asymmetric tops and strategic scarves!
The wound looked pretty gruesome for a while, but a year on, I can see that my surgeon did her job well, and my scar can barely be seen.
I hope that gives you a few ideas to think about, let me know if I can help with any other questions. Very best wishes from Jules XX
Hello Vicky
I decided to go flat too. I had a single mastectomy 2 years ago at the age of 40 and I was offered either a diep or an implant reconstruction. I struggled to decide in the short space of time that I had, so in the end thought that I would see how I got on without a reconstruction first.
I always use a prosthesis during the day whether it’s a silicone one or a more lightweight version. I don’t find the prosthesis uncomfortable at all - in fact I rarely think about it once it’s in place - but I am small-chested so that might be a factor. I also don’t think it’s noticeable under clothes - I don’t wear low-cut or loose-necked tops but do wear fitted tops and feel fine in them. But worth noting that one downside of going flat is that I feel forever doomed to wear some very sturdy-looking bras to hold in the prosthesis! Though from time to time I do come across some prettier ones and need to snap them up!
I have got used to what my scar and lack of breast looks like without clothes and it doesn’t really bother me, though I admit that I am a bit self-conscious in front of others. I haven’t ruled out reconstruction in future if I should decide I wanted to go down that route one day, but I don’t have any immediate plans to.
I hope that’s useful and I’m also happy to answer any questions if there’s something specific you wanted to know!
Best wishes.
Hi Vicky,
I knew as soon as diagnosis that I wanted a mastectomy with no reconstruction. Not right for everyone but was my initial reaction, and not wobbled in the five months since, even when My surgeon did gently ask me to explore alternatives.
I put my silicon or softie in a bra or crop top when I want or go without if not. My family don’t bat an eyelid and are pleased I have no embarrassment and neither do they. I also go out without using prosthesis but will see how I feel in summer without hoodies and scarves
honestly I think if people have an issue, it’s their issue. I have enough stuff of my own to keep in my head and feel I can let that one go.
also as mentioned, I know people who have had issues after radiotherapy so one less thing to worry about later.
different people react differently so just go with your gut-live with the changes and see how you feel over next months…my surgeon told me I still had the options to have implant later down the line if I wanted. One approach doesn’t fit all but I am very happy with my decision and no regrets.
happy to answer any other questions-good luck.
big hugs
laura