Hello lovely people of the BCC forum,
I wonder if anyone out there can help clarify a few things for me with regards to reconstuctive surgery…
In March 2016, a year after having had a mastectomy, immediate reconstruction, FEC-T and Radiotherapy I was told that my implant had now capsulated due to the Radio and that I would need to have this removed and a different reconstruction.
I was given three options to consider: DIEP, TUG or LD Flap and after being frightened witless by potential recovery times/invasiveness of the surgeries I made my deciscion to go with the LD Flap. However, on giving this decision to one of my Breast Team they are strongly advising I change my mind and go with the DIEP as the results are much better in the long term.
My big issue with this surgery is this: I was told they would need to remove a RIB and re-align my belly button in order for them to repostion the artery…SCARY STUFF OR WHAT???
Has anyone else encountered this and actually had the rib removed? how horrible was it? how long was the total recovery (I’ve been told 6months) ? how long till you were able to go back to work?
I’m doing as much research as possible but still no clearer in my mind and have to make my decision in the next couple weeks…
Any advice given would be super - thank you!
Stacey x
Hello Smurf
I had single mastectomy in May 2014 and immediate LD flap recon. I was back on the golf course in about 12 weeks and now the only “difference” is that I have slight numbness in the affected part of my back. I made sure I did all the exercises as required and quickly regained full use of the arm on the affected side. This is only my own experience and of course you must take advice from your breastcare team. I’m in my late 70s and was very active prior to surgery which probably helped with recovery. I wish you luck whatever you decide.
I had a DIEP,didn’t have a rib removed,and they give you a new tummy button.Yes,it is a big surgery,but I was not scared.The medical staff are doing this type of surgery all the time.Recovery can take up to a year,but by 3 months I was back in the gym and doing Pilates etc.
tiredness was overwhelming at times,but take all your pain medication,and move around as much as possible after,you should becOK.We are all different,and the very best of luck in what ever you choose.
I had a DIEP,didn’t have a rib removed,and they give you a new tummy button.Yes,it is a big surgery,but I was not scared.The medical staff are doing this type of surgery all the time.Recovery can take up to a year,but by 3 months I was back in the gym and doing Pilates etc.
tiredness was overwhelming at times,but take all your pain medication,and move around as much as possible after,you should be OK.We are all different,and the very best of luck in what ever you choose.