Implant recinstruction

Anyone who has had reconstruction with an implant advise me on their experience? Im 31 so really wanted reconstruction but don’t have enough tummy tissue and I’ve been told there are risks with implants and I’m not sure how I feel about it :disappointed:

Hi
Firstly it is quite baffling and overwhelming when faced with all these choices isn’t it? Personally I had reconstructive surgery with a polyurethane implant (silicon gel) 2 years ago and I’ve been very pleased with the results. I’m not sure if you’re able to have an immediate reconstruction but rest assured the recovery time with an implant versus your own body tissue is much less. I was up and about a few weeks later once my drain was removed.
Hopefully you’ll have the opportunity to discuss in more detail with your surgeon and make the right choice for you. As far as risks are concerned, there are always slight risks with any surgery but nowadays surgeons are doing everything they can to mimimise those.
Good luck :blush:

My mother had a silicone implant 18 years ago and has been fine since. She had the saline expander one first, then the implant months later - apparently only a small incision to swap implants is required. She also had radiotherapy while the saline implant was in situ. I’m lucky that I’ve had a lumpectomy, but less fortunate with some radiotherapy effects - hope they wear off in time.

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Hi virgo123,
I had a similar experience to you 3 years ago. My surgeon sent me to the plastic surgeon to discuss a diep flap (tummy) reconstruction. Only to find out I didn’t have enough tummy fat. I was gutted, but was then lucky enough to be offered a skin sparing, nipple sparing immediate reconstruction with an implant by my breast surgeon, due to the very unlikely chance I wouldn’t need radiotherapy, as this can ruin an implant. I opted to take the risk as I did not want to wake up flat. I can honestly say despite my initial disappointment at not being able to have the diep flap op, it was the best decision for me. My breast surgeon did a brilliant job. My implant looks practically the same as my other breast. I look normal in a low cut summer dress or swimming costume. Breast implant safety measures have also improved. Hope this has reassured you a little. Good luck. Being diagnosed with Breast cancer is pants, and so many decisions to make. But there is life after BC. Go grab it x