Hi, I need to have my implant removed following capsular contraction and further reconstructive surgery. I had immediate reconstruction following mastectomy in 2014. My surgeon recommends LD back flap but I’m hesitant due to longish recovery and possible back muscle weakness. Does anyone have experience of this either positive or negative. My other option is implant replacement.
Thanks for replies
Hi I’m in similar position to you and also looking for any advice. I had immediate reconstruction with a Diep flap Jan 2016. Due to problems with healing beside flap because of previous radiotherapy 11 years ago I had fat necrosis & been advised to now have LD op. I’m just at a point where I feel fit and well & resumed activities so not at all sure I want to undergo another big op and risk not healing again. I feel I’d rather be well and active than try and achieve better looking breasts.
Hi nickiw and Theresa I had mx and immediate LD flap reconstruction on 13th April. Like you I was fit and healthy, apart from this horrid cancer. A week later I can say I am making a good recovery. The pain was worst from the back drain - my stitch rubbed and left a nasty blister and I could feel the drain every time I moved- pain med really helped. Today I am still on pain relief but am in discomfort rather than pain. I can now see it will take 6 weeks recovery. It is a big op but due to my tiny size had no other option. The reconstruction is much better than I could have imagined, with clothes on from day 2 no one would know at all. I took decision to have LD rather than implants as I didn’t want to go through it all again in 10 years or so, more natural look. Ask your surgeon to show you before and after photos (back and front)from both options and to talk through the op and complications. What are his/her methods for feeding through under arm and results? I have been really fortunate to have an amazing plastic surgeon who talked through all aspects- everyone who saw both sites in the hospital were so encouraging - this helped my positive mindset.
I hope this has helped- any more questions just ask.
Thank you for your replies. I saw the consultant today who feels the LD back flap option is still best for the long term chances of avoiding further reconstructive surgery. I don’t like the thought of a long op and long recovery but think it may be the more sensible decision. Ladies who have been through this op seem to speak positively once over the initial trauma of it.
I wish you both well in your surgeries.
Best Wishes