Hi I am new to the site. I was diagnosed with Paget’s disease in August 2007 and also had inflammatory BC in a 3.5cm lump. I had a mastectomy and incredibly the lymph nodes were clear and no other treatment was required. I was unable to have reconstructive surgery at the time of the mastectomy as they were certain I was going to require lots more treatment. Is there anyone out there who has had delayed reconstruction via LD flap and was the recovery any different to having it done at the time of mastectomy? I am quite positive about it, however people have been quoting horror stories because it is delayed - I have to point out none of these people have parted with their prosthesis and actually had the operation so can anyone give me the facts please.
Hi Humbug,
I was diagnosed in July 06 and had to have bilateral mastectomy, like you was not allowed immediate recon as thought I may need further treatment, didn’d need chemo or rads now on tamoxifen and monthly zoladex injections.
I had a bilateral recon via the LD flap with implants in May 07 and must say it’s the best thing I did, although for a while after having the recon it was quite uncomfortable as it was both sides I would go through it all again to feel as I do now.
Was in hospital for 6 days which I believe is about the norm whether its single or bilateral recon, drove after approx 5 weeks, back to work approx 10 weeks after op. I have just had (Tues gone) the nipples reconstructed and some excess skin taken from under my arms, haven’t seen the results yet as I have to keep them covered and dry until next Wed when I have the stitches taken out, with the recon the stitches were disolvable ones. In about 4/6 months times I should have the tattoos done and my surgeon has said I can have bigger implants put in then if I want as prior to the mast I was a 34c/d cup and now I’m a 34b, I’ve not made my mind up yet about that.
I know it was the right decision for me to have the recon, there was no way I could have gone through the rest of my life with nothing (I was 41 at the time), in fact knowing I was having the recon was the only thing that kept me going and staying positive.
I hope the above has helped, in my case everything has gone really well, a friend of mine had a single recon just after me and did suffer a minor setback with infection but she too is really pleased with the results now.
Good luck and let us know what you decide.
Take care
Kaz
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Hi thanks for the information it is really helpful. I too feel it is the only thing driving me forward. My consultant recommended the LD flap as the best reconstruction for me so I am going to trust him. I am just waiting for a date now as only just going to be offered at my local hospital for the first time. I hope everything goes well for you, I can’t wait until I am at the stage you are at - on here telling everyone about my impending tattoos.
Thanks again
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Karen