I had a mastectomy September 2014 and have been living as a uniboober for a year now. Last week I saw my surgeon to discuss getting balanced up as I hate the lack of symmetry. He refused an elective mastectomy and said the only reconstruction he could do for me is the LD flap. My BCN has been brilliant and showed me pictures (which were pretty impressive results) and talked me through all the gory details. If I could guarantee it would be a success and I could fast forward the recovery time I’d go for it but I have so many reservations. I’m looking for input from those that have had this surgery, are you pleased with the results? Glad you went ahead or if not why? Recovery time? Thanks
Hi
If you had radiotherapy treatment after your mastectomy in 2014. You can discuss you chances with your surgeon again.
supporting92 xxx
Hi Sodastream
I had a mastectomy and LD reconstruction in July due to widespread DCIS. It is early days but I am very pleasantly surprised with the outcome. The scarring is actually very minimal and neat. Once the redness has died down it will look even better. In a bra or swimsuit you cannot tell any difference. My new breast has a natural shape to it which I understand is best achieved with the LD reconstruction.
In terms of recovery - I’ll be honest…it was quite hard going for the first few weeks particularly when the drains were in situ. I was lucky and had a lot of family around to help so I didn’t have to lift a finger and I think that really helped me. I was completely wiped out for a week after the op. I could barely manage to get out of bed but your strength eventually returns.
It’s really important to do the recommended physiotherapy exercises after the op. They hurt a bit to start off with but you’ll be thankful you did them later on. I could drive after about 4 weeks. I am now nearly 7 weeks post op and back to do everything - I can even do a press up and lift up my son.
Best of luck with your journey xxx
I didn’t have the LD surgery,ended up with a DIEP,however,when I was going through the decision,it came ad a light bulb moment …I decided that I couldn’t NOT have it.Best of luck…and you will also find the decision will be made for you…life works in mysterious ways.
Hi Sodastream, just seen this, I had bilateral my with immediate LD recon in Feb and am really pleased with the result. Very natural looking and no one would ever know. Recently had nipple reconstruction and am really pleased with that too. If there’s anything you want to ask, am more than happy to go into detail. Good luck! X