Hi CJ!
I had a total mastectomy and Diep Flap reconstruction last year, followed by chemo and radiotherapy.
The radiotherapy, as expected, had a negative impact on Frankenboob and I was left with dents, divots and a shrivelled appearance on the inside, both top and bottom. Lots of my clothes are V necks and the dents showed above the neck line.
I had Lipomodelling nearly 4 weeks ago to try to rectify at least some of the problem. The surgeon told me that, in the 12 weeks following this procedure, you can expect to lose up to half of the injected fat, so they try to put in a bit extra.
As of this morning I can report that most of it seems to have been reabsorbed already. I’ve been so careful not to lift anything heavier than a cup of coffee, twist or raise my arm excessively, I’ve been sleeping on my back (which I hate) and basically followed all the instructions and still it’s failed. Apparently it’s pretty common to need more than one treatment.
In addition to the lipomodelling I also had scar revision on Frankenboob (the circular scar from the Diep Flap hadn’t released properly), removal of a dogtag from my hip scar and my non-cancer breast lifted and reduced to match size and position (which actually looks fantastic, thank goodness, and has really cheered me up!)
I have to go under the knife again anyway as I need nipple reconstruction on Frankenboob. I will definitely have more Lipomodelling, as many as it takes as long as my surgeon is willing to do it. It’s a lot of downtime though and I am keen to get back to the gym, so I will probably wait until the Spring now for third surgery, especially as I am going back to work next week. I think it’s important to be in the best shape possible too, no point having it done then go on a diet!
I suppose a lot depends on where you live, although it shouldn’t. Get a referral and consultation and have lots of questions ready. Also ask about an uplift on the natural breast. One of my breast reconstruction nurses told me that reconstruction is rarely resolved quickly and can take several tries. I’m very impatient so this did not make me happy! But I’d rather know than pin all my hopes on one operation and be disappointed.
Just be prepared for a marathon rather than a sprint to get a satisfactory result. I have to accept that Frankenboob will never look ‘normal’. Right now I’d settle for being able to wear most of my nice clothes again.
If there’s anything else you want to ask me about my procedures I’ll answer as well as I can. Good luck! xxx