Hi,
I had a mastectomy and a drastic breast reduction( from f/g cup to an a/b) 6 1/2 weeks ago.
After being hospitalized with an infection for 5 days, I was lucky enough to be told on Thursday I will not need Chemo or Radiotherapy for which I’m truly grateful.
The issue I have is I cant bring myself to look at the scars at all. I know I need to but can’t bring myself to do it.
Has anyone else had a similar issue or is it just me?
Thanks in advance
Catty
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Hi @cattyg I had different surgery to you. A bilateral lumpectomy with sentinel node biopsy followed by chemo, Herceptin, radiotherapy, hormone blockers and bone infusions. But I do get the not wanting to look at your scars. I was just over a year post surgery when a cancer physio asked how I felt looking at the scars and I burst into tears saying I didn’t. I did check my naughty boobs for changes by touch only. I had to do it eventually so I did the next day. I was actually relieved I did it.
It’s still early days for you and so don’t be hard on yourself.
You may want to chat this through with a BCN nurse on 0808 800 6000 m-f 9-4 sat 9-1. Or maybe call your own breast care nurse, most NHS have some counselling that you can access which may help. I have had two ‘lots’ of counselling through my previous employers and MacMillan (unfortunately they don’t offer free counselling anymore but do offer buddy system or online support). I had a lot of family issues to deal with along side my diagnosis and am about to start some more counselling soon.
You may also benefit from the BCN Someone Like Me | Breast Cancer Now where you can be matched with someone with a similar diagnosis as you. You can have contact via email or phone.
I’m sure some others will be on here soon to reply.
Take care and know you are not alone.
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Thank you, for replying and thank you for understanding. It is a relief in itself to know it isn’t just me.
I have managed to look at the reduction side which is still a shock. After being so large all my life it looked like a swollen mosquito bite. The mastectomy side i just cant face at all at the moment. I feel tearful every time i think about trying.
Thanks for letting me know im not alone that is a comfort in itself x
Catty
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