Reconstruction after partial mastectomy - any advice?

Hi everyone,

Following two WLE’s (December 07 and Feb 08), I’ve been told that I have a rare cancer called dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (impressive, eh?!), which is a cancer of the connective tissue which just so happens to be in my boob.

So its not what I would call ‘proper’ breast cancer if you like, and it rarely spreads to the rest of the body but it is aggressive and will continue to invade the surrounding tissue if not removed.

My specialist has advised that they are going to take a good chunk to stop it coming back again, which will involve taking a graft of skin and muscle from my back and reconstructing with that.

He has been great at explaining everything, but I would like to hear the real side of what a partial mastectomy is like, and what to expect.

Thanks,

A x

Hi Andrea

While you are waiting for your fellow forum members to reply you may find Breast Cancer Care’s publication about breast reconstruction helpful to read. The publication can either be ordered via the website using the link or by calling the helpline on - 0808 800 6000 which is open Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm Saturday, 9am - 2pm.

breastcancercare.org.uk/docs/breast_reconstruction_dec06_web_0.pdf

Best wishes
Lucy