I had a mastectomy for multi focal cancer with one lymph node involvement in Feb 22. I didn’t have a reconstruction as I was going to receive chemo and radio.
I’ve now been offered a reconstruction using tummy flap.
I’m concerned that a reconstruction will make it harder to spot recurrence across my scar / mastectomy area as I did have some cancer cells close to chest wall. I’m not sure if anyone has had the same thoughts and not done reconstruction for this reason?!
Hi @rcr,
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I am sorry you haven’t had a response to your question.
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Sending love,
Alice 
Hi @rcr, I had a similar diagnosis to you earlier this year where the lump was deeper, and had a mastectomy + axillary dissection thereafter due to 1 positive lymph node. I also had chest wall radiotherapy due to the final pathology.
The reason you cite, was one of the reasons I had on my pro’s & con’s list at the time of making the decision to not have immediate reconstruction. There were several others on that list, I think I ranked this in the middle. I recall asking the question from the plastic surgeon I saw who said that shouldn’t be a consideration - but for me it was.
So ultimately I think it’s a very personal choice & one you have to feel comfortable with longer term. I’m certainly content with what I decided at the moment but am still adjusting to being flat on one side, which has brought on some symmetry related challenges with clothing and I feel also perhaps my posture/back at times I don’t wear a prosthetic. I had my first annual mammogram / ultrasound today, and had to ask the radiologist to check the scarline while doing the ultrasound as it isn’t typically done. Personally I don’t know how easy it will be to pick up local recurrence abnormalities on the flat side, unless it’s very obvious (even without a reconstruction) - but expect time will tell.
Perhaps having a chat with your surgical team may help you. Good luck. xx