Hi Everyone, I was diagnosed 1 month ago need mastectomy of my right breast. I currently have implants & due to previous surgeries unable to use my stomach or thighs for flap procedure. Met with plastic surgeon Friday, thinks not enough on my back to take from there either. Suggested balloon to expand my skin, and to put in an implant with a sling and nothing else which worries me what that would look like. And also don’t know yet if I need radiotherapy and have read that could be an issue. Surgeon also wouldn’t do anything with my left breast which has upset me as I will be completely lob sided as I am a 34E cup. He has arranged for me to go back to see him and a senior surgeon on Wednesday to see if he can do anything and maybe take a flap from my flank / buttocks. I’m really confused about it all and my options. Should I have the balloon and wait to see if I need radiotherapy or have a reconstruction now but don’t know which option to go for? Visual is important to me and I want symmetry. Is that all done at a later date? Any advice appreciated x
Hi Simmo,
Thank you for your comment and sorry to see that no one has responded yet. Hopefully, someone will be along shortly to pick up the conversation, or hopefully, you’ve found answers elsewhere on the Forum 
However, if you would still like advice on this issue, you can call our clinical nurse specialist freephone 0808 800 6000.
Sending you our warmest wishes,
Saskia
Hi Simmo
I expect you’re still in shock at the diagnosis. It’s tricky making major decisions like this. All surgeons seem to do things differently. I also needed a full mastectomy of the right breast. My surgeon offered an immediate reconstruction with an implant on that side and also a breast reduction on the left side to give symmetry. I am now 5 months post op. It takes a lot longer to get over this type of surgery, and both sides do not look the same. As all the breast tissue is removed and the implant inserted under the chest wall in my case the right side feels quite hard and doesn’t move. The reduction side is smaller, but is still a cup size larger than the righthandside. As you say, it is important to get some symmetry. I am still getting over the physical side of the surgery and don’t think I have even started on the emotional side. You need to take some advice, and also perhaps think about getting a second opinion if you’re not happy with what’s being offered. Good luck.
Hey, just trengthen your belief that you feel better soon, eat healthy food!