reconstructive not sure what to have

[luluspice]

Hi Rieswans,
I was not really suitable for LD as I did not have enough body fat and was only a 36A/B. Not bragging or owt, I'm just a short ar**! :0 My surgeon also said it was a bigger op & I would be left with scar on back. If they are giving you the choice, then they have to tell you all the details, the pluses & minuses of each op. I can't speak for others. I had Bi-Lateral with immediate recon - tissue expanders - had to lose my nipples. That was August last year, still got expanders, had rads after so a bit tight & sore on that side, but healed great. Hope to get exchanges in next 2 months. It's unknown territory for us all when we are hit with this stuff, you barely get the chance to take in the diagnosis & you have to make these decisions. All I can advise is ask, google, research. Don't get too influenced by folks horror stories, for each negative you will find 100 positive. Avoid USA topics, remember they do things differently ...aand have to pay! The best of luck to you, I'm sure it waill all go well whatever you choose.

[Guest user]

Thank you Cheryl17 helpful.

[Cheryl17]

Hi Penguin 68. My op was on the 11th Jan, first 6 weeks are very limiting, e.g. No housework, ironing in fact anything that takes your arm above 90 degrees evenputting on a tshirt is out of the question, all button through tops. I did start at the gym exactly 6 weeks after the op just the treadmill and cycling. cross trainer was out until 11 weeks. So much progress is made between week 6 to 12. I have no pain and seem to be able to do most things that I did before. I think physio really helps and following the instructions entirely. Pm or post if you need any more info. Good luck x

[Guest user]

Good to hear you story, Cheryl. I will be having a bilateral mastectomy with LD reconstruction and implants. I'm about a 34B/C, but am willing to go smaller as I'm very worried subsequent pain and back problems inhibiting future physical activity. I am also a teacher. I've read loads of 'horror' stories and am very concerned about the effects on the back - especially as I already have sciatica. My surgeon said recovery time would be about 2 months, but I'm just wondering if this is a little optimistic.

[Cheryl17]

Hi Rieswans and Bimble. I was told just before christmasthat I would need a MX and immediate reconstruction, following a routine mammogram. I am a 38C and decided to go for a LD back flap with implant. A difficult decision to make as I am active and was worried about returning to a normal life. I was thinking about Implants but after speaking to my consultant we went for the LD Back flap. I had the operation on the 11th Jan and have just had my 12 week check up. Fantastic results i am back to the gym for aerobic exercises 3 times a week including the cross trainer, i am walking at least for an hour every day and returned to work just part time after 10 weeks I am a teacher. I do have a big scar on my back but it does sit within the bra line. My next step is to have a nipple recons and the tattooing. My shape is just the same as before and my new boob looks and feels amazing. I am so pleased with the decision. If you decide on this op please feel free to PM or post again happy to share my experience with you. Good luck on your decisions.

[Guest user]

Hi Reiswans I am in the same position I was told this week. I am able to have immediate reconstruction and thinking that I will get it over and done with in one operation, I have a real phobia about anaesthetic.

I was thinking about having my own tissue used but worried about the length of surgery and the scaring. I'm 48 but am normally very active, gym/running/ swimming and so want the best for what I hope will be how I continue my life.

I'm very confused about the choices

[Guest user]

Hi Rieswans,

I can't advise you as to which reconstruction to choose, but if you have the choice between an immediate reconstruction and a delayed one you need to bear in mind the wait period could be longer than anticipated. I couldn't have an immediate one because I changed hospital and now have to wait before I can join the waiting list. It's one month after my Mx and I have no idea how long I will have to wait. From reading the forum posts, I have the idea that I'm not the only one.

good luck with your decision.

[Louise_BCC]

Hi rieswans

I know I gave you this link in live chat, but just in case you didn't get chance to have a look and whilst you're waiting for others to come along and share their experiences, here's the link again to our factsheet on reconstruction:

http://www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/treatment-side-effects/breast-reconstruction-bcc7

Best wishes.

Louise, Facilitator

[Guest user]

im 35 and have been told now i need to have my breast removed. am not sure what is best to have done. im thinking of having the back flap but still on sure. its either that or the implants im quite active as i have a 2 years old who keeps me on my toes