Breast Cancer Now Forum

Hi Catbear   I had a single mastectomy with a braxon mesh implant over the muscle at the end of November 2017.  Recovery wise I was back to work in the new year with no problems.  I go to the gym, run, use weights etc.  Initially it felt very strange and heavy but you do get used to it.   However, it is very different from the other breast - but it you are bilateral then then that wouldn't be an issue.  I do have major problems with rippling and creasing along the upper part of the breast where there is little fat and I can feel the implant through the skin. I now have to use a filler in my bra on that side as it is so flat across the top. I have been back to plastic surgery to look at options - one would be to put the implant under the muscle which I have discounted.  Another option is fat grafting/lipofilling - however I have told it would probably take 3 - 4 operations and there is no guarantee that I would be happy with the result.  I was also told by the consultant that approx 50% of these implants need replacing within 10 years.  The rippling and creasing is so bad that I have made a decision to have the implant removed and go for a Diep flap - I was not offered this option at my original consultation last year, was told that I did not have enought fat on my stomach to do this and that a braxon implant was my only option.  I have now been told by the other consultant that I do have enough (am the same weight now as I was last year).  Do feel really frustrated that I was not given this option as would have gone for it last year as really struggled to get my head round having an implant and that fact the my breasts look so very different from each other.   Hope that helps - really dont want to put you off having the braxon mesh as I do know a lot of people are happy with it, it just didnt really work for me.  Happy to answer any other questions.   Linda ... View more

Hi Sammy, will be watching this post with interest as I’m in the same situation as you. Had my mx and implant at end of November and am struggling with the sensation as well. It just feels really heavy and am very aware of it. It also feels very achy towards the end of the day. What sort of implant did you have? I had the Braxon mesh which sits over the muscle and is stitched to the muscle wall. I have been told I will get used to the feeling in time, but can’t imagine this at the moment! How are you coping with sleeping? I do struggle to get comfortable in bed - propping myself up on loads of pillows help. Doesn’t help that my favourite sleep position is on the implant side! Linda x ... View more