Breast Cancer Now Forum

Hello there, Jo. Firstly, thank you very much for taking the time to think of us and to ask the question, that’s very touching. The operation went very well, it helps being first on the day and getting out same-day that’s for sure, and not needing anything fitted for draining was also a plus. Nine days afterwards she got the whole dressing taken off - it was irritating the skin at the periphery - and the area has healed so very well in such a short time. Since coming round from the operation not so much as one paracetamol has passed her lips, which I’m amazed by. The whole thing has really gone tremendously well and she is feeling very upbeat, as she has throughout all of the treatment since March in fairness. Seven weeks post chemo and a soft, elfin hairstyle is in place, and it really suits her, beautiful. 2020 has been a quite terrible year all round, but having the chance to support her and marvel at how everything has been handled with such positivity, has been a privilege actually. Going a bit Gwyneth Paltrow now, and I’m biased, but I’ve found Julie to be both awesome and awe-inspiring, no other way to put it. This community, and another one I’ve followed also, demonstrate the power of experience, empathy, education and humour. The vast majority of folk undergoing this are such great supports for one another, it is so valuable and encouraging. Thank you for all your help. Scott ... View more

Hello Evie. Thank you for conscientiously following up! Very interesting on the radiotherapy point - still a very real possibility- and the expander piece. A week today everything comes to a head, so let’s see. Thank you very much for all the feedback, really kind of you. Thanks and all the best. Scott ... View more

Thank you for the kind words, Evie. We’ve found the support locally to be patchy, not the operational care just the support (it’s TNBC so the turnarounds have been exceptional in these times). I will mention the number here, or call it myself. Can I ask why you decided on reconstruction immediately? We’re hearing it’s an open-ended option, but is there a negative impact of say leaving it 6 months as opposed to at the time of the mastectomy (aside from double op)?   Thanks again. Scott ... View more

Hello Evie and others. My partner is now looking at the very prospect encapsulated in the email title. Everyone is different, appreciate that, so won’t ask any questions about how it feels post-mastectomy, but wondered if you could please advise on these two?   1. Is the mastectomy operation hugely different to lumpectomy, in terms of time, recovery, generally, in your experience? 2. Do you happen to know if having a mastectomy reduces the requirement of radiotherapy? From what I’m reading it does not eliminate the need, but does it reduce it? Apologies if the questions are basic. My partner has had two surgeries and chemo, the thought of radiotherapy on top of a mastectomy weighs heavy.   Thank you, Scott ... View more