Breast reconstruction in pandemic

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Hi

I’m having a mastectomy on Wednesday and because of the pandemic I’m not able to have breast reconstruction at the same time. I’m not familiar with breast reconstruction and the procedures, and this may sound a weird question but can your nipple be saved for when you have a reconstruction at a later date? 
As you can probably guess I’m new to this forum! :-)

thanks

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi

    firstly good luck with your mastcetomy on Wednesday. I had my mastcetomy in March and was fortunate to have an immediate implant. I  asked if my nipple could be saved but unfortunately it couldn't as the tumour was too close to the nipple.  I can have a reconstruction at a later date or have a tattoed  nipple after I have completed my chemotherapy. I have heard that some surgeons leave some skin which can be shaped into a nipple. I would definately speak to your surgeon on Wednesday.

    Best wishes

    Linda x

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi, 

    I had a single mastectomy 3 1/2 weeks ago and was told the nipple couldn’t be saved as I had 3 tumours in my left breast. I’m waiting for another mastectomy and reconstruction of both after covid is over. 

    good luck on Wednesday. It’s not as bad as I thought it would be and was back to work quite quickly 

    xx

  • Thank you! That’s made me feel a lot better about the op. I’m glad you’re making a good recovery. Take care. X

    Polar Bear
  • Hi Linda

    Thanks for your reply. I’ll make sure I ask the surgeon. I’m not sure I’d like a new nip made from a bit of skin... a tattoo sounds good! All the best with the chemo. X

    Polar Bear
  • Hi @Polar Bear, I had my mastectomy in March and they wouldnt do my reconstruction because of the covid.  I never thought to ask about the nipple so I would definitely find out.  Good luck, thankfully everything went fine with mine I hope the same for you.. 

    I'm having the dreaded chemo now, but looking forward to being me again xx

    Debx