Reconstruction V Staying Flat

Hi Crawler reconstruction is a very personal thing and in some respects I was lucky as I was not given an option but to have a mastectomy without reconstruction initially. A year later, after radiotherapy, I had an LD flap reconstruction.

I was given a prosthesis once the area was fully healed. I hated the feeling of it moving around despite it being secure in my post surgery bra pocket. I always felt self conscious. I bought myself a self adhesive one (yes they really do exist) I was then much happier. But in the end I had my reconstruction and that really felt like a gift at the end of treatment.

Perhaps you could ask if it is possible to delay a reconstruction until after you complete all of your treatment. That way you can see how you get on.

Whatever decision you make, I hope it all goes well for you, stay strong and keep smiling, Julie 

Thank you Julie, they have said I could have delayed reconstruction if I decide later to go ahead with it, it’s good to hear other people’s experiences, I don’t get to speak to other patients at the hospital, so some times feel on my own in that respect, coming to this forum helps when we can ask others questions ... thank you for responding x

Hi Crawler I was meant to have a DIEP flap reconstruction last year and along came Covid. I had a mastectomy only. A year down the line I’m quite glad I didn’t have the major surgery and feel ok being flat on one side but because I have big breasts the remaining one has caused problems with my shoulder. My surgeon says I can have a reduction on the remaining side and an implant on the flat side ( depending on skin etc). I’m considering going for this at the moment. I’m glad I had the year to consider what to do going forward. At the end of the day it can only be your decision on what is best for you but it is good to hear everyone’s experiences. x

Thank you for your reply Bramble22, it is good to hear other people’s experiences, I want to stay flat on the one side, but can change my mind in the future, it’s good to know that option is there if thing arise where it needs to be done to make things better, hope all goes well for you if you decide to go ahead x