Mastectomy operation

Hi,

I'm having it done next week too, I'm a bit anxious about it all too, its a big operation and I will be having treatment afterwards  as having surgery first.

Try and stay positive, I presume you have been self isolating so you have done all that you can with regards to covid.

Good luck and I hope it all goes well x

Hi

I had the mastectomy last Wednesday with a reconstruction.  All went well, the operation is long but I am already feeling better.  But, we will have a couple of months before the full recovery.  There is no need to worry about COVID.  They are still so careful in hospital, everyone was wearing masks.  All the best!

I had a mastectomy and reconstruction at the same time.  I'd also had a lumpectomy. The surgery went well, and I was well cared for.  I was in hospital for a couple of nights.  Having a drain in (and a special dressing on) was very strange at first, and I was sore at first where the drain came out of my side, but I got used to it.  I did need help showering (until the dressing was removed) and getting dressed for a little while as bending down was uncomfortable.  But I'm glad I made the decision to have both done at once.  

My surgery was last year.  I was in a 'green' ward, ie as Covid free as anything could be.  Once you've had your test (I assume they're still doing those?) then isolate for the required number of days.  There are so many checks as you're admitted.  I think you're as safe as you can be anywhere.

I had radiotherapy a couple of months after surgery, but it sounds like you've had the treatment beforehand.

I hope all goes well.

Good luck!

Diane.

Hi Tricy, 

I just wanted to reply to your post as I have a mastectomy and reconstruction scheduled for next week too and I’m also terrified. I have an appointment with the surgeon today to get the results of my SLN biopsy last week and as long as there’s no evidence of the cancer spreading then the operation will go ahead on Monday.

Although it’s scary I feel comforted by the fact that this may be the last treatment needed. I’ve been living in isolation for weeks as Covid would have delayed surgery, but afterwards we can look forward to meeting people again. 

Not sure what kind of reconstruction you are having but I’m getting a DIEP flap and the results look amazing in the photos I’ve seen.