Reconstruction options

My surgeon recommended I have the DIEP straight way but I wasn't convinced, I went for the options chat with my BCN and she said his decision is based on fact like my age (34) weight and the long term. My nurse knows be better and said she wasnt sure it was right for me because of the lengthy recovery and risks of complications (I have autism to so struggling more with sensory especially plasters and being in hospital with lots of unfamiliar faces) we looked at they implant option as a quicker recovery and at the same hospital. It was made clear the decision was all mine as I'm the one living with outcome. I chose not to have any reconstruction and it was accepted and respected by all and I'm happiest with my choice.

Thank you for commenting. That’s really interesting thank you x 

Hi Sparkle498uk

This is tricky and I can only go with my experience.  I am BRACA 2 carrier and opted for a double mastectomy. I also had immediate breast reconstruction with implants.  I didn't have enough body tissue for 2 mastectomies. I had hoped for the Diep flap. The plastic surgeon was told there wasn't time for me to put on weight.  I had TNBC.

I didn't have radiotherapy.

My bottom line was that I didn't want to go flat.  I am aware others are OK with this.

It sounds as though you need to have a full discussion with your team.  The decision must feel right for you as you have to live with the outcome.

All the best

Hi there

i had a mastectomy and immediate diep flap reconstruction. I am delighted with the results. Apart from losing my nipple, it looks more or less the same.

i also recovered quickly. I am now 5 weeks post surgery and am nearly back to normal. I had no pain after surgery at all. I now have some pain from my lymph node biopsy but it’s manageable.

With regards to weight, my plastic surgeons were more concerned about my bmi but the thoroughly examined you beforehand to check you have enough fat. It’s also amazing to have a tummy tuck!! 
I believed that you can’t get cancer in it because it’s tummy tissue and doesn’t have the ducts any more.

my surgeons also told me that people that have silicone implants normally need another operation to tweek things. I also know someone who had silicone and it adhered itself to her ribs.

I’m convinced I made the right choice, 100%

This sounds great, I’m glad you’re very happy with the outcome. I didn’t know that about the tummy tissue as that was a genuine worry of mine putting tissue in there again would attract cancer so thank you for telling me that x