Hiya! Any advice on reconstruction pros-cons

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Hi I am a single mum of 4 year old. (Dad lives overseas so zero help from him). I do have loving sisters who will help me. 

got diagnosis of DCIS and originally lumpectomy but after mri area is much larger and if biopsies taken yesterday confirm it will be mastectomy. 

they aren’t discussing options till they get biopsy results. But since it will only be a week before my op date I would like to know pros and cons of reconstruction as I will likely have  to make a decision about this on the spot next week….

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    My diagnosis was really quick and they just literally got a box of implants out and a book of pictures on the day of my diagnosis. I was a bit overwhelmed to tell the truth so I’ve opted for an implant to start with and see how I get along with that. I don”t want to make any permanent decisions whilst I’m still reeling from the shock of it all. I’m having my opt next Wednesday so it will be two weeks from the diagnosis and I just want the cancer out first and any treatment before I think about new breasts. Hope that helps in some way. 

  • Wow that is a fast turnaround. Yes I’m leaning towards the same as you especially since it doesn’t seem like implants are an option given my silicone allergy. Good luck and hope it all goes well for you xx

  • Hi, I’m following this as I’m waiting for surgery now that I’ve finished chemo. I’m not sure what options they will offer me for reconstruction but from what I’ve read there really is no good option. So I have no idea what to do, interested to read others opinions x

  • I am 6 weeks post op… right breast mastectomy following lumpectomy and radiotherapy. DCIS too. I couldn’t have implant due to radiotherapy and other reconstructions just seemed like too much for me. I’m learning to live with my “flat” look. I’m due to get my prosthesis next week. At the moment I just use the little cushion one I was given in hospital. Mostly I don’t wear anything! I just felt I would never get my own breast and nipple back so why bother! So far I’m glad with my choice but who knows I may change my mind further down the road. As long as I can still wear nice bras to feel nice and womanly! Good luck with your choices. It’s a lot to take in all at once. I honestly would advise just get the initial operation done and decide when you’re ready.  I’m realising now there is life after this horrible journey! Xx

    Jane

  • Thanks Jane that’s great to hear. I totally see your point and am also leaning towards just get the damn thing off and decide later. I guess I’m sad coz I split up with husband only 2 years ago and now divorced was just getting my head round thinking about dating again. Not sure what men might think of my new look etc. 

    i also am a cellist and my instrument has always tested on my left boob - I am not sure how I’m going to feel with nothing there - it will be like retraining again. My boobs are not small (34E) so I will have a serious asymmetry….  

    but ofcourse the most important thing is health. These are periphery really it’s just that I feel like I’m going to have to make a choice under time pressure. Wait list for reconstruction would be 12-18 months if I don’t get it done immediately (probably not an option anyway). 

    glad to hear there’s life after surgery. I can’t wait for this to be over!!!!

  • It is of course strange and it’s not easy but I’m just so thankful cancer is gone. My daughter thinks I look cool! Not sure what to think of that! My breasts were my thing so was so hard parting with one of them! And it all happens so quickly you hardly have time to think about it. A man will love you for who you are! I still haven’t showed  My husband properly and intend to just cover up with little camisole or something. I definitely want to feel sexy again! Will be thinking of you making these decisions! Xx

    Jane