Hi Newbie here

Hi there, sorry to hear of your diagnosis, hope you’re coping as well as can be expected.

I didn’t have a bilateral mastectomy, just the left side, but I would imagine the post surgery impact will be similar. I found that there was very little pain and just minimum discomfort (tingling and numbness) but nothing too distressing. I was up and about the day following surgery with a single drain in; that was probably the worst bit, not painful, just a bit “ick” luckily I’m not too squeamish but I guess some people may be. I’m saying all this assuming you’re not having an immediate reconstruction? Anyway, for what it’s worth I think you’ve made the right decision for your health. 

I almost wish I’d have both mine off from a practical point of view, it would be much easier to “line them up” if I had 2 prosthesis. I’m an older woman, so found the adjustment relatively easy to come to terms with; after my diagnosis I realised I would do anything to get better and if that was it, so be it! I rationalised that it could be worse, it could have been my leg or my eye which would have been worse. A bit of a weird way of looking at things I know, but we all process things in our own way!

If I can help with any specific questions, let me know.

I really wish you all the best and hope you find the strength to power through this with a positive attitude. Keep us posted on your progress xx

Hi running buddy. 
so sorry you find yourself here, but I’m sure you will get lots of advice and support.

I opted for a double mastectomy September last year (without reconstruction) it is a very personal choice, I don’t know if you have opted for a reconstruction so I can’t give any advice in that area but the mastectomy itself is a lot less painful than I had imagined. I personally found the auxiliary clearance much worse.

Its strange looking down at a completely flat chest but when I’m dressed and wearing my softies no one would know. I have had to change my wardrobe as v necks are no longer wearable . It hasn’t effected me mentally In the way I thought it would, whether it will in time after all the treatment is over is yet to be seen . I think I just wanted rid of them along with the cancer that was my main priority and I wanted to be even on both sides .

I think I was more concerned how my partner would feel but he’s been lovely about it and said he doesn’t care as long as I’m still here . I do hope you have a good support network around you but no one really understands unless they are going through this, that’s why this forum is so valuable to all us ladies. 
sending hugs and best wishes to you .

Thank you so much for responding x