Mastectomy

Hi Anne, I was 75 at diagnosis and had chemotherapy first together with Phesgo injections so had a long time to think about my decision but for me it was always to go flat as didn’t want multiple surgeries, my surgeon tried to persuade me but I said at my age it’s not so important - both he and the nurse said we are not ageist here everyone gets the same opportunities which was good to know but did not change my mind.

It’s 11 months now since my surgery and had my last injection a week ago.  My scars are healing nicely but still have a bit of skin discolouration due to a hematoma.

make sure you do the excercises that they give you to regain full movement in your arm.

sorry to go on a bit but that’s my story and you have to do what is right for you as we are all different and our cancer journeys are different due to the type we have.

Good wishes for a speedy recovery and keep checking in here as you will get a lot of good advice Xxx

That's so helpful,thankyou. How long after surgery did you feel like going out . Was it very restricting. Hope you don't mind me asking 

The recovery from surgery is a lot quicker than you think mine took a little longer as I developed a large hepatoma due to a leaking blood vessel and had to return to surgery two weeks later so probably took me a little longer.  In hindsight I should have contacted my surgeon sooner but hey ho all  good now and once that was done I recovered quite quickly and still do my arm exercises each day.   I don’t regret my decision to not have reconstruction as M&S do a good range of mastectomy bra’s and have just purchased a Boost breast form although I was fitted with a silicone one by a lovely lady at the hospital I liked the look of these.

feel free to ask any more questions and good luck with your recovery Xxx

Hi, I'm 87 and had mastectomy last April and didn't have reconstruction. I healed very quickly, had radiotherapy and am now on Anastrozole and 3 monthly bone infusions. Feel OK with prothesis and fit it into my normal bra. Hope it all goes well for you.xxx

Thanks for positive vibes ,definitely off to M&S . Already bought new front fastening PJ'S to give me a boost. Another appt with consultant tomorrow and feel much more positive in my decision x

I have joined a facebook group called flat friends UK you can only join if you stay flat and if in the future you decide to have reconstruction then you have to leave the group X

Good luck let’s know how you get on X

Thankyou, all this positivity really helps. Just want it done now so can start getting on with my life 

Thought I replied but can't see it  

Your positivity is inspiring, thanks for that.  Just want to get it over with now.  

Went well today ,surgery been brought forward as consultant had earlier slot so now it's Monday. Busy few days ahead

 Been to M&S, they have some lovely post surgery bras. She said i need front fastening,  need to find these.  Had ordered clothes for post surgery but they won't be here in time. Also need to get freezer and cupboards we'll stocked. 

Monday will be here before I know it .