Mastectomy, Lumpectomy and reconstruction

Hi 

That is the best thing to do, find out the most info you can which then makes the decision you make the best one for you at the time - none of us can know whether we will have problems etc but if you can find info you will feel happier with your choice. Just my journey - I initially had a lumpectomy, no clear margins so two cavity chest shaves and still no clear margins, so after chemo had a mastectomy and implant reconstruction. I had this changed 2 1/2 years later to a diep flap. Things I learnt - a mastectomy gives only a very small positive difference in reoccurrence over a lumpectomy. If you have a lumpectomy you will be offered radiotherapy, if you have a mastectomy you will probably not. No matter how fantastic reconstruction’s are, they are no replacement for your own breast, so if you go down this route don’t underestimate how you may feel in a year or two’s time without a breast. 

I have found some soft bras from M&S were the best, but initially after my mastectomy/implant vest tops with the built in bra’s were the best, I was originally put into a front fastening bra (different surgeons have their own thoughts on this) which was horrendous and rubbed me, and the vest tops were a welcome relief. Size wise I have stayed the same. 

Hospital wise the lumpectomy ops were day surgery, mastectomy/implant overnight and the Diep was 5 nights in hospital. The diep has been the best thing for me. I have no nipple and don’t want a nipple tattoo so am booked in in June to have a flower instead with an artist who specialises in scar tattoos.

Any questions please just ask away! 

Jo x

Hello, 

I’m about to have a mastectomy and implant reconstruction, I’ve been recommended this type of bra for after surgery (select your usual size).

https://www.baby-central.co.uk/sophia-post-surgery-bra/

And also button up pjs and clothing to avoid over the head movement.

xxx

Hi

I had a lumpectomy one side and mx the other, followed by DIEP recon on the mx side (I've a dint where lumpectomy was done but it's not that noticeable and will be dealt with in latter phases to complete the DIEP surgery).  I'll send you a really useful source of social media info that I found invaluable in making my decision as to what type of recon, as like you I did my homework before making any decisions (see friend request).  Hopefully you've also chatted through the options & pros/cons with your cancer support team...its only one opinion but a useful one to throw into the pot I found, and they're the ones who are fully aware of your cancer journey status, I also spent time interrogating the plastic surgeon at the first consultation  meetings.

As I've said on a previous post the real challenge, for ladies who are not fans of being flat/disfigured (totally get it but it didn't bother me at all) is in some hospitals there are long waits and repeated cancellations for delayed DIEP ops (re bl00dy covid)...worth asking about & bearing in mind.

Sam

hello      I had diep flap reconstruction approx l yr ago,    shape was not good and did not look like my remaining brease.    consultant says he can "tweek" reconstructed breast using skin, etc  from upper thigh. and may take 2 or 3 goes to get it something like.  original reconstruction was taken from tummy, but not suitable to take from there again.   

I realise my breast will never look like remaining boob,   but can anyone give me some advise if they've had same done.    thanks   pam