Late reconstruction option

The difference is if you may want reconstruction later they can not sew you up totally flat but save a bit of extra skin to make it easier - you get a more bumpy scar or even a bit of a skin flap but that all helps later. Or you can have a so called cosmetically designed scar close to the chest which is a neat scar - makes it easier to wear a bra prosthesis. But I think you'd have to a specifically argue for that as it may be irreversible. So do tell your surgeon if you'd like to keep your options open 

I was told that reconstruction wouldn't be possible after my Mastectomy in July  as I had a mammoplasty  surgery on the same breast in 2013.

i was told that it can be considered in 2022 but would mean using tissue and presumably skin from my abdomen or back as I have a long scar but no skin flap.   

I think you need to check with your surgeon asap so you are clear on your options for reconstruction. 

Good luck

Thanks, BGirl. I had the same idea, but the surgeon is away now and is only coming back on the day of my surgery. I will make sure to have this conversation on that morning. 

That’s pretty much what I’ve heard. They can transfer skin from your abdomen in a DIEP procedure. The skin might look a different colour but I was reading about a tattoo procedure that can merge it in and add a nipple - I’ve seen some impressive photos.

I had a mastectomy and no reconstruction at the time as a friend who had it done at same time wished she hadn’t as they used a muscle in her back and it’s very tight. I said I would wait and have a tummy tuck one. The surgeon told me the door will always be open for reconstruction for life. I actually am liking my falsie. It’s so real and looks fab. I may not bother. 

-Ana- you are right about the skin colour and texture, my boob ended up with stretch marks from my tummy, which now doesn’t have any. The surgeons are extremely skilful and they made a fab job of my Diep. I had initially had an implant reconstruction, changed to a diep 2 1/2 years later. I decided I didn’t want a nipple tattoo etc and instead paid for a large peony flower to cover up most of my boob, but for me most importantly I know see a beautiful thing rather than scars. It is a very personal decision but it is a truly brilliant operation.

Jo x