Hi everyone,
After six months on a neo-adjuvant trial of letrozole plus palbociclib, followed by two failed attempts at a lumpectomy plus some nodes removed, I have now been told I need a full mastectomy. The most recent MRI suggested the tumour was 3cm, hence the decision to go for a wide local excision, but when it was removed, it was actually more than 6cm and the second op to have a cavity shave didn't get rid of it all either.
It's been a long process since diagnosis last September and I'm feeling rather frayed at the moment. Now I have to decide whether to go for implant reconstruction at the time of surgery or not and I wonder if anyone has any thoughts on this, or any experience they may be willing to share? On the one hand, I can appreciate how having reconstruction straight away might help me psychologically, but I am worried about possible side effects of subsequent radiotherapy. I've played the odds of the trial and the chances of success with the lumpectomy and lost out on both counts, so I am just thinking that knowing my recent luck, I will end up with side effects. I'm 58 and my bikini days are over, so I am thinking I just leave it for now, but I am conscious that how I will feel about losing my breast after surgery may present a different set of challenges and I won't know how I will react until it has happened. I know the decision has to be mine, but that feels rather lonely at the moment and in my current state of mind, I just can't think straight. My surgeon and nurses are brilliant, as are my family and friends, but I would appreciate some thoughts from others who have experience as patients.
Any thoughts would be most welcome.
Thanks!
Hello Loobylou16,
I am 10 week's post Mastectomy without reconstruction. My Cancer returned after 8 years and I simply just wanted it gone! Initially, I thought yes, I will go for immediate reconstruction, but then my next thought was, let's just wait and see how I manage without my Breast. I think as Gwills says, once the Bra and Prosthesis is in place you wouldn't know. Right now I cannot wear my Bra for longer than an Hour because there is still a lot of healing to be done, but when I put it on, well, I feel brilliant. Clothes do look a bit funny though because I am very lopsided with one Boob.
It is a very personal decision though, but sadly I have had so much surgery in my life, that the thought of any more fills me with dread. I was a bit concerned how my Husband would react when he first saw me, but there was no need to worry because he didn't even flinch and said I am still the same to him.
Even after just 10 weeks, I know I can do this. Perhaps if this was the first time with Cancer, I would be thinking very differently, but it's not. I am also 58 and yes I no longer wear Bikinis, but there are Tops etc. that I have seen online that look good for when you go on Holiday or Swimming. I was sent various soft Prosthesis from Knitted Knockers which is a lovely Charity and it all seems Ok for now.
I am going to my Nephew's Wedding tomorrow and have decided to wear the Bra just for the Service then put a scarf over me after that.
Not sure if my response is useful to you. It is a big Operation and the Body and Mind need time to adjust to it, whatever you decide.
Best,
xxx
The prosthesis you get (the proper one) when you get fitted with a bra at the hospital is the best one. It’s not a softie it actually feels and weighs like a real boob. It’s amazing. My only complai
is the nipple on it is a bit small. Ha
I can live with a small nipple! 
Thanks Gwills. xx
