Mastectomy decision

I had a mastectomy almost two weeks ago. I had no choice of reconstruction atm as I have a number of other health conditions. However, I can have one done in the future if I choose to do so. Before the surgery, I thought that I would definitely go for the reconstruction at some point, but am now thinking that I may not ... give yourself time to think and consider seems to be the most frequently seen advice. I don't know what I will choose to do, but now think that I have time to consider what I want and what is important to me ... also, it is not just about how we look, but also how we feel. Take care and be kind to yourself. X

Hello, 

I am having chemo first (start on Friday), followed by a mastectomy. My surgeon consultant thinks that I will be able to have a reconstruction using my belly fat. I really like the idea of using my own body’s tissue rather than an implant, and although the recovery time is longer, I am going to go for this, I’m only 45 and think in the long run I will feel better than being flat. . Let us know what you decide.

This must be a massive shock, and is one of my anxieties -I have lumpectomy booked at the beginning of March. Do you know why the have suggested chemotherapy if your nodes are clear? x

Hi, I’m not 100% sure but I think it’s because my dcis have shown to be invasive. To be honest I went into shock and didn’t take in everything I was been told. I’m waiting for my letter to hopefully make things be clearer. X

I’m not surprised, I’d be the same, still in shock about the whole situation! I hope it becomes clearer for you, sending you a big hug x

I was diagnosed last year with BC 2 and in 2006 with BC 1. I remember in 2006 swithering because of the dates for the 2 operations and the wait for the mastectomy and immediate reconstruction. My Breast Nurse told me to consider how I would feel being flat, without a hair on my body due to Taxotere. (cold caps weren’t great then) I waited and had an immediate LD reconstruction and the same operation last October. I’m sorry if this sounds very blunt but you might want to ask what the waiting time is for a delayed reconstruction. All the best of luck.

I feel differently about reconstruction post-mastectomy to what I did before the surgery. It is true what people say that cancer is a journey ... I feel, very much, that I am on a journey and not in a race and so time, for me, is not an important consideration.