Mastectomy with immediate reconstruction

Hello Lana65 

Sorry you have found yourself needing a mastectomy.  I had a lumpectomy, so I can't offer any advice, but I'm replying to push your post back to the first page in the hope that a lady who has more information can help you now.

Kindest Wishes, Lesley

Hi

I had a mastectomy and immediate DIEP reconstruction around 4 years ago. It is a long complicated surgery due to the micro- surgery, as Im sure you are aware, but the results are amazing and worth all the hassle. You will get little sleep in hospital as they check your new boob every hour for the first 24 hours, then every 2 hours for the next etc. You will also be tired from the anaesthetic - I was for a while afterwards - not helped by the stress re the build up to the op. They put on a front fastening support bra during surgery and you will need good firm support knickers for the abdominal wound. I wore compression bra and support knickers 24/7 for 6 weeks as it helps with healing. The abdominal scar is huge and looks very very very scary to begin with but it will heal to just a white line. In hospital I just used their own gowns and used my crocs (and dressing gown) to 'shuffle' around a little. I was in hospital for the day of the op and discharged on the morning of the fourth day afterwards. Once home you will need help to begin with - getting out of bed, showering, putting on socks etc. You will feel fine so long as you take the painkillers and take it easy - don't attempt to do more than make a cup of tea. Sometimes I had to take the super strength pain killers in the evening but other than that I used paraceatamol. You may need a V pillow to prop you up in bed to begin with for sleeping. Also, you shouldn't raise your arm on affected side or lift anything, no housework or respective actions (ironing, shaking duvet - for 6 weeks.) I was bent double due to abdominal surgery -  for me this was worst bit - it was so tight - and went up and down stairs sideways for the first few weeks. I also had horrendous back ache in lower back due to stooping to begin with. Strategically placed stools to perch did help. I'm sure you are aware, you will be a little restricted in dressing - I used leggings and loose front fastening shirts. However, all this is temporary and you will heal and feel much better and be able to do more as each week passes. 6 weeks post op I was driving again and beginning to feel much more normal. As soon as you are able, go out for short walks as this really helps to aid healing and do all your exercises religiously and when allowed (6 weeks post op?) massage scars with Bio Oil. To begin with your new boob may look a little fat and flat, this will settle and/or can be tweaked with liposuction and refill if you so wish. You can also have nipple recon and tattooing - I have had all the aforementioned with great results.

The operation is worth the hassle and gives fantastic results.  I can remember being absolutely petrified prior to mine as it was the first operation I had had and it was all very scary. Please ask if there is anything (anything at all!!!) that I may be able to help. Good luck with the surgery and recovery.XXXXxxx

Hi Moresleep, I cannot thank you enough for the detailed information! I have been in alarmingly high spirits (much to my own surprise!) and I am trying my hardest to stay positive! A huge thank you again! Big hug, xx 

 Moresleep has covered this very well! I had diep and recon last year and nipple recon 4 weeks ago, I’ve no regrets. It’s tough at first and it takes time to get over but I’ve been happy with the results. I’m happy to answer any questions you have also but mirror the advice you’ve been given above. Good luck! X

Thank you so much for your response, Anna! The worst of all right now is the anxiety (which I've been bottling for years!) and having the cancer diagnosis didn't help at all! I'm kind of more concerned about that and how I'll cope with it right after the surgery. xx 

Thank you for a terrific helpful reply to Lana65.  I am in same position and have my 'final decision' meeting this week having leaned towards mastectomy and reconstruction in same op.  I am 70 and do not have good core strength or abdominal muscles and am worried the recovery will be very difficult.  Could I ask your age range and rough level of fitness as a guide?  Thank you so much for the help. xxx

Hi Cookie, I am 58 and I wouldn't describe myself as particularly fit, just average. I also have been thinking about the age factor when it comes to post-operative recovery and I also have my concerns and I know it won't be easy... Speak with your BC nurse and with the team who is looking after you - they should be able to give you more information about what to expect after the surgery since they know you well as a patient. Nothing cancer related is easy, but follow your doctors' advice and hope for the best outcome! The best of luck with your surgery and stay in touch! Hug, xx 

I was 57 when I had my DIEP. To be fair, I am fitter now than I was when I had the op.....