[ Post a Response | Surgery / Reconstruction Board ]
Posted by Sherry on 5/18/2009, 11:57 pm, in reply to "Reconstruction Options"
71.245.138.199
Hi I know this is one of the most difficult decisions to make. I had a single left mastectomy in 2002 after a lumpectomy without clean margins.
I wanted immediate recon but since I was also having radiation to that side they told me to wait.
I waited 6 years before I went for a consult and my wonderful PS said we could TRY to expand the radiated skin but he could offer no guarantee that it would work. Unfortunatly it did not and I had a complication so I switched to a lat flap with an expander in April 2008.. I had him take the expansion slow as I didn't want anymore problems.
He chooses to wait at least three months before doing the exchange. For me I took alittle longer.
I had my exchange this February with a silicone implant. Then his choice is to wait at least three months for the implanted side to droop. Before he considers lifting the other side.
I am doing wonderfully with the implant and have myself choosen to wait until November to lift the other side. I do this for selfish reasons, my daughter is getting married in late October and I have many plans for vacations this summer, so I don't want to have to forego swimming and pool parties because of surgery.
It is such a personal choice and I am very happy with mine and am almost sorry that I waited so long.
To be able to wear normal bras and swimsuits is so very refreshing.
I am only almost 53 and was first diagnoised at age 45.
Good luck and best wishes with whatever you chooose.
Sherry
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