Breast reconstruction..which option is best, especially if you had radiation
Hi everyone, my name is Andy. I had a mastectomy on my left breast in March 2023 and have just consulted a plastic surgeon about reconstruction options. Can anyone who has had implants, flap-fat grafting, or DIEP flap share their experiences with me? I am kind of indecisive, but I would love to go for fat grafting, but I don't think I might have enough fat tissue, as I only weigh 109 lbs.
Comments
-
Hi Andy, welcome! We are so glad that you reached out to join us and share your story.
There have been many conversations about different reconstruction options among our members, and we are sure they will be able to offer you helpful suggestions here. In the meantime, take a look at the following articles and discussions, where you’ll find lots of personal stories and information that we hope will help you make the best decision along with your medical team:
- Pictures of Breast Reconstruction
- Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Reconstruction
- Podcasts About Breast Reconstruction
- BREAST IMPLANT SIZING 101
Exchange City
Best wishes to you. If you need help let us know. We are here to be of assistance in helping you to get connected.
The Mods
0 -
I had neoadjuvant chemo/monoclonal antibodies from January 2023 through December 2023, radiation completed November 2023, mastectom June 2023. I had tissue expanders placed at the time of mastectomy. I could not afford to take 2 months off for an abdominal fat reconstruction and the only other option presented to me was implant reconstruction. No one told me that 40% of these fail after radiation. I waited nearly a year after RT to have reconstruction. At first all was fine. Then after 2 months a hole opened in my incision exposing the implant, with serous fluid leaking out. It has been hell. The implant was removed in the office a couple weeks ago. Still draining fluid through an open hole in my skin.
There is a latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction that apparently heals much better because it puts healthy tissue next to your irradiated damaged skin. That flap requires only 1 week off of work to recover. A tissue expander and then implant can be placed below the flap, so that it is not in contact with the irradiated skin.
hope this helps someone.0 -
Hi again @vbcancersucks1,
Thanks again for posting this helpful experience. We're so sorry for all you've been through! How is your wound healing?
Thinking of you!
—The Mods
0
