Breast implants

momoftwo1982

I just turned 43 and was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma grade 3 & high grade ductal carcinoma in situ. Im planning on a bilateral masectomy. Im meeting with my surgeon on Tuesday. Im having a hard time deciding on if I want to get implants or not. My question is how did you decide on reconstructive surgery or not? Are you happy with your decision?

rrobin0200

very happy with my decision to receive direct implants after my BMX. Clearly, it’s a personal choice, but these implants gave me my confidence back and took my mind off of my diagnosis. I didn’t qualify for diep flap, but my PS added a small amount of fat tissue around the implants to smooth out the skin. I have no regrets.

exbrnxgrl

Decide? I actually knew that I wanted recon without question, as long as it was medically possible. I wanted to wake up each morning and get dressed as I always did. I did not want two surgical sites, and was too thin for those types of surgery.
I was also fortunate in that my ps was experienced with one step implants, no tissue expanders, so had my permanent implants placed at the same time as bmx. I look almost the same as I did before surgery which is what I wanted. Take care

snm

Happy with me decision -after BMX had tissue expanders and then implants. I didn't qualify for the tissue flap surgery. I really like the look of the implants, even had them tattooed!

Good luck with your decision.

mexicanmary

I went for reconstructive surgery with implants, and while I’m happy with the overall result, I made some mistakes along the way that I wish I’d avoided. I didn’t ask enough questions about potential complications, and I underestimated the importance of understanding both the medical and legal sides of the procedure.

In hindsight, I should have taken my time to really research and consult experts, including a look at legal safeguards. I can recommend you check out this article from Oberheiden P.C. so you don’t make the same mistakes I did. It really helped me make a more informed decision

mia_montreal

I am also trying to make this decision this week. I am also in my 40’s, a former athlete who is will active and recently diagnosed. What decision did you end up making?

moderators

Hi @mia_montreal, welcome to the Breastcancer.org community! We’re glad you found us and hope you’ll find some helpful support here as you navigate this decision.

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