Failed reconstructions
Hi all, I was diagnosed with DCIS in 2010 and had a partial mastectomy and radiation on my left breast. In 2014 I was again diagnosed with High grade DCIS in left breast. I had a double mastectomy including nipples and a Tramflap operation using the skin, fat and muscle from my stomach to create breasts.
I absolutely hated how I looked. It looked like I had 2 flat english muffins on my chest. I had no projection. I simply didnt have enough fat or muscle to create the breasts. The surgeons tried fat transfer but to be honest it made no difference. In 2017 I decided to see my surgeon about implants. I had the implants. I still had a shelf on one breast and the breast that didnt have reconstruction was bigger and had saggy skin. Last ear, due the age and my unhappiness with how I looked I went on a 12 month wait list to get the implants replaced with smaller implants and they did a lift and skin revision to make them look more normal. Plan was then to get tattoos to replace nipples later on. The photo taken during surgery looked amazing. Over the next week the tissue along the surgical lines broke down. Especially on the radiation side. After having 4 weeks of nurses coming 3 times a week to do dressings i basically ended up with severe infection and had to have emergency surgery to remove my new implants, clean out the necrotic tissue and infection in both breasts. Im 57 and single and this has really affected my confidence.( more than it had prior to this surgery). My question is....has anyone had successful implant reconstruction after going through what I have?
Comments
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Hi @teddysmum57 , we just wanted to check in since your post hasn't received any replies yet.
We're so sorry for everything you've been through. After so many surgeries, revisions, and complications, it's completely understandable that this has affected your confidence and how you feel about your body.
Have your surgeons discussed any reconstruction options with you since the implants were removed, or are you still in the process of exploring what's possible?
We're thinking of you and hope others will chime in with their stories and support.
Sincerely,
The Mods
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Hi Mods, thank you for checking in. I assumed going into my last appointment that we would discuss implants again. I feel like he was discouraging me and talking about fat transfer and or a thigh flap breast reconstruction. I didnt get to see the professor that did my surgery as it was one of his team that saw me. I was overwhelmed, confused and scared. I walked out very disheartened.
I have another appointment in 7 weeks and hoping I get to see my surgeon. Fingers crossed. Although its not always the case in the public health system.
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Hi @teddysmum57! We really hope your next appointment gives you more clarity and the chance to have a proper discussion about all your options. Fingers crossed you get to see your surgeon this time 🤞
We’re thinking of you and here with you along the way.
The Mods
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