Undecided about reconstruction

precioustime

I had BMX without reconstruction 12/14/09 after 6 months of neoadjudvant Chemo.  I'm so glad that I had Chemo first because that allowed me time to make a decision whether to have reconstruction or not.   At this point, I am glad that I decided not to get reconstruction and I can change my mind in the future.  Went to the Radiation Oncologist last week and she was also glad that I did not have reconstruction due to the stage of cancer that I had because it is easier to detect reoccurence on non reconstructed breasts.   

robinlbe

Had my BMX on 1/6/10....did it without reconstruction.  I have not been fitted yet, but have already stopped wearing the cami (softee 2 with the little "bumper pads")....I'm just wearing my own cami's (being flat) and dressing in layers.....I can get by with this in the winter, but I must admit, I'm getting worried about the summer AND swimsuits.

To be fair, I do need to wait until I get my MX bras and prosthetics.  But if I really hate them, I may seriously consider reconstruction.  I *think* I'm getting used to the flat look, but it's only been four weeks today, and I"m still on my roller coaster ride.

I'm just grateful all of this was caught early that I don't have to worry about chemo or rads.

songinthewind

Hi everyone.

Just joined the other day and I'm going through some of these threads.

I'll find out next week after my surgeon looks at my mri results and I get a cat scan but she told me that more than likely I will have a masectomy and possibly a double. I'd rather have a double just to look more even.

At this point, I don't want reconstruction. I've heard horror stories of people in the past but can't a person just wear a padded type bra? Is prosthesis necessary? I was thinking of buying a padded bra and maybe adding a pad or two to it when I wanted to have boobs.

BoobsinaBox

Depending on your size, you might be able to get away with that, but a mastectomy takes tissue all the way from up near the clavicle, so most padded bras would stand out away from your chest.  At least they do from mine.  I go flat almost all the time, and while I have several kinds of prostheses, I am happier not having to deal with all that.  You might look at the thread Wardrobe Pics for Boobless Days just a few topics down.  You may also want to check the pictures (some on Barbara's www.BreastFree.org site) and the prosthetic options there.  We do have a lot of options, and I wish you well on this journey.

Dawn 

franie

I agree, depending on your size and whether you are going to be a uni or bilat may influence your decision. Also if you are large busted can you accept being smaller or if a uni being unbalanced. I am a bilat and was large busted and wanted to remain the same size. I wear prosthesis and am pleased with my choice. If you are not having reconstruction you can try different things to see what you prefer. It is a personal decision for all of us.

songinthewind

I am a double d  and I figured afterwards I could wear some kind of padded bra. I'm mostly home and on those days, I don't care but going out I wanted something with boobs.

I am so ignorant on this subject as I've just been diagnosed and have to have surgery within the next couple of weeks. I want a bilateral just to make me even but the decision has not been made yet by the surgeon that wants to see my mri results and I'm getting a cat scan tomorrow.

For whatever reason, I think at this point I just want to get this cancer out, I don't want to think about reconstructive right now. I've seen padded bras and they probably don't go past a B cup but I don't know. I'm not even sure what a prosthesis does but that's an option. I figured for me it would be easier to wear a padded bra but I don't know. Forgive me ladies. I'm trying to learn.

Thanks for your information.

Cheryl/Songinthewind

BoobsinaBox

Dear Cheryl,

I encourage you to go to www.breastfree.org, which is a site started by one of our sisters here, with pictures, information, and all kinds of options for those who, for whatever reason, are not interested in reconstruction at the moment.  No one is selling anything.  It is just information, opinions, and pictures by your sisters who have walked the difficult path you are on right now.  I was there in April 2006, and I can tell you I have learned a lot and changed my mind several times since then.  You can opt for a bilateral, if you choose.  If your current surgeon refuses or is negative about it, you can get someone who will do what you want.  If you aren't sure, then you can have a prophylactic one later.  Take deep breaths and know that we are all here for you.

Blessings,

Dawn 

franie

Cheryl, you are not alone. All of us were or are looking for help and support. I was a DDD and chose a bilat due to family history. I too was concerned about reconstruction and choose to have non skin sparing surgery. I wanted to be perfectly flat as in my mind it would be easier to wear prosthesis. My breasts were always a part of who I am and that is the reason I wear prosthetics. If you don't want to give up your good breast you can be fitted with a prosthesis that will match your remaining breast. Many stores that sell bras also sell prosthesis and they are made from many materials and different weights. Some are built into bras and is like wearing a padded bra. Even before you have surgery you can go and see what is available. If you have surgery to only remove one breast and decide to go with a prosthesis I would find a store that has a certified fitter and a nice selection. This is a difficult time for you, but everything will work out.

Franie  

songinthewind

Thanks for the info. I'll check out the breastfree.org sight. Sometimes I feel as if i'm rambling too much.

Peace,

Cheryl