just diagnosed IDC/DCIS and already have saline implants

boysmomma

Hi I'm very new to the board, and have been researching frantically after receiving the call. Never did I imagine this would happen, and yet here I am. Mommy to a one year old and two year old (boys) and two step children both boys age 9 and 11. I'm 38 years old and have had saline impants for over 10 years. I was wondering what others have had done if they had implants prior to getting diagnosed. I have a friend that had DCIS and after re-excision, decided on double mast with nipple saving procedure... however she wished she would have done it prior to receiving rads, etc. because it may have changed her outcome. Apparently after rads, your body may reject the implants. I'm no expert here so I'm hoping someone will respond, with hope, encouragement, guidance, anything. My number one goal is to be here for my family with or without boobs. I read to prioritize what is most important and that's it.. to be cancer free. I would prefer not to be on meds, or anything else but would really like to hear thoughts. I'm open to any feedback good/bad. My initial consult with the surgeon on the lumpectomy is tomorrow afternoon. Thank you

Butterfly11

I am new to this, too, and in a similar situation. I was just diagnosed, and have had saline implants for two years. I have been given the choice between lumpectomy or mastectomy, and have no clue what to do. I have been to a surgeon who will do the procedure, and a plastic surgeon. Both have told me that if I choose lumpectomy, there is a really good chance of capsular contracture. Additionally, the plastic surgeon warned me that if I had lumpectomy then radiation, then future reconstruction/implant surgery is extremely difficult. This is one reason why I am torn between the two options. It sounds like you have already decided on a lumpectomy. I just wanted let you know you aren't alone. I am also looking for more information on the topic and haven't found too much besides "radiation can cause problems with implants." It would be nice to hear from some women who have implants and gone through radiation, etc., and hear their opinions. Good luck with your appointment tomorrow!