replacing implants?

teacher911

I was originally dx DCIS in 2008 and had bilateral mastectomy after 2 failed lumpectomies. I decided to have reconstructive surgery with silicone implants because I was 98% cured! In 2012, I learned it had metastasized and my doctor chose aggressive treatment because it was only showing in my ribs. I went through 4 months chemo and 7 weeks of radiation. Before the radiation I asked about having the implants removed but the doctors felt it was a 50/50 scenario as to whether I would have problems. So far I have been blessed to see NED on most of my scans but my implants especially the right have become encapsulated and is moving up. They need to be removed or replaced.

I know I can have them removed but I am curious if anyone has had them replaced after being dx with metastatic cancer?

ShazzaKelly

I have had my implant removed after stage 4 diagnosis. I developed an infection around the implant that they just couldn't shift I had been in hospital for 10 days on IV antibiotics with no improvement. I insisted they remove it and almost immediately my temperature returned to normal after over a week of spiking temperatures. I had absolutely no issues post surgery or since.

GoodbyeGirl

teacher, while I am not one who has had implants replaced after my Stage IV diagnosis, there are many women who have. Many women are initially diagnosed Stage IV from the beginning and I have read lots of posts about them starting the reconstruction process, both implant or the more involved DIEP. Do what makes you happy. Your insurance must pay for reconstruction and revisions without regard to staging of the disease.