4 years post prophylactic mastectomy complications

Anonymous

4 years ago I had a PBMX for BRCA-1. I had several surgeries for reconstruction -- several fat transfers and ultimately smallish implants. During the year of reconstruction it was suggested that I remain rather sedentary to keep my fat stores, and in fact it was suggested I gain weight in order to have more fat to transfer. Fast forward to summer 2013... any attempt at peak aerobic activity for more than 10 minutes results in problems with thermoregulation. This has been ongoing for almost 3 years. Essentially my body "heat strokes" and I often break out in a prickly heat rash on my neck, chest and upper back. There have been studies on women reacting similarly after mastectomies, but those were all breast cancer patients.

Have any of you had this problem? I am incredibly frustrated by this, as I love to run.

TIA.

farmerlucy

Bumping for assistance (I have no experience with this.

JessieJake

Oh boy, I feel your frustration! I found an article referencing that transferred tissue can have thermoregulatory problems in breast reconstruction but you have a larger area reacting? I wonder where you'd go to see if you can get help. Would it be a gynecologist or back to the breast surgeons?

I'm sorry you are suffering like this, truly. I am still waiting for my exchange surgery and I have been taking advantage of being active now in preparation of the downtime that will come after surgery. I am curious to see what the PS thinks of my remaining fat stores or lack thereof.... It is what it is. But, I can't run anymore - my IT Bands both protested years ago and they get aggravated at any attempt to return (which is why I know how disheartening it can be to be restricted although your heart and brain want to go, go, go). I only bike and walk (with sometimes bursts of sprints until I feel the ITband twinge). Could you try biking? Maybe the breeze will keep your temp better regulated.

I will watch to see if anyone else responds. And I'll say a prayer you find a solution.

fleur-de-lis

Brcamom2,

I did not see this is your signature, but are you on a SERM or AI? People I have known who use those deal with hot flashes, temperature regulation issues and Vaso issues.....because of this, they state that they have a hard time dealing with their internal rising temperature when doing cardio.....they either swim, or work out in a very cool place

Just my two cents....might not help you, but the intent is good!😅