Lumpectomy and Symmetry Reconstruction

Autum1031

I'm currently in chemo treatment for a small, probable Stage 1 tumor in my right breast (about 6 mm). I'll have surgery in January, and I've decided to have a lumpectomy due to the small size of the tumor, and based on mammos and MRIs it doesn't seem to have spread anywhere. I'll then have 6 weeks of radiation.

I'm considering and will probably have symmetry reconstruction to the "healthy" breast, and could really use some tips from others who have done this. My natural breasts are a mess. I'm soon to be 44, and I had gastric sleeve surgery a few years ago. The results were wonderful, health-wise, but left my DD breasts sadly deflated! (Ironically, the nature of my breasts probably made it easier to detect my tumor early, so I guess I can't hate the deflated breasts that much....) I've also always had tremendous asymmetry in both breasts since I was a teenager. My right breast (with the tumor) is a full cup size larger than the left. It is very noticeable even with clothes on. Not to mention it makes finding a bra that fits almost impossible.

So, once the tumor is removed, my plan is to 'lift" both breasts, and remove a little of the extra tissue from the right/ bigger breast.

Has anyone else done this, and if so, can you share your experience?

TarheelMichelle

Use these forums to find a plastic surgeon who works ONLY with breasts or primarily with breasts. Find a surgeon who also does "vanity" breast surgery for picky women. That means a big city with well-to-do women. Your surgeon may recommend adding to the smaller breast. I don't know, but my point is, be open to his or her suggestions. My breasts were a size different after lumpectomy. Didn't matter until I lost weight. I wore a small prosthetic until I got fat grafting to replace breast tissue and repair the appearance of incision. Even those 5 years had passed, insurance paid. Pleased with results. I drove to surgeon 2 states away, it was worth it. I'm glad you were able to lose weight. My experience isn't exactly like yours; I hope others can share, too.