Reconstruction and IBC

blue22

I am completely on the fence about reconstruction. The more I read, the more I think I don't want it, especially considering I have IBC.

For those of you who did have reconstruction - what type did you have? Did you have complications?

For those of you that didn't - do you regret it?

I know there are separate forums for reconstruction etc. - but I would like advice from my IBC sisters.

Thanks!

sbelizabeth

My only option was a flap-type recon, since it was strongly recommended I don't go with tissue expanders or implants. Also, the skin of my affected side was pretty trashed from rads. Six months after rads finished, I had DIEP reconstruction. It went very well, and after many revision surgeries (very, very common) and nipple tattoos, I'm happy with the result.

That being said, many women are very happy being flat. My mom went flat. She even had revision surgery to remove some dog ears and extra skin that were making her chest lumpy and bumpy, and now she's pleased to not have to wrangle bras in the hot Arizona climate in which she lives.

michelemk

I didn't have reconstruction yet. My Onc said to wait 5 years and then only consider flap recon. I am 2 years NED. I haven't fully made up my mind but am leaning toward staying flat....on one side, since I only had a left mastectomy. The down side is that I can't find a prosthesis that matches my right side exactly. I would have to fork out the money to do a custom. Which if I stay flat, I will do.

It's just a new normal. Isn't that what we all deal with every day? I feel lucky to be NED. And I know there are so many others going through so much more.

My advice is wait, especially since you're on the fence. Live as you are for a while, then decide. My best decision so far about recon has been to not make a quick and emotional decision.

Leslie2010

Although I dreamed about upgrading to B cup, after the surgeon told me my stomach muscles would have to migrate to MRM site, they might also need to get some skin from my thigh, I said heck no. I buy bras that have pockets, get creative with stuffing;-)

blue22

Thank you to everyone for your responses! I had been told I had a few days to decide about getting an expander, but I don't think that would have been a good choice, and I am not sure it actually would have been an option anyway.