Tightness and Pain - 5 years out from reconstruction w/Implants

kltb04

Hello all, I will try to keep this brief (not my strong suit!) I used to visit these boards regularly during my dx and treatment in 2012. In fact, a bunch of ladies that met here still have a group on FB! But none of them can help with my particular issue.

I was dx and had neoadjuvant chemo from March 2012 until August 2012. Bilateral double mastectomy with expanders place in October 2012. After that surgery, I made the decision to do radiation, strongly discouraged by my plastic surgeon who knew it would screw up his work but I had one node positive so I insisted on it. Fast forward to July 2013, where I had exchange surgery (for saline implants)

I have never been happy with my results. The rads damage caused a lot of scar tissue, skin damage and I have burst capillaries all the way up the one side of my neck. My implants are uneven and I often felt as if I have a band of wire wrapped around my chest. I have had follow ups with PS over the years and he never really gave me any other options except starting over with a flap surgery (not willing to do that).

Lately, the tightness has gotten worse, and I have had some sharp pains on the "good side" My implants feel hard in areas and
"normal" in others. My oncologist is my follow up dr. I see her twice a year and have bloodwork and have follow up scans yearly. Aside from my weight, I don't really have any other major medical issues and don't particularly feel "bad" I just ache and hurt in my chest constantly.

I guess I am just looking to commiserate with others who may have had this issue. And a call to schedule an appt w/my PS is in order. Thanks for letting me vent!