Infection after infection

risma

I got a bilateral mastectomy in April 2020. To my disappointment, TE in my left breast (my right breast was affected) came out in Week 6 after the surgery and my PS took it out immediately. We decided to wait till my radiation was done (end of June) and he placed a new TE in the left side in August. But I am having another round of infections so he is taking TE out again this week and will leave it flat until he put implants in my right side so that he can take care of both sides in December. Is this sort of infection common after TE is put into?

I am just worried it happens again after my put implants in in December?

Thanks

MinusTwo

Infections do happen but I don't believe they are "common". Are you at a major NCI or teaching hospital?

JRNJ

risma, after my infection and TE removal I did a lot of searching for other posts. There are some old posts that discuss infections. It's possible to overcome it and have successful implants from what I read. I decided to try DIEP instead because I don't want to worry about implants.

LillyIsHere

I had an infection when I had TE and another one after 5 months of implant surgery. Unfortunately, I couldn't have DIEP because I didn't have enough tissue to be used. Both times I was prescribed 3 types of strong antibiotics. They worked but if I have another infection I will removed the implants. My PS said that I should take antibiotic anytime I have dental cleaning or dental procedure. I had both of them last month and I didn't take antibiotics and I was fine. I assume when immune system goes down, infections happen. Also, PS told me that bacteria loves plastic/silicone.

risma

I got treated as a local cancer center and I am seeing a plastic surgeon who has independent practice. Thanks

risma

Thank you for replying. How did DIEP work for you? Or are you still in the process. I will definitely discuss this option with my plastic surgeon. I just got my TE removed and am flat but it really gives me a sense of relief. Two more months before another round of surgery to put the implants in both sides but I will definitely discuss DIEP as an option.

risma

I am so sorry to hear that infection had happened to you as well. I always thought of myself as someone with good health and strong immune system but I do think plastics does not get along with my body! Two more months before another surgery to put implants in! I am really hoping for the best this time.

Thanks