Were you happy with your reconstruction?

ElleBee · May 2012

I am 36 years old and I love my breasts. They are small, yet despite nursing two children, they are still pretty great. I never really knew how much I loved them until I was faced with losing them. I have 6 tumors in my b-cup breast. I was told that this breast is "so diseased" that a mastechtomy is my only likely option.

And I probably have cancer in the other one. More tests, blah, blah, blah.

So I ask you this... How many of you are actually PLEASED with your reconstruction? Do any of you feel that your reconstruction is an improvement? And how many of you are displeased with your results.

Please include as many details as you feel comfortable (type of mastechtomy/surgery, implants, flap procedures, etc.)

Please consider PM-ing me if you don't want to share publicly.

Thanks! (anxious about the pics I saw online)

LittleLisaB · May 2012

I am so unhappy with my reconstruction. I had Bilateral MX(Dec) and TE and then Saline implants a month ago (I felt they were the safer option). My surgeon has a nice bedside manor and was recommended. He said everything was "textbook" but I am so uncomfortable. They look bad, two flat giant circles. What he calls a Big B cup. I had no idea how long and drawn out this process is. I feel like I am being stabbed in the chest and haven't slept in months. I had one PT session which helped a bit but the pain is awful and they are so present on my chest. It has made me focus soo much time and energy on these stupid implants and not the cancer. BIG MISTAKE for me. Just my opinion but if I had a time machine I'd just go flat.

GraciousGal · May 2012

ElleBee,

For the sake of others visiting this topic I just want to say that I am glad I went forward with BMx and immediate (2 stage) reconstruction. The tissue expanders were uncomfortable, but my new silicone implants are quite soft, realistic, and cancer-free. They are also larger than my original girls, so I'm looking forward to filling out my clothes better.

It is important that each person determines for themselves what is necessary for their self image and sense of "wholeness". Included in that is the support you receive from family and friends. I chose to keep my surgeries very private. So only my immediate family knows the details. Since they all live in different states, I don't have the challenge of "cross contamination". And I don't have to put up with uncomfortable conversations about my breasts with people at church, neighborhood gatherings, or book club meetings. This summer will be my first time "back home" with the family, so I don't know what it will be like for that yet.

I hope others will come along here and add to your topic.

Scuba_duchess · May 2012

Elle, i had BMX with Lat Dorsi recon last August. The TE's weren't the most comfortable, but it was absolutely doable. Got the permanent implants in January and am happy with the end state. I agree though it's all about personal preference. The tram flap wasn't an option for me due to doing both boobs, my sister did it and is happy with results.

Ask plastic for pictures so you realistically know what to expect!

Also, loss of feeling is a REAL bummer! But, trade off of being aggressive was worth it.

Good luck!

Kim137 · May 2012

Elle,

I just had my exchange surgery to silicone gel implants on 4/25. I had a BMX 10/11 & had tissue expanders put in during the same surgery. My right breast had DCIS throughout 50% of it. There was no way to save it, so i opted for bilateral. It not only decreased my chances of reoccurrence but, it also would be easier to match the asymmetry and size with plastic surgery. I think it helped me (mentally) to wake up from surgery with little "humps" instead of complete flatness. At the same time, I've never mourned the loss of my breast. Those D's tried to kill me for crying out loud!! I never looked at it as I was losing my breast. I always looked at it like I was ridding my body of the cancer growing in them.

I too, searched the Internet for post-mastectomy pictures. Some were horrible, others were so great it was hard to tell they weren't real. Mine are somewhere in between. My scars are still prominent, but I just had surgery. My right one has a slight "double bubble" where the implant isn't resting quite into the natural fold of my breast. My PS says it will settle. If not, I can't have it revised or I can live with it. (I may be nit-picking some about that, but it's my breast damn it!)

My new "breasts" are not perfect, but then again neither were my droopy D's The feel of the silicone is something I will get used to. The scars will fade greatly over time. I am pleased with how I look in clothes and in time, I won't have to take that long gaze in the mirror every morning. They will become a part of me.....a cancer free part of me. And for that simple reason, I love my new breasts!

Good luck on your journey, you're not alone.

exbrnxgrl · May 2012

Hi,

I am quite a bit older than you but loved my breasts too. My ps called them youthful. At age 55, after two children that was quite a compliment. In was a large B , small C and wanted to remain so. My ps did a one step reconstruction. No TE's ! I had skin and nipple sparing surgery. I have Natrelle style 15 , 457cc implants with Alloderm. I look virtually the same as before. I am almost 6 mos. post bmx and feel great. The Alloderm was tight at first but I barely notice it now. Never have to wear a bra if I don't want to. My implants are silicone. Silicone implants today are cohesive gels. They do not run if ruptured. I couldn't be more pleased! Caryn

RosesToeses · May 2012

Waiting for my surgery date, so no satisfaction yet, but while I was trying to figure out what to do I ran into this study: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20517080

I think so much of satisfaction is based on the individual surgeon's skill at whatever recon method you choose, but I thought it was interesting that in the study, flap reconstructions had higher rates of satisfaction and that's what we're seeing in this thread, too.

ETA: doh! I read this and the other "results" thread and the other one is where I saw lots of dissatisfied with implants

sweetbean · May 2012

I had a BMX, rads, chemo and exchanged to implants. I'm not happy with the way they look and am scheduling a PAP flap for the late summer/early fall. They don't look terrible; they just don't look real - the tissue transfer procedure will get me much more realistic results.

Anonymous · May 2012

There are currently 4 types of reconstruction available: one-step and expander are implant based reconstruction methods. Flap and microfat grafting are autologous, meaning your own tissue and cells are used to create breasts. Sometimes more than one type of rconstruction is used to produce the desired result.

I chose the procedure I wanted first and then found a physician that was trained to do it.

There are pros and cons for every procedure. It was worth it TO ME to have autologous reconstruction with fat grafting. The tradeoff of not having immediate breasts was worth it for me in the long run. I know no one that has had fat grafting that is disappointed.

Good luck!

Cyn0619 · May 2012

I had BMX and had tissue expanders put in at same time. I had silicone implants put in 4/25 and so far I am pretty happy with them. I haven't decided if I'm doing nipple replacement surgery or just tattoos yet. Good luck with your procedure!

Layla2525 · May 2012

Exbrwn,thats great, its what my PS is planning for me. I was a very small B before this. We are planning a full fluffy C. I will be getting about 560cc of saline total in the TE then surgery to exchange for silicone Mentors. Dunno what happens about the nipple. Saw different stories on here about all that. I am looking forward to getting my "Barbie doll" boobs. I had Alloderm lining with my TE. Sometimes I cry because this whole cancer thing seems so unfair. My closest female friends have moved. I do have one acquaintance who got salines after DCIS. I just wish there could have been another way but I knew I had to walk thru the fire this time not dodge it or I would be dodging the rest of my life. I probably could have gotten away with a lumpectomy and radiation but with my fam hx,it seemed like it might return so I got the"works" and since it was tiny,they did a skin spare with the incisions cosmetically very low so if I get pstosis the scars will be almost under so hoping for a good cos results. I just want my nice boobs back.

Blessings2011 · May 2012

I had a BMX with TEs on December 5th. I was filled to 620 ccs in five visits (got 180 ccs in the OR) and I don't regret a minute of it.

I had the maximum surgery for the minimum problem. I could have had a lumpectomy with rads on the left, but since I had multifocal cancer, the surgeon would have had to take such a large wedge of tissue, she said I probably wouldn't be happy. She suggested UMX. Because of my history (Mom had BC, my Radiologist was always concerned that there was something she couldn't see in the right breast) I made the decision for BMX.

I wanted implants because I wasn't ready to go flat (even though Mom did and it was totally normal for me to see her like that), and I didn't want the additional time under anesthesia (and recovery time) for the flap procedures.

I still have my TEs in because I am in a weight-loss program that will change the ultimate size of my permanent squishies. My exchange is set for the fall.

My original girls were huge (38DDD), heavy, droopy, dense and fibrocystic. They hurt all the time. I am thrilled with my TEs, have healed well and quickly from my surgery, and laugh because I can see my feet again.

I will be getting the equivalent of a C cup, in a high profile, smooth saline implant.

Kim137 · May 2012

I will say that a flap was my first choice, but was not a candidate for the DIEP procedure- not enough abdominal fat. (I'm sure there is now with my chemo weight gain! Lol!) Had I been a candidate for bilateral DIEP reconstruction I would have opted for that before considering implants. I was actually very upset when I was told by numerous different PS that the DIEP was not an option Finding a surgeon skilled in DIEP also involves some traveling depending on where you live. The tram flap is widely done and a great option for UMX, but if doing BMX then you'll be losing muscle all the way across the abdomen. Not acceptable for me, personally.

Sassa · May 2012

I had bilateral mastectomies (right breast in 11/06, left breast 6/07). I went gloriously flatchested for two years before I decided to do reconstruction.

I went the TEs, silicone implant route and I loved my B cup sized beasts. The implants are soft and overall, I feel the foobs are better than my original equipment that was grossly over sized for my body and hurt 28 out of 30 days of the month.

If my PS ever gets my before and after shots up on his website, I will post a link.

Nordy · May 2012

I initially had tissue expanders - those failed as the side that had rads nearly came out by itself! After having those removed and being flat/concave for over a year I started researching for docs that could do a microsurgical free flap for me. I initially thought I wanted and was a candidate for DIEP, but was told by several docs that I just did not have enough fat for 2 breasts from my belly. After consulting coast to coast and north to south in the US, I ultimately had bilateral hip flaps with Dr. Scott Sullivan in New Orleans. I could not be happier. He gave me back a sense of normalcy and I love my reconstructed breasts! My advice is to research the types of reconstruction, decide which type you would like and the find the best surgeon you possibly can for that surgery. Outcomes are very surgeon dependent, so it will pay to do your homework. Good luck!

SheChirple · May 2012

I am 48 y/o, 4 kids and had a 100 lb + weight loss just before diagnosis. So, I had skin flaps hanging down that I rolled up into a 40 DD bra. I had one area of DCIS/IDC but chose a BMX with TE, and eventually will have silicone implants. As I sit here I still have the TEs. I have completed my fills and sit at 840 cc. HUGE in measurement, but in reality a nice full C cup.

I will admit that I have good days and bad. I can't beleive it seems to be taking forEVER for the reconstruction, but I keep reminding myself that whatever the result I am CANCER FREE and cosmetically better than before.

The TEs are uncomfortable. Occassionally painful when I overdo it. Clothes do not fit right. There are things I cannot do, like some housekeeping chores, and lifting my arms overhead with resistance (swimming laps in the pool for example) IT IS TEMPORARY!!

I cannot comment on the final result. However, I will always remind myself that I AM CANCER FREE and my husband truly truly truly does not care what my breasts look like. He almost died with my diagnosis. He did not care if I had reconstruction at all. I have never felt more loved than the days after my diagnosis. I digress.

I have to say I am surprised, my PS hardly believes me, but I still have full feeling in both breasts after my double mastectomy. I close my eyes and let my husband lightly draw feathers over my breasts and I can feel every single place he touches me. I do not have my nipples, but there is a weird sensation in that area. It is not the same, but it is there. I know it's weird, unusual, etc.. But, it is true. For this reason, and others, I do NOT want nipple reconstruction. I do not want to mess with it. I have feeling now, and I don't want to risk losing it.

I wish you, and everyone, the best with their options and decisions. Just remember, if you are loved, that is what matters most. A smile is the most beautiful curve on a womens body.

lab44 · May 2012

Even though I miss my having the sensation from my old breasts, I am very happy with my reconstruction. I had a BMX in June 2011 with tissue expanders, final silicone implants in Oct 2011, and just recently, April 2012, had my nipple reconstruction. I went down a size from a very large "D" to a "C".

My husband is extremely complimentary on how they look at well.

My PS did an excellent job, BTW, his portfolio was the best we had seen (even breasts, minimal scaring once healed, etc.). We had met w/3 PS and the other two did not have impressive portfolios.

ElleBee · May 2012

I am so glad to read that so many of you are satisfied with your reconstructions. I am so eager to find out what my options are! Thanks for your input, and please continue to post your experiences. It is helping ease my mind tremendously.

ElleBee

ElleBee · May 2012

I am so glad to read that so many of you are satisfied with your reconstructions. I am so eager to find out what my options are! Thanks for your input, and please continue to post your experiences. It is helping ease my mind tremendously.

ElleBee

Cjn5274 · May 2012

I had nipple sparing BMX with tissue expander placement in November. I just had my exchange surgery to mentor silicone implants two weeks ago. The entire experience was SO MUCH easier than I anticipated. Not what anyone would call "fun", but sooooo doable. My new breasts look much much better than the old ones. I'm 47 and was an A cup before. (5'7", 145 lbs, pear shaped). Now I'm a full C and much better proportioned. I feel that they look really natural and that nobody would ever know they were fake unless I told them. I have pretty decent sensation, which I expect to improve over time. For me, this was the perfect option.

I was like a dear in headlights after diagnosis... Everything moves at light speed and it can be so difficult and scary to decide. I had two lumpectomies without clear margins, so that process gave me some time to come to terms with what lay ahead. After these six months, I can actually say that I'm GLAD my lumpectomies weren't successful! No more breast tissue to worry about, and I am reallllly liking my final result. You're doing the right thing in asking around and doing your research. After you finish that phase, your gut will lead you to what's right for you. It really is different for everyone. Best of luck to you!!

NatsFan · May 2012

I had skin-sparing staged BMX with t/e placement. I went on to a DIEP after active treatment was finished. I opted to forgo nip recon and instead went with 3D tats. I am thrilled with the results. I went from large droopy DDs to perky Bs. They feel and look natural, and honestly I forget most of the time they are not the original "girls". Are there some scars? Of course, but the scars are thin and are beginning to fade to white. I imagine that in a few more years they'll be barely noticeable.

Do your research, and consult with at least 2 if not more plastic surgeons. If you can get to a major NCI certified cancer center with a dedicated Breast Center, you'll be able to get a consult with the top people in the field who keep up on the latest and who do nothing but breast surgery all day every day. As others have said, good outcomes are surgeon-dependant.

Bonseye · May 2012

I had a BMX in October 2011, and had Tissue Expanders put in. They were uncomfortable but they looked amazing right after the surgery. Unfortunately the beginning of November I started with a staph infection that was in my right arm and went into my reconstruction. Off to the hospital for emergency surgery. TE removed from the right and time for chemo to start. I had to use a prothesis for all these months. I have to say that the left TE healed so well....I can hardly see the scar. I finished chemo the beginning of April and May 8th just had a TRAM flap for the right side and a "gummi Bear" implant put in the left. I am so happy with it all. I have to say the TRAM was very difficult for the first 10 days but I am just two weeks out today and really getting back to some normal movement. Both sides look the same and no one would know the difference. My surgeon is quite the artist and just knowing the cancer is gone and these breasts can't get cancer I am at peace. I have to move on to Radiation Therapy and pray that all the hard work doesn't get ruined. The TRAM was not easy but it is quite amazing. My Breast Navigator always wanted to see this surgery and I was petrified so we got her cleared to watch. I felt so much better having her there....my husband said she was quite pale......not an easy one to watch. We all have to do what makes us comfortable and with who makes us comfortable. I feel whole again and ready to put this all behind me...........

3bears · August 2017

Glad to hear so many of you are happy. I'm having tissue expanders placement in 2 weeks....

3bears

EastcoastTS · August 2017

3bears:

This is an old thread, but I saw your post. I have Exchange two weeks from today, too!!!

Artista928 · August 2017

I love my ps. From TEs to implants, he did a good job. But since my left breast was radiated, it sits higher- which he couldn't have known how it'd turn out until we waited it out after everything healed. So I'm having a rev on 9/1 to make it more even.

Were you happy with your reconstruction?

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