Lymphedema and expanders

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bc50
bc50 Member Posts: 40
edited December 2014 in Lymphedema

Anyone here get breast reconstruction if already had lymphedema?

Sorry to say, I don't get on this site often because, while it is helpful, I can get depressed from it also. Right now, I really need some help. I was diagnosed Oct. 2011 with Stage IIIC IDC. I had a double mastectomy without reconstruction at the time because my tumor was so large. 10 of 14 nodes positive. I feel that I got lymphedema very soon afterwards, but no one would listen to me for a year. I am now thinking about reconstruction. After three years and a 45 pound weight gain, due to Tamoxifen (I work out everyday, eat well and can't seem to lose a pound), I am feeling awful about my body. It certainly isn't helping my marriage. I always thought I might get reconstruction, but am now very concerned about since getting lymphedema. I also had 33 radiation treatments on one side. Anyone have reconstruction with similar situation?

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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited December 2014

    bc50, I haven't done reconstruction, but just wanted to congratulate you on being three years out--YES!!

    Hopefully you have a great lymphedema therapist who can help you with any pre- and post-surgery issues you might run into. There are guidelines for surgery on an area with lymphedema at the very bottom of this page:

    http://www.stepup-speakout.org/Emergencies_and_Med...

    Hopefully other women who have done recon surgeries with lymphedema will be along soon to share their experiences.

    Gentle hugs,
    Binney

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  • bc50
    bc50 Member Posts: 40
    edited December 2014

    Thanks for the article! And yes, I'm three years out from surgery! Had a CT scan a month ago and all is clear. I thank the Lord for that. I hope to hear from someone that has had the surgery. Fingers crossed......thanks again

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  • vlnrph
    vlnrph Member Posts: 1,632
    edited December 2014

    Have you already had a plastic surgery consult and/or second opinion? My LE did not develop until about 4 months post-op so I'm not in your situation but my doctor was aware & concerned for me when I went for phase 2 procedures (nipple reconstruction and fat grafting for contour adjustment). Not that his work would further compromise the limb but he realized the lifestyle impact. So, a breast specialist with extensive experience should be able to offer good advice about what might be expected from the implant process given existing lymphedema.

    You should also consider updating your treatment line to include the radiation and tamoxifen - someone coming along later reading this may glance at your signature and it could help them understand the issues a little better.

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