Skin-sparing mastectomy with implants after radiation

Many folks have had good outcomes with implant recon after rads though many PS don't prefer doing this and a lot of time will recommend a flap recon instead.

But it is possible. Just know that there are higher risks of complications and choosing the right PS is very important.

I sent you a pm as well

Good luck

Alli

I was warned that complications could be higher. My plastic surgeon estimated my success rate at 80%. The only alternatives are much more invasive surgeries or going flat.. Worst case scenario, it won't work and you start over with one if the flap surgeries. To me, the least invasive surgery is completely worth a try. Many others have had it done succesdfully, and pladtic surgeons are doing it more often. The new implants are supposed to be better as well for radiated tissue. You can always have a flap surgery if it doesn't work. For me, so far so good , I have no hint of anything going wrong 15 days post op.

The implants are natural gummy implants 450cc. They are the new ones that are shaped like the natural breast, sloped and larger at the bottom. I believe the gummies are less likely to have capsules contraction, and are more recommended for radiated tissue. It's too early for me to love them, as they are still hard and lumpy 2 weeks out from surgery, but I know they take at least 6 werks to settle, and most women are happy with the final shape. My plastic surgeon may do a little fat grafting down the road to perfect them and strengthen the tissue. I was a small C cup before, and am probably a big B now, not really a big difference, and I can wear all my old bras which I love. All in all, having this surgery in front of me was MUCH harder than having it behind me.

I have been told I will not need screening, besides physical exams of the skin. I know there is some controversy on this. My oncologist says if anything starts to grow under the implant I would feel it.

I will keep the thread updated with my progress, since I am not out of the danger of complications yet. I know many of us are in the same situation and interested in the success of implants after radiation. Will keep you all posted! Good luck ladies! Keep us informed of your decisions. You all have friends, love and a world of support here.

Hi ladies, I will be 5 weeks out from surgery tomorrow. Had skin and nipple sparing BMX with direct gummy implants on May 17. Initial diagnosis in 2014 with lumpectomy and radiation in 2015. I am still doing great. Very little pain. Both breasts look fine. No sign of infection. My scars are healing nicely. I have full feeling on the skin of both breasts. The nipples are both numb. The non radiated nipple has full erectile function, the radiated side has less, but she's hanging in there. The implants are naturelle 410s. They feel wide and flat on top, since they are sloped. I know the shape will continue to change for awhile. They started out feeling very hard, but are getting softer all the time. My PS may do fat grafting down the road to even out the flat parts in the upper pole. All in all, still doing well!

The surgeons at The Center for Restorative Breast Surgery are wonderful. I had radiation prior to my BMX and SGAP surgery. I met with three plastic surgeons before consulting the Center. It is worth it to at least contact them for a free consultation. You do not have to travel there to consult.