Infection, Explant, DIEP Oh my (Lions, Tigers and Bears)

RMC - I had skin closure issues rather than infection, but the end result was the same. I had skin healing problems with my left expander and several surgeries, but then successfully exchanged and had bi-lateral implants for a couple of years. I had a repair of the dermal matrix which impacted my fragile skin on the left side. After several tries to close that skin I lost the left implant, and it was out for 18 months - during which I had several fat grafts to try to provide some integrity to that skin. The good news is that it worked and I have had bi-lateral implants again for the last six years, but I did have to deal with clothing choices and mastectomy bras with a prosthesis. The challenge I had was matching that to an existing reconstructed breast, rather than someone with a unilateral mastectomy and a natural breast. The forms are made to mimic a natural breast, not so much a reconstructed one, but I made it work with the help of an experienced mastectomy fitter and some experimentation with different bras and inserts. It took about three or four weeks for me to be able to be fitted as the surgical site was healing. I was not working so there was nowhere I needed to go regularly, but I did avail myself of tops with ruffles, looped scarves - lightweight gauzy ones since I live in a warm climate. I found that tops with folds or pleats, ruched parts, and patterns or prints were easier to use as camouflage, and initially a form like a Knitted Knocker (linked below) that was super lightweight was helpful in a stretchy bra that was comfortable. I am hopeful that you will have a successful recon after this waiting period, but I totally understand the disappointment and concern. I have had a ton of surgical complications, but things are good now, and hope they will be for you too!

https://www.knittedknockers.org/