Trying to decide on reconstruction: Would you recommend it?

I had a skin saving mastectomy. Because I had Brca 2 in the left side I was not able to keep the nipple. I did have an expander put in and 9 months later I had my other breast removed with implants. I was not big breasted, so the skin saving is right. It is a personal choice. Your breast surgeon hopefully has plastic surgeon they work with as i did and it made this process smooth. I will note you can find more information on this site under breast reconstruction. There are choices. I have read dozens of women who share they went flat.
Some have said the extra surgery was not worth it. I did have 2 surgeries, but overall it healed well and i have no complaints. These "barbie boobs" will be with me for 10 years at least. Keep us posted. It will help others. I think a moderator will also post with good links soon.

@mlooys, you may also be interested in these related discussions:
- Mastectomy and breast reconstruction pros and cons?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mastectomy-1/
- Types of breast reconstruction: How to choose?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/i-had-a-mastectomy-some-years-ago-and-then-an-implant-which/
See all https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/breast-cancer/?search=reconstruction&index=discussions

Have you made a decision?

I personally would not recommend it. I also had a double mastectomy and had silicone implants done at the same time as the surgery. They were uncomfortable and felt very foreign. I had them removed and had a "diep flap" procedure done. This is where they remove fat from your abdomen (or thighs) and make your new breasts. Mine are small and I have no nipples but I feel better having something there. I do have to say the best part of the whole cancer journey is I no longer have my tummy pouch. This does involve an extensive surgery so I would research it thoroughly. I hope this helps and wish you the best. 🦋

Melooys,
Personally i opted not to have reconstruction. Freedom!
1) Im fine taking “ the pups” out when im going somewhere
a) Love the freedom of choice
2) Wasnt interested in another surgery
3) Friends who've had it incurred some difficulties before & after
4) Simplicity for me is more safe.
5) I usually dont wear a bra, but also at times wear a cammie with 2 small puffers in them.
6) Wearing patterned tops, without a bra, most people dont even notice.
7) Ive embraced the living..presentation is an optional choice.

Thank you for your response, ebtexas55. You bring up a lot of good points. I’m hesitant about having more surgery and pondering how important reconstruction is…thank you for taking the time to reply. You sound happy with your decision.

I appreciate your input from your experience, LisaY1. I’m happy to be considering all of my options—especially valuable from personal experience. I guess the bottom line of all of it is deciding what’s right for us personality. Thank you for your response and good wishes.😊

Thank you for sharing your insights and experience, katgob. It’s reassuring to hear your viewpoints and references for more information. Thank you.

Thank you for the helpful links, Colleen. There are many things to consider, so I’m thankful I have nearly 2 months to figure it out.

Although I am elderly & chose not to have another operation (reconstructive surgery), a friend of mine recently had to have hers replaced due to a cancer threat. I remember this happening previously also. Since you are feeling comfortable, I would not opt for the reconstruction but wish you good luck in whatever you decide to do.

Thank you for your reply, ppat4pr. I have not heard of your friend’s experience, but it’s definitely a consideration. I appreciate your good wishes, too. Take care and thanks again.