Trying to decide on reconstruction: Would you recommend it?

I had ILC six years ago and decided on a left breast mastectomy. I wanted to use my own tissue to reconstruct but my plastic surgeon said I did not have enough “belly fat” at that time. So I reconstructed with an expander and then an implant because for me I did not like being so lope-sided. The implant was okay - I didn’t love it but it accomplished the look I was wanting. Fast forward to today, I am now 5 weeks post surgery due to another ILC diagnosis in the right breast. I thought long and hard about reconstruction versus going flat. It really is such a personal decision as you are the one having to live each day in your body. When I talked with my plastic surgeon, I once again asked about using my own tissue to reconstruct. This time, thanks to years of putting on extra weight, I did qualify for the Diep flap reconstruction. So I had the left implant removed, a mastectomy on the right breast and used my belly tissue to make two new “belly boobies”. It definitely has been a much more intense surgery - I was in the operating room for nine hours, 3 days in ICU and then moved to the main floor for an additional day. When they say it takes 8 weeks to recover - they mean it. When the mastectomy was done- the skin was scraped to thin causing the tissue to die so I’ve ended up with a wound that is still not completely healed yet. There have been a few moments during this recovery where I wondered if I did the right thing but overall for me, I’m glad I made this choice.
You’re doing the right thing by exploring all the options. It is so hard and confusing which route to take, but trust in your feelings. Wishing you all the best.

I had my first mastectomy at 60. Didn't consider reconstruction. Why bother? Never regretted it. Now after second mastectomy at 75, I "go flat" most of the time. Very simple!

Mlooys- I feel similar to ppat4pr. I was 72 when I made my decision not to have more surgery. I still care very much about the way I look, but my husband was ok with my choice and he understood my wanting to be done and get on with my life. I also felt safer having gotten rid of all that tissue and slightly lessened that chance of reoccurrence. I did not want radiation, as I had the ATM gene and there was some evidence that radiation could cause a reoccurrence. I wanted to be able to feel anything abnormal and felt I may be able to do that more easily without an implant. Like you, I am very comfortable with my sports bra and prosthetic. I decided to keep my decision not to reconstruct from friends, so nobody would ever know I wear a prosthesis, as it looks very natural. A very personal choice. The best to you.

Thank you, freckle1, for reminding me that this can be a very simple decision.

Thank you for sharing your experience, drummergirl. Your reasoning makes so much sense to me. I’m 72, & my mastectomies mark my 6th experience with cancer. I’m starting to lean away from more surgery & further disturbance of that tissue. Also you made a good pt about being able to more easily detect any changes. Also, I think it’s a smart decision not to tell friends of your decision. Thank you for your reply.

I appreciate your sharing your thoughts and experiences, Irchaparro. You’ve had quite a journey! I am definitely going to be thinking hard about my decision and the many considerations. Thank you.

Hi all, I wanted to add that only 2 know i had a double mastectomy. Noone needs to know. I did get implants which are the very size i was. It i only important that I know and take care of myself.

After much worry, I decided to go flat and it was the best decision for me. The surgery was easy and the recovery was so much faster than the mastectomy. Best of all, I can so easily self-examine for reoccurrence for the rest of my life (I was 65 at the time). I did have to change surgeons because mine wanted me to get an implant. My second surgeon provided a clean, smooth result. She also made a point to remove all the mastectomy scar tissue which is a common location for tumor reoccurrence (per my oncologist). This was the right path for me however only you can say what's right for you. There are plenty of women who are happy with reconstruction or implants.

Am very happy, over 12 years now and i feel the same way… freedom.
I didnt have to worry about any reconstruction problems and “balance” for me is in the mind.
Best wishes for your decision.
It can always be done later….

Your response is very helpful, lindalm. I’m learning so much, and your response brought up several things I need to think about, like getting a second opinion. Thank you for your reply.