Having a mastectomy and reconstruction is obviously a highly personal decision, and through this website and other research, I’ve learned that the decision is also influenced by your treatment requirements.

For anyone out there considering this decision, I will add my voice to the many articulate, smart, and thoughtful women in this feed.

I was able to begin reconstruction the day of my bilateral nipple sparing mastectomy. This process involves tissue expanders, and I will get implants next month. I was not able to go direct to implants.

I did not need chemo or radiation, which enabled me to move into reconstruction at the time of my mastectomy.

My tissue expanders can be painful. And I am, frankly, not looking forward to my next surgery which will also involve fat grafting to make the breasts smooth. However, I have chosen this option because I still want breasts.

For me, personally, I like having breasts. I am 59. I am often in a bathing suit with my 4 grandchildren. Being at the lake is part of our family lifestyle.

My reconstruction of my breasts is looking very good, and I am indebted to my plastic surgeon who has helped me feel whole again.

This is a very personal decision for every breast cancer patient.

My thanks to all of the women in this feed who share their perspectives and decision-making processes. We are all connected through breast cancer, the club we did not want to be a part of. Staying alive is the priority.