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@bpknitter53

I had bilateral in Nov 2022 and opted for flat. But I should have taken in a picture and asked the doctor if he could get me to this picture for my incision - I didn't. I'm not flat I have the small side bulges and my chest concaves. It should have been a clue when he said he treats all surgeries the same. Everyone that has seen my chest askes when I'm having reconstruction; because that is typically what the incisions look like for individuals that are waiting reconstruction. I have prothesis and because my chest concaves there is a gap between my chest and the prothesis. Fortunately I was never one for low scooped necklines - but inside I still feel self conscious.

But I have a question - after the lymph node dissection during surgery, I now have an intent (concave) in my underarm that I can't seem to shave clean. I also notices that I'm slightly numb there and am afraid to press to hard with my razor. Summer is coming and I want clean shaven underarms for swimming in the pool. Anyone have any thoughts. I've tried stretching the skin and can't seem to get a smooth enough surfaces to shave clean. I'm wondering if an electric razor might work better. Has anyone experienced this and how did you handle? As an FYI I have dark hair so the hair under my arms is also dark.

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Replies to "I had bilateral in Nov 2022 and opted for flat. But I should have taken in..."

I can’t help about the reconstruction woes, but I can definitely tell you a battery operated lady Wellington electric shaver saved my sanity in the underarms.
Although I don’t have a lot of hair there anymore, like you it is uneven and pulled, and the nerves were cut.
You definitely do not want a cut here. Invest in an inexpensive electric and I hope you will be as happy as I am.

Oh dear, you've been through so much. The only comfort I can give you is what I use for underarm shaving. I'm 79 and my underarms have got wrinkly, so I bought myself a Philips Wet & Dry pink and white Lady shaver. It works a treat. It shaves my legs and even shaves my bikini areas too. It comes with a removable cord - you plug it in to charge the battery which lasts for ages. I use it when I'm flying to Ireland, (which is where the battery comes in - no cord needed. And as for our 'wrinkly bits' - I just do the same as you - stretch the skin a little bit and it's quite safe - no cuts if you do it gently. Best of luck on your forward journey. Blessings!