Can someone who’s had a mastectomy share the psychological effects ?

I had a bilateral mastectomy in January. I had IDC-multiple tumors in one breast. I opted to have the other one removed. They said that I made a good call as I had cells that had the potential to turn to breast cancer in that breast. I have multiple prosthesis-silicone, foam, ones for swimming. I am glad that I had the bilateral and most days am fine. I don't wear them at home most of the time and don't on occasion when I go out. I had a breast implant on one side from not developing on one side, after surgery as a child. I had multiple throughout my life, one ruptured, one was recalled because it could cause lymphoma. I didn't want to have anything else to worry about.

I think so.

I had bi-lateral mastectomies in 2000 with immediate reconstruction. I was part of a clinical trial for silicone implants. After 10 years with the implants & the trial ended I had those babies removed & never looked back. I have prosthetics if I need them for some reason but they are awfully heavy so I don’t wear them often. I like the freedom of no bras.

These decisions are hard for sure. I opted for masectomy because tumor was close to chest wall and as an aggressive type cancer I wanted the best chance for no recurrence.
Psychologically I did okay. It was a relief to me that it was gone. I had alot of problems thru the years with that breast so that probably helped my not having any problems about the decision I made. Having one breast was an adjustment as I chose to be flat with no reconstruction. I didn't want alot of surgeries at my age. I use prosthesis and they work fine.
To me it was just something that needed to be done and the cancer is out of my body so it was a relief . Keep up when you are allowed with exercising to keep shoulder and arm working smoothly. Our oncology team provided physical therapy for the first year which was very helpful. Thinking of you on your journey and sending hugs.

I had left side mastectomy 1 yr ago after local recurrence, no reconstruction. Unlike what others report, I had considerable nerve pain which has somewhat abated since but still bothersome 1 yr later. I have accepted psychologically this change I think since does not really interfere with my daily life … it took quite a few months however until i could look at the new me in a mirror. Wishing you well as you adjust to joining this new club!

Early 2022 I had a right unilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction ( expander replaced 5 mos. Later with silicone boob). It was a same day surgery that required first night pain meds then on to extra strength Tylenol… the drains were the most awkward and depressing part but were removed at 2 and 3 weeks. Some Soreness whenever expander was “ expanded” with saline did occur and fade as the skin adjusted.

I opted to match the size and not get a reduction on left breast ( minimizing surgical procedures). I also value that right nipple sensation is still available.

So it occurred to me that it was the the breast tissue NOT the breast skin that was removed so not the breast as we view it. I have a “breast” and a cleavage . 17 mos later the scar is quite faded and although I have no nipple the breast looks fairly normal and completely normal in clothes. The silicone implant is heavier than breast tissue however.

Having breast cancer diagnosis was traumatic… having a mastectomy and ridding myself of breast cancer tissue with tumors was a relief.

I’m early 70’s and comfortable with my decision. Had I needed a double mastectomy I may have opted for aesthetic flat. I fed my babies and that is the function I most valued.

My psychological discomfort is rooted in fears of a recurrence which comes and goes.

Best to you on the path of this unwanted journey . 🌸

I’m 56 and they found ILC in my right as well as atypical cells. My first surgeon would not allow a double mastectomy so I got a second opinion and she believed in symmetry. They said left was perfect. Pathology showed atypical cells in left. It confirmed I made the right decision. My advice is follow your gut

I am still physically recovering from my unilateral mastectomy which was almost 3 weeks ago. I don't feel particularly bothered by the breast not being there. I wasn't a big person to start with so it is quite possible that no one will notice if I just wear a camisole. And why should I really care if anyone does notice? I don't want to distract people and have them stare at my chest. But I also rebel against the notion that breasts are essential to feminine identity. Breasts were created to suckle babies. I'm almost 68; don't anticipate having any babies!

But maybe it will hit me later. Or maybe it will affect you differently. Either one is okay as long as we are attentive to our feelings and work them through if they become troublesome. The main priority, IMO, is to support our health with the best medical choices we know how to make.

I'm 70 and I had a bilateral mastectomy for triple negative BC Nov. 2022 and chose to go flat (no reconstruction) my only after the fact issue was my definition of "flat" appears to have been different than my surgeons. Most people that have seen my incisions after ask when I plan to have reconstruction. I guess if you choose later reconstruction there is extra skin left so it exists for the reconstruction. But I was fortunate to have my two children, be in a committed relationship and I was looking forward to summers with no bra. I do have prothesis and wear them out for gatherings; but at home even when family is at our home - I go flat and comfortable.

I opted for a bilateral mastectomy after a stage one, grade one BC diagnosis in one breast. My surgeon tried to convince me that it wasn't necessary but agreed to refer me to a surgeon that would do the surgery with immediate implant placement.

I have no regrets especially after reading my post surgery pathology report. My non cancerous breast had prolific interlobular stromal sclerosis, benign proliferative changes such as fibrocystic change, sclerosing adenosis, columnar cell lesions, atypical ductal hyperplasia focally and ductal dilation.

I lost a sister to breast cancer at 37 years old and think my choice was the best choice for me.