What can I expect having a Mastectomy of left breast

Sorry, my reply incorrectly . It should have said: I had a good cry and then moved on to worrying of something else. This is so important, not to let this surgery take over your life. Move On quickly.

I had a right skin sparing mastectomy of the right breast with immediate placement of an expander for reconstruction in 2013. I had never had a major surgery before and was worried about the cancer, but also about being put under anesthesia, how I would handle the pain, and so many other things. I want to reassure you that the staff at Mayo were amazing in the way they informed and supported me though the whole process. Do not be afraid to ask questions or tell them about your concerns. I am still supported by the fantastic staff at the Breast Center and they feel like friends. Another thing I wish I would have known in those early days: right now all you can think about is the cancer, and how afraid you are. This does not last, and you will be able to forget about it for longer and longer periods as time goes on. I wish you the very best in your journey

@bespeak50 I am so glad that you posted your experience here on Connect. It is so helpful for people to hear from others who have been there. You mention that you are still supported by the staff at the Breast Cancer. Can you tell us a bit more about this? What post-treatment support have you found useful?

k1958 - I had a right mastectomy 7 years ago this week - at that time it was a straight forward surgery where they found out how extensive the cancer was which was good to know. The only thing I had trouble with was the drainage tubes that were in place for a few weeks after. I was fortunate to have much support from family and friends and also through a program at the hospital there. I didn't have reconstruction just because I didn't want more surgery. I am so far 6 years cancer free!

So glad you have good news. Did you have Chemo afterwards or just the hormone pill to take. Also, I wonder what age group are you in.

After my mastectomy I had Chemo and Radiation and I have been taking Exemestane as well. I have a good team following me now. Thanks! The support has been important to me in this ongoing journey.

I was told that I could have two lumpectomies on my left breast because I had two different kinds of cancer in that breast. I decided to have bilateral mastectomies because I would not have a nipple on the left breast and I felt it would look hideous. My lymph nodes were clear and they told me to return once a year for a checkup and then have a MRI in five years. But to my surprise, 3-1/2 years later my back was full of cancer! Just remember, if you have any back pain whatsoever, I would have the doctor do another MRI or CT scan to check for cancer.

If your identity is your birth year you are the same age as my oldest daughter.
I had a Modifies Right Mastectomy in 1993, 25 years ago come January 2018.
Prayers just for you.