Reconstruction after implant infection.

[Tennis66]

Hello All

I was diagnosed with grade 1 ER pos. and HER2 neg. BC in April 2018. I had surgery in July for a left breast reduction and right breast mastectomy with an implant. The surgeons performed lymph nodes and nipple biopsy to test to see if the cancer had spread and I was relieved to hear that it was all clear. That means that I won’t have to have any chemotherapy or radiotherapy but have to take tamoxifen for the next 5 years. Since the surgery I had problems with the implant and due to an infection I had to have the implant removed in an emergency operation. The surgeon was not able to put an expander in the breast due to the infection. My right breast is not completely flat, but I don’t know if this will change as the surgeon left the tissue so that I can discuss the options of further surgery. The option that was discussed would be to have a diep, another implant or to remain flat. I am really thinking of not going through with any further surgery as at the moment even though my right breast will never be perfect I can see that I might be happier with the breast Prostheses option. I would be grateful to hear from anyone who has gone through this to find out what they decided. Also, if they have any advice to give I would be extremely grateful.

[Debs1962]

Hi I went through the same in 2015, didn’t have a reduction on the other breast, just an implant, I have had no problems with my implant, I guess you may have been unlucky with infection etc, there are always risks with operations, and hopefully if you decide to go ahead with any further treatment it will go smoothly this time, good luck xx

[Tennis66 in reply to Debs1962]

Thank you Debs for you kind message, I do feel that I have been unlucky but trying to remain positive as I can now see that things are improving. i hope you are keeping well.xx

[Rdarnbrook]

Hi, I had delayed reconstruction as had haematoma and infection after mastectomy. Really didn't want recon, but after 2 years was fed up of imbalance as it affects your whole body. Had expander then implant exchange as didn't want more than 1 wound to deal with. Those were relatively easy surgeries to recover from, and wouldn"t have believed how much happier I felt for not having to mess about with prosthesis. I was really not going to do it, but so lpleased I did. Give yourself time to recover, mentally as well as physically, it is quite an ordeal and a lot to think about. Good luck whatever you do xx

[Tennis66 in reply to Rdarnbrook]

Hi Rdarnbrook, thank you for email. At the moment I can't face surgery and would like to heal before thinking of other options. It was interesting to read that you had your surgery two years later. It might be something that I can consider. I hope you're well and good luck too. xx

[SueandEmber]

Hi

Well I had both breasts removed. My choice. I only needed to have the left taken off but I didn't want to be unbalanced. I didn't have reconstruction or an implant, mainly because I was impatient to get my life back! The thought of not being able to drive for 6 weeks didn't appeal - especially as I live alone. I had chemo first and am still having two targeted therapies which I will continue to have for another two or three years. Being flat chested does have its drawbacks - for example when you need a size 16 to fit the bottom half but you are a size 12 on the top! However I have always been one for taking the comfortable option! It was great this summer when it was so hot and I didn't need a bra! I just wore loosely fitting tops. If anyone noticed, they were polite enough not to comment! It would help if I could lose some weight round the bum of course but I like my food!

Obviously it is a very personal thing but I was told the other day that more people are making the same choice as me these days. In the end, you have to decide what is best for you.

Very best wishes for whatever you decide to do xxx

[Tennis66 in reply to SueandEmber]

Hi SueandEmber, Thank you for your reply. I love my food too and also it's really key for me to be able to be active. I do agree with you that more ladies are making this choice. When I was diagnosed all I wanted to find out was about the cancer and treatment. I almost let the surgeons give me their advice on the reconstruction. I will now take my time and recover to work out the best for me. Best of luck with everything. xx