Just asking

[Debkelly]

I was diagnosed with stage 3 bc in 2014 have gone through tx,chem, surg. & radiation. I had reconstruction this June and revision in August. It didn't come out good. I would need another surg. But I can't do it , I'm still in pain from last surgery. How many surgeries have most of y'all had?

[BklynCatwoman]

Hi Deb...I had one reconstruction surgery. A tissue expander was put in during my mastectomy. Unfortunately, I had nothing but pain, then a series of infections that wouldn't clear up, even after a few rounds of oral antibiotics. I had the tissue expander removed less than a month after my mastectomy. I was told that I could try again but didn't have the heart to. It was horrific, with my breast getting discolored, filling with fluids which constantly had to be drained with a needle. At one point, there was so much fluid, the edge of the expander actually pierced my chest wall and I was leaking lymphatic fluid. After the removal surgery, I felt such a wonderful feeling of relief. I knew then and there that I didn't have the heart to try reconstruction again. But...this is a very personal decision and only you know if it's the right one for you. But apparently, "going flat" is all the rage these days: nytimes.com/2016/11/01/well... Hope this helps, and good luck, whatever you decide.

[Margok]

I say follow your gut and don't do it...at least not yet. Your health and pain management is a lot more important than the reconstruction. Later on, if you are physically and mentally ready for it, go for it! And, please don't spend your energy considering how many surgeries others have had or if they had an easier time than you - it's irrelevant. You are you! Best of luck. Rooting for your good health.

[daf10]

Maybe you should put off surgery until you have healed You can always do the surgery later on when you are in a better state of mind to decide what is really important to you If you decide to go Flat SHARE has a few peers who can respond to you and tell you about how they came to that decision

Best of Luck

[Debkelly]

Yes y'all are right I need time to heal mentally and physically. It's been a long road.

[RLN-overcomer]

I have a friend who had 3 three reconstructive surgeries. She said she wanted to feel whole . It was hard watching her struggle in pain after each surgery. After she was unable to sleep for three days, me and her teenage daughter had to go to the pharmacy to get her prescribed oxycodin. I presented my friends I.D. and prescription card to the pharmacist .The hesitant pharmacist finally gave me her prescription, after taking my picture and making a copy of my drivers license. My friends last surgery was three years ago. My friend is happy with the outcome, and has no pain or side effects from the surgeries. She is enjoying life and, is now dating. I just want to say take your time. It is not a sprint, it can be a marathon. Hang in there. Stand strong warrior, over-comer. I truly believe what doesn't break you will make you stronger.God speed.I pray for your full restoration and healing Amen ! ! !

[Debkelly in reply to RLN-overcomer]

Thank you for advice and support. It's hard to look in the mirror after 2 surgeries and it not be ok. But my body can't take another surgery right now.