I'm considering reconstructive surgery. I was diagnosed in 2004, when I was 32. The option was only recently presented to me by my oncologist. I worry about the substance that would be used to fill out the empty lower portion of my breast left by marginal excision.

I'm concerned about the long-term effects. I've heard stories of women who've had health problems because of implants. I definitely don't want more trouble than I've already had.

I know many of you have had such surgery. What have been your experiences with this procedure?

Nikki

The problem with having an implant put in is it limits what can be seen of the breast on a mammogram. The procedure of doing a mammogram with implants is to push the implant back toward the chest wall (known as push backs or implant displacement views). Even doing this there are area that cannot be seen. I guess it would depend on how important this would be to you. Have you talked to the doctor about it?
Newfie11

The problem with having an implant put in is it limits what can be seen of the breast on a mammogram.

Wow, thanks, newfie. I never knew that. That's definitely something to seriously consider. Hindering helpful follow-ups is NOT what I want to do.

Thanks so much!

Nikki

i finished reconstruction (saline implant) 2yrs ago. You will have a choice to have saline or silicone in the implant. THe one that was believed to cause a problem in some women was the silicone, because it had leaked. They were off the market for some time, but are now back on. Personally I didnt want to take that risk. My onc. informed me that the incidence of my cancer returning in the chest wall was very small. I do not have mammos on that side, but i do take aromasin as i was estrogen +, so i feel as though that is my extra protection. I waited 2yrs to have the surgery, had a problem with my port collapsing in between. It is such a personal choice, but for me it helped me to feel like a woman again. I feel whole again, and can look at myself in the mirror. My plastic surgeon did an awesome reconstruction and reduction and lift on the other side. The procedure is a little tough, some pain, but I wouldnt hesitate to do it again
It is a tough decision to make. Just keep investigating your options, there are actually pictures online of what the reconstructed breast will look like.
i wish you well..
trish

You will have a choice to have saline or silicone in the implant. THe one that was believed to cause a problem in some women was the silicone.
It is such a personal choice, but for me it helped me to feel like a woman again. I feel whole again, and can look at myself in the mirror.
It is a tough decision to make. Just keep investigating your options, there are actually pictures online of what the reconstructed breast will look like.

Thanks, Trish.

My interest in reconstruction is exactly as you said, "to feel like a woman again." I hate looking in the mirror.

Your post is extremely informative and very helpful. My tumor can recur in the chest wall or lung, so I guess I should consider that, as well.

I don't want to jump into it knowing little. Thank you so much for sharing your story and the extra information.

Love,

Nikki

Hi Nikki,
You are very welcome..Please keep us posted..
Hugs to you,
trish

Nikki,
Have you thought about a tramflap procedure instead of an implant?
Newfie11

Nikki,
Have you thought about a tramflap procedure instead of an implant?
Newfie11

What's a tramflap procedure?

An abdominal muscle is used to make a breast. Depending on the surgeon it can look almost normal. They can make a nipple and tattoo the color. There are still scars. The down side is the fact it is a long fairly painful recovery and some women lately are having hernias show up where the muscle came from. You will also need to have mammograms on the tramflap because you still have skin that was overlying the breast tissue. Sometimes cancer cells can be in the tissue just below the skin or even in the skin. If you are interested do a search on it.
Newfie11

Newfie11,

Thanks so much for the information. I will do the research. I appreciate your 'pros and cons' approach.

Thanks again!

Love,

Nikki