Delayed Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy
Marjory chose not to have breast reconstruction at the time of her mastectomy surgery.
We knew that Marjory was going to have radiotherapy as well as chemo even before she underwent her operation. We had a long talk with her surgeon - and with his guidance - decided not to choose immediate breast reconstruction after the mastectomy operation. He feared that the radiotherapy might damage the medium or longer term appearance and suggested we consider delaying any breast reconstruction for a year or so until the radiotherapy effects had settled.
After a lot of thought, we decided to take his advice. No breast reconstruction for the time being.
Marjory fears that her other breast will be vulnerable to cancer in the future. It's our plan to consider having a preventive (prophylactic) subcutaneous mastectomy on the other breast.
Our intention is to get the chemotherapy and radiotherapy over with and then to return for an implant based "boob job" on both sides - hoping for a good cosmetic result that way.
So - for the time being at least - Marjory is managing with a simple soft breast prosthesis and a pocketed bra. It looks great - yes really - actually: really really.
Lots of friends have commented that you really can't tell that she's had a mastectomy - and, even when you know that she has - you can't tell which side the breast was removed from. And thats only with the simple soft post op foam prosthesis, things will look even more natural once a proper fitting has been arranged.
Even at only two weeks down the line, things are working out much better than we would have believed possible. If you're facing this too then take heart - please. Life gets back to normal amazingly quickly.
Read more mastectomy information on our mastectomy overview page
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