Would you have breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy?

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I have to do a presentation on Friday about reconstruction surgery after breast cancer. The topic is really about why some women choose to have the surgery and some do not. So, if I may ask, if you had to have, or have had a mastectomy would you have reconstruction surgery and what is, or was, the reason for your decision? (e.g. Religion, self-esteem, appearance, spouse or partner,....)

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

Ok, I'll bite. Without actually being in the position at this point in my life I can only speculate but I'd say No. I'd have no hesitation about getting a double mastectomy if something was amiss and don't think I'd go through a surgery to replace them. At my age I don't feel value in my breasts and fwiw I have had implants for over 20 years so maybe they've already earned their keep. :D

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I would have a double mastectomy just to be sure and I would not have reconstructive surgery.

I've breastfeed 4 kids and I'm 51 - I'm more interested in my health than how my chest looks.

steph

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Specializes in PN Student.

I would have reconstructive surgery.

I would have it because I know myself although I would be very happy to be alive and not ill.

I think I would feel incomplete. Sorry if that sounds shallow. I am just being honest

That is my thoughts

I am 39 years old, married 13 years, no children

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I would have reconstructive surgery. I have scars from a lumpectomy on my breast. I was surprised about how these scars affected my body image. Now I've adjusted and accepted them. However, after the surgery, I realized that my breast were the only part of my body that I thought looked good and I felt the surgery took that away. I may sound shallow but I think I would need to reconstruct my breast to maintain my mental health.

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Specializes in School Nursing.

I would not have reconstructive. I have had large breasts all my life and have envied women with barely there breasts who can jog without pain and go bra-less. I would probably wear a bra with some padding to give the look of an A-cup, but no surgery for me!

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Thanks to everyone for your honesty. This is going to help me a ton!

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Specializes in Telemetry & Obs.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March of 2008 in my left breast. In her office I told her I wanted them BOTH removed and would she do it THAT DAY?!? There's nothing like actually hearing those words to know that you NEVER want to hear them again! I had a bilat mastectomy March 23rd and had tissue expanders put in. I went thru the filling processes and had implants in June.

I honestly don't think those that said they'd forego reconstruction know what they'd do if actually faced with the situation. Imagine nothing fitting...you know blouses, dresses, etc are all designed for *some* breast! Imagine wearing a bathing suit and having NO breasts.

Having cancer already robs you of your peace...you're vulnerable in so many ways. Why add insult to injury and live with no breasts? Yes, they're nothing like what you had before...mine are scarred and numb and I have no nipples...but I can wear a bathing suit this summer without feeling self-conscious.

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True - thanks so much for sharing your story. And I'm sure you have a great point.

However, I haven't worn a bathing suit in years :eek::nono::rotfl:. And I wear a jogging bra that smashes me down because I like the look of being flat chested. I used to be pretty flat chested as a teen and young adult. Then came kids.;):icon_roll

I'd kind of like them out of the way.

But you are right - I won't know truly how I feel unless it happens. I do know I would do what you did about the double mastectomy though. :up:

steph

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Specializes in L & D; Postpartum.

I would definitely have both breasts removed, but I would also have reconstructive surgery done. Four years ago I had a reduction and it's one of the top 5 things I've ever done for myself...so my reconstruction would be 34C.

I don't think it's shallow at all to be concerned about one's looks as long as you are wanting to look normal. It's those who go to basketball sizes that worry me. I just have to wonder why they want all the back and neck pain that has to come in time with those....And if insurance will pay when that pain starts to happen.

My insurance didn't think I had a problem, so I saved my money for a while under I could just pay for it myself. I'm not sorry and haven't been for even one little minute.

That being said, it's a very individual thing and whatever one's decision might be, that should be honored and accepted.

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I agree tntrn - it is not shallow at all.

And whatever individual decision is made should be honored and respected. :up:

(I don't get the basketball sized ones either though )

steph

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I also have breast implants. I love my boobs (even though they are fake) and I couldn't see being flat chested again. I'm not skinny, so I look really strange with a big butt and no boobs. Kind of like Rachel Ray, HAHA! I would certainly get reconstruction. Nothing wrong with taking pride in your appearance. Some things make certain people feel good, and there's nothing wrong with that!

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