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Posted 10/28/2005 2:13 AM (GMT 0)
hello,

I'd like to introduce myself. I'm a 56 year old (57 in two days) first time grandma. I had a breast reduction done in March of 2005, at which time breast cancer was discovered in my right breast. Subsequently, in April , I underwent a modified radical mastectomy. There was no evidence of cancer in any of the lymph nodes, so I escaped chemo and radiation. Six months later, I have healed very well and am now ready to have a reconstruction. After consultation with my surgeon, I have decided on a free flap reconstruction. Has anyone a similar story to mine?. I am looking for reassurance that I have made a good decision. The surgery is still some months away. Thanks

Grandma Grace  

Posted 10/28/2005 12:53 PM (GMT 0)
Hello Grace, happy to meet you, but sorry it had to be here. I have not yet had reconstruction, but I am considering it. You might get a lot of information on Google under breast cancer reconstruction.As I understand it, there are several flap operations with tram, free and the newer diep. Tram is the older, diep the newer, and free flap is used a lot because it is a shorter surgery than diep. A free vs diep was described to me as a difference of 2 inches, with diep involving micro surgery and free flap not. Because I had radiation, I might have to have a lat flap, from the back. I'll be seeing someone in a week to discuss this.

Someone here on the board who has had this surgery will probably reply soon. I believe you have made a good decision.

Good Luck, and let us hear from you.

Judy

Posted 10/29/2005 2:20 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Judy-
Welcome and Happy Birthday! I had a lumpectomy, so I cannot answer your questions... if you don't get the reponses you want, you may wish to post again in a few days, even mentioning Free Flap. Sometimes using the right words catches people's attention...but also it tends to be quiet here on weekends. Stick around and jump into any of the threads...we are glad you found us!
L&H,
Lori
Posted 10/29/2005 2:30 AM (GMT 0)
Grace,

 

I am currently considering reconstruction and the surgeon I was referred to doesn't do the free flap, at least not at my hospital.  So, he's suggesting the Tram Flap.  I haven't made any decisions yet.  I think I want to have a 2nd opinion.  It can't hurt.

Posted 11/5/2005 4:18 PM (GMT 0)

Good morning!!

No snow to speak of yet, here in St. Albert - but I can smell it coming!! I saw my plastic surgeon on Oct 26. Thank you all for helping me to formulate the right questions to ask him. I told him of my concerns re: being able to exercise,row, and lift after reconstruction and he agreed to do a Dieppe procedure for me. My surgery is slated for April 17. This is the same Dr. who did the reduction last April, so I am very confident of his expertise. I realize it is a major surgery, so am glad to have had some good advice.

Posted 11/5/2005 5:03 PM (GMT 0)
Be sure to keep in touch and let us know how you are doing before and after surgery. I had a tram flap in 1997 and am very happy with the feel of the breast and the shape, etc. The breast looks very normal in clothing. I didn't hear of the diep until much much later. Hugs MK
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