The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

back flap reconstruction

flwr76
flwr76 CSN Member Posts: 7
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I have a question. I plan on having immediate reconstruction at the same time of my mastectomy. Because I am too thin for the stomach flap I will have the back flap used and a small implant as well. There is not enough back muscle to build my breast to match the other one. Has anyone had this done? I wonder what the recovery will be like as well as my physical activities. Will it put limitations on my acitivities? I love to golf and hope I will be able to again this summer. I would love to hear what people have to say about this procedure. Thanks.
Like Care

Comments

  • Future
    Future CSN Member Posts: 133 Member
    #2
    I had the backflap 2 years after my mastectomy (modified radical with 15 lymph nodes removed). The flap did real well, no problems with circulation, etc. Because I had already had radiation on that side my skin was more fragile and I had an infection around the implant and ended up with the implant being taken out. But again, flap stayed good.

    I don't have any significant range of motion problems and I'm able to do core exercises and light weights without a problem. You may want to develop a weight lifting program and may have to adjust your golf swing some but don't see any showstoppers. Let me know how it goes. My clubs are gathering dust but it's because of work schedule, not the surgery.
    Like Care
  • flwr76
    flwr76 CSN Member Posts: 7
    #3
    Future said:

    I had the backflap 2 years after my mastectomy (modified radical with 15 lymph nodes removed). The flap did real well, no problems with circulation, etc. Because I had already had radiation on that side my skin was more fragile and I had an infection around the implant and ended up with the implant being taken out. But again, flap stayed good.

    I don't have any significant range of motion problems and I'm able to do core exercises and light weights without a problem. You may want to develop a weight lifting program and may have to adjust your golf swing some but don't see any showstoppers. Let me know how it goes. My clubs are gathering dust but it's because of work schedule, not the surgery.

    Thank you for responding...I'm very glad to hear that. I hope you can get your clubs out...take some time for yourself. :)
    Like Care
  • weazylou
    weazylou CSN Member Posts: 5
    #4
    I had the back flap procedure last summer and I am doing great. Just so that you are warned- I found the recovery to be a little uncomfortable. It wasn't that painful, it was just hard to sleep. Because the procedure involved my back and my chest I found it difficult to relax.
    Like Care

Discussion Boards