masectomy with reconstruction

Sarah06

Has anyone had a mastectomy without reconstruction? I would like to know how your chest feels, how it looks (is it smooth, bumpy, pressed in), how it is to wear prostetics, and which ones are good, soft and natural looking. Do the prostetics both your chest and irrate it.
Sarah06

ClaudiaAnn

Hi Sarah, I had a mastectomy without reconstruction. My chest is smooth but slightly concave. I have one rib that is sensitive because of how close the tumor was to it. Every once in a while I have funny zingy things that more than one of my drs. said is normal. I do wear a prosthetic bra on occasion but not all the time. I find it relatively comfortable most of the time. My complaint is that it is very hot in the summer and I can't wear it except for short periods of time. I am actually considering a mastectomy on the other side so that I won't have to wear it at all. I seriously am not bothered by the flat chest, but am bothered by the unbalanced chest. I've talked to many people who have and have not had reconstruction and for me no reconstruction suits better. Ask here and you will get lots of answers that may help you make a decision that is right for you. I'm personally comfortable without it. I'd just rather not subject myself to more potential problems and risks associated with the reconstruction. For others, reconstruction is not an option but a necessity and that too is perfectly fine. It is an individual thing. Good luck with your decision and whatever it is make it good for you. Hugs