I had a total simple mastectomy done on Dec 20,or 2007

[butterflyfuller]

I was examined by a plastic surgeon prior to my mastectomy. He recomended the diep..flap..? the total removal of my belly tissue and microsurgically replacing it.. not the tunneling proceudre. I did not need chemo or radiation. Is it still possible for me to get implants even though I did not have expanders placed during surgury?  The plastic surgeon that I saw said I have a double D and at age fifty five, I would not be satisfied with implants. My breast that I have left will need reduction and lift. I weigh one sixty five and I am five four. I am in good health otherwise and exercise and remain active. I do not smoke.

[butterflyfuller]

Does the latissimus back flap cause weakness on the arms.. or  problems with the back? Which muscle is the latissimus? I s the muscle used to hold the implant in place? or like a sling?  Is it totally detached like the diep?  I have heard horror stories about diep and inplants. I  wander what percentage of peiople are satisfied with the surgury. I would like to know if the scars are above the bra line and in the cleavage areas as well. If I am going to be scared up like Frankenstein, maybe my one straight  scar and no breast will look just as good.I  feel great now. I swim and do as I  please. I think I am either in denial or have just accepted my position.. as an attractive grandmother with one boob. At fifty five, I guess I am lucky to be healthy and free of pain. I do not think I look but about forty. It would be great have two boobs again, if the gain with the surgury can outweigh the risks. Severe complications.. like draining after two years.. sound horrible. How often does that occur?

[Archibald S Miller III, MD,FACS]

Well, the diep free flap is a good procedure that eliminates the need for an implant. Your health is obviously good enough for the procedure. Recuperation is around 6 to 8 weeks. You still have three choices for surgery. That being a standard pedicled tram not requiring an implant, the latissimus back flap that gives immediate reconstruction with an implant and usually gives a nice match to the other reduced breast, and finally the expander route where you have two surgeries, with about 7 months between and that is a solely implant procedure, and in the right hands can get a fairly good match. Since you have not had radiation, you can choose any of these.I hope this helps.Respectfully,

                                       arch s miller ms md facs
        

[Archibald S Miller III, MD,FACS]

The latissimus is the one in the back. The scar is visible in a small two piece bathing suit. The scars on your chest would likely be below the bra line and not seen.The back flap will affect your swimming. But many people do well with all activities after the surgery. Remember, no one can take away who you are and what makes you a woman. That is what makes us all worth knowing. The heart, the mind and your soul. So, if you are comfortable without reconstruction do not feel obligated. have a great day, respectfully,

                             arch s miller ms md facs