Seeking Support After Double Mastectomy at 64

I can totally understand Karen what you’re going through. I just had my double mastectomy on June 10. My recovery has been OK except I did catch an infection in the right breast, but they got it under control with antibiotics but other than that just a little sore a little tightness but overall, I think I’m doing well being 3 1/2 weeks into my surgeryfor real. I really thought it was gonna be worse.

I had DCIS but only had lumpectomy sental node removal and radiation.

It’s a lot I know!!!

I had double mastectomy 3/17 for DCIS in R breast- not a candidate for lumpectomy. They found invasive cancer at pathology- very glad they’re gone. But-I hate these mastectomy bras that remind me of Sears Catalog circa 1978…. I hate my concave chest, the incisions are way bigger than I anticipated. I always wore a modest swimsuit, but due to the distortion, I had to get high neck tankini top, and I have swim boobs which I haven’t tried yet- just got the new tops. Lastly- knitted knockers are made with love, but in reality are crappy and depressing. Hang in there- I think these changes in our body naked- never mind how our clothes fit ( my breasts were rounder than most- getting 3-d custom prosthetics in hope of having my scrub tops look cute again) the prosthetics are almost droopy compared to my natural breasts. Give yourself grace- it is normal to mourn a loss of a body part.

DCIS, 2 lumpectomies and ultimately had to have DMX on 6/17, opted for reconstruction as well & I already appear to have (small) boobs in just three weeks - its amazing. Lymph Nodes removed and just found out I am cancer free! Seems like it was a long journey while in it but now that the worst is past, seems like it went so fast! Give yourself time to heal- you will feel better with each day.

Michelle, I am having a DMX tomorrow. I am not sure about doing reconstructive surgery in the future. It sounds like you are happy you did. Do you feel like they look natural? I just worry that it will be like a patch quilt. I also don’t love the idea of nothing.

Jenifer sold exactly what I’m grappling with. Not sure I want to go through it all but also not sure I want to be completely flat

This community is here to provide the understanding and support you're looking for during this challenging time. Recovery after surgery can bring many emotions and physical changes, and connecting with others who have walked similar paths can make a real difference in the healing process. The Surgery and Recovery feed is filled with people who truly get what you're experiencing right now.