My bilateral mastectomy was done on 12/12/12 along with the first phase of reconstruction which was placing the tissue expanders under the pectoral muscles to stretch the skin in order to accommodate the future implants. On 3/31/14, the tissue expanders were replaced with silicone implants. Doing the math, it was almost 16 months in between surgeries. Let me say that the second surgery was by far easier than the first; however, it still was not pleasant as it brought back memories of the first surgery and recovery. The first week of recovery was rough as I was on pain killers and hardly remember that week. I was in such a fog that, to this day, I only remember bits and pieces. I dislike that feeling...not knowing what you have done or the people you have talked to. I am blessed to not have an addictive personality when it comes to medication because it would not be a pleasant life to live.
The second week got easier with less and less pain. I was on medical leave for only two weeks this go round...shows how the healing process was much easier compared to the six week recovery time for the first one. The thing that absolutely sucked was that I could not shower for three weeks because of the stitches. That doesn't mean I didn't have good hygiene...it just meant that the process of getting ready took so much longer. I was so happy when I was able to shower...I think you ladies can understand what I'm saying. :)
This posting puts me at seven weeks out from surgery. I met with my plastic surgeon at six weeks to check progress and to determine next steps. He is pleased with the healing; however, I have to wait another six weeks for further healing and for the implants to settle. Hopefully, by then he will be able to make a few minor tweaks to some problem areas. I'm not sure what that looks like though. To me it would seem like another surgery but not as invasive. I will keep you posted when that time comes.
My doctor did ask if I wanted nipple reconstruction, but I let him know that I am going to use a tattoo artist in St. Louis who specialized in nipple tattoos. He affirmed that his tattoo work would not be as good as a tattoo artist, and wants to see the completed work. I guess he is curious. :) Sadly, I don't think this step is going to happen for some time...maybe late fall. I want to make sure that every minor flaw is fixed to my satisfaction and that my breasts have settled in their place before I have permanent nipples put on. I want the tattoos to be as symmetrical as possible since this step will come out of my pocket at an expense of probably $250-$300. (Insurance will only cover this process if done by a doctor.) I have accepted this fact and am prepared to pay, as I want the nipples to look as real as possible since I will have these the rest of my life.
I'm not under the illusion that my breasts will look anything like someone who gets a normal "boob job". The differences are that all my breast tissue and nipples were removed and the implants are under my pectoral muscles and I was radiated on one side which will make my breasts asymmetrical; unlike just having implants inserted into existing breast tissue and over the pectoral muscles. I'm doing my best to remember how much I didn't like my large breasts to begin with and seeing the positives in what I have now. All in all, I would say I am pleased with the results thus far and am eager to finish the process so that I can close this chapter of my cancer journey.
Two year milestone (from diagnosis) only 52 days away!!!
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