My expanders have given me no trouble for 12 years and were inserted over previous surgical and radiation scarring. Good luck love and hugs !

I had chest expanders put in last June and they are due to be exchanged in August. He will try the straight implant and see if the incisions hold on my radiated skin. If the skin is not viable he will have to do a LAT flap. I guess diabetic's have difficulty healing and the DIEP flap is a much more involved surgery and recovery time.

Thank you! I haven't heard it called that, but that's what I am having done. Since I am only having bi-lateral mastectomy, and have had kids, my surgeon thinks this will be the best option for making them look the most natural. Bonus- we don't have to replace them every 10-15 years!

I'm very interested in the flap also I have implants right now because I'm in radiation, but ps will do flap when I'm done. Anyone have had it?

I had this reconstruction done 3 years ago and in my opinion it is the best . I was in surgery for 16 hours which included the mastectomy . I would suggest that one of the first questions I would ask any PS that you are considering doing your surgery , how many of this procedure he has done . I would also try to find someone who he has done the surgery on to ask them about their outcome . I was fortunate when I was diagnosed that there was a cancer survivor retreat that I attended. It was very easy to meet women who my PS had done this surgery on . I had made the decision to have this reconstruction before the end of the day of the retreat . I had also decided what PS I thought would do the best job . I have absolutely no regrets . Ask me any questions you have about it I will probably tell you more than your surgeon . Just ask .