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August 2, 2023
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MyBCTeam

The decision to have reconstruction with the mastectomy or at a later date depends on several factors:

Immediate Reconstruction
- Benefits:
- Helps women return more quickly to their previous appearance.
- Avoids extra surgery and more scars.
- Lower costs, better healing, and improved psychological health.
- Risks: Show Full Answer

The decision to have reconstruction with the mastectomy or at a later date depends on several factors:

Immediate Reconstruction:
- Benefits:
- Helps women return more quickly to their previous appearance.
- Avoids extra surgery and more scars.
- Lower costs, better healing, and improved psychological health.
- Risks:
- Higher risk for some side effects.
- Not suitable if radiation therapy is needed after mastectomy, as radiation can delay healing and cause additional scarring.

Delayed Reconstruction:
- Benefits:
- Allows more time to decide on the type of reconstruction.
- Gives the body time to heal and complete any additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy.
- Risks:
- May require additional surgeries and associated risks.

Ultimately, the choice should be made in consultation with your doctor, considering your health status, treatment plan, and personal preferences.

July 27, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Thanks for sharing!!

August 5, 2023
A MyBCTeam Member

I also chose no reconstruction after a bilateral mastectomy because I didn’t want the extra surgeries or healing time. I made the right decision for me, but you have to do what seems right to you. It took me many months to figure out the best bra/ prosthesis for me, but now I rarely think about the difference in pre and post surgery look and feel. Hugs to you!😊

August 5, 2023
A MyBCTeam Member

I had the partial w/concurrent reconstruction so I would definitely recommend the sooner than later plan. 1. I still felt like me 2. I looked like me w/a couple of scars mentally I think it helped me move on quicker.

August 2, 2023
A MyBCTeam Member

Best of luck to you!! Praying you have a speedy recovery.

August 2, 2023

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