Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
May 11, 2025
 · 
Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

I had a double mastectomy with immediate diep flap reconstruction 2 years ago.
I am REALLY happy I did this. My new breasts look and feel great. (You almost cannot tell I had surgery).
The recover can be a little intense at first. Give yourself a lot of time to heal, and then even more after that.
My stomach incision was very tight so it took a long time to close and I had to stay bent over longer than a lot of people, but it just took a few months to heal.
I did feel like it also took a while for my breasts to feel like they have really healed and attached to my chest wall. So it was very uncomfortable to not have the support of a bra for a long time while it healed.
Make sure you have comfy front close bras for during the healing process (I live in the ones by Meadow for all- they were a heaven send since I was allergic to the cheap ones the hospital gave me).
If you have any specific questions, feel free to reach out!

May 15, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

I am 9 days after a double mastectomy with a goldilocks flap reconstruction - all in one surgery. Long surgery but am recovering slowly but surely. I am astounded how fatigued I am. Went to the plastic surgeon yesterday. First time I have seen what they did. Looks amazing! - I was a d cup before but now have little a cup boobies. So surprised how little bruising there is.
Good luck with your reconstruction.

May 14, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

Yes I had it last summer and would do it again. I was able to have it all done at once. Long surgery but worth it and recovery was ok. Rest was needed and I was able to do it and take the time I needed but I do recommend it. If you have a specific question let me know.

May 11, 2025
MyBCTeam

Flap reconstruction (also called autologous reconstruction) uses your own tissue to rebuild the breast shape after mastectomy. The tissue is typically taken from areas like your back, belly, inner thighs, or buttocks. Many MyBCTeam members have undergone either TRAM flap procedures using abdominal tissue or latissimus dorsi Show Full Answer

Flap reconstruction (also called autologous reconstruction) uses your own tissue to rebuild the breast shape after mastectomy. The tissue is typically taken from areas like your back, belly, inner thighs, or buttocks. Many MyBCTeam members have undergone either TRAM flap procedures using abdominal tissue or latissimus dorsi flaps using back tissue.

One advantage of tissue reconstruction is that it tends to feel more natural compared to implants. The surgery can be done at the same time as your mastectomy or later on. Several MyBCTeam members have shared positive experiences with reconstruction. One member expressed feeling a new sense of confidence after their reconstruction surgery. Another mentioned that while the results looked different and they still needed small inserts, it provided a great boost to their self-esteem.

If you're considering reconstruction, it's important to discuss timing options with your oncology team. They can help determine whether immediate reconstruction during mastectomy or delayed reconstruction would be better for your situation.

May 11, 2025

Related Questions

View All
A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Mineral Wells, WV