Hi. I had a double mastectomy in June '05. Then AC/T (H). Then left side chest wall radiation. In July '06 had latissimus flap on left side with expanders in both. After full expansion had replaced with silicon implants. Then had nipple reconstruction. As a matter of fact I just had the final step - the tatooing done this morning!!!!!!
LOVE the results!!!!!!! My surgeon does not do expansion only in rad's patients. Period. I would not consider that option. If you are going to do it, you really should do it all the way. I have had no complications.
They both look identical. Can't tell which side was radiated. I feel very lucky. I am glad that I was patient and followed my plastic surgeons advice. Not a quick fix, however, I am in this body for the long run!
Best of luck to you whatever you decide. If you have any questions, you can email me direct!
klarson@hatchagency.com -kim