[Westcoastgirl]

I had a double mastectomy and was very comfortable with the decision. My surgeon was adamant that I have both breasts removed and I eventually agreed after a few days of thought. I had planned on silicone implants but then I had to undergo radiation so was very concerned about the end result. It took me a great deal of time to decide to go ahead. My ps was not keen on tissue transfer as he felt too much could go wrong with a double transfer. He suggested implants despite the fact that I had had radiation. I would not have gotten breasts if I had had to do the tissue transfer as I wanted as little surgery as possible and no more scars. I was not really uncomfortable with the look of prosthetics but found them hot and they bothered my skin. I found I often went flat chested because my skin would rash so easily. I have to say I did not like the flat look and found with prosthetics I had to be very careful in my choice of clothes. I went ahead with the surgery as the ps thought my skin was in great shape (I took care of it like you would not believe during radiation) and I have not looked back. I did not have to go the expander route as the mastectomy surgeon saved a lot of skin. I went direct to small silicone implants just so I could have breasts and figured my body would handle small best. I am pleased with the results, not perfect but I have breasts and can wear anything I want. I love looking down and seeing flesh as opposed to the prosthetic sneaking out of the top of the bra. I am still shy about them with my husbnad but getting over that. My nipples will be fashioned from a skin graft and I won't even need anesthetic to do the operation. I have waited a long time for that surgery as I want everything to be healed and as good as it can be (will be done Nov 2011). I understand that it is easier to do examinations with implants (no mammograms) as it pushes the whole area out and any imperfections are evident. I was also told that the results are more predictable and often more successful with silicone as opposed to saline. I probably will not bother with tattoos for the nipples and will be content with nipples of any sort. I feel a need to complete the process now and have something in the centers of the breasts rather than just breast mounds. Best of luck with your decision. Carolyn