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I had a mastectomy/reconstruction all in one - 8 hour operation. They took the fat from the abdomen (the dr said afterwards he thought I had more fat there than I did) It looked and felt great but I have to say when I woke up, I was in such pain I said "oh my God, what have I done!" the morphine drip which is right there by your bed side to push on barely helps the pain. I was very grateful for my friends who brought me books on tape, a scented pillow and stuffed animal. I had access to a DVD and TV but couldn't watch anything. I can't say I would recommend it but all the women I spoke to before having it were happy and didn't seem to suffer the pain I did or had forgotten it.
It's probably advanced a lot since 1999 and hopefully they'll give you more pain relief.
The result was very good. Unfortunately I've had recurrence in that same breast so I've had a lot of surgery there since and it doesn't look as even with the other breast as it did after the initial op.
At the time, I wanted to have both breasts off but the oncologist and surgeons went crazy about that idea. I just wanted to be even on both sides and thought that would be the best and safest solution.
Whatever you choose, remember the pain will go away and go into hospital with books on tape and soothing music and a nice scented pillow and stuffed animal.
Also I needed 6 days in the hospital - insurance can push you out after 4 so you might want to check on that also in case you need the extra days.
all the best
hugs and love
sarah
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