Double Mastectomy

[callen03]

I had bilateral surgery January 18 of this year, and I have Stage IV Breast Cancer, HER positive.

I was back to work after three weeks. My only complaint was the drains. I got a fanny pack to put them in, which helped me so much. I had very little pain from the surgery, and I had no complications.
Best of luck.

[Sandy H]

I had bil mastectomies because of being inflammatory, very densed and fibrocystic breasts and a size double D cup. Have never regretted it. I had a skin graft to the Rt. chest wall because of skin involvement and so stayed in the hospital for 5 days because of chance of infection. The surgery was nothing in fact, my IV fell out the afternoon after surgery and they simply took it out. I was suppose to get oral pain med and found out 3 days later it was nausea medication. When I told the nurse it was not working and didn't want anymore they discovered the mistake. Hope this helps. hugs, Sandy

[ekoen]

With family history of breast cancer, two tumors in left breast er/pr- her2+++, I had surgury aug 2005, followed by 4 ac, 12 taxol/herceptin, 36 days of radiation, now herceptin. Don't regret the double masectomy. I do regret having complication of reconstruction with implants at the same time. They are still uncomfortable and added a bunch of Dr. visits to my already busy schedule. Anti-anxiety meds helped me the whole time - adavan to be specific. Now feeling great. Diet turned around, no more sugar/caffeine/alcohol. Drink lots of water, listen to your body. Enlist as much help from your friends and family as you can. Learn to ask.

[tousled1]

Thank you all for your replies. I will not be having reconstructive surgery right away as I will be undergoing radiation. I have an appointment in 2 weeks with the plastic surgeon to discuss my options. Not sure if I will have reconstruction or not. I guess time will tell. I have to get over this hurdle first.