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Cosmetic Surgery (Expert Forum)
Breas Reconstruction after Breast Cancer
Answered by
Howard Rosenberg, MD - Cosmetic Surgery
Accent on Aesthetics Plastic Surgery Medical Center
Questions in the Cosmetic Surgery forum are answered by Dr. Howard Rosenberg. Topics include bariatric surgery reconstruction, breast augmentation, chemical peels, cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, face lift, nose reconstruction, and tummy tucks.
Breas Reconstruction after Breast Cancer
by mumsaloopsa, Jun 26, 2007 12:00AM
How long should I expect the tightness and pulling in my abdomen and breasts after a TRAM flap reconstruction. I had a bilateral mastectomy 3 years ago. This was due to DCIS and Stage 1, estrogen receptive breast cancer. I have continuing pain, pulling and discomfort of the abdomen and on both sides of each new breast. There is also an uncomfortable feeling of the skin as it slips over the mesh. I am taking pain meds still and would like to stop.
I would also like to know how to best monitor cancer reoccurance from here on.
I would also like to know how to best monitor cancer reoccurance from here on.
Doctor's Answer
by Howard Rosenberg, MD, Jun 27, 2007 12:00AM
, Jun 27, 2007 12:00AM
Three years post TRAM flap is well beyond the point of full scar maturation and healing. It is clear that you need to be re-examined by your surgeon. Your persistent discomfort may be due to any number of issues including scarring and fat necrosis along the reconstructed breasts to reaction to the deep sutures and the mesh of the abdominal repair. An examination may help determine the cause and solution to your perisistent discomfort.
As for monitoring recurrent breast cancer, self examination and annual examination by your physician would be appropriate. Additional testing beyond that would be appropriate if there are any changes noted on follow-up exams.
As for monitoring recurrent breast cancer, self examination and annual examination by your physician would be appropriate. Additional testing beyond that would be appropriate if there are any changes noted on follow-up exams.
