tramflap vs. implants

[laklaw]

Hi,  I'm very close to deciding to have mastectomy and am exploring reconstruction options.  I'd love to get some input regarding both procedures.  Are you happy with the results?  What was the recovery like?  Would you recommend it etc.  Thanks.

[lhughes]

If you have to have radiation, then according to my rad onc doc, implants aren't recommended b/c of the skin changes.  A tram or lat flap is then performed.  I had a tram this past May and I've liked the look.  It's still a man-made boobie, which I lovingly call Frankenboobie, but it's pretty good.  Looks real under my clothes (actual comment from the girl that works the front desk, she didn't know it was not my natural boob, was hating me b/c I just had 2 kids and didn't need to wear a bra!).

Somethings I didn't know to expect...reconstructed belly button...tender skin near my pelvis, more due to the 2 babies recently than the tram itself....not much feeling YET in my abdomen area (the skin doesn't have much feeling in it yet, they said some of this would return)....the first time you get out of bed after surgery is SO VERY COMPLICATED AND PAINFUL.  After the 4th time, no problems.  Ok, and I had the additional issue of my feet didn't touch the floor while sitting on the side of the bed since I'm not even 5 foot tall.  Taller people may not have that much problem.  I related it to having a C-section, but somewhat tougher.

You do need enough skin and fat from somewhere to support the tram (stomach) or lat (buttocks) surgery.

Best of luck to you!

[sheep]

I Had tram flap and am very happy with everything, you have to consider all the options for both procedures, Like do you have a enough belly fat etc. Lots of help after for your recovery etc. Good luck with which ever path you chose. Make sure you are emotionally ready for any choice you make.