Friends of the Feather
Age: 58 (57 at time of diagnosis)
Reason for Mastectomy: Multi focal cancer of the left breast
Type of Reconstruction (if applicable): Aesthetic Flat Closure
One thing I wish I would have known about surgery:
It was far less difficult than I imagined in my head, and the process much faster than I realized.
One thing I wish I would have known about recovery:
I wasn’t really told about drains or how to manage them. I would have liked to have more information.
What brought me joy during my recovery:
Salads from an amazing little restaurant near me and an Emily in Paris binge watch
What was a trigger for me during my recovery:
Honestly - didn’t experience this. I was up and about in less than a week.
Why did I choose my reconstruction pathway?
I chose AFC because I had no appetite for additional surgeries, was comfortable with being flat, and I was unwilling to use my muscle to “wrap” an implant - I didn’t want to compromise my functional strength.
Biggest hurdle I faced and how I overcame it:
LOL sleeping in a recliner was not restful!
Share any wisdom or advice you have for post-surgery appointments and doctor’s visits:
I always recorded my appointments on my phone with the doctor’s permission. And Dr Susan Love’s Breast Book is a great resource for understanding the process and terminology.
The product(s) that saved me during recovery:
Surgical cami with drain pockets and a lanyard for clipping drains up for a shower.
My best piece of advice for anyone about to undergo their mastectomy
Be as healthy as you can be going in. A strong body greatly improves speed and easy of recovery.