The Breast Monologues

Expanders

Jodi:

After reading your last entry, I know what you mean! I have been following you for some time now and have placed a few comments back. I will tell you, I had a bi-lateral (both) mastectomy in February and thought I would never be the same. I also then, started the expanding process...and ouch! You are right...it is not a very pleasant feeling. The pain is not a hurtful pain, just very uncomfortable...tightness to no end! I had 6 injections with a total of 440cc's and with each one, I feared the numbing process to the sight of the HUGE vile of saline to the day after. You just feel like you have 2 large lumps on your chest...hoping you don't run into anyone (or a wall for that matter), fearing that you may knock them over dead:)

I just had my implants put in...I had the new ones (not FDA approved yet, but soon to be)...I think they are H310's?? Anyway, they are the same as the ones (soon to be of the past) but they are 'tear' dropped rather than big and round! It was a very simple, easy out-patient surgery ~ about 3 hours worth. But I felt great...nothing compared to the mastectomy recovery. I would say the worst part of it was having the drainage tubes (again).

I am yet to feel total comfort and total happiness at the sight of my new breasts, but I know it will take some time. It is such a dramatic process over a very long period of time. I am yet to have my nipples built on (could not be done at the time of implant surgery due to the location of my incision), but I am hoping once that is done and complete ~ probably Septemberish, I will be feeling good again...like a new PERKY woman:)

Wishing you the best...hang in there...no punt intended!

Expanders

Glad to hear things are going well and you're successfully getting your skin expansion. My expansion was just recently completed and my silicone replacements were put in at the end of May. Have you thought about which implants you are getting? There have been vast improvements with silicone, which I'm sure you already know. Things are so far so good. Like you said, I too am so happy with my decision to do the reconstruction. I was so tired of the mastectomy bras and prosthesis.

I have just been skimming through some of your latest postings. All your reactions and emotions that you're having now - after cancer treatment - is perfectly normal. We all have the same worries and fears that pop up from time to time and yes, it's our new normal. It does dissipate with time.

Have a happy and busy summer! Good luck with the rest of your expansions and... don't rush it.