I was first diagnosed with early stage breast cancer in 2006 and was treated with lumpectomy, tamoxofin and 8 weeks of daily radiation. 18 months later I had a recurrence. I decided right then and there that I wanted a double mastectomy, as I could not face a lifetime of worrying everytime I walked into the Breast Center.
I was not a good candidate for implants so I decided to do the transflap surgery. The bonus was a tummy tuck - since you use you own stomach tissue to re-build your "new" breasts. The downside, of course, is the 12 hour surgery, 4 days of ICU while you wait to see if your new breasts are going to be viable, and the long recovery. 2 1/2 years later and I am still glad I did the surgery, even though I still get some wierd aches and pains under my arms and in my stomach.
My surgeon was concerned I would be upset that I went from a DD to a C cup. SInce I am only 5'2" I was thrilled as these are just my size! I am lucky to live in a city where this surgery is an option because it is a difficult one. My surgeon is a genius and I am cancer-free!
Los Angeles, CA