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Double Mastectomy
- Jan 6, 2010 at 2:18 PM
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- Comments (5) Total Views (128) Everyone can see this journal post.
So, I met my new Plastic surgeon yesterday and once my insurance o.k.'s the procedure, my double mastectomy will be scheduled for March. I'm a little apprehensive, but I just keep telling myself, now or later it would have to be done and now is MY choice, not cancer's. I'm more concerned with the pain I am going to wake up in after the surgery than anything else! I was joking with the guy who had to measure my breasts so that the Dr. knows what size to make them, that the "new" breasts will be my reward for all those years of breast feeding I've done! As far as nipple reconstruction goes, I told them that I was going to have those gaudy "mystery machine" flowers tattooed on. Who is gonna see them anyways?! Besides, I told my kids when I go totally grey, I'm going to dye my hair "cookie monster" blue so I can be a true blue haired old lady! LOL! I know that my joking bothers some people, but really, you have to have a sense of humor or you will go crazy.
Remember before you comment that this is my CHOICE and I know everyone has on OPINION,but you do not have my history, have not walked in my shoes and haven't researched this or angonized over what to do as I have. Be thankful for everyday cancer free that you have and cherish the moments you have with your friends and family. Who knows, that last call, visit or letter may be the last before cancer finds it way into your family and life. I know, I have intimate knowledge.
Comments:
My mother had this procedure done, and I took care of her with the help of a nurse, afterward. It was such a terrible time. She was in so much pain. I hope it all goes well for you.
You are a brave strong woman , yu will be fine...Just remember to take your pain meds as needed..... put neosporin on your stichtes everytime you change ( less scaring)....The most difficult and uncomfortable part is the drains.... Once they come out ( which is painful btw) you will be feeling much better... Rmeber you will not be ablt to lift you arms much higher then you chest , so make sure to get button type pj's.. I lived in mine for awhile..... As for the nipples ask your plastic surgeon about taking some excess skin from under your arm to make nipples thats what my plastic surgeon did... They actually look like real nipples....lol Sending prayers your way......
Michele, anybody who judges you for this is a complete bonehead! It's your body, your life and your future, and I applaud you for taking the reins and doing something before it's too late and the cancer is already there. You've got too much to live for to have to worry that you're going to get cancer. Geez, all those kids alone are reason to want to be as healthy as possible!
I just wish I lived closer to you so I could help take care of you and bring you lots and lots of chocolate! I think you're going to do well after surgery and once it's all over, you can wipe this worry out of your mind! Good luck, sweetie. You know I'm hear if you need me!
Ack! It should be "here", not "hear". That's what I get for posting before proofreading!
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I think you are very brave. Both of my grandmother's died because of breast cancer and I'm only 30, but I found a lump yesterday. It might be nothing, but because of my history... I think taking the initiative is something most women would never consider and I applaud you for it.
- JSTmom
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