Diep Reconstruction at Age 64

Single side Mastectomy leaves you dependent on a prothesis to not look very odd. I wanted the DIEP construction as it would be using my own natural tissue and I understood it would adjust in line with my RHS breast if I lost or gained weight . In anticipation of the reconstruction I had a tissue expander inserted at the time of the mastectomy which was high and difficult to disguise. The reconstruction operation was lengthy but I had very high quality care. The outcome was better than I could have hoped for and I now have a breast shape level with my RHS breast though somewhat smaller because, as I was warned before surgery, I did not have enough belly fat to get a complete match for size. The cut across my abdomen healed well but I needed some tidying up at the ends of the cut about six months later and sadly this scar revision was not covered by my insurance. The pseudo-nipple creation was a disappointment as it flattened after about twelve months. It is possible I should have asked for a different method but I did not know to. Overall, I am very grateful for the skill that has renewed my physical confidence in my post-mastectomy appearance.