Tram Flap Breast Reconstruction Results
Why: Breast Reconstruction post Mastectomy. I...
Why: Breast Reconstruction post Mastectomy.
I would like to find out what type of results I shoould have expected. Have other people had this procedure using the Gummy implants? Do other people still experiance pain. What can be done to coreect the uneven appearance of my breast? Can the empty area in the upper portion of my breast/armpit area/cleavage area be filled?
I have had a tram flap breast reconstruction with poor results.I had this procedure done in May of 2009. I have no tissue on the upper portion of the breast. The reconstruction was done useing the gummy implant. I am in the trials for the gummy implant. What if anything can be done to fill in the hollow in the upper portion of the breast? The implant looks as if it is just sitting on my chest. Has anyone else had reconstuction with this type of implant? I have pain on the side of my breast that seems to me to be due to the hard/firm implant. I have discomfort after wearing a bra for more than three hours, is this a normal problem after this type of surgery? My other concern is maybe harder to answer, how do insurance companies decide if you have had a good outcome from surgery? What type of results should I have expected?
Replies (3)
I haven't been on this site since my origional...
Its lovely that you have all had someone to chat with.
I have almost finished my reconstruction, I just need to accessorize. Actually I'ge not even made up my mind about that. Ive been without for three years now and I'm not sure if its worth one more surgery. I suppose I should just go ahead and do it and make it an even ten surgeries.
oh well I will think about that tomorrow.
Again happy to see all the posts that followed mine and very happy to know that you have all had each other to chat with.
Beth
Replies (18)
Hi Beth,
Glad to hear your reconstruction is almost complete - that is wonderful! I'm sorry to hear you didn't feel you were as involved in the conversations that were going on here as you would have liked, but I am glad that you picked up on the fact that there are amazing women on here that love to support each other. We would love nothing more than for you to be more involved in the conversations, and sometimes the only way to do that is to take a more proactive approach. You are welcome to go and post on others reviews and participate in the forums. Some reviews get much more conversation around them. It doesn't mean they are better, more liked, or anything of the sort, its just simply that conversations started on them, and so the ladies continue to comeback to share in that conversation.
We are here for you Beth, please don't be shy to jump into the conversations - we would love to have you in them!! :)
I'm sorry my post wasn't meant to imply that I wasn't getting attention.
I don't believe that many women were posting questions at the time I posted my questions about the tram flap procedure. I did not get any feedback at the time of my post but it was nice to see that so many women did actually benefit from the question and that a new forum was opened.
Thank you for this site
Beth
Megan,
I'm not sure if you noticed but my origional post was in January of 2010. It seems like member participation wasn't what it is now.
I was not complaining I was attempting to express how happy I was to see so many conversations that followed that origional post.
So many conversations that I wasn't aware of. Many many women helped what a wonderful forum. I'm again so happy to see what has happened on this site. Quite a difference two years makes.
Thank you
Beth
Yes, we are really encouraged by the growth too. It is wonderful seeing all the ladies supporting each other. Please continue to spread the word about RealSelf - we don't want anyone going through their procedures feeling alone!
I do have a friend that had the same type reconstruction as you and the outcome was horrible! She has now decided to have them re-done and her insurance is paying for it. She is really excited about it and she has endured brain cance also. We are all here for you whatever you decide!
We are all in this together. The decision to have another surgery is yours to make with your doctor. Whatever you decide, I will be happy to support you in whatever way I can. xo
Welcome to our community.
Have you discussed reconstruction with your care team? Your physicians will advise you on what options are available to you based on your individual situation. I opted for a pedicled tram flap. It is a process, but I am very pleased with the outcome. I would be happy to answer any questions you might have about my experience. Exploring your options will give you the confidence to make the right decision for you. xo .
I had a bilateral masectomy in July. I started reconstructio in September and am now finished! I couldn't be more pleased with my pefect breasts. Yes, there is some pain and discomfort involved but for me, it was well worth it. Whayever decision you make will be the right one. Take your time!
Jane
Hi Becca -- Thank you for sharing your story. I'm really sorry to hear you're disappointed with your results so far but hopefully you will continue to get the help you need from your doc and insurance company.
In addition to asking your questions here, you may also want to post on our Doctor Q&A Forum for a professional opinion.
Good luck and please keep us posted on your progress!