Cancer Reconstructive Surgery. Westminster, MD

I am a wife and mother of 3 children, ages 20, 9, and 8 years old. In January, I found a lump and didn’t think much of it, since I had had lumps before, which turned out to be nothing. Although I hesitated to do it, I scheduled a biopsy with the plan to see breast specialist because I didn’t want to keep having biopsies. But this time I was glad I did it because at the end of January 2014 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although it was difficult to hear, I knew what needed to be done and after talking with all the doctors, decided to have a double mastectomy. I don’t love going to doctors in general, and especially have a big fear of needles, so I was only going to do this once. In April I had my mastectomy and reconstruction with expanders. I was very happy with the results and although the first few days were difficult (used a lanyard in the shower to hold the drains, wore a lot of button down shirts because they were easier to get in and out of), each day got better and better. After about a week and a half I got an infection on the left side. After a few weeks of antibiotics (both oral and IV), the infection wasn't gone and the expander had to come out for 4 weeks. In May, the expander came out and I got prosthesis so at least I could look even. Immediately the pain and infection went away and I felt better. In June, I went back to the operating room for the expander to be put back in. A week later I felt great again and was back to living my life. Two weeks after surgery I had my first round of chemotherapy, and shortly after that I started having pain and redness again on the left side. In addition, the incision started to open up and fluid began leaking out. Once again I went on antibiotics (again both oral and IV), and seeing no change was told that the expander had to come out until chemo was over. This was heartbreaking to me and I didn't want to think about having to use prosthesis for 5 months (although truthfully the prosthesis wasn't at all uncomfortable and no one could tell it was there). But, of course my health was most important so in July the expander came out again. In December I had the expander put back in and this time all went well. Although the expansion was painful (this was probably the hardest part of the whole process), it was well worth it. In March the implants went in and I have never felt better. It was a long process, but the fact that I am now cancer free made it all worth it. I am very, very lucky in that I have a fantastic support group - both at work and my family and friends. Staying positive was the key for me and I wouldn't allow myself to think negative thoughts. I have 3 children that need both parents. I also learned that I just needed to take the time to care for myself - when I was tired, I went to sleep, when I was in pain, I took medication. This was the time when I had to do whatever I needed to do to get better so that I could be there for my family. Although I am not completely finished with all the reconstruction, I am almost there and so happy to be where I am today.

After having a double mastectomy, I opted for breast implants. I had expanders for a few months, which were very uncomfortable, but now that the implants are in, I am so happy with my decision. It hasn't been an easy or short process, but I feel better than I ever felt. Dr. Del Corral really cares about his patients and makes sure they look great!