Reconstruction Decisions Are Personal

For many women, after the trauma of being diagnosed with crappy cancer, undergoing treatment and facing the reality of a mastectomy, the thought of even more surgery with so many possible risks is just too much to bear. It certainly was for me. The risk of complication after reconstruction following a double mastectomy can be as high as 40 percent. 39% of women face one or more unplanned operations. I just didn't want to deal with more surgery and recovery! My immediate thought process upon learning I had crappy cancer was "Get it out of my body." and then, "I don't want to put anything else foreign in there." I never even considered reconstruction.

I realize FLAT isn't for everyone. But it's a staggering 45% of women who do choose to forgo reconstruction. As women, I totally get it that we might be self-conscious because we’re missing the part that society says makes us a woman. But I just embraced my new body and continue living my life without the burdensome heavy weights on my chest that tried to kill me! God made them to feed my babies and they have served their purpose!

Some women I have spoken to regarding reconstruction, was encouraged by their husbands to have it done. This always astounds me that a man would weigh in on what a woman should do comfortably with her body. She is not only dealing with crappy cancer, but now she has to deal with a difficult way of satisfying her husband. My wonderful husband was my ROCK. . . . . very supportive and completely understanding that it was MY decision. He never encouraged or discouraged me either way.

The American Cancer Society does say that a cancer re-occurrence would make it more difficult to find with reconstruction. I simply urge everyone to educate themselves on the pros and cons. Ask yourself how strongly do you feel about the way you look in clothing, or without clothing? How strongly do you feel about the risk of complications, more surgery, more recovery and down time from life? Is being aesthetically pleasing important to you? Be sure about what matters to you most across a wide number of areas in your life.

Some women who choose to remain flat, also choose to wear prosthesis. NOT for me. I tried it and they are heavy, uncomfortable, and feel so fake and awkward to me. They shift to the side or drop uneven from the other side. Even the knitted knockers and lighter weight cotton ones feel scratchy and rub my chest wall, which still feels sensitive. Besides, I've gotten used to not wearing a bra and those pesky straps! It feels empowering and FREE to go without!

There’s power in choosing something rather than feeling like you don’t have a choice.