I found out on 8-15-22 that I had cancer in my left breast....DCIS. On 8-21-22 I saw a surgeon. She went over my options and I chose to have a bilateral mastectomy. On 8-24-22 I had a bilateral mastectomy. I had very little time to really even get used to the idea of having cancer before having my surgery. One of the things I did was look on TH-cam for any info I could find. Your video on 5 things they don't tell you is one of the first things I saw. It was a tremendous help. I came home today, 8-25-22 and just had to let you know. Lord willing I want to do an informative video about my experience. I was a very top heavy woman. I had been told my surgery would be out patient. They ended up keep me over night because I was so big breasted and they were afraid I might have some abnormal bleeding. Thank the good Lord I didn't. In all honesty I haven't had much pain. I'm sore though. I chose to not have reconstruction. My breasts were very heavy, constantly in the way and I was ready to get rid of them. I can already tell a difference in the way my back feels. Thank you for the info and for being an inspiration. Kathy Shoaf
I usually never write/leave comments. You have no idea how much you have helped me and I am sure countless others out there. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I just had a bi lateral Masectomy with no reconstruction. It's been 1 month. Everything you talked about is exactly correct. That "smell" under your arms is normal. The surgeon didn't want any deodorant under my arms for a week or so... Hope you are doing well and you have peace of mind having your double mastectomy. My mother passed away from breast cancer when she was 30. So as a young girl I felt traumatized. You are "stronger" than you think you are...❤
I went flat in Dec 2021 and I love it!!!!! I wear my breast forms sometimes in my bra to fill out certain tops or dresses but I go flat for the most part! I feel like an athlete and I love it!😊
I just got my implants removed after having them in since 2010, following a double mastectomy. These specific textured implants were recalled a few years ago because of having a cancer risk🤦😱. It feels weird being flat now but I'm sure in time I will get used to it. One week and a day now from my surgery...can't wait to get my drains removed. They are the worst!!
My partner is about to embark on this journey. As her partner, im researching, educating myself, and listening to stories of women who went through this in order to best support her. I'm so thankful to listen to this testimony and makes me even more excited to support her vs fear. Whether she decides to do reconstruction or not, I feel confident in handling this with her to my best ability. As a male viewer, I applaud you for this display of authenticity, resilience, strength, and vulnerability. I hope you continue to help so many with your story and your words. Blessings and love to you and everything you manifest 🖤🖤🖤
?! are you trying to be supportive?! Have you gone thru breast cancer or have a strong family history and had to make a difficult decision to have surgery?!@jodimo
I had a bilateral mastectomy. Then reconstruction for implants. The left side wouldn't hold the implant. My skin kept tearing. Many surgeries and no showers. Just the use of wipes and wash rags. I also noticed a bad odor that was hard to get rid of! You know because I didn't require radiation or chemo I didn't consider myself a warrior. But after 5 surgeries, a DVT and a bad infection I now think I am a warrior. Keep fighting this terrible disease and be the 🏆 winner!
Thank you for sharing! I had a bilateral mastectomy on October 25, 2022. I had tissue expanders put in at the time of the breast surgery. One month later I developed an infection in both breasts and had to have the expanders removed. After that set back I wanted a break! I am now healing and will have reconstruction in the Spring. I am concerned that i will have problems with the expanders causing an infection again! My doctor says i will be fine but i don’t know. I do know that if i get another infection i will just stay flat. It’s not that bad!
I've had a single mastectomy with breast expander implant. Like you, the strong smell of surgery was awful. I tried everything to get rid of it. I am going to have radiotherapy as chemo wouldn't be suitable for my type of breast cancer. I do now have 2 more lumps under the expander. I only had surgery 3 months ago, so I can only insist they missed some. Most people say I've had it easy but I don't think any bc is easy. Hope you're doing well now xx
Very truthful advice. I am just 4 months post mastectomy. I too thought what a mess this would be. It was a very clean surgery and healing process is excellent. Thanks for posting and best wishes to everyone going through this path...
My double mastectomy for grade one turned into a nightmare. My incision looked like my great grand baby stitched me up. Within three months I was back in surgery due to sernoma with severe infection. My chest scare went from eighteen inches to thirty eight inches and the stitch work was even worse. I now have canyons on my chest. Not pretty! Yes, I went to a top rated cancer center in Florida.
Thank you for taking the time to do this and your other masectomy videos. I was diagnosed a week and a half ago after having a biopsy done a lump found in left breast. There is no history of breast or ovarian cancer in my family as far as we know. Aside from never having children, I am in one of the lowest risk groups (2%). I'm an athlete. I teach karate for a living and I eat very healthy. So it was a bit of a shock and quite surreal. I knew straight away I wanted a bilateral masectomy with the lymp nodes removed and I also don't want reconstruction. I don't want to put my body through anymore trauma than it has to go through but it is a very personal decision. I surprisingly upbeat about it all, even with the diagnosis. Don't get me wrong, I cried a little when I first found out and I think I went through the whole range of emotions (anger, denial, bargaining, fear/anxiety etc) but I figured I got a wake up call and the she (my uninvited little guest) couldn't stay and I had to deal with her head on to evict her. It's been nothing short of life transforming for me and I'm only at the beginning of all this. No treatment plan yet but as soon as i know I just want to get it done and get on. I am experimenting with some dietary changes (vegan) and becoming even more of an expert than I was before about healthy lifestyle choices. Oh and I started a new venture! I decided to get a full-time studio for the students (and me) I teach. I will have a full-time martial arts school!!! Cancer has made me realise life is finite and you could lose it anytime. It's truly a privilege, so get out there and enjoy it! What's the alternative? Waiting for death? We all are in the queue, it's just a question of when so enjoy this journey called life and live it the best you can. This is not a rehearsal. Once again, thanks so much for you optimism and courage and sharing this with us all. I really appreciate it 🙏🏼
Please DO YOURSELF a favor and do not have any more lymph nodes than needed removed. Lymphedema is a big risk if you do, and it is incurable and progressive. It is NO FUN and most doctors know little to nothing about LE or how to treat it.
My mom just did a mastectomy and she was in pain but she's still recovering from the surgery..and please everyone pray for my mom she is diagnose with early stage breast cancer very scared and worried.
I hope your mom is doing well! I will be having bilateral mastectomy in 10 days. Stage 1. Your mom and I can be thankful that the cancer is stage 1. The C word is scary. Encourage her to talk to friends. I am blessed with many friends who are positive people and who faithfully pray for me. Did your mom have genetics testing. Encourage her to have checkups. So glad I had annual mammogram’s. You are a good daughter! I hear the concern in your comments. ❤️🙏🏻
I had a double mastectomy 2 1/2 months ago. I can honestly say that I was able to sleep on my side as soon as the drains were removed. It wasn't months before I could sleep on my side.
I just happened to find your video as I am having a double mastectomy in a few days. Thank you for your truthful video - it helps to know that I will not see a bloody mess when taking bandages off.
I have found this encouraging, im a little over a month out of double mastecomy w/out recon and was feeling down and like i was all alone in being flat....it will be a journey im sure. Thanks! Much love
Thank you so much for telling women they don't have to have reconstruction. I also had a double and opted not to go through reconstruction. Part of my decisions was about the money, part was about the painful process I've read reconstruction is, and the final part was my wonderful saying "you're not just a set of boobs to me."
I am a 7 year survivor. I carry the Brac2 gene. I had stage 1 cancer. I did a bilateral mastectomy. I did get implants. After all these years I finally decided to take the implants out. I feel they are just not for me. These videos are great! I can say take one day at a time. Always stay positive! I feel like breast cancer started a new journey for me. Remember never give up! Stay strong! God Bless
You are a lovely lady with a great outlook. I had triple negative breast cancer and had a mastectomy with a diep flap. It was the most traumatic thing I've lived through. I almost fainted when I saw myself without my breast. I feel like a freak. I caution people to understand that this is a hard surgery but it is a decision many with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer make. I wish to God that no woman ever had to make this choice.
I'm getting a double masectomy at the beginning of 2022. You have really eased my fear and confirmed my thoughts about going flat. Thank you God bless you!!!
I was just told I had breast cancer. I’m strongly considering a double mastectomy and going flat. I think that would be the best thing for me. I’m glad I found this video and your comment
@@marthakolb384 do your research. Search yourself. Know your mind and be an educated, informed advocate foryourself. I was driving in a week...gingerly, but I was.
Very good info. For my breast cancer and bilateral mastectomy, I was not a candidate for reconstruction. So I am also flat. I do not use a prosthesis either. I just embraced the fact that I am now flat. I say “ flat and fabulous “. My husband was very supportive and still is. I wasn’t too surprised with it all since I was a nurse for a plastic surgeon. So we did a lot of breast procedures. I do love not wearing a bra. But I do wear a camisole or tank. Especially in the winter. I find I feel old if I don’t. I was fortunate and did not need radiation. If any of you do, please be aware, if you choose to have Reconstruction, radiated tissue does not heal well from a surgery. Not everyone has difficulty, but many do. Also, I encouraged my husband once I was healed, to touch the now flat chest. He was nervous at first, but I assured him it is not painful. He was glad he did so with my encouragement. He was surprised at how the area felt. No more soft and squishy,but hard instead. I have chronic leukemia so I cannot have reconstructive surgery. I had no choice. But honestly, before I knew that, I had decided I would remain flat. My breast do not define who I am, but my relationship with my Lord Jesus does. I’m comfortable in my own skin. Be encouraged ladies. You’ve got this. 💗 Thank you for this post also dear sister. 🥰
I'm so scared, I can't sleep, but I wanted to know what to look out for and what I would need to do ahead of time. I live alone. 😢😢😢 I'm trying to be strong, I have family, but my older sister and mother are no longer living and my other sisters, well we don't communicate with one and other. My boys can't see me upset or they will fall apart, so I can't even show any fear when they do come in town for me to have this surgery. I have a heart problem and I have to be cleared by my doctor before this mastectomy surgery for both of my breast. My doctor was talking and to be honest I think I zoned out for some time, thinking about my two boys and the fact thst I have no one to help relieve the worry. Someone thst has been there and can help ease my fears and there are many. I just continued to go to God to calm me down so I don't have another heart attack.😢😢😢😢
Oh dear sister I am so sorry you don’t have someone close by. But most doctors will have a patient or more who has gone through this. And more often than not, at least 1 or 2 of those ladies are more than willing to be your friend and support person. Having gone through it, most women will talk and try to help. Also your oncologist may have a patient who had your very same diagnosis. For example my breast cancer was INVASIVE DUCTAL CARCINOMA. Due to my family history and my own, along with the aggressive nature of the cancer my Dr was strong about both breasts being removed and I was all for that as well. And turns out in the very short span of my diagnosis and surgery, it had already spread to the other side. So I would need to talk with someone who had the same or understood. I am sure your dr has some contacts. I’d encourage you to look into that. For me I had s lot of help from the ladies at my church. Also very important. They prayed with me. Being nervous and scared is normal. If someone said they never were I’d be a leery of her understanding. Feel free to message me. I will be glad to share what I’ve learned. I’m willing. But it is nice to have someone close by. I will pray for you sister. God bless you. 💗
Thank you for your public voice on it being okay to go flat. I’m pretty sure that there are many factors contributing to a reluctance of a surgeon to offer it in a positive light. Too many of us are frightened to make the decision. I for one am so glad I chose a non reconstructed bilateral mastectomy after a cancer diagnosis.
Talk to your surgeon about LYMPHEDEMA my doctors all skimmed over this painful and relentless problem following breast cancer surgery. What happens after they remove lymph nnodes in your breast and armpits, the lymphatic system is all connected through out the body it serves to circulate lymphatic fluids so it doesn't accumulate in parts of the body. So understand that having lymph nodes removed can cause parts of the body to swell and hurt because the fluid can't drain, like your upper arms, even entire arms can double in size and be extremely painful, there's no cure for lymphedema and not talked about much, i experienced it in both upper arms and they tell never said it's very common. Kathy Bates the actress is an advocate for lymphedema research and treatment for the problem resulting from breast cancer surgery. Read about it and have a Frank discussion with your doctor's and don't let them dismiss your concerns and questions, because it's a lifelong problem that's being overlooked in cancer surgery. 😮
I am waiting to hear about my biopsy results, and have already decided that if I have breast cancer I will have a mastectomy, and I don’t want reconstructive surgery. Thank you for sharing your story. It’s comforting to know that I’m not in alone in thinking I will be mentally and emotionally fine without breasts.
Olena, thank you so much for this information. In my case I had a double mastectomy 10 years ago because of cancer. Unfortunately, back then I was never told I had options. Here is 2023 and I am looking to have my implants (which by the way have been recalled because they could cause cancer) removed and go flat. You are truly inspiring.
I really appreciate your candor! I'm post MRI and they found two more lumps, one in each breast other than the "one", that now need to be biopsied to know if we are still lumpectomy or mastectomy or double, so many balls in the air. So I'm researching to be ahead of it and so appreciative to know these things that as you say, NO ONE EVER TALKS ABOUT! (makes me quite irritated!) :)
Olena, many thanks for this video. It really does help. I will undergo a bilateral in less than a week. My initial gut instinct was to go flat and be done with it. Then I changed my mind and decided to get implants. Then I did more research and listened to so many women who opted for reconstruction and subsequently have had multiple procedures and surgeries and revisions due to infections and complications or lopsided implants. And also thank you to the women below who have gone flat and love it. I appreciate those positive responses.
Olena, mahalo for your video. I’m on my healing journey, been 3 wks & I agree that it was a very clean surgery; my sleeping style, partially sitting up with very little pain. Those winning exercises are the key, not hard even in my old age but consistency is the key. Like you, I opted to go flat :) Thru it all, I thank God & my Dr. Her patience is beyond words. 🌺Lei Allen
Oh I’m so glad I found this video. I am 2 weeks post surgery and just noticed how funky my armpit smells. I thought something was wrong with me however I’m glad to hear it’s pretty ‘normal’.
That is great advice to the strong warrior survivors of women out there.. There are many options and if you are flat with no areola or nipple you can always opt to have 3D realistic areola tattoo as well. Talk with your doctor to include it in your treatment plan so to see if your insurance will cover it. This option has given many women a sense of normalcy and confidence. This is usually the last part of the process.
I'm on day 12 after surgery. I too have strong family history and the genetic mutation. I also opted out of reconstruction. Maybe some day down the road. But I just don't want unnatural material in my body. And at being almost 50, I just want to heal and be done with. Thank you for your video. Sometimes we just need to hear from others who have similar experiences. Oh and my arches were clean a horizontal which I l like. And I went home say day. I think with covid they do so much more outpatient surgeries. I like that they call us PREVIVERS!!!
I also had a Masectomy but I did not have cancer. The mastectomy was a piece of cake compared to the beast of reconstruction…my first choice was to go flat but my male doctors convinced me to go through reconstruction. I was told it would be “easy” for me. It was low key a hell that literally lasted for years. My entire body has gone thru a rejection that none of my drs prepared me for. Im having my implants & my breast pockets removed on June 23 & I absolutely can’t wait to finally be healed & free to get back to being the person I went through all of this to save.
Thank you, Olena. I’m grateful for you sharing this. I’m 3 weeks post surgery and am getting along very well. I also had a bi-lateral mastectomy and chose not to have reconstruction. I’m very happy with this choice and appreciate your helpful guidance and sharing your experiences.
Thankyou for sharing your journey with your surgery. I too have been documenting my journey. I was diagnosed with her2 positive breast cancer. I just had my surgery on Monday, July 10th. And when I looked at the surgery site when my surgeon was double checking because they kept me overnight just for observation I was impressed with how clean it was. It was just a clean site. Luckily, I have not been into much pain so that has been a bonus. It’s just been mainly a little bit of discomfort. Thankyou again for sharing.
Thank you again! I was just diagnosed and wanted to check out youtube to see what the surgery entails. Thank you so much and I'm so glad you are 2 years past surgery. Best wishes that you will continue to be cancer free! xoxo
You are such an inspiration and look beautiful after surgery. Thank you so much for talking about this experience. I just had a profolactic double and I went flat, because I had radiation previously. It’s such a roller coaster and it makes such a difference having a channel like yours to discuss the reality of the experience
Thank you for this information. I'm really scared but i dont want my family to know. I really need to know what to expect and i thank you and anyone that reaches out to me. I have no one to talk with, my mother and sister are no lomger living. 😢
Come Aug 2022 I will be 3 years post mastectomy. Like you, I chose to remain flat. Find an electronic recliner, and get front snap/ button robe etc. No regrets. Kudos and blessings.
Thank you so much for all the informations💞 I just finished my chemo and waiting for my Doctor to schedule me on mystectomy on March. I will write it down so after surgery I wont forget since my will get foggy brain💞 Thank you so very much and God bless us always❤
I enjoyed your video. I had a single mastectomy 5 weeks ago and have been doing rehab exercises on my arm and I can lift it up high and the pain is all gone. I can sleep on the affected side now. I chose to go flat. I know that doctors usually recommend reconstruction but it’s our decision and I feel great about it and I think it looks pretty good. Not gross at all. I had a lumpectomy 5 years ago and it was scary to look at coz it was kind of gross and it would look different depending on the lighting in the room at the time. I didn’t have a choice this time. The doctor told me that when they dissected the removed boob they found 3 tiny clusters of cancer cells under the microscope. So I’m glad things worked out so well.
Thank you Olena for your candid informative videos. I have a strong family history and am at high risk. I'm a master's swimmer and found a bleeding nipple after an hour swim. I thought it was my bathing suit rubbing. That was two months ago. I am now waiting to see a breast surgeon here in Nova Scotia. The testing has found ADH, ALH and an intraductal papilloma. My other breast is full of large cysts and I have a hard mass behind the nipple that feels like it is attached to the pectoral muscle. My breast are so small that any excision biopsies will be disfiguring. I have always known that if I needed to address my breast cancer risk that I would opt for bilateral mastectomy without reconstruction. My wife freaked out when I mentioned this. She is concerned that I would me making an impulsive decision. I am concerned that the surgeon would not want to offer this treatment for me. Your videos have given me the courage to express my vision for my own care. Hope you are doing well. Sending big hugs from Nova Scotia 🇨🇦
@@OlenaHeu I hope you are well. I had a lumpectomy a month ago and was told last week I have cancer. There is a 2 month wait for radiation therapy. I have an appointment in a week for genetic cancer counseling. I am also on a waiting list for pelvic repair surgery with a hysterectomy. I'm hoping that I can get some answers that will help me to direct my care in a more active way. It's a good thing I'm a nurse. I don't know how you would go through this without some knowledge and someone to advocate for you. No need to respond 🤓 I just wanted to let you know that you really helped me in my dark days. Emma
Thank you for speaking up about going flat. I chose this as well. I saw my mother go through reconstruction, and I don't think my grandmother had reconstruction as she passed away quickly from breast cancer. I opted not to have reconstruction. I wanted the best chance of making sure the cancer does not return. Going flat gives me reassurance that I am giving myself the best chance.
I have been diagnosed with estrogen positive invasive ductal carcinoma… I’m just curious is going flat going to make sure that the breast cancer doesn’t come back more than having reconstruction a doctor hasn’t told me that yet
@@thankfulblessed3774 I would ask your Oncologist and surgeons about what is the best option for you as every situation is different. For me, it gives me peace of mind knowing I would hopefully spot something growing back much sooner than if I opted for reconstruction. I didn't want to continue with the fear/anxiety of getting a mammogram and MRI every 6 months. My mother never regretted having implants but it didn't feel best for me. I think my best advice would be to ask your doctor what are the odds of this returning and then ask yourself what you feel comfortable doing about it. I am very happy with my surgery and no regrets 6 months later. Feeling healthier each day.
Thank you. I’m having such a hard time deciding on prophylactic double mastectomy. There are so many options and I feel like I have only one chance to make the right decision. Your video is very helpful. I feel more confident that I want to do flat closure. Thank you for sharing with such vulnerability.
My surgery is next week. I have invasive ductal carcinoma stage 3 in my left breast but have opted for a bilateral mastectomy without reconstruction. Your videos are giving me so much insight into what to expect. Thank you.
Thank you! Good advice here. I did sleep flat on my side 4 weeks post surgery though. Some recovery topics are just different for everyone. I used a pillow between my arm. Needed support for sure.
That is great of you to share your experience with others. Am sure many women will find this very helpful. My sister had same surgery but also went flat. She had stage 1 but never returned. Wondering if preventative surgery is covered by insurance. Blessings and wish you a very healthy future.
Thank you so much for sharing! Very helpful! You can use apple cider vinegar to clean your armpits. The vinegar will restore your skin’s ph, will freshen your armpits considerably!
Thank you! I am having a mastectomy no reconstruction coming up. I made the flat choice before I knew there was a community. Your videos are so helpful in easing fear or anxiety
Thank you so much, for sharing your story and journey. Last November of 2021, I got a double mastectomy at 62 years old. My cancer was caught early. Issues I have been experiencing, is cording and my arms, shoulders, hands and fingers.
Hope you are doing ok? x 'Cancer rehab pt' have videos on how to remove cording x I had cording (from 4 previous shoulder injuries) before my lumpectomy. The lumpectomy made my cording worse, I received NO help or advice on how to remove it, or how it would impact my life going forward ie lack for shoulder movement!. I found the videos & followed them & it has removed them. Whilst I still haven't got range of movement like I used to, it has improved alot :) Hope it works for you to and that all goes well for you x
Thanks, i have seen your other masectomy video's. I will be having a masectomy in about a month... I was very happy to hear it is NOT a bloody mess. I am not scared or upset about loosing my breast ( i have cancer stage 4 - triple negative) so i really helps me saving my life, but i tought it would be like a warwound when they will take the bandage of. I understand your choice completely and your video's are a big help. Thanks
I am so glad I found this video and read your comment also. I wish you are doing well now and the surgery went well. I have inflammatory breast cancer stage 3 or 4. In two days my last mri will show the compete picture. But in general it is invading my skin so I don't think there will be so many options for me. I am optimistic but still worried about the surgery's outcomes. Sharing your experiences makes it feel easier fo people like me. Thank you ladies❤️
No one discussed sleeping at all. The drains were difficult to sleep with. And I slept on my side, still do. Had bilateral 6/ 22/ 2022. Plus they gave me exercises immediately.
I would add one very important thing. Aesthetically flat is a medical term and surgeons have certain criteria they must follow. Just saying you want to go flat can leave you with different out come than you might like. I only found this it after my surgery and am now having a revision to get rid of my “ dog ears” and even things out.
I was undecided if I would have reconstruction. Then as my doctor & nurse were giving me consultation about it, I realized they were more excited about me having reconstruction than I was. So I decided not to. Best decision! I love it! 🥰
I'm on day 3 post-op bilateral mastectomy. I'm so glad I found your channel. I have chosen not to have any reconstruction, I was able to take a shower yesterday and it was a little unsettling to see my incision site. I think the drain tubes are the worse. I don't have cancer but had precancerous biopsy and my surgeon and I decided this was the best option. I bought about 6 years ago an adjustable bed which has come in handy after a broken ankle and also back surgery I'm still getting used to the idea that I can't sleep on my side. This is the first full video of yours that I am watching and look forward to watching the rest. Thank you again for sharing your story.
Olena, thank you very much for your video. I’m having bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction on August 6 due to ductal carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ. I found your channel very interesting and informative. Also my beautiful daughter-in-law is originally from Hawaii! 😊
Natalie I am in the exact situation & Dx as yourself; Ductual carcinoma along with ductal situ, They will also be taking my ovaries. I will be having the double mass in 1 week. & I still haven't made a solid decision on the reconstruction. I'm only 43yo. The age limit for mammograms needs to be lowered. I sought a drs opinion last year on this, but didn't qualify for the mamm. Until they saw the carsinoma on the outside of my skin. I'm terrified & feel so overwhelmed & underprepared. 🤍 Edit: I'm in Australia for reference...
@@missyemerald I had direct implant reconstruction on top of the chest muscle. That was my choice. I wanted my breast to look as real as possible. And it requires one surgery. If you choose expanders under your muscles you have to go back for another surgery. Take in consideration this also. The reconstruction or no reconstruction does not effect life expectancy. it’s only your preferences. I hope it helps. And good luck to you with whatever you decide to do. The age for mammogram in the US I believe 40. But if you have any concerns the doctor always can refer you for the diagnostics including mammogram and ultrasound at any age. Just sometimes it take extra effort on our side. I don’t know how it works in Australia though.
@@MissAna5 Thankyou for you reply Natalie, I had an appointment with the plastic surgeon this morning & they don't want to do the reconstruction until 6mths after the mastectomy. They want to wait till after I finish with the chemo & radiation... They say that radiation wrecks the skin. I'm disappointed as I already need 2 surgeries not including reconstruction. Thankyou for letting me know that the recon doesn't affect life expectancy as that was one of the main issues I was stressing over.... I have my pre-op appointment in 3days. It's ALL moving SO fast, Ive never had any surgery ever. Australia starts there mammogram program @ 50yrs old. You have to tick several boxes to be eligible if you are younger. Sending My Best Wishes with loads of love 🤍
@@missyemerald I know how stressful this time is. And I understand that you have a lot to go through and to comprehend. My cancer did not spread to other tissue outside of my breast tissue that is why I did not get any additional treatment after surgery. Just Tamoxifen for 5 years. But yes, if you have to get radiation doctors don’t recommend reconstruction because it damages skin and other body tissue as well as the silicon implants. I’m assuming that your DHA test shows mutations if doctors recommend you to remove your ovaries also. My DHA showed no mutation. That is what makes your case slightly different then mine but I’m sure that everything is going to be ok. Don’t be scared of surgerys. Just stay positive and think about how wonderful it is going to be after full recovery and in stable remission to be able to share your experience with somebody who may need a cheer up 😘My biggest hugs and lots of love❤️🤗 and my best wishes 🙏🏻
I got a small plush stuffed animal to use under my seatbelt. I also slept on a recliner for the first two weeks. It was hard to get up from the bed with out using my arms. I used a lot of pillows to stay comfortable and not move around too much. I used a belt I bought on Amazon to carry the drains in the shower and everyday use. I cleaned my arm pits with alcohol to kill the bacteria. To prevent the bra from getting funky since I was not washing everyday. I stopped taking Oxy a week after surgery and was also able to drive to my follow up appointments. I did have an allergic reaction to the adhesive tape the doc put on me after surgery and the itchiness and burning was horrible. I had my reconstruction done on 30 Dec and I’m very happy with the results. Im in the military and the surgery was conducted by the cancer center at Ft Belvoir and plastic surgery team at Walter Reed.
Radar, I, too have a nasty reaction to the surgical tape, and it wasn't until I viewed some other videos that someone told me to use baby oil on a cotton ball then "satirate" the tape , then gently ease the tape off . It doesn't tear the skin and it's so so so much less painful! Hope that helps you too.
How long does it take for you to able to have your reconstruction done? I have reactions to the medical tapes too it gets itchy and annoying. How do we prevent that from the medical tape
Thank you. I had a mastectomy 4 days ago. You are 💯 correct. I love your presentation and I have watched 100s of hours of videos and such and was very connected to yours. Thank you for sharing
Yes, very helpful! You are very brave to post this video and looking at you in your pretty top, nobody knows what you have under your top or bra so honestly nobody but you knows. At least the that's the way I see it for myself; I am considering a flat closure because I just think reconstruction is gross. Society has an obsession with big boobs but I have never shared it, maybe because I've been a natural C to D cup since I was 20. I had a lumpectomy for LCIS in 2017 and recently found I have CHEK2 mutation so I am seriously considering a prophylactic mastectomy with aesthetic flat closure. I do not want two time bombs ticking away on my chest and honestly I'm getting tired of alternating mammo and MRI every six months. I'm five years away from retirement. Who knows what kind of insurance I'll have after I leave my job where I currently have great insurance? My only fear is of looking at myself naked and seeing them gone, but the other 99.9% of the day I have clothes on and nobody knows what's under them, I'm not even really aware of them. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your video.
Having now had the lumpectomy and radiation for breast cancer, I totally relate to what you are saying about what feels like ticking time bombs on my chest even though I am on 5 years of aromatase inhibitor (nearly done with year 1). I too have the CHEK2 mutation but was told last year that not enough was known about it to guide treatment decisions - yet. So I was not offered double mastectomy (my breast surgeon told me I was an optimal surgical candidate for lumpectomy and radiation because my lone small tumor was so close to the sidewall of my chest below my armpit that she could just shell it out and not involve getting at it through my nipple). I actually do not think I would feel fear of seeing myself naked with absence of breast - to me it feels more like I would consider it to be liberation from being held hostage by my known DCIS. We will see what the future holds! Were your treatment decisions guided by discovery of your CHEK2 mutation? I am now 66 and was diagnosed at age 64.
Wonderful video! Thank you for all the things you've shared. I don't know as a guy if I have breast cancer at the moment but this was amazingly informative for a guy too! Thanks again and bless you :)
Love your videos. Just had a unilateral mastectomy last week, wish I had a bilat but I will do that sometime this year. No reconstruction here. Recovery has been great, I did not even stay a night in the hospital, in by 11:30, home by 3!
I've read both that a masectomy can be performed on an outpatient basis or require a few night's stay for observation. How was yours determined to be outpatient?
Thank you for this. I have Invasive Ductal Carcinoma and scheduled to have a mastectomy in a few days. I am more scared with this surgery than when I was told of my diagnosis. Now I'm feeling a little relaxed. Thank you...
Me too scared of being painful than was told I am diagnosed with cancer 😭😭 I am having my double mastectomy in 11 days the January 10 start counting down the days now
@@mythaichannel9082 don't be too overly worried about the surgery. The anticipation is more nerve-wracking than the actual procedure itself. Just trust and pray and don't forget to exercise as soon as you are able to.
Olena, you are a beautiful woman! I am just 3 weeks post op. Had bi lateral mastectomy due to cancer on both breasts. I am truly on the fence on reconstruction surgery. I did see your other video giving us your tips on various clothing items and you've inspired me. I'm a bit older than you, and I just don't know if I want to deal with anymore breast related surgeries. All this has been a bit traumatic for me really. Thank you for your honesty and your candidness. I'm a side sleeper myself, and just yesterday I tried....and I mean, I really tried in moving slowly on my side and guess, my body is not ready yet. I was wondering about how long it takes for someone to sleep on their side-so thank you for brining up that topic. The simple things I used to take for granted-lol.
I so appreciate this video (TH-cam served it to me today). I am now 66 (a youthful 66) and was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 64. Although it ended up that I needed lumpectomy and radiation, I sensed immediately that I would want to go flat if I had needed mastectomy. For several reasons, my main ones were that I did not identify feeling feminine with having breasts, at least by age 64 and already 8 years post-menopausal by then (but if you look at me, I have kept my youthful persona anyway, so it was not because of "aging breasts" that I wanted to go flat). The next reason is that I did not want to undergo more surgery - I did not feel there was any benefit to having reconstruction since I would not have wanted - as I have heard it termed - Foobs. I actually felt that going flat would be beautiful. Last, I was concerned that having reconstruction could mask any recurrence of cancer and I strongly felt that having a healthy ongoing life with easy detectability of anything that could crop up later was so much more important to everything than having a semblance of breasts on my chest wall. So I did my research and learned that the surgical method of achieving a nice mastectomy outcome is called "aesthetic flat closure" and this is specialized training that breast surgeons get if they want to be providers of this service. There are many types of incisions that end up with a smooth, non-dog-eared chest wall result, and an aesthetic flat closure surgeon would not leave excess tissue behind "in case you change your mind" - I keep hearing stories of how a woman's breast surgeon would decide for her and just do this as an end result. That makes me see red. So I learned that in my city, there is such an aesthetic flat closure specialist and I was planning to consult with her when mastectomy was still a consideration. I just want to speak this phrase outright so anyone needing to know about a non-reconstruction option will have heard it. Finally, I don't remember having a cheesy odor in my armpits - it is not to say I didn't - but I also have discovered a brand of deodorant that blocks odor from forming, and it happens to work remarkably well for me. That might be a consideration for someone who is surprised to have developed a new odor. I did not start wearing this deodorant until I was a month past my last radiation session and I wore no deodorant at all during radiation. It has been over a year since my lumpectomy and radiation and I am feeling totally fit and vital. I am no longer afraid of having developed breast cancer (I did not have a proven high risk gene and did not develop it till age 64) - I am satisfied with my plan for aesthetic flat closure should I have any recurrence into the future. Best to you - you look luminous!
I just read your post. I'm 64 too and had Ductal Carcinoma In Situ diagnosed in September 2022. On December 1st I had a mastectomy on my rt breast for a tumor 10x4 cm. I chose to have an immediate silicone implant. It looks hideous like Frankenstein and I cry when I look at it. The incision goes from left to right horizontal. I keep telling myself it's only 3 weeks post surgery. I had complications of a broken blood vessel and a drain fell out after one week. I got the second drain out yesterday. I've read horror stories about breast implant illness but I just couldn't go flat. I don't know if I made the right decision or not. I'm glad you are doing so well, I can only hope I will be well too. Thank you for your story.
Thank you so much for all that information my sister goes in for a double mastectomy she did have cancer so I'm glad you shared some of the things that could happen,
Thanks for sharing...I just had a consultation with a plastic surgeon as I had a unilateral mastectomy to flat last year due to breast cancer and wanted the other boob removed and my doctor agreed to do it only if I see the plastic surgeon first, I am sticking to my original request to go flat on the other side as well....best wishes to you.
I recently tested positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation. After thinking and talking to people close to me, I’ve decided to get the double mastectomy and reconstruction. I’m supposed to go to my doctor to go over my gene test results. I’ll start from there and take things one day at a time.
I am so blessed. I had a right breast mastectomy and five lymph nodes, no reconstruction ten weeks ago, finished radiation over two weeks ago at the age of 74.☹ I was not in much pain. I start sleeping on that side after three weeks. I had three days in hospital and went home with one drain. Thankfully no smelly armpit.😁. Started gentle exercises at home almost straight away and am almost back to normal movement. Scar tissue looks like a mini breast. I'm not going to have any physiotherapy. I massage with coconut oil. I guess that will eventually disappear🤔 I do love my electric blanket and mattress, very comfy. Thank you for your videos. Love your openness. Renu Roy from Germany.
Thank you ~ I’m having a double mastectomy in one week. I’m opting for no reconstruction because there are problems with some of that. So if you can go flat and be beautiful so can I !!!
Hi Olena, My name is Julie. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016. After a double mastectomy, 2 scar revision surgeries and a complete hysterectomy I am completely cancer free. I can relate to all that you talk about so thank you for speaking of things no one wants to talk about. Not sharing info is something I never understood. I too noticed the odor under the arms and did the same thing with constant cleaning. Its better now that I have healed. As far as wearing dress clothes, it has been difficult to find ones that are comfortable and look good. But that's partly my fault as I chose no reconstruction and choose not to wear fake breasts. I saw an interview once with 6 women in various stages of cancer recovery. Some had reconstruction, some not, some had it then had it removed etc. One women said something that seemed to stick with me. She said "I am not having two bodies". Meaning, she is what she is and that is the route I took. It is hard to find dress clothes that look right, I've put on weight and have the buddha belly. I am working on getting rid of the fat and strengthening myself which will help with clothes fitting. Here is a website that my father found for me right after. These can be worn just after surgery. You might want to order some to put in your bra and/or share it with your viewers. www.knittedknockers.org/ I just wanted to say thank you for your videos, I probably should have done that as I know it helps people. But when you're right in the middle of it, it didn't cross my mind. I hope you stay well and God Bless.
You are quite welcome. Yes, it was a kind thing he did for me. We lost him this past April and it's been hard but just like post cancer, we have to keep going. Life goes on and we have to live it the best way we can. Take care of yourself
Thank you for this wonderful video. I'm facing a double mastectomy waiting to get the last results back tomorrow. I have autoimmune diseases and have had so many surgeries in the past 15 years, I don't want any more anesthesia or trauma to my body than is absolutely necessary. I so much appreciated hearing you.
I had a DMX with expanders on May 1st and my doctors never told me how to sleep. I've been sleeping on my back and semi on my sides. I certainly can attest to the smell, but it wasnt my armpits. It seemed to be coming from the incisions, but went away after the first week.
When I worked in nursing, I had patients with contractures, meaning they couldn't open their hand, (for example). So, to prevent skin fungus or odors, we would tuck a soft washcloth into the affected hand, which made the patient much more comfortable....if there is no broken skin, powder is also helpful between the skin folds. Try a soft cloth in the underarm area for added comfort.
I hope to as this with respect. I don’t understand why someone would choose to not have reconstructive remaining flat. I’m surprised at the numbers of women choosing this option. I’m actually I’m shocked and burst out loud with “Why “. This is my honest reaction and in no way meant to shame, disrespect or challenge your thoughts, decisions or feelings. I’m so sorry for the destruction this disease has infiltrated your family with.
First night in hospital, I didn't sleep. 2nd night at home slept in recliner. 3rd night, I couldn't fall asleep in recliner, so I laid down in bed and fell asleep on my side and continued nights following the same. No one told me not to. I had invasive ductile carcinoma, chemo, my bilateral mastectomy with 3 lymph nodes also involved. I'm 64, still taking HER2 treatments through end of January 2025. Taking 25 radiation treatments from March 19th- April 22nd. I'm high risk, so reconstruction isn't on my radar. No, I'm not happy how tops fit me now. My flatness is more concave. After I heal from radiation I will need to look for some new tops. Prosthetics doesn't seem like the right idea for me either. We'll see. Best wishes .
I should have done the surgery when I was told about my genetic predisposition back in 2019. I did the hysterectomy but just kept screening. Now I have no choice but to do it. It's been stressful. I appreciate the honest words from someone who has done this. I am considering kinds of reconstruction but I'm having a hard time deciding what is right for me. But I feel like less surgeries wouldn't be a bad thing. Hm.
I had a similar experience with a partial mastectomy,except that mine was due to diabetic ketoacidosis that caused sepsis in the right side of my chest. When I was a child I had. Suffered some burns which caused scar tissue that made my rt side a DD while my left side w a s a C . I had noticed tenderness and went to my primary and she referred me to ER...they gave me antibiotics and sent me home. Two days later I was ambulance to ER and woke up 3 days later after 7 surgery in that time. I had a drain machine for several months. It was open to let it drain the infection and heal on its own. Ladies...if it doesn't feel right...get it checked...DON'T WAIT...GO TO WALK IN URGENT CARE if you can't get an immediate appointment with your primary dr. I now have an opening in the center of my chest the size of a baseball because so much skin had turned black and couldn't be saved so that it could be pulled back together nicely. Sepsis infection can happen even if you're not diabetic
I had the same armpit issues after my shoulder replacement, as my arm was in a sling for over a month. Make sure your pits are dry, as moisture could cause irritation and infection.
I told them I was going flat and they left me with a lot of extra skin. I looked like I had deflated bags. After 2 years I went back and got that skin removed and it looks much better. I think they thought I would change my mind and want to rebuild, but I wish they had done it right the first time..
Thank you! I’m just starting the journey of bilateral mastectomy for preventative purposes. Your videos not only help me feel prepared but are calming - feeling I’ll get thru this for my healthiest possible future
I wish someone told me going flat was a serious option...9 years later I still have pain and dream of going flat. I'm so scared of surgery again! I have implants and I really don't want to deal with the issues with them. Uneven, cold and painful sometimes....I just keep praying ♥️
I wish someone had told me also. Reconstruction was the worst experience of my life. Pain from the first day of skin stretching until I had them removed two years later. Unfortunately having reconstruction began a pain syndrome which has destroyed much of my life. I am thankful to be alive & enjoy my grandchildren but I am a different person due to the pain. Perhaps I still have silicone in my body or perhaps the trauma of so many surgeries caused my pain. Please do not do reconstruction ❤️
Thanks a lot l will have very soon the one side Mastectomy and really was afraid of every thing about it but now l feel comfortable thank you you . You help me a lot
I just had a bilateral mastectomy 2 weeks ago after a diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer. I opted for a “Goldilocks” recon. Folding my own breast skin and folded over, so there’s a 4th grade looking bump now! This is my 2nd time with breast cancer. I made it 12 years. Hoping to make it a lifetime after this time! Ps…I hated the drains! The left drain I think was on a nerve…so milking the drain was like fire!
@@jbreezy2501 The fatigue, constipation, no taste, I had thrush in my mouth, caught sepsis, white blood count dropped dangerously low, eyes hurt, everything hurt…lord I’m glad it’s done. Taxotere and cytoxan were the drugs I was given.
I found out on 8-15-22 that I had cancer in my left breast....DCIS. On 8-21-22 I saw a surgeon. She went over my options and I chose to have a bilateral mastectomy. On 8-24-22 I had a bilateral mastectomy. I had very little time to really even get used to the idea of having cancer before having my surgery. One of the things I did was look on TH-cam for any info I could find. Your video on 5 things they don't tell you is one of the first things I saw. It was a tremendous help. I came home today, 8-25-22 and just had to let you know.
Lord willing I want to do an informative video about my experience. I was a very top heavy woman. I had been told my surgery would be out patient. They ended up keep me over night because I was so big breasted and they were afraid I might have some abnormal bleeding. Thank the good Lord I didn't. In all honesty I haven't had much pain. I'm sore though. I chose to not have reconstruction. My breasts were very heavy, constantly in the way and I was ready to get rid of them. I can already tell a difference in the way my back feels.
Thank you for the info and for being an inspiration.
Kathy Shoaf
I usually never write/leave comments. You have no idea how much you have helped me and I am sure countless others out there. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thank YOU so much. I am so happy to hear this and glad to be able to help. Sorry for the rambling hehe =)
I just had a bi lateral Masectomy with no reconstruction. It's been 1 month. Everything you talked about is exactly correct.
That "smell" under your arms is normal. The surgeon didn't want any deodorant under my arms for a week or so...
Hope you are doing well and you have peace of mind having your double mastectomy.
My mother passed away from breast cancer when she was 30. So as a young girl I felt traumatized. You are "stronger" than you
think you are...❤
I went flat in Dec 2021 and I love it!!!!! I wear my breast forms sometimes in my bra to fill out certain tops or dresses but I go flat for the most part! I feel like an athlete and I love it!😊
Love it!!!!! Go girl and rock it. So much easier and life is so much better. =)
Tracey Manzano
There gave been many times when I
wished I chose to go flat! I support our choice either way. I wish you good health 🙏 ❤️
@@lorij6796 Thank you for the love and support of us. Best to you.
I am seriously considering going flat. I had a skin soaring mastectomy a year and I really am not sure about reconstruction.
I just got my implants removed after having them in since 2010, following a double mastectomy. These specific textured implants were recalled a few years ago because of having a cancer risk🤦😱. It feels weird being flat now but I'm sure in time I will get used to it. One week and a day now from my surgery...can't wait to get my drains removed. They are the worst!!
My partner is about to embark on this journey. As her partner, im researching, educating myself, and listening to stories of women who went through this in order to best support her. I'm so thankful to listen to this testimony and makes me even more excited to support her vs fear. Whether she decides to do reconstruction or not, I feel confident in handling this with her to my best ability. As a male viewer, I applaud you for this display of authenticity, resilience, strength, and vulnerability. I hope you continue to help so many with your story and your words. Blessings and love to you and everything you manifest 🖤🖤🖤
❤
⁰
How is she doing ?
You are a good man.
I also went flat after having bilateral mastectomy for breast cancer. You made the right choice for you! You rock girl!
Thank you so much
I went flat in August 2020 and I am content. It was the best choice for me. I look in the mirror and see a super woman who thrived cancer.
How exciting!!! You remove your babies food supply because your scared.
?! are you trying to be supportive?! Have you gone thru breast cancer or have a strong family history and had to make a difficult decision to have surgery?!@jodimo
I had a bilateral mastectomy. Then reconstruction for implants. The left side wouldn't hold the implant.
My skin kept tearing. Many surgeries and no showers.
Just the use of wipes and wash rags. I also noticed a bad odor that was hard to get rid of! You know because I didn't require radiation or chemo I didn't consider myself a warrior.
But after 5 surgeries, a DVT and a bad infection I now think I am a warrior.
Keep fighting this terrible disease and be the 🏆 winner!
You are a warrior queen!
@@OlenaHeu
Many thanks for your kindness 🙏
Thank you for sharing! I had a bilateral mastectomy on October 25, 2022. I had tissue expanders put in at the time of the breast surgery. One month later I developed an infection in both breasts and had to have the expanders removed. After that set back I wanted a break! I am now healing and will have reconstruction in the Spring. I am concerned that i will have problems with the expanders causing an infection again! My doctor says i will be fine but i don’t know. I do know that if i get another infection i will just stay flat. It’s not that bad!
I've had a single mastectomy with breast expander implant. Like you, the strong smell of surgery was awful. I tried everything to get rid of it. I am going to have radiotherapy as chemo wouldn't be suitable for my type of breast cancer. I do now have 2 more lumps under the expander. I only had surgery 3 months ago, so I can only insist they missed some. Most people say I've had it easy but I don't think any bc is easy. Hope you're doing well now xx
Very truthful advice. I am just 4 months post mastectomy. I too thought what a mess this would be. It was a very clean surgery and healing process is excellent. Thanks for posting and best wishes to everyone going through this path...
Hugs and kisses!
My double mastectomy for grade one turned into a nightmare. My incision looked like my great grand baby stitched me up. Within three months I was back in surgery due to sernoma with severe infection. My chest scare went from eighteen inches to thirty eight inches and the stitch work was even worse. I now have canyons on my chest. Not pretty! Yes, I went to a top rated cancer center in Florida.
Thank you for taking the time to do this and your other masectomy videos. I was diagnosed a week and a half ago after having a biopsy done a lump found in left breast. There is no history of breast or ovarian cancer in my family as far as we know. Aside from never having children, I am in one of the lowest risk groups (2%). I'm an athlete. I teach karate for a living and I eat very healthy. So it was a bit of a shock and quite surreal. I knew straight away I wanted a bilateral masectomy with the lymp nodes removed and I also don't want reconstruction. I don't want to put my body through anymore trauma than it has to go through but it is a very personal decision. I surprisingly upbeat about it all, even with the diagnosis. Don't get me wrong, I cried a little when I first found out and I think I went through the whole range of emotions (anger, denial, bargaining, fear/anxiety etc) but I figured I got a wake up call and the she (my uninvited little guest) couldn't stay and I had to deal with her head on to evict her. It's been nothing short of life transforming for me and I'm only at the beginning of all this. No treatment plan yet but as soon as i know I just want to get it done and get on. I am experimenting with some dietary changes (vegan) and becoming even more of an expert than I was before about healthy lifestyle choices. Oh and I started a new venture! I decided to get a full-time studio for the students (and me) I teach. I will have a full-time martial arts school!!! Cancer has made me realise life is finite and you could lose it anytime. It's truly a privilege, so get out there and enjoy it! What's the alternative? Waiting for death? We all are in the queue, it's just a question of when so enjoy this journey called life and live it the best you can. This is not a rehearsal. Once again, thanks so much for you optimism and courage and sharing this with us all. I really appreciate it 🙏🏼
Please DO YOURSELF a favor and do not have any more lymph nodes than needed removed. Lymphedema is a big risk if you do, and it is incurable and progressive. It is NO FUN and most doctors know little to nothing about LE or how to treat it.
Wow, what a journey you had. Thanks for sharing and God bless your school.🙏🏼🙌💖✝️
My mom just did a mastectomy and she was in pain but she's still recovering from the surgery..and please everyone pray for my mom she is diagnose with early stage breast cancer very scared and worried.
How is your mom, which stage was she and did she had to do chemotherapy
Shaira Khan
Early stage is great! I wish you I yr mother good health and happiness.
🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
I hope your mom is doing well! I will be having bilateral mastectomy in 10 days. Stage 1. Your mom and I can be thankful that the cancer is stage 1. The C word is scary. Encourage her to talk to friends. I am blessed with many friends who are positive people and who faithfully pray for me. Did your mom have genetics testing. Encourage her to have checkups. So glad I had annual mammogram’s. You are a good daughter! I hear the concern in your comments. ❤️🙏🏻
Prayers for your mom and you. God heals and prayers are answered.
I had a double mastectomy 2 1/2 months ago. I can honestly say that I was able to sleep on my side as soon as the drains were removed. It wasn't months before I could sleep on my side.
I just happened to find your video as I am having a double mastectomy in a few days. Thank you for your truthful video - it helps to know that I will not see a bloody mess when taking bandages off.
I have found this encouraging, im a little over a month out of double mastecomy w/out recon and was feeling down and like i was all alone in being flat....it will be a journey im sure. Thanks! Much love
Jeni you got this. We are a rare breed and you can rock it. I am here and totally loving my flat chest and not having to wear a bra any more.
Thank you so much for telling women they don't have to have reconstruction. I also had a double and opted not to go through reconstruction. Part of my decisions was about the money, part was about the painful process I've read reconstruction is, and the final part was my wonderful saying "you're not just a set of boobs to me."
Thanks so much for the tip 😀
Thankful to hear you did this ❤️
@lorifeeney934 I will definitely do this. How soon could I start? After a week or two?
I think I started as soon as the drains were removed, but ask your doc just to be sure 💕 @@jessuminechannel
I am a 7 year survivor. I carry the Brac2 gene. I had stage 1 cancer. I did a bilateral mastectomy. I did get implants. After all these years I finally decided to take the implants out. I feel they are just not for me. These videos are great! I can say take one day at a time. Always stay positive! I feel like breast cancer started a new journey for me. Remember never give up! Stay strong! God Bless
You are a lovely lady with a great outlook. I had triple negative breast cancer and had a mastectomy with a diep flap. It was the most traumatic thing I've lived through. I almost fainted when I saw myself without my breast. I feel like a freak.
I caution people to understand that this is a hard surgery but it is a decision many with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer make.
I wish to God that no woman ever had to make this choice.
I'm getting a double masectomy at the beginning of 2022. You have really eased my fear and confirmed my thoughts about going flat. Thank you God bless you!!!
Hope you are having a speedy recovery!
I had mine in Oct 21 and reconstruction on 30 Dec. Let me know if you have any questions!
I was just told I had breast cancer. I’m strongly considering a double mastectomy and going flat. I think that would be the best thing for me. I’m glad I found this video and your comment
I stayed flat. No regrets.
@@marthakolb384 do your research. Search yourself. Know your mind and be an educated, informed advocate foryourself. I was driving in a week...gingerly, but I was.
@@radar8658 hi may I know how long you feel fully recovered after mastectomy?
Very good info. For my breast cancer and bilateral mastectomy, I was not a candidate for reconstruction. So I am also flat. I do not use a prosthesis either. I just embraced the fact that I am now flat. I say “ flat and fabulous “. My husband was very supportive and still is.
I wasn’t too surprised with it all since I was a nurse for a plastic surgeon. So we did a lot of breast procedures.
I do love not wearing a bra. But I do wear a camisole or tank. Especially in the winter. I find I feel old if I don’t. I was fortunate and did not need radiation. If any of you do, please be aware, if you choose to have Reconstruction, radiated tissue does not heal well from a surgery. Not everyone has difficulty, but many do.
Also, I encouraged my husband once I was healed, to touch the now flat chest. He was nervous at first, but I assured him it is not painful. He was glad he did so with my encouragement. He was surprised at how the area felt. No more soft and squishy,but hard instead.
I have chronic leukemia so I cannot have reconstructive surgery. I had no choice. But honestly, before I knew that, I had decided I would remain flat. My breast do not define who I am, but my relationship with my Lord Jesus does. I’m comfortable in my own skin.
Be encouraged ladies. You’ve got this. 💗
Thank you for this post also dear sister. 🥰
I'm so scared, I can't sleep, but I wanted to know what to look out for and what I would need to do ahead of time. I live alone. 😢😢😢
I'm trying to be strong, I have family, but my older sister and mother are no longer living and my other sisters, well we don't communicate with one and other.
My boys can't see me upset or they will fall apart, so I can't even show any fear when they do come in town for me to have this surgery. I have a heart problem and I have to be cleared by my doctor before this mastectomy surgery for both of my breast.
My doctor was talking and to be honest I think I zoned out for some time, thinking about my two boys and the fact thst I have no one to help relieve the worry. Someone thst has been there and can help ease my fears and there are many.
I just continued to go to God to calm me down so I don't have another heart attack.😢😢😢😢
Oh dear sister I am so sorry you don’t have someone close by. But most doctors will have a patient or more who has gone through this. And more often than not, at least 1 or 2 of those ladies are more than willing to be your friend and support person. Having gone through it, most women will talk and try to help.
Also your oncologist may have a patient who had your very same diagnosis. For example my breast cancer was INVASIVE DUCTAL CARCINOMA.
Due to my family history and my own, along with the aggressive nature of the cancer my Dr was strong about both breasts being removed and I was all for that as well.
And turns out in the very short span of my diagnosis and surgery, it had already spread to the other side.
So I would need to talk with someone who had the same or understood. I am sure your dr has some contacts. I’d encourage you to look into that. For me I had s lot of help from the ladies at my church. Also very important. They prayed with me.
Being nervous and scared is normal. If someone said they never were I’d be a leery of her understanding.
Feel free to message me. I will be glad to share what I’ve learned. I’m willing. But it is nice to have someone close by. I will pray for you sister.
God bless you. 💗
Thank you for your public voice on it being okay to go flat. I’m pretty sure that there are many factors contributing to a reluctance of a surgeon to offer it in a positive light. Too many of us are frightened to make the decision. I for one am so glad I chose a non reconstructed bilateral mastectomy after a cancer diagnosis.
Talk to your surgeon about LYMPHEDEMA my doctors all skimmed over this painful and relentless problem following breast cancer surgery. What happens after they remove lymph nnodes in your breast and armpits, the lymphatic system is all connected through out the body it serves to circulate lymphatic fluids so it doesn't accumulate in parts of the body. So understand that having lymph nodes removed can cause parts of the body to swell and hurt because the fluid can't drain, like your upper arms, even entire arms can double in size and be extremely painful, there's no cure for lymphedema and not talked about much, i experienced it in both upper arms and they tell never said it's very common. Kathy Bates the actress is an advocate for lymphedema research and treatment for the problem resulting from breast cancer surgery. Read about it and have a Frank discussion with your doctor's and don't let them dismiss your concerns and questions, because it's a lifelong problem that's being overlooked in cancer surgery. 😮
I am waiting to hear about my biopsy results, and have already decided that if I have breast cancer I will have a mastectomy, and I don’t want reconstructive surgery. Thank you for sharing your story. It’s comforting to know that I’m not in alone in thinking I will be mentally and emotionally fine without breasts.
Best of luck to you! You got this.
Olena, thank you so much for this information. In my case I had a double mastectomy 10 years ago because of cancer. Unfortunately, back then I was never told I had options. Here is 2023 and I am looking to have my implants (which by the way have been recalled because they could cause cancer) removed and go flat. You are truly inspiring.
I really appreciate your candor! I'm post MRI and they found two more lumps, one in each breast other than the "one", that now need to be biopsied to know if we are still lumpectomy or mastectomy or double, so many balls in the air. So I'm researching to be ahead of it and so appreciative to know these things that as you say, NO ONE EVER TALKS ABOUT! (makes me quite irritated!) :)
So glad I could help. Blessings to you.
Olena, many thanks for this video. It really does help. I will undergo a bilateral in less than a week. My initial gut instinct was to go flat and be done with it. Then I changed my mind and decided to get implants. Then I did more research and listened to so many women who opted for reconstruction and subsequently have had multiple procedures and surgeries and revisions due to infections and complications or lopsided implants. And also thank you to the women below who have gone flat and love it. I appreciate those positive responses.
Olena, mahalo for your video. I’m on my healing journey, been 3 wks & I agree that it was a very clean surgery; my sleeping style, partially sitting up with very little pain. Those winning exercises are the key, not hard even in my old age but consistency is the key. Like you, I opted to go flat :) Thru it all, I thank God & my Dr. Her patience is beyond words. 🌺Lei Allen
Thank you for being so honest and ESPECIALLY on the cheezy armpits thats awesome - no one talks about the smelly parts of healing
Oh I’m so glad I found this video. I am 2 weeks post surgery and just noticed how funky my armpit smells. I thought something was wrong with me however I’m glad to hear it’s pretty ‘normal’.
That is great advice to the strong warrior survivors of women out there.. There are many options and if you are flat with no areola or nipple you can always opt to have 3D realistic areola tattoo as well. Talk with your doctor to include it in your treatment plan so to see if your insurance will cover it. This option has given many women a sense of normalcy and confidence. This is usually the last part of the process.
I'm on day 12 after surgery. I too have strong family history and the genetic mutation. I also opted out of reconstruction. Maybe some day down the road. But I just don't want unnatural material in my body. And at being almost 50, I just want to heal and be done with. Thank you for your video. Sometimes we just need to hear from others who have similar experiences. Oh and my arches were clean a horizontal which I l like. And I went home say day. I think with covid they do so much more outpatient surgeries. I like that they call us PREVIVERS!!!
Previvers...good word 😊
I also had a Masectomy but I did not have cancer. The mastectomy was a piece of cake compared to the beast of reconstruction…my first choice was to go flat but my male doctors convinced me to go through reconstruction. I was told it would be “easy” for me. It was low key a hell that literally lasted for years. My entire body has gone thru a rejection that none of my drs prepared me for. Im having my implants & my breast pockets removed on June 23 & I absolutely can’t wait to finally be healed & free to get back to being the person I went through all of this to save.
Thank you, Olena. I’m grateful for you sharing this. I’m 3 weeks post surgery and am getting along very well. I also had a bi-lateral mastectomy and chose not to have reconstruction. I’m very happy with this choice and appreciate your helpful guidance and sharing your experiences.
Yay! I am so happy for you and you'll heal quickly and be able to live a great life.
Hello mam how many dylys are u in. Hospital after Brest surgery
Thankyou for sharing your journey with your surgery.
I too have been documenting my journey. I was diagnosed with her2 positive breast cancer. I just had my surgery on Monday, July 10th. And when I looked at the surgery site when my surgeon was double checking because they kept me overnight just for observation I was impressed with how clean it was. It was just a clean site. Luckily, I have not been into much pain so that has been a bonus. It’s just been mainly a little bit of discomfort.
Thankyou again for sharing.
Thank you again! I was just diagnosed and wanted to check out youtube to see what the surgery entails. Thank you so much and I'm so glad you are 2 years past surgery. Best wishes that you will continue to be cancer free! xoxo
You are such an inspiration and look beautiful after surgery. Thank you so much for talking about this experience. I just had a profolactic double and I went flat, because I had radiation previously. It’s such a roller coaster and it makes such a difference having a channel like yours to discuss the reality of the experience
Thank you for this information.
I'm really scared but i dont want my family to know. I really need to know what to expect and i thank you and anyone that reaches out to me.
I have no one to talk with, my mother and sister are no lomger living. 😢
Come Aug 2022 I will be 3 years post mastectomy. Like you, I chose to remain flat. Find an electronic recliner, and get front snap/ button robe etc. No regrets. Kudos and blessings.
Thank you so much! Very helpful. I’m having a double mastectomy in 6 days and am trying to be as prepared as possible.
Good luck to you Mary. I am preparing for same in a month. Sending good vibes
Thank you so much for all the informations💞 I just finished my chemo and waiting for my Doctor to schedule me on mystectomy on March. I will write it down so after surgery I wont forget since my will get foggy brain💞 Thank you so very much and God bless us always❤
I enjoyed your video. I had a single mastectomy 5 weeks ago and have been doing rehab exercises on my arm and I can lift it up high and the pain is all gone. I can sleep on the affected side now. I chose to go flat. I know that doctors usually recommend reconstruction but it’s our decision and I feel great about it and I think it looks pretty good. Not gross at all. I had a lumpectomy 5 years ago and it was scary to look at coz it was kind of gross and it would look different depending on the lighting in the room at the time. I didn’t have a choice this time. The doctor told me that when they dissected the removed boob they found 3 tiny clusters of cancer cells under the microscope. So I’m glad things worked out so well.
Thank you Olena for your candid informative videos. I have a strong family history and am at high risk. I'm a master's swimmer and found a bleeding nipple after an hour swim. I thought it was my bathing suit rubbing. That was two months ago. I am now waiting to see a breast surgeon here in Nova Scotia. The testing has found ADH, ALH and an intraductal papilloma. My other breast is full of large cysts and I have a hard mass behind the nipple that feels like it is attached to the pectoral muscle. My breast are so small that any excision biopsies will be disfiguring. I have always known that if I needed to address my breast cancer risk that I would opt for bilateral mastectomy without reconstruction. My wife freaked out when I mentioned this. She is concerned that I would me making an impulsive decision. I am concerned that the surgeon would not want to offer this treatment for me. Your videos have given me the courage to express my vision for my own care. Hope you are doing well. Sending big hugs from Nova Scotia 🇨🇦
Thank you so much. You know your body better than anyone else so be sure to get what your heart tells you to do.
@@OlenaHeu I hope you are well. I had a lumpectomy a month ago and was told last week I have cancer. There is a 2 month wait for radiation therapy. I have an appointment in a week for genetic cancer counseling. I am also on a waiting list for pelvic repair surgery with a hysterectomy. I'm hoping that I can get some answers that will help me to direct my care in a more active way. It's a good thing I'm a nurse. I don't know how you would go through this without some knowledge and someone to advocate for you. No need to respond 🤓 I just wanted to let you know that you really helped me in my dark days. Emma
Thank you for speaking up about going flat. I chose this as well. I saw my mother go through reconstruction, and I don't think my grandmother had reconstruction as she passed away quickly from breast cancer. I opted not to have reconstruction. I wanted the best chance of making sure the cancer does not return. Going flat gives me reassurance that I am giving myself the best chance.
For some reason we are a rare breed, but I am so happy you are happy also.
I have been diagnosed with estrogen positive invasive ductal carcinoma… I’m just curious is going flat going to make sure that the breast cancer doesn’t come back more than having reconstruction a doctor hasn’t told me that yet
@@OlenaHeu Thank you, Olena. It's almost been 6 months, but I am happy with my outcome!
@@thankfulblessed3774 I would ask your Oncologist and surgeons about what is the best option for you as every situation is different. For me, it gives me peace of mind knowing I would hopefully spot something growing back much sooner than if I opted for reconstruction. I didn't want to continue with the fear/anxiety of getting a mammogram and MRI every 6 months. My mother never regretted having implants but it didn't feel best for me. I think my best advice would be to ask your doctor what are the odds of this returning and then ask yourself what you feel comfortable doing about it. I am very happy with my surgery and no regrets 6 months later. Feeling healthier each day.
Thank you. I’m having such a hard time deciding on prophylactic double mastectomy. There are so many options and I feel like I have only one chance to make the right decision. Your video is very helpful. I feel more confident that I want to do flat closure. Thank you for sharing with such vulnerability.
Thank you for the info...especially the part about it not looking bloody or ugly ...going in for surgery tomorrow for mastectomy
Hope all went well. Thank you.
My surgery is next week. I have invasive ductal carcinoma stage 3 in my left breast but have opted for a bilateral mastectomy without reconstruction. Your videos are giving me so much insight into what to expect. Thank you.
Ohh really, then my wife is scheduled to go for mastectomy on Monday 7 March 2022 here in PNG...
Let's stay strong...
From Brian@PNG
Thank you! Good advice here. I did sleep flat on my side 4 weeks post surgery though. Some recovery topics are just different for everyone. I used a pillow between my arm. Needed support for sure.
That is great of you to share your experience with others. Am sure many women will find this very helpful. My sister had same surgery but also went flat. She had stage 1 but never returned. Wondering if preventative surgery is covered by insurance. Blessings and wish you a very healthy future.
I had a great experience. The key to fully understand everything is a good oncology nurse. Bless you all going through this.
Thank you so much for sharing! Very helpful! You can use apple cider vinegar to clean your armpits. The vinegar will restore your skin’s ph, will freshen your armpits considerably!
Myra Davis
Thank you for the tip!
Thank you! I am having a mastectomy no reconstruction coming up. I made the flat choice before I knew there was a community. Your videos are so helpful in easing fear or anxiety
I had heard about the arm pit smell from other u tube videos.
Ok
Thank you so much, for sharing your story and journey. Last November of 2021, I got a double mastectomy at 62 years old. My cancer was caught early. Issues I have been experiencing, is cording and my arms, shoulders, hands and fingers.
Hope you are doing ok? x
'Cancer rehab pt' have videos on how to remove cording x
I had cording (from 4 previous shoulder injuries) before my lumpectomy. The lumpectomy made my cording worse, I received NO help or advice on how to remove it, or how it would impact my life going forward ie lack for shoulder movement!. I found the videos & followed them & it has removed them. Whilst I still haven't got range of movement like I used to, it has improved alot :)
Hope it works for you to and that all goes well for you x
Thank you. I’m doing and feeling much better.
Thanks, i have seen your other masectomy video's. I will be having a masectomy in about a month... I was very happy to hear it is NOT a bloody mess. I am not scared or upset about loosing my breast ( i have cancer stage 4 - triple negative) so i really helps me saving my life, but i tought it would be like a warwound when they will take the bandage of. I understand your choice completely and your video's are a big help. Thanks
Wonderful to hear. So glad I could help and offer some insight for you. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
@@OlenaHeu Thank you so much!
I am so glad I found this video and read your comment also. I wish you are doing well now and the surgery went well. I have inflammatory breast cancer stage 3 or 4. In two days my last mri will show the compete picture. But in general it is invading my skin so I don't think there will be so many options for me. I am optimistic but still worried about the surgery's outcomes. Sharing your experiences makes it feel easier fo people like me. Thank you ladies❤️
No one discussed sleeping at all. The drains were difficult to sleep with. And I slept on my side, still do. Had bilateral 6/ 22/ 2022. Plus they gave me exercises immediately.
I would add one very important thing. Aesthetically flat is a medical term and surgeons have certain criteria they must follow. Just saying you want to go flat can leave you with different out come than you might like. I only found this it after my surgery and am now having a revision to get rid of my “ dog ears” and even things out.
I was undecided if I would have reconstruction. Then as my doctor & nurse were giving me consultation about it, I realized they were more excited about me having reconstruction than I was. So I decided not to. Best decision! I love it! 🥰
I'm on day 3 post-op bilateral mastectomy. I'm so glad I found your channel. I have chosen not to have any reconstruction, I was able to take a shower yesterday and it was a little unsettling to see my incision site. I think the drain tubes are the worse. I don't have cancer but had precancerous biopsy and my surgeon and I decided this was the best option. I bought about 6 years ago an adjustable bed which has come in handy after a broken ankle and also back surgery I'm still getting used to the idea that I can't sleep on my side. This is the first full video of yours that I am watching and look forward to watching the rest. Thank you again for sharing your story.
I know exactly how you felt. Embrace your new body it'll all be ok and you'll feel empowered.
Olena, thank you very much for your video. I’m having bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction on August 6 due to ductal carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ. I found your channel very interesting and informative. Also my beautiful daughter-in-law is originally from Hawaii! 😊
Thank you so much. Glad I could offer some help and insight. Good luck and just take it slow and steady with your recovery.
Natalie I am in the exact situation & Dx as yourself; Ductual carcinoma along with ductal situ, They will also be taking my ovaries. I will be having the double mass in 1 week. & I still haven't made a solid decision on the reconstruction. I'm only 43yo. The age limit for mammograms needs to be lowered. I sought a drs opinion last year on this, but didn't qualify for the mamm. Until they saw the carsinoma on the outside of my skin. I'm terrified & feel so overwhelmed & underprepared. 🤍 Edit: I'm in Australia for reference...
@@missyemerald I had direct implant reconstruction on top of the chest muscle. That was my choice. I wanted my breast to look as real as possible. And it requires one surgery. If you choose expanders under your muscles you have to go back for another surgery. Take in consideration this also. The reconstruction or no reconstruction does not effect life expectancy. it’s only your preferences. I hope it helps. And good luck to you with whatever you decide to do.
The age for mammogram in the US I believe 40. But if you have any concerns the doctor always can refer you for the diagnostics including mammogram and ultrasound at any age. Just sometimes it take extra effort on our side. I don’t know how it works in Australia though.
@@MissAna5 Thankyou for you reply Natalie, I had an appointment with the plastic surgeon this morning & they don't want to do the reconstruction until 6mths after the mastectomy. They want to wait till after I finish with the chemo & radiation... They say that radiation wrecks the skin. I'm disappointed as I already need 2 surgeries not including reconstruction. Thankyou for letting me know that the recon doesn't affect life expectancy as that was one of the main issues I was stressing over.... I have my pre-op appointment in 3days. It's ALL moving SO fast, Ive never had any surgery ever. Australia starts there mammogram program @ 50yrs old. You have to tick several boxes to be eligible if you are younger. Sending My Best Wishes with loads of love 🤍
@@missyemerald I know how stressful this time is. And I understand that you have a lot to go through and to comprehend. My cancer did not spread to other tissue outside of my breast tissue that is why I did not get any additional treatment after surgery. Just Tamoxifen for 5 years. But yes, if you have to get radiation doctors don’t recommend reconstruction because it damages skin and other body tissue as well as the silicon implants. I’m assuming that your DHA test shows mutations if doctors recommend you to remove your ovaries also. My DHA showed no mutation. That is what makes your case slightly different then mine but I’m sure that everything is going to be ok. Don’t be scared of surgerys. Just stay positive and think about how wonderful it is going to be after full recovery and in stable remission to be able to share your experience with somebody who may need a cheer up 😘My biggest hugs and lots of love❤️🤗 and my best wishes 🙏🏻
I got a small plush stuffed animal to use under my seatbelt.
I also slept on a recliner for the first two weeks. It was hard to get up from the bed with out using my arms. I used a lot of pillows to stay comfortable and not move around too much.
I used a belt I bought on Amazon to carry the drains in the shower and everyday use.
I cleaned my arm pits with alcohol to kill the bacteria. To prevent the bra from getting funky since I was not washing everyday.
I stopped taking Oxy a week after surgery and was also able to drive to my follow up appointments.
I did have an allergic reaction to the adhesive tape the doc put on me after surgery and the itchiness and burning was horrible.
I had my reconstruction done on 30 Dec and I’m very happy with the results. Im in the military and the surgery was conducted by the cancer center at Ft Belvoir and plastic surgery team at Walter Reed.
Radar, I, too have a nasty reaction to the surgical tape, and it wasn't until I viewed some other videos that someone told me to use baby oil on a cotton ball then "satirate" the tape , then gently ease the tape off . It doesn't tear the skin and it's so so so much less painful! Hope that helps you too.
How long does it take for you to able to have your reconstruction done? I have reactions to the medical tapes too it gets itchy and annoying. How do we prevent that from the medical tape
@@mythaichannel9082 Im allergic to latex…reason for the itchiness and blistering. For me it was 3 months but everybody is different…ask your doctor.
I had the same just like you .and did not want any constructive surgery. Happy to stay flat😊❤
Thank you. I had a mastectomy 4 days ago. You are 💯 correct. I love your presentation and I have watched 100s of hours of videos and such and was very connected to yours. Thank you for sharing
Yes, very helpful! You are very brave to post this video and looking at you in your pretty top, nobody knows what you have under your top or bra so honestly nobody but you knows. At least the that's the way I see it for myself; I am considering a flat closure because I just think reconstruction is gross. Society has an obsession with big boobs but I have never shared it, maybe because I've been a natural C to D cup since I was 20. I had a lumpectomy for LCIS in 2017 and recently found I have CHEK2 mutation so I am seriously considering a prophylactic mastectomy with aesthetic flat closure. I do not want two time bombs ticking away on my chest and honestly I'm getting tired of alternating mammo and MRI every six months. I'm five years away from retirement. Who knows what kind of insurance I'll have after I leave my job where I currently have great insurance? My only fear is of looking at myself naked and seeing them gone, but the other 99.9% of the day I have clothes on and nobody knows what's under them, I'm not even really aware of them. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your video.
Having now had the lumpectomy and radiation for breast cancer, I totally relate to what you are saying about what feels like ticking time bombs on my chest even though I am on 5 years of aromatase inhibitor (nearly done with year 1). I too have the CHEK2 mutation but was told last year that not enough was known about it to guide treatment decisions - yet. So I was not offered double mastectomy (my breast surgeon told me I was an optimal surgical candidate for lumpectomy and radiation because my lone small tumor was so close to the sidewall of my chest below my armpit that she could just shell it out and not involve getting at it through my nipple). I actually do not think I would feel fear of seeing myself naked with absence of breast - to me it feels more like I would consider it to be liberation from being held hostage by my known DCIS. We will see what the future holds! Were your treatment decisions guided by discovery of your CHEK2 mutation? I am now 66 and was diagnosed at age 64.
Wonderful video! Thank you for all the things you've shared. I don't know as a guy if I have breast cancer at the moment but this was amazingly informative for a guy too! Thanks again and bless you :)
Love your videos. Just had a unilateral mastectomy last week, wish I had a bilat but I will do that sometime this year. No reconstruction here. Recovery has been great, I did not even stay a night in the hospital, in by 11:30, home by 3!
I've read both that a masectomy can be performed on an outpatient basis or require a few night's stay for observation.
How was yours determined to be outpatient?
@@teeant6922 this is crazy but true. I was wheeled into surgery at 1130 and home by 3 pm, AND we had a 45 minute drive. Amazing what they can do!!
Thank you for this. I have Invasive Ductal Carcinoma and scheduled to have a mastectomy in a few days. I am more scared with this surgery than when I was told of my diagnosis. Now I'm feeling a little relaxed. Thank you...
Me too scared of being painful than was told I am diagnosed with cancer 😭😭 I am having my double mastectomy in 11 days the January 10 start counting down the days now
@@mythaichannel9082 don't be too overly worried about the surgery. The anticipation is more nerve-wracking than the actual procedure itself. Just trust and pray and don't forget to exercise as soon as you are able to.
Olena, you are a beautiful woman! I am just 3 weeks post op. Had bi lateral mastectomy due to cancer on both breasts. I am truly on the fence on reconstruction surgery. I did see your other video giving us your tips on various clothing items and you've inspired me. I'm a bit older than you, and I just don't know if I want to deal with anymore breast related surgeries. All this has been a bit traumatic for me really. Thank you for your honesty and your candidness. I'm a side sleeper myself, and just yesterday I tried....and I mean, I really tried in moving slowly on my side and guess, my body is not ready yet. I was wondering about how long it takes for someone to sleep on their side-so thank you for brining up that topic. The simple things I used to take for granted-lol.
Thank you! Just be patient and kind to yourself and body. Sending you love.
Thank you for being so courageous to share your story. You will help so many women facing this surgery. God bless you pretty lady. ❤
I so appreciate this video (TH-cam served it to me today). I am now 66 (a youthful 66) and was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 64. Although it ended up that I needed lumpectomy and radiation, I sensed immediately that I would want to go flat if I had needed mastectomy. For several reasons, my main ones were that I did not identify feeling feminine with having breasts, at least by age 64 and already 8 years post-menopausal by then (but if you look at me, I have kept my youthful persona anyway, so it was not because of "aging breasts" that I wanted to go flat). The next reason is that I did not want to undergo more surgery - I did not feel there was any benefit to having reconstruction since I would not have wanted - as I have heard it termed - Foobs. I actually felt that going flat would be beautiful. Last, I was concerned that having reconstruction could mask any recurrence of cancer and I strongly felt that having a healthy ongoing life with easy detectability of anything that could crop up later was so much more important to everything than having a semblance of breasts on my chest wall.
So I did my research and learned that the surgical method of achieving a nice mastectomy outcome is called "aesthetic flat closure" and this is specialized training that breast surgeons get if they want to be providers of this service. There are many types of incisions that end up with a smooth, non-dog-eared chest wall result, and an aesthetic flat closure surgeon would not leave excess tissue behind "in case you change your mind" - I keep hearing stories of how a woman's breast surgeon would decide for her and just do this as an end result. That makes me see red. So I learned that in my city, there is such an aesthetic flat closure specialist and I was planning to consult with her when mastectomy was still a consideration. I just want to speak this phrase outright so anyone needing to know about a non-reconstruction option will have heard it.
Finally, I don't remember having a cheesy odor in my armpits - it is not to say I didn't - but I also have discovered a brand of deodorant that blocks odor from forming, and it happens to work remarkably well for me. That might be a consideration for someone who is surprised to have developed a new odor. I did not start wearing this deodorant until I was a month past my last radiation session and I wore no deodorant at all during radiation. It has been over a year since my lumpectomy and radiation and I am feeling totally fit and vital. I am no longer afraid of having developed breast cancer (I did not have a proven high risk gene and did not develop it till age 64) - I am satisfied with my plan for aesthetic flat closure should I have any recurrence into the future. Best to you - you look luminous!
I just read your post. I'm 64 too and had Ductal Carcinoma In Situ diagnosed in September 2022. On December 1st I had a mastectomy on my rt breast for a tumor 10x4 cm. I chose to have an immediate silicone implant. It looks hideous like Frankenstein and I cry when I look at it. The incision goes from left to right horizontal. I keep telling myself it's only 3 weeks post surgery. I had complications of a broken blood vessel and a drain fell out after one week. I got the second drain out yesterday. I've read horror stories about breast implant illness but I just couldn't go flat. I don't know if I made the right decision or not. I'm glad you are doing so well, I can only hope I will be well too. Thank you for your story.
Thank you so much for all that information my sister goes in for a double mastectomy she did have cancer so I'm glad you shared some of the things that could happen,
I’m in my early 20s and my doctor and I are talking about having a double mastectomy and this video helped me a lot
Thank you!
I did.the implants look natural. They did a fantastic job. I didnt want to join all the women in my family that died of breast cancer.
Thanks for sharing...I just had a consultation with a plastic surgeon as I had a unilateral mastectomy to flat last year due to breast cancer and wanted the other boob removed and my doctor agreed to do it only if I see the plastic surgeon first, I am sticking to my original request to go flat on the other side as well....best wishes to you.
I recently tested positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation. After thinking and talking to people close to me, I’ve decided to get the double mastectomy and reconstruction. I’m supposed to go to my doctor to go over my gene test results. I’ll start from there and take things one day at a time.
Hi! Did you ever have a reconstruction? If so, how did it go?
I did this and the reconstruction is beautiful and the whole thing was not nearly as bad as ai thought.
Thanks for your video. I go on Monday for mastectomy, & this information is very helpful. Hugs.
🥺..I am scheduled to go for mastectomy this Monday on 7thMarch 2022...for my wife....
Regards
From Ryan @PNG
@@ryanflogg786 March 8 for me. Hope everything went well for your wife.
Thank you for sharing! You’re beautiful.
Thank you so much
I am so blessed. I had a right breast mastectomy and five lymph nodes, no reconstruction ten weeks ago, finished radiation over two weeks ago at the age of 74.☹
I was not in much pain. I start sleeping on that side after three weeks.
I had three days in hospital and went home with one drain.
Thankfully no smelly armpit.😁.
Started gentle exercises at home almost straight away and am almost back to normal movement.
Scar tissue looks like a mini breast. I'm not going to have any physiotherapy. I massage with coconut oil. I guess that will eventually disappear🤔
I do love my electric blanket and mattress, very comfy.
Thank you for your videos. Love your openness.
Renu Roy from Germany.
Thank you so much for ur advice
you look so beautiful
Thank you so much, I appreciate the positivity.
Thank you ~ I’m having a double mastectomy in one week.
I’m opting for no reconstruction because there are problems with some of that.
So if you can go flat and be beautiful so can I !!!
How r u doing
Thank u so much, i will undergone this after i finish my Chemo therapy.
Hi Olena, My name is Julie. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016. After a double mastectomy, 2 scar revision surgeries and a complete hysterectomy I am completely cancer free. I can relate to all that you talk about so thank you for speaking of things no one wants to talk about. Not sharing info is something I never understood. I too noticed the odor under the arms and did the same thing with constant cleaning. Its better now that I have healed. As far as wearing dress clothes, it has been difficult to find ones that are comfortable and look good. But that's partly my fault as I chose no reconstruction and choose not to wear fake breasts. I saw an interview once with 6 women in various stages of cancer recovery. Some had reconstruction, some not, some had it then had it removed etc. One women said something that seemed to stick with me. She said "I am not having two bodies". Meaning, she is what she is and that is the route I took. It is hard to find dress clothes that look right, I've put on weight and have the buddha belly. I am working on getting rid of the fat and strengthening myself which will help with clothes fitting. Here is a website that my father found for me right after. These can be worn just after surgery. You might want to order some to put in your bra and/or share it with your viewers.
www.knittedknockers.org/
I just wanted to say thank you for your videos, I probably should have done that as I know it helps people. But when you're right in the middle of it, it didn't cross my mind. I hope you stay well and God Bless.
Thank you so much!
Thank you so much for this -- just ordered a pair. That was so nice of your father to do that for you.
You are quite welcome. Yes, it was a kind thing he did for me. We lost him this past April and it's been hard but just like post cancer, we have to keep going. Life goes on and we have to live it the best way we can. Take care of yourself
@@jetsteve6313 I'm very sorry for your loss. All the best.
Thank you for this wonderful video. I'm facing a double mastectomy waiting to get the last results back tomorrow. I have autoimmune diseases and have had so many surgeries in the past 15 years, I don't want any more anesthesia or trauma to my body than is absolutely necessary. I so much appreciated hearing you.
I had a DMX with expanders on May 1st and my doctors never told me how to sleep. I've been sleeping on my back and semi on my sides. I certainly can attest to the smell, but it wasnt my armpits. It seemed to be coming from the incisions, but went away after the first week.
When I worked in nursing, I had patients with contractures, meaning they couldn't open their hand, (for example). So, to prevent skin fungus or odors, we would tuck a soft washcloth into the affected hand, which made the patient much more comfortable....if there is no broken skin, powder is also helpful between the skin folds. Try a soft cloth in the underarm area for added comfort.
You are a remarkable, amazing woman. THANK YOU. You are courageous and generous.
Thank you so much for your help, I'm going to do that this Monday & i decided, No Reconstructing
I hope to as this with respect. I don’t understand why someone would choose to not have reconstructive remaining flat. I’m surprised at the numbers of women choosing this option. I’m actually I’m shocked and burst out loud with “Why “. This is my honest reaction and in no way meant to shame, disrespect or challenge your thoughts, decisions or feelings.
I’m so sorry for the destruction this disease has infiltrated your family with.
I had mastectomy and I feel great
First night in hospital, I didn't sleep. 2nd night at home slept in recliner. 3rd night, I couldn't fall asleep in recliner, so I laid down in bed and fell asleep on my side and continued nights following the same. No one told me not to. I had invasive ductile carcinoma, chemo, my bilateral mastectomy with 3 lymph nodes also involved. I'm 64, still taking HER2 treatments through end of January 2025. Taking 25 radiation treatments from March 19th- April 22nd. I'm high risk, so reconstruction isn't on my radar. No, I'm not happy how tops fit me now. My flatness is more concave. After I heal from radiation I will need to look for some new tops. Prosthetics doesn't seem like the right idea for me either. We'll see. Best wishes .
I should have done the surgery when I was told about my genetic predisposition back in 2019. I did the hysterectomy but just kept screening. Now I have no choice but to do it. It's been stressful. I appreciate the honest words from someone who has done this. I am considering kinds of reconstruction but I'm having a hard time deciding what is right for me. But I feel like less surgeries wouldn't be a bad thing. Hm.
I had a similar experience with a partial mastectomy,except that mine was due to diabetic ketoacidosis that caused sepsis in the right side of my chest.
When I was a child I had. Suffered some burns which caused scar tissue that made my rt side a DD while my left side w a s a C .
I had noticed tenderness and went to my primary and she referred me to ER...they gave me antibiotics and sent me home.
Two days later I was ambulance to ER and woke up 3 days later after 7 surgery in that time.
I had a drain machine for several months. It was open to let it drain the infection and heal on its own.
Ladies...if it doesn't feel right...get it checked...DON'T WAIT...GO TO WALK IN URGENT CARE if you can't get an immediate appointment with your primary dr.
I now have an opening in the center of my chest the size of a baseball because so much skin had turned black and couldn't be saved so that it could be pulled back together nicely.
Sepsis infection can happen even if you're not diabetic
I had the same armpit issues after my shoulder replacement, as my arm was in a sling for over a month. Make sure your pits are dry, as moisture could cause irritation and infection.
Thank you for your important points after mastectomy. God blesses you.
I told them I was going flat and they left me with a lot of extra skin. I looked like I had deflated bags. After 2 years I went back and got that skin removed and it looks much better. I think they thought I would change my mind and want to rebuild, but I wish they had done it right the first time..
Thank you! I’m just starting the journey of bilateral mastectomy for preventative purposes. Your videos not only help me feel prepared but are calming - feeling I’ll get thru this for my healthiest possible future
I'm so glad to see you are doing well and still positive.
I wish someone told me going flat was a serious option...9 years later I still have pain and dream of going flat. I'm so scared of surgery again! I have implants and I really don't want to deal with the issues with them. Uneven, cold and painful sometimes....I just keep praying ♥️
I wish someone had told me also. Reconstruction was the worst experience of my life. Pain from the first day of skin stretching until I had them removed two years later. Unfortunately having reconstruction began a pain syndrome which has destroyed much of my life. I am thankful to be alive & enjoy my grandchildren but I am a different person due to the pain. Perhaps I still have silicone in my body or perhaps the trauma of so many surgeries caused my pain. Please do not do reconstruction ❤️
I think it's a great option. Lot's of issues with implants. I had no idea.
I am having a double mastectomey in a few weeks. Thank you so much.
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Thank you for this information,it really helps
Thanks a lot l will have very soon the one side Mastectomy and really was afraid of every thing about it but now l feel comfortable thank you you . You help me a lot
Thank you so much for sharing
I just had a bilateral mastectomy 2 weeks ago after a diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer. I opted for a “Goldilocks” recon. Folding my own breast skin and folded over, so there’s a 4th grade looking bump now! This is my 2nd time with breast cancer. I made it 12 years. Hoping to make it a lifetime after this time! Ps…I hated the drains! The left drain I think was on a nerve…so milking the drain was like fire!
How are you doing ?
@@jbreezy2501 I’m in remission thank God. The mastectomy was the easy part. The chemotherapy was barbaric! I’m so glad I’m done!
@@nonyabiness4023 what was the issue with chemo if you don't mind me asking
@@jbreezy2501 The fatigue, constipation, no taste, I had thrush in my mouth, caught sepsis, white blood count dropped dangerously low, eyes hurt, everything hurt…lord I’m glad it’s done. Taxotere and cytoxan were the drugs I was given.
Very thoughtful video. Thanks Olena!
Thank you for your kindness.
Thank you so much for info.