Decisions and Options About Surgery

As I was reading over the consents from my plastic surgeon in preparation for my expander-implant exchange, I was rather disheartened about the rate of implant breakage. I knew the implants would only last about 10-15 years, maybe less, perhaps more. It caused me to ask some questions....Here is what I found out.

The numbers I was looking at were for implants made before 1988 (I think, though one study was written in 2000). The improved technology makes the breakage percentage less. Less, not zero, which is why I would be having check-ups very regularly (regular post-ops; 6 mo., 12, month, 24, 36, and 60 months.) The silicone gel is not known to be toxic, but if rupture would occur, it would create need for more surgery of some sort.

There IS still an option for me to have my breasts reconstructed from my own tissue. My plastic surgeon does not do that any more, but there is a surgeon at Baylor who does. It is contra-indicated for me, because we are needing to do both sides, and that is a lot of tissue. The procedure is painful, and could leave me prone to hernias. With all that said, I am still considering it pretty seriously. I am just wondering if it is a better long-run decision.

So....your prayers are appreciated as we decide which option to take!