WARNING: NSFW / graphic content below.
It has been over ten weeks since my exchange surgery and a month since the infection that lead to removal of my left implant. I originally thought that I may have the next surgery just three months after the deconstruction, however some issues linger.
While I was across the pond, spending time with family after my mother’s passing, I experienced a lot of redness on the left side. I emailed photos to Dr. M and was told that the combination of stress, emotional and physical exhaustion, as well as a possible infection were the very likely cause of the inflammation. He instructed me to finish the antibiotic I proactively picked up on my way to the airport. After a few days, the redness went down and hasn’t resurfaced since. This Wednesday I saw Dr. M for a follow up. He did an ultrasound and discovered a couple of small fluid-filled cavities. I am to finish the antibiotic and keep a very close eye on the area, while the serous fluid is reabsorbed and addressed by my body. If the redness returns, the fluid will be aspirated for a culture and a decision on following treatment. I’m 48 hours drug-free and things are looking good.
In any case, my next surgery is scheduled for April 10, 2014. At this point, it is unknown whether a tissue expander will be needed. Nothing to do now, but sit and wait. This is what things look like now. I am not wearing a prosthesis or going out of my way to camouflage my lack of bosom. I’ve come to the conclusion that other people’s discomfort is their problem.
The reason for halving the volume is pain. The last expansion brought on a lot of pain. Not that I thought it was going to get more pleasant, but it was pretty bad. As usual, the worst of it come early in the morning. I’ve never dreaded getting out of bed so much. As soon as I sat up, gravity would work its magic. Talk about grumpy mornings.
I am now driving and no longer need a chauffeur.
Saying NOPE to Breast Cancer 