Image - Sylvia -Tissue expander

Age 51 at diagnosis (1996)
Age 52 in photo (1997)

I had a needle-directed biopsy followed by a mastectomy. An expander was inserted at the time of surgery. I had an implant, plus the construction of a nipple and areola, at the time of my second surgery six months later when the expander was removed. After reading Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book, I was confident about my decision and certain of my choice of treatment.

At first I sometimes avoided looking in the mirror; but, as the expander was filled, I was really pleased with the results. If I had to do it over again I would do it the same way. I would definitely recommend this type of plastic surgery for others.

Partner's observations:

Before the surgery I was worried, but confident that the surgery would be successful; I was relieved and thankful that everything went well.

Photos courtesy of Show Me (2nd Edition), A Photo Collection of Breast Cancer Survivors' Lumpectomies, Mastectomies, Breast Reconstructions and Thoughts on Body Image. Show Me is a visual resource book presenting color photographs of and commentary from thirty breast cancer survivors mostly from Penn State Hershey Medical Center's Breast Cancer Support Group in Hershey, PA. To order a copy of this incredible resource, visit the The Penn State Hershey Medical Center's Women's Health web site.