Hi Mary,

I sometimes read in this group because my mother was a victim of
breast cancer.
I'm not the kind of person who press my ideas on others, but I would
like for you to look at the following web site if you so choose,
before making your decision:
http://www.freewebs.com/buymybreasts/index.htm

The site showcases the stories of women who have had breast implants
and their experiences.

My mother was one of those women...Charlene.  She chose a silicone
implant in the early 80's after recovering from a radical mastectomy.
Her implant did not last even ten years.  In 1989 she was rushed to
the hospital with a high temp and severe vaginal bleeding.  Her
implant had ruptured, the silicone had traveled throughout her torso,
and much of it landed in her pelvis and caused deterioration of her
uterus.  She had to have explant, silicone removal, and hysterectomy.

In 2002 my mother died of Leukemia.  I often wonder if silicone
poisoning was the cause.

Every person has a right to choose their health care options, but I
hope that in choosing you make an informed decision.

Much luck to you,

Betty Wirsen

Hello Mary E.,

I had reconstruction surgery with an expander that was gradually filled with
a saline solution through a port.  The port was then removed and the implant
sealed.  This was 23 years ago and so far, I've had no problem.  At the time
I first consulted about reconstruction, one stage surgery wasn't available.
A few months later, when I had finished chemo and was on summer break and
ready to have the surgery, the "Becker" expander had been devised, so that
is what my plastic surgeon used.  There was a second surgery (a year later)
to make a nipple, but it had nothing to do with the implantation of the
prosthesis.  I've been satisfied with the result, although it isn't just
perfect.  I've gained weight since, and those implants don't grow just
because the rest of the body has! ;-)  I wish you luck with your decision.
You've probably already made it by now.  Let us know how you are doing!

Barb

If  I am understanding you right you are taking about a one stage breast
implant opposed to an expander then a new implant switched at a later time ?
It is becoming more and more popular here,, the surgeon uses an alloderm ( a
mesh type material) to hold the implant in. They are do this more and more
an will soon out place the two step system. I have not heard of any problems
with the implant leaking.  I understand that you have to give an answer
tomorrow, but couldn't you say yes and change you mind? Alex

I was able to leave my expander in and so far all is fine....
Pami