Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Brazilian Woman Regains Mobility After Rare Gigantomastia Surgery but Faces Regrowth Risk

Relying on $7,200 in crowdfunded donations, she underwent a 10-hour breast reduction removing 22 lbs of tissue, with loss of nipple sensation followed by lifelong inability to breastfeed.

Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Gigantomastia is defined as breast tissue exceeding 5.5 lbs per side and has fewer than 300 documented cases worldwide.
  • Marcondes endured such intense back, shoulder and neck pain that she became reliant on a wheelchair and struggled with basic tasks.
  • After a prolonged wait for Brazil’s public health service, she turned to online fundraising to secure a faster, private operation.
  • She has now regained full mobility and relief from chronic pain, but doctors are monitoring her for rapid tissue regrowth that could necessitate a double mastectomy.
  • Her experience underscores both the profound physical and emotional toll of this condition and the ongoing medical uncertainty patients face after drastic surgery.