Managed to get what I wanted and date at last.

Going through breast cancer treatment Surgery
1

Hi All

I have had 3 separate meetings with 3 different plastic surgeons now regarding my op. They have agreed on a date. Because my sentinel node op has come back clear they have a clearer view of what the op will entail. The initial aim was for a mastectomy and an immediate DIEP flap reconstruction and then reduce the other in about a year’s time. I asked them if they would now be able to reduce the other in the same op (for my personal medical complications it is a risk to put me under general so it would keep it to one op). They have agreed to do this now so hopefully, I should come out more level.

I’m not expecting a perfect match but I never show them or wear bikinis etc so I’m sure at a reduction to C cup from G any difference is not going to stand out!!

I’m relieved at the decision just worried about the long op now. I’ve been told they’ll all operate at the same time but it’ll take about 11 hours. The op starts at 7.30, and pre-op well before then so I’ll be ready for a sleep. They’re going to keep me in 5 days after. Its not till 28th Feb that all the surgeons can get together and one cannot bring the date forward so I have to settle for that. Now I know it’s clear and no breakthrough I should settle at least. Start getting ready for it now. 

Has anyone else had this operation before? Would be interested in their experience please.

Thanks

Sam x

2

Hi Sam, 

 

How are you? 
I was diagnosed with IDC grade 2 (oestrogen pos and HER2 pos) which has spread to lymph nodes. I started chemo in sept and completed it in dec, however I had to go back last week for a final round due to the fact I should of been seen by surgeon and have had surgery by now. (I sure why this has happened but would have left me too long between chemo and surgery). 
I was in last week to see breast and plastic surgeon along with reconstruction nurse to go over my options. I too will be having he DIEP  as implant not an option due to me having radiotherapy afterwards. I will also be having a full node clearance at the same time. I am an E cup and I believe they are hopeful that they can match up but may need some ‘tweaks’ at a later date. 
The surgeon told me that he has done the surgery in 6 hours before but has also had one last 16 hours and to expect to stay anything from 5-10 days. 
I am a little bit frustrated as I still have no date for surgery as the departments are all still trying to get one that fits all of them. Im a little bit apprehensive as to whether this is the right decision but given my age (35) I feel I might regret not going for reconstruction at a later date. I have spoken to several people who are delighted with the outcome of the DIEP and who have said they were more uncomfortable than sore afterwards. 

xx