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I think anyone who doesn't have immediate reconstruction faces a long wait. 
I had issues with my treatment and transferred to another hospital. They can schedule my Mx but don't have time for a reconstruction, although I could have had one at my first hospital. I can understand that, but was gutted to find out last week that I now have to wait six months after Mx before I can request a second meeting with the PS to discuss joining his waiting list. Just want to put all this behind me and get on with my life, but it will be two or three years now. Radiotherapy is not an issue in my case.
I had issues with my treatment and transferred to another hospital. They can schedule my Mx but don't have time for a reconstruction, although I could have had one at my first hospital. I can understand that, but was gutted to find out last week that I now have to wait six months after Mx before I can request a second meeting with the PS to discuss joining his waiting list. Just want to put all this behind me and get on with my life, but it will be two or three years now. Radiotherapy is not an issue in my case.
Hi Gay,
Just to be clear, I was only 24 hrs in ICU then transfered to my own room for 5 days
Sue is right it is a 'big' op. If you don't mind the grizzly stuff you can watch the proceedure on youtube - not everyones ball game but I found it personally helpful. My medical team would not discharge me untill all my drains were removed, the last one clearing on the 6th day.
Pam, did you have a breast reduction to gain symmetry, and are you happy with the end result?
Suzy
Just to be clear, I was only 24 hrs in ICU then transfered to my own room for 5 days
Sue is right it is a 'big' op. If you don't mind the grizzly stuff you can watch the proceedure on youtube - not everyones ball game but I found it personally helpful. My medical team would not discharge me untill all my drains were removed, the last one clearing on the 6th day.
Pam, did you have a breast reduction to gain symmetry, and are you happy with the end result?
Suzy
Hello Gay,
I can't answer your questions about time scales for delayed recon as I had my MX,ANC and Diep together.
However I believe some of the physical criteria for Diep recon are, previous scars on the tummy, being considered over weight, or too slender. Smoking, as it cuts down your healing abilities. With all plastic surgery it seems the patients expections also play a part, as further surgery to the healthy breast may be necessary to achieve symmetry.
As to recovery, post op I was 24hrs in ICU, 5 days in my own room, and up and walking straight 2nd day after surgery. It was difficult to get in and out of bed, but tramadol eased the way. I had five drains, all removed before leaving hospital.Once home I gradually came off painkillers and took it easy. I am now 5 weeks on and back to driving, wearing jeans, and doing most things domestic, but not lifting heavy weight. My tummy scar has healed very well and the new position of my belly button is looking good. I have been very good and worn my nhs tubular corset day and night
, swapping it out for light control M&S pants occasionaly. My breast scars have been slower to heal, but are on the way now. The new boob feels very firm, but I am assured it will soften in time.
If I had my time over would I choose Diep? Yes, my new breast is my own tissue which is important to me. My surgeons did a great job, and I had a good recovery.
Hope I've been of some help. Virtual hugs to you too.
Suzy
I can't answer your questions about time scales for delayed recon as I had my MX,ANC and Diep together.
However I believe some of the physical criteria for Diep recon are, previous scars on the tummy, being considered over weight, or too slender. Smoking, as it cuts down your healing abilities. With all plastic surgery it seems the patients expections also play a part, as further surgery to the healthy breast may be necessary to achieve symmetry.
As to recovery, post op I was 24hrs in ICU, 5 days in my own room, and up and walking straight 2nd day after surgery. It was difficult to get in and out of bed, but tramadol eased the way. I had five drains, all removed before leaving hospital.Once home I gradually came off painkillers and took it easy. I am now 5 weeks on and back to driving, wearing jeans, and doing most things domestic, but not lifting heavy weight. My tummy scar has healed very well and the new position of my belly button is looking good. I have been very good and worn my nhs tubular corset day and night
, swapping it out for light control M&S pants occasionaly. My breast scars have been slower to heal, but are on the way now. The new boob feels very firm, but I am assured it will soften in time.If I had my time over would I choose Diep? Yes, my new breast is my own tissue which is important to me. My surgeons did a great job, and I had a good recovery.
Hope I've been of some help. Virtual hugs to you too.
Suzy
