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Breast Reconstruction

Hevrington
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I had was diagnose with breast cancer and x2 tumours were found in my right breast through a routine mammogram 

I have a significant cup size difference now and a significant indented scar.  The cup sizes are my right cancer breast is a small d cup but more like an c & my left breast is an e cup, so quite a difference 

I have waited for breast reconstruction but have now been told my only option is to have a mammoplasty and scar revision in my right cancer breast and a breast reduction on my left breast.  This is huge surgery, a long recovery time with potential complications and I’m reading the nipple sensation will be lost and I need to manage my expectations of the outcome.  There is also no guarantee they will look the same and if I gain or lose weight, it will affect my non cancer breast and also as that’s natural and not been exposed to radiation it might drop.  

I feel trapped with the way I look as this was never explained to me and as I was diagnosed through Covid, everything shut down and the services and support network non existent 

I’m really struggling emotionally and devastated none of this was explained before my surgery and radiotherapy 

I had understood any type of recon would be available to me and waiting would be more advantageous.  But now I’m learning that’s just not true once you have had radiotherapy 

How can I know ever know if I’m making the right decision for breast reconstruction and limited options?  

Thank you for your help

Hev Rainbow

  • Hello Hevrington

     

    My name is George, and I am one of the Cancer information nurse specialists here on the Macmillan support line. I am so sorry to read about the stress you are going through as a direct result of not being able to have the type of surgery you were led to believe you would be able to have after breast cancer treatment. I can only imagine how this is weighing on you and also the gravity of making a decision which is right for you. It appears that the only procedure they will offer is now the mammoplasty rather than reconstructive surgery. Unfortunately, we do not have access to personal or medical records on the Macmillan Support Line. We can only offer general support and information based on the information you have provided.

    One option is to contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) at your hospital. You can discuss the concerns and differences in options compared to what you were led to believe you could have. You can also discuss with them the possibility of a second opinion with another surgeon. An external organisation which may also be helpful is the Patients Association. Especially if you believe you have not received the correct advice or care while under the care of the NHS.

    Making the right decision for you is crucial, but it can also be difficult when navigating the Pros and Cons of these procedures.  Breast Cancer Now is a fantastic charity, and you can call and speak to one of their breast cancer specialist nurses regarding the difficulties you are experiencing, both the Psychological impact and the difficulty getting the surgery you want. They are also able to put you in touch with others, such as Someone like me who has had to make similar decisions regarding breast surgeries.  Keeping Abreast is also another very helpful organisation, supporting people through their breast surgery, surgical options and their decision-making process.

    I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

    Kind Regards

    George

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref: FP/DC

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