Mastectomy delays, is it safe to wait

1 reply
44 subscribers
107 views

Hello I was diagnosed with 3 invasive ductal carcinomas in my right breast about 4 weeks ago. They are grade 1 and the largest is 1 cm. I also have extensive micro calcifications.

I was originally given a surgery date for New Year’s Eve but during a consultation regarding reconstruction I was recommended a mastectomy with immediate Diep flap reconstruction which will involve a referral to a larger hospital with a dedicated plastic surgery team..

I was initially told by the original hospital that the wait would be 4-6 weeks. I’m now told by the new hospital it could be 8-10 weeks and I’m panicking . . .I know my tumours are slow growing and small but is it safe to wait? Or should I ask to proceed with the mastectomy and the have reconstruction later. As I’ve been handed off from one hospital to another I’m struggling to know who to speak to to get answers. I don’t have a first consultation at the new hospital for another 2 weeks

I do have private health cover but am struggling to find any consultants who do this and who have availability.

Linda J - Macmillan 2 months ago

Hello Blue_Geranium,

Thanks for getting in touch with us during what sounds like a very difficult and stressful time for you. I’m Linda, one of the nurses from our support line. I hope you are finding the online community helpful.

It’s natural to feel this way and it’s understandable that you are not sure what to do for the best.

Many people feel anxious and panicky while they are waiting. The waiting period might feel very long.

There is no right or wrong way to deal with these feelings. Some people find it helps to carry on with their usual activities as much as possible. Continuing with everyday activities, such as going to work, can be a welcome distraction from worrying.

You mention that your tumours are small and slow growing, it’s difficult for us to say specifically if it’s safe to wait but it’s unlikely that a short delay will have an impact for you.

I would encourage you to contact the first hospital and have a chat about the possibility of having surgery with them. It’s possible that they may not be able to offer you surgery any sooner now, as they have passed your care to the other hospital.

You may wish to call the new hospital and see if its’ possible to bring your appointment forward or to ask if you could be considered if there is a cancellation.

I appreciate that you have tried to speed things up, with thinking about having private treatment but as you have experienced, there is often a waiting period for them too.

You may find it helpful to speak to one of the nurses directly on the support line. This will give you the opportunity to go through your concerns in more detail. This can help us to give you the best guidance.

If you think this may help, please call the number below.

I hope this helps.

Take care and best wishes,

Linda J. (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 or use webchat.

Ref: LJ/HK

Disclaimer

Mastectomy delays, is it safe to wait