BRCA1 / Category 3 / Waiting list...is this normal?

Hello All, I'm hoping for some advice and feedback. After being diagnosed with HER2 positive BC, I was treated at St.Vincent's public (Melbourne). I was sent to Peter Mac, genetic clinic where I was found to carry BRCA1. I was told to finish my treatment (radiation) and then to return to Peter Mac to deal with the results. Six months later I had my ovaries removed. Another six moths later I was added to the waiting list for DIEP surgery, despite the fact I had made the decision to have the surgery. Now 18 months later I am still on the waiting list, to be told that the plastic surgeon is on unplanned leave and everything is further delayed. As I understand it, I can: be referred to another plastic surgeon at the Peter Mac, get a referral and ring around other public hospital or go private (jeez...why didn't I think of that one 18 months ago?)
Has anyone else had similar experiences? Is this a Peter Mac thing or just the way the public system works?
Has anyone else had similar experiences? Is this a Peter Mac thing or just the way the public system works?
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All the best, it sure does suck having to wait that long, afterall this is Australia not a third world country.
So ovaries are gone which is great.
Remember this is prophylactic surgery and at this time doesn't pose an immediate risk. You would still be under breast surgeon and oncology review so it's not like you aren't being reviewed.
But it wouldn't hurt to make the phone calls you suggested and also ask if replacement surgeon has been hired to cover leave.
however my young friend I met at chemo came back brca2 during treatment and has had her implants and bilat mastectomy done already after being referred in August, I think it was only 2 months wait. Its probably the need for plastics as opposed to just breast surgeons being DIEP.
if you have private cover maybe get some quotes to see your out of pocket and decide from there?
I just wanted to say that we are lucky to have our public health system, it sometimes takes some time but the services really are excellent.
All the best.
I will be having a bilateral mastectomy in the coming months and went to see a private reconstructive plastic surgeon to get a quote to have a Tram Flap procedure and was quoted $13500 for his services and then the anaesthesia bill would be separate. This cost would be roughly $800/hr for a 10 hour operation. 😱😱😱
Christine x
@Christine_66
Not sure what area you are from but the link above will give you support groups
just a little update from my last post. Saw my surgeon yesterday and my bilateral mastectomy is booked for 20th April. I’m able to finish my weight loss program (end March) and continue with my swimming and gym programs to be as healthy as possible for my operation. While I will be anxious as this day comes closer, I am feeling a sense of relief today finally making this decision. It actually feels like a weight has been lifted 🤗