Forum Discussion

M0nP's avatar
M0nP
Member
5 months ago

Double mastectomy and immediate reconstruction

Hi all, new member of this exclusive club nobody wants to be a part of! Just found out the lump in my right breast is cancer 5 days ago. I’m 43 and considered young for cancer (how nice… been a while since I’ve been called young 😅) I am still in shock so have gone into plan mode. I Still don’t know what stage type or grade yet but scheduled for a breast MRI and biopsy tomorrow.

My question is if anyone has ever been through Peter Mac as either a public or private patient? What was the experience like? How long was the wait for surgery and reconstruction? I’m not sure if my private will cover all costs of surgery as my surgeon (who operates privately) so far says I’m a candidate for a double mastectomy but is waiting on biopsy report and MRI. Ideally I am leaning towards an immediate DIEP reconstruction. Anyone had that before? Thank you 🙏 

breast reconstruction
mastectomy
treatment decisions
young women breast cancer

5 Replies

  • Suki's avatar
    Suki
    Member
    5 months ago

    Hi M0nP​ 

    So sorry to hear of your diagnosis.

    I was 47 at diagnosis and thought the same as you (about being called young!) - love your sense of humour 😆 You may wish to consider genetic testing due to your age - I did genetic counselling, but didn't go ahead with the test as the percentages were low and it may affect life insurance.  Maybe ask your surgeon or breast cancer nurse for more info.

    After all your tests, you will likely receive a plan forward which will confirm your surgery.  I ended up having to do chemo first, then surgery (but that scenario is less common and you may not need chemo at all).

    I had a double mastectomy and immediate recon, but not at Peter Mac - I'm in Perth.  I had wanted DIEP flap recon, but unfortunately my surgeon advised there wasn't enough flesh for it, so I ended up with implants (which I am happy with).

    There is a private group you can join on here called Group: Choosing breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network which might be of interest, where people have posted details and photos.

    All the best with your MRI and biopsy xx

     

    • M0nP's avatar
      M0nP
      Member
      5 months ago

      Thank you for your response Suki! I had my biopsy and MRI today and now we wait, till Friday. This waiting thing really sucks. I was told about genetic testing and I have already sent a sample off, I didn’t realise it would affect life insurance but of course it makes sense. I have 2 little girls so it was important for us to know if it’s genetic.
      So great that you are happy with your implants post DMX, I did briefly consider it but my 2 emergency C-sections have left me with just enough fat to stuff into my breasts 😂 glad that overhang is not completely useless after all. I’m sincerely hoping I skip the chemo not that hormone therapy sounds like a walk in the park.  I did try joining the group you suggested but my request has not been accepted. Hoping it’s accepted soon so I get a little insight into what the experience is like before I have to decide 🤞

  • Charles6's avatar
    Charles6
    Member
    5 months ago

    Welcome M0nP​ , and I’m so sorry you’re facing this. Many here have gone through similar journeys, including double mastectomy with immediate DIEP reconstruction. While experiences vary, Peter Mac is known for excellent care, though wait times can differ between public and private patients. It’s great you’re gathering info early stay strong and keep asking questions. You’re not alone, and this community is here to support you every step of the way. 🙏💖

    • M0nP's avatar
      M0nP
      Member
      3 months ago

      Thank you for your words of support I do appreciate it ♥️😊 this community and the information I have received even from reading others posts have been a valuable resource for me. 

  • iserbrown's avatar
    iserbrown
    Member
    5 months ago

    https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/surgery-and-breast-reconstruction/breast-reconstruction/

    Welcome to the forum 

    From your post it sounds like you've made your preferred choice of reconstruction 

    The link above gives an overview of all choices

    Reconstruction surgery is a discussion to be had with your treating Surgeon.   As someone commented earlier, after tests it was determined they were not a candidate for DIEP surgery 

    https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/about-breast-cancer/types-and-subtypes-of-breast-cancer/

    There are many types of Breast Cancer.   The link above will give you some understanding for when your results are in

    Take care