Diep wait time

HiAnnabannana​ 

I believe wait times for reconstructive surgery involving your own tissue ( such as DIEP) are less in  the major capital cities but nevertheless are long.

The DIEP flap surgery is a major surgery ( much bigger than implants) and like all surgeries in the public system there are wait times and guidelines.

I had my double mastectomy and then delayed DIEP flap surgery in the private system so I didn’t have to wait but it  cost a lot even though I was in a private health fund.

My surgery involved 2 plastic surgeons and took 9 hours and I was in hospital for 6 days including first night in intensive care.

Also if you are thinking of reconstruction ask to join the choosing breast reconstruction group on here it has lots of helpful personal stories and photos.

There is also a private group for those considering staying flat you might want to join to see the stories and photos on there .

Ring the helpline and they should be able to help you .

All the best.

Hey Annabannana (love the username ;-))

Do you happen to know whether you’ve been listed as Category 2 or Category 3 for your DIEP surgery?

There aren’t official statistics specific to DIEP procedures, but the wait times you mention do align with what we have heard across Vic for Category 3 patients in the public system. While Category 3 surgeries are intended to occur within 12 months, in practice they are often delayed. 

Here’s a general overview of how categories are assigned:

• Category 3: Typically applies if the surgery is preventative (e.g. no prior breast cancer), or if you’ve had breast cancer but are considered low risk for recurrence. It also includes delayed reconstructions after a past mastectomy.
  
  
• Category 2: Usually applies when there has been a recent cancer diagnosis and the person is considered at higher risk, making reconstruction more urgent. The recommended timeframe is within 90 days.

Each hospital may apply these categories slightly differently, but they follow national guidelines.

If you’re unsure of your category, it’s worth checking with your treating specialist or hospital — especially if something has changed, as they may be able to reassess/clarify your urgency level.