I am so sorry to hear your story Nisey You've been thru the mill, that is for sure.
Gosh, that's a HUGE number of blood transfusions .... was it due to your low blood pressure? Did they say what brought it on?
They usually warn you beforehand that any surgery procedure comes with inherent risks .... but you never expect anything to actually happen, that is for sure!
Did they fully explain to you what brought on the cardiac arrest, other than mentioning the anaesthetic drug (that you'd had before without incident?)
Have you spoken to your Breast Care Nurse to see if they have heard of others having similar occurrences? Is she aware of others who've had incidents with that particular surgeon?
I think you'd need to get your head around all the facts before approaching any lawyers. It would be good if you could somehow get a copy of your hospital file, that is for sure!
Maybe it was something to do with the drugs used to 'wake you up'? Are you allergic to anything? If yes, were they aware of it?
I hope you are recovering well both physically and mentally ..... maybe chat with our helpline, if you'd like a confidential chat with someone? 1800 500 258 (Mon-Fri, 9-5)
Take care
Thank you so much for your kind message, I really appreciate it 💕
I completely understand that all surgery comes with risks, and I was prepared for that. The only complication that was explained to me beforehand was that around 5% of DIEP flap reconstructions can fail—but not in the way that mine did.
What’s been really difficult is that things just don’t seem to add up, and I’ve been left with more questions than answers.
From what I’ve been told:
When it comes to the cardiac arrest, the explanation has changed:
I’ve even been told that I’m a “unicorn case”, which honestly doesn’t sit comfortably with me.
After the reconstruction failed, the breast had to be removed, and I was left with a large open wound with a VAC dressing for 3 weeks, before going back into surgery again for a skin graft from my thigh to my chest.
I’m now dealing with the long-term physical impact (tightness and appearance that is worse than my original mastectomy), as well as the emotional toll—I’ve since been diagnosed with PTSD and am in therapy.
I have spoken with my breast care nurse, and she has been supportive, but understandably there is only so much she can do beyond listening and offering support.
I think what I’m really struggling with is the lack of clear answers and the changing explanations.
I’m also in the process of looking into obtaining all of my medical records so I can better understand exactly what happened.
If anyone has been through anything even remotely similar, or has gone through the process of getting answers (medical or legal), I would be so grateful to hear from you.
Thank you again for your support 💛
