My reconstruction turned into 4 surgeries, 9 transfusions & a cardiac arrest… I need advice

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:

• I was bleeding internally, possibly due to a nicked artery or one not being attached properly
• I was taken back for multiple surgeries (2nd and 3rd), but they said they couldn’t find the source of the bleed, flushed me out, stitched me back up, and returned me to the ward… where I continued to bleed
• This led to 9 blood transfusions

When it comes to the cardiac arrest, the explanation has changed:

• Initially, the anaesthetist suggested it could have been because my blood was so diluted that a standard dose may have been too much (essentially an overdose)
• Later, this was changed to an “allergic reaction”, even though I’ve had that drug before without issue, and they couldn’t find another similar case

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 💛