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emma26's avatar
emma26
Member
10 years ago

Reconstruction public waiting list

Hi guys,

This is my first post. After being diagnosed with Dcis in April last year at 25 years old, I have completed chemo (act dose dense), had a bilateral mastectomy and gone through 25 rounds of radiation. I am now on the public hospital waiting list and ready to switch my expander over to an implant. I have only been on the waiting list for over 13 days however as I had a holiday planned and was worried my surgery could be scheduled on a day while I was away, I advised the hospital about my holiday plans and they classified me as "not ready for care". The hospital has listed my case as category 2 semi urgent which apparently states I should be scheduled a surgery date within 90 days. I am back from my holiday and am now extremely worried my holiday will mean I will have to wait longer to have my surgery. I have heard online that some ladies have had to wait up to 2 years. The expander has been causing me great discomfort lately. The plastic surgeon looking after my case was advised of my holiday plans, I'm not sure if this will have any effect on my surgery date.

Just thought I would ask if anyone has had their exchange surgery through the public system and how long they had to wait? I'm based in south east Melbourne. Any responses would be greatly appreciated.

Thankyou!

3 Replies

  • shell-ie78's avatar
    shell-ie78
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Emma,

    Although I had my reconstruction at the time of mastectomies March 2015 I just had another surgery to fix one that had moved (yes, they can move). It was a category 2 procedure and I think I was put on "waitlist" at Monash Moorabbin in March this year...I had the surgery 2 weeks ago. Know it's not the same but it is the same category, hope that gives  you a guide. 

    Cheers Shellie

  • Autore's avatar
    Autore
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Emma

    Do you have a breast care nurse ? Mine helped manage my surgery dates and appointments. My first surgery took a month to schedule. I still have more surgery to complete and the plastics team help prioritize with the hospital. I guess it depends on your pain as well. If pain increases you should let them know ASAP. 

    Wishing you all the best xo

  • AndyH's avatar
    AndyH
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Emma I have also recently been diagnosed with DCIS and have had a unilateral mastectomy. Sorry I can't assist with your questions as I have gone the private route hopefully someone out there can give you some good advice.