I had my surgery as a private patient in Sydney, and all other treatment as a public patient locally. I had chemo before surgery, and self referred to local breast care nurses. If I hadn't really pushed, I think I'd still be waitng for a response! On the flip side, when I had my surgery at a private hospital, I saw a breast care nurse every day. When I went home, I had regular phone calls for over 12 months post op.
My follow up was clearly mapped out for me as to what should happen. My surgeon has always been availble for an extra appointment if I had questions or concerns, as has my medical oncologist. I haven't required extra with the radiation oncologist, so I'm not sure about her, but she has always been informative and approachable.
Whilst I was aware my risk of lymphoedema (I had an axillary clearance - painful nodes my only symptom) I didn't expect it to develop so early - 6 weeks post op, went in to my 1st sleeve the day I started radiotherapy. Now that has been a financial shock!
