Hello Sally and thanks for posting

I'm sorry to read about the difficulties you've faced with your reconstructive surgery and in trying to have your other breast removed. It sounds incredibly frustrating especially as you say it's affecting your quality of life.

Doctors often follow specific guidelines and recommendations based on your individual risk of developing cancer in your other breast. If  they assess your risk as low, for instance, if you don't have a genetic predisposition like a BRCA fault, they may believe that having a preventative mastectomy isn't medically necessary.

I'm not sure if the NHS would fund surgery that would be thought as cosmetic/appearance changing for psychological reasons but there is certainly no harm in asking your surgical team, perhaps your breast care nurse can find this out on your behalf.

It may also help to talk over your concerns and ask for some additional support to explore your feelings. Your GP may also be able to help with this. 

I hope this reply helps a little. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Celene

Hello Sally and thanks for posting

I'm sorry to read about the difficulties you've faced with your reconstructive surgery and in trying to have your other breast removed. It sounds incredibly frustrating especially as you say it's affecting your quality of life.

Doctors often follow specific guidelines and recommendations based on your individual risk of developing cancer in your other breast. If  they assess your risk as low, for instance, if you don't have a genetic predisposition like a BRCA fault, they may believe that having a preventative mastectomy isn't medically necessary.

I'm not sure if the NHS would fund surgery that would be thought as cosmetic/appearance changing for psychological reasons but there is certainly no harm in asking your surgical team, perhaps your breast care nurse can find this out on your behalf.

It may also help to talk over your concerns and ask for some additional support to explore your feelings. Your GP may also be able to help with this. 

I hope this reply helps a little. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Celene