HI Jane,

Avery warm welcome to our forum.

I am sorry to hear of all the symptoms that you've had with your breast. I am not a doctor, but I understand that not all cancers show up with a mammogram or ultrasound and may therefore need additional tests. I had mucinous breast cancer, which didn't show up on mammogram either. I have had 2 bouts of this, 1 year apart. The second time I had a double mastectomy. Unfortunately, due to previous non-cancer related surgery, I was unable to have reconstruction. That was all 14 years ago and I still lead a busy and fulfilled life.

It is good news that you don't appear to have any spread. The decision about reconstruction is always a difficult one. There does seem to be quite a long wait for a delayed one, although waiting times seem to vary throughout the country. Have you been told how long you might have to wait for a plastic surgeon to become available? It would certainly be easier to have everything done in one go. Try to tie your care team down to a specific time scale for immediate reconstruction before making a final decision.

I am not aware of any age related restrictions for Diep. It is probably more important that the skin is healthy to make this a viable option.

Whatever you decide, I hope that you reach the right decision for you. Do you have a date for your mastectomy soon?

Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi there , so sorry to hear your diagnosis . Looking on here it seems apparent that a delayed reconstruction is classed as “ cosmetic” ridiculous I know , and therefore ladies have been waiting about two years for surgery . For immediate reconstruction and DIEP they need two surgeons . Having a DIEP requires enough abdominal tissue to make a new breast and age is not a barrier. It’s a big decision for you , but I advise to do a little research first . I wish you well x Let us know how you are doing. 

Hi there , so sorry to hear your diagnosis . Looking on here it seems apparent that a delayed reconstruction is classed as “ cosmetic” ridiculous I know , and therefore ladies have been waiting about two years for surgery . For immediate reconstruction and DIEP they need two surgeons . Having a DIEP requires enough abdominal tissue to make a new breast and age is not a barrier. It’s a big decision for you , but I advise to do a little research first . I wish you well x Let us know how you are doing.