DIEP in London, ON

marxi

Thanks, Sharon and Chalex.  Wish I was going to be there on the 2nd!    I'm there on the 4th again.  Yes, Dr. E is awesome and very committed to his patients and his work.  For me, it's been a difficult and frustrating experience which I have regretted many times; however, this is not the typical experience and I'm sure you both will do fine when your time comes.  Even though I'm far from where I want to be, it's great to have support from you and others here.  In time, my issues will be resolved and I may feel very differently then.  I will see how work goes and if needed will go half days or alternate days.  Happy Easter to you both.

Annamomof2

Hello Ladies:

I'm new to this as well and would really like to be a part of this chat.  Can someone please post a message so that I know it worked for me?  I'm also a breast cancer survivor looking for reconstructive surgery.  Please Help!

Thanks!  Anna

Annamomof2

Hello Again:  I see my message posted so it must have worked.  I too am a Breast Cancer Survivor-twice.  I was diagnosed the first time in 1995 when I was 31 years old and again in my other breast in 2000.  I've had a double mastectomy.  I've been wearing a prosthesis all this time but I've finally decided to have reconstructive surgery.  I have so many questions.  I saw Dr. Fortin back in 2009 but I wasn't mentally prepared to have the surgery.  I finally made the decision to book the surgery last fall.  I was given an appt. for May 2011 since she was on mat. leave.  When I called to confirm my appt. I was told that she was moving!  I was so disappointed.  I am looking for a surgeon and I have checked this message board and I see that you all have wonderful things to say about Dr. Evans.  I'm still torn about have the DIEP or breast implants.  What are your thoughts on this?  I just want to look and feel normal again.  It's taken me 16 years to make this decision but I've always been afraid that why ruin a good thing since I've been cancer free for so long.  Has anyone else had surgery besides Marxi?  By the way Marxi, I wish you all the best - what doesn't kill us will make us stronger!  

Anna (mom of 2)

Sharon789

Hi Anna,

Welcome but also sorry to hear you have to be here.   I have decided to have the reconstruction surgery but as I`ve researched it seems to be a very personal choice. Pros and cons for each type of surgery and depends on your previous treatment and the opinion of the surgeon.  I have not had my surgery but will be working with Dr. Evans.  I have not seen any other plastic surgeon to compare. At this point it will be the DIEP but I hope to have another visit with the surgeon to help answer my questions.

Marxi,  how are things with you....I hope you are getting stronger every day!

 Sharon

chalex

Hi Anna,

I am in the process of figuring out my options for reconstruction. Marxi has had the DIEP reconstruction with Dr Evans. I have seen Dr Evans ( for a consult on the reconstruction) and I liked him lots. I have also seen Dr Temple and she is highly recommended too. Do you have a referall for any PS in London? Do you know what kind of reconstruction you are interested in?

I will do my best to give you any info. you need.

Regards,

Chalex

Diagnosis: Aug, 2009, IDC, 7cm, Grade 3, 0/15 ER+/PR+, HER+

right mx, full axillary node dissection, Feb, 2010

Annamomof2

Hi Chalex:

Originally I was planning on having the DIEP surgery because I didn't like the idea of having a foreign object in my body (implants).  I work with 2 women, one who has had implants and the other who has had the DIEP.  They had the same surgeon here in Windsor but that surgeon is no longer performing breast reconstruction.  I've had 1 consult with 2 different surgeons in London, Dr. Fortin and Dr. Scilley.  Dr. Scilley was very nice and made me feel so comfortable.  The only drawback is that he's not a microsurgeon and would have had to refer me to someone else for the tatooing and nipple reconstruction and I want the same surgeon to perform everything if possible.  He also doesn't perform DIEP.  If he did, I wouldn't think twice about him since I really felt like I would be in good hands.  When I saw Dr. Fortin she went over the pros and cons of having the DIEP.  It just scared me so much because it's a 10-12 hour surgery, they have to break 1 or 2 of the ribs to get to the main artery to reconnect the blood supply and there was a possibility of getting a hernia and that the breast wouldn't survive.  On the plus side, you're using your own body and wouldn't need further surgeries like the implants since they need to be replaced every 10 years or so.  I'm really confused at this point.  Dr. Fortin has since moved away and now I'm looking for a surgeon.  I will ask the Cancer Clinic if I can get a referral to Dr. Evans since he sounds amazing. Have you thought of implants at all? Are Dr. Temple and Dr. Evans both at University Hospital?  Who are you deciding to have the surgery with?  Have you booked anything yet? Since this is all new to me, are you concerned about the security of this website?  I'm wondering if it would be better to use our own personal email address.  What do you think?

Thanks,

Anna

Diane31

Hi everyone, This is my first post . Its been 4 yrs since my mastectomy and I am finally ready for breast reconstruction. My surgeon is getting me an appointment with Dr Evans but I still haven't heard anything and it has been since April 11, 2011.  Is this normal ?  Should I call and find out what is going on?  Please help.

chalex

Hi Anna,

You can PM on the boards. The Private Message button is at the top of this website.

Ok, Yes Dr Fortin is moving away. Dr Evans does do the DIEP procedure. He is very nice and does a great job. I have spoken to a friend of mine who is a nurse in that clinic. He works out of University Hospital. Dr Temple also does the DIEP procedure. She works out of St Joseph's Hospital. There is a long wait to have her if you want the DIEP procedure with Dr Temple.The wait for DIEP with Dr Evans is shorter. Dr Temple is also great.

I am going to wait to decide on what I am planning on doing b/c I was part of a research study for locally advanced BC. My surgeon is Dr Brackstone and she knows the study best. I want her opinion on reconstruction and it's impact on the treatment I rec'd in the study. I see her next week. I can tell you the DIEP procedure is about 12 hours long in the OR and it can take some time to fully recover. You also stay in hospital about 5 nights and come home with drains too.

Diane31, Welcome to the BC board and nice to meet you. You will find lots of amazing women who can help you out on an assortment of topics. I would call your surgeon's office first and ask if the referall was sent to Dr Evans' office. If your surgeon's office has sent it I would call Dr Evans office and ask for the appointment. Dr E is located at University Hospital. I would definately follow up. Let me know how you make out and if I can answer any questions for you.

Regards,

Chalex

Diane31

Thanks Chalex. I called my surgeons office and they got my appt yesterday.  It is not till Dec. 2. Do you know how long after a consult that you have your surgery.  I didn't realize that the DIEP procedure was 10 hrs long. Is that for 1 breast ?  I am trying to get as much info as I can. 

Diane31

chalex

Hi Diane31,

I would ask if you can be put on a waiting list for Dr Evans if you want to try to get in earlier for your consult appointment. Dr Evans is booking about 6 -8 months out from your consult appointment ( I believe) for the DIEP surgery. Dr Temple is longer more like 2-3 years. She likes to work with another PS, Dr Ross and it takes time to get everyone in the surgery room for 12 hours. Dr Evans works with a Plastics resident. I am not sure on the exact time but they generally book the OR for 10-12 hours for 1 or 2 breasts.  A good website to look at is www.breastreconstruction.ca This may help you to understand the different techniques that are available for breast reconstruction.

Regards,

Chalex

Annamomof2

Hi Marxi:

I haven't seen a post from you in quite a while.  I'm wondering how you're doing and if you're feeling any differently about your surgery?  Has everything healed?  Where are you at with things?  I've requested an appt with Dr. Evans, I'm just waiting to hear back from my oncologist.  I'm excited to finally move forward.  Has anyone else moved forward with surgery?

Thanks,
Anna

alexch

Hi Sharon,

I was wondering if you can PM about your upcoming DIEP with Dr Evans. I lost my password and I had to change my user name to Alexch. Anyways, Thinking of you so if you a get a chance pls keep me posted on how you are doing.

Take Care,

Alexch (Denise)

a.k.a Chalex LOL

Diagnosis: Aug, 2009, IDC 7-8 cm, 0/15 nodes, Grade 3 ER+/PR+ HER+

marxi

Hi. It has been awhile since I've come here. The difficulties and accompanying stresses of the DIEP complications were challenging. My first surgery was 1 March, second surgery was 3 March. I had numerous complications, blood transfusions, leeches, etc., to save the left flap. The right one was fine from the beginning. After 13 days in hospital I came home and had daily nursing care as I developed several areas of necrosis causing fairly large open wounds (requiring over 45 cm of packing each). From March to June we tried to manage these until mid-June when an infection literally developed in a few hours. I was admitted to hospital and on IV anti-biotics for several days until Dr. E could operate again. After that surgery, I seemed to heal well. I have recently developed another area of concern which may be necrosis...we are watching. I haven't decided if I will have Stage 2 and I don't think at this point Dr. E feels the left flap is stable enough. It was very, very difficult reconstructive experience but I have to say even though I am covered with scars and have two breast flaps (that do not look or feel the same), I don't think of 'cancer' when I look at myself anymore. I have very little feeling in the flaps but prefer them in my bra vs. the prosthesis. For a long time, I beat myself up and deeply regretted having the DIEP; however, as difficult as it was due to so many (!) complications, I would recommend it to anyone wanting reconstruction. And, I would definitely recommend Dr. E to anyone who is able to get a referral to him. He has seen me countless times (literally, 2 and 3 times weekly for several months at one point) on an urgent basis and has been a strong support. His office administrator, Lisa, is equally as supportive. I honestly could not have gotten through this as well as I have without them.

mks16

marxi, its great to hear from you. I've been thinking of you often and wondering how you're doing with the recovery. Glad to hear that after everything you've been through, you still have nothing but great things to say about Dr Evans and his team. All the best to you!

alexch

marxi,

Thanks for letting sharing with us about your DIEP journey. I am so sorry you had such a rough go. Sounds likes you are starting to feel better. I am glad Dr E. was there for you and did his best to help you.

I am going tomorrow to see Dr E and preadmit. I am having the DIEP procedure done with Dr E on Feb 7. I am super nervous but I am having lots of pain in my shoulders bc I am busty and lopsided plus the prothesis is so darn heavy. So, I feel like I need to do something b/c otherwise I suffer in the shoulders...

Take care of yourself and I hope you continue to feel better.

Alexch,

Diagnosis: Aug, 2009, IDC, 7-8cm, 0/15, Grade 3, ER+/PR+ HER+

kennylynne

Hello Ladies was wondering how long after seeing Dr.Evans that your reconstruction was booked? I don't see him until Aug and was really hoping that I would have new boobs for Christmas. Thought if I had to wait too long I am going to go ahead and have my BS take my other breast??? Thoughts?

alexch

Hi kennylynne,

I am not sure exactly how far Dr E is booking for, however, I do know he is the only Dr in London at this time that is doing the DIEP reconstruction. We lost 2 other surgeons that did the DIEP surgery. They haved moved outside London. If you are planning on doing the DIEP surgery and you have your consult in Aug my best guess is that you will be waiting prob. past Christmas if you want the DIEP reconstruction... Other reconstruction surgery options may be sooner depending on the surgeon...

I hope this info. helps.

Regards,

Alexch

Diagnosis: Aug, 2009, IDC, 7-8cm, 0/15, Grade 3, ER+/PR+ HER+

kennylynne

Thanks Alexch!!! What other options are there in regards to reconstruction???

alexch

Hi kennylynne, I believe there is a great website in Canada that gives you lots of info. for you to look at different options for breast reconstruction.

It is www.breastreconstruction.ca

Let me know if I can help you out with any other info.

Take Care,

Alexch

kennylynne

Thanks I will check it out..... Where are you in your recovery process???? I am just finishing rads, that was tough!

alexch

Hi kennylynne,

I have finished treatment. I was diagnosed in Aug, 2009. I had a large tumour so I had chemo first and I was in a study for locally advanced BC. I had 3 rounds of FEC (yuck, I was sick with that chemo). Then as part of the study I had docetaxel and rads at the same time. It was very tiring... I was given 5 weeks off and then I had right mx with all my nodes removed. I took some more time off from work to recover and get stronger. I needed to do physio b/c my shoulder was sore from the mx surgery. I have been back to work a year now and I feel like I have my life back. I am going for the DIEP surgery with Dr Evans on Feb 7. So I am looking forward to having a breast back but not thrilled about another surgery and recovery.

Take Care,

Alexch

Diagnosis: Aug, 2009, IDC, 7-8cm, 0/15, Grade 3, ER+/PR+ HER+

Annamomof2

Hi KennyLynne:

How did your surgery go?  How are you recovering?  I was thinking of you on the 7th and hoping that all went well for you.  Keep us posted on your recovery.

Anna

kennylynne

Hi Anna

Thnaks for your thoughts but you have ne confused with alexch... I have been thinking about her as well. Hoping all went well for her. My appt with Dr. Evans isn't until August I wish it were sooner. Have you had your appt yet??

Annamomof2

Hi Kennylynne:

So sorry.  Yes, I should have responded to Alexch.  If you're reading this Alexch, please let us know how you are doing.  I too am scheduled for the DIEP with Dr. Evans in June 2012.  I went for my consult with him and he made me feel so comfortable and his resident doctor was fabulous.  He was very informative.  I'm excited about the next chapter of my life but as the date gets closer,  I am growing more nervous.  My consult was in December and I could have booked my surgery for May or June but because I work in a school, I opted for June. Is your appt. in August your consult appt?

Anna

alexch

Hi Ladies,

Thanks for thinking of me. I had the DIEP surgery with Dr E on Feb 11. I did very well with the surgery and I had excellent care on the gen surg. floor of University Hospital. Dr E is a very kind and caring DR. I totally recommend him. I am happy with the results thus far. My main problem is the general aneasthia has made me sick. I have had vomitting, nauseua and dizziness. I am prone to this with meds though. I was really sick like that with FEC too. Otherwise, I am not in much pain and it is in control.

Take Care,

Alexch

Diagnosis: Aug, 2009, IDC, 7-8cm, 0/15, Grade 3, ER+/PR+ HER+

kennylynne

Yay Alexch!!!1 Glad you are back....... Anna my consult is in August, I imagine it will be 6 months before they can actually do the reconstruction hey??? I also work with the school board. Wish I was seeing him earlier but what can you do? Are you having both reconstructed??? Was just wondering as I am going to go ahead and have my other breast removed this May as I am too afraid to wait until reconstruction. Man this sucks!!!!

alexch

Hi kennylynne,

I would call Dr E's office and see if you can get on the cancellation list. You may get in b/f Aug. It would not hurt to see if you can try to get in earlier.

Feeling better today and feel free to ask questions about the DIEP. I am happy to do my best to answer you.

Take Care,

Alexch

Annamomof2

Hello Everyone:

I haven't seen a post in a while.  How is everyone doing?  I had my DIEP surgery a few weeks ago and ran into a few complications.  One flap did well and the other one died.  I had the same emotions that I had when I lost my breast the first time.  Has anyone else experienced this loss?  It was heartbreaking.  (:

Take Care.

Anna