A pioneering breast reconstruction surgery has given a 56-year-old woman the opportunity to regain her confidence and independence—while also paving the way for future patients. Tanya Tanna, from South Ruislip, underwent the procedure in January, and she now reflects on the importance of her decision, saying she did it “for all the women who come after me.”
A Revolutionary Surgical Technique
The operation, carried out by a team of surgeons from Hillingdon Hospital in west London and the Royal Free Hospital (RFH) in Hampstead, utilized cutting-edge methods. The team extracted a blood vessel from Tanya’s abdomen, along with surrounding tissue, to reconstruct a new breast. This technique is a form of DIEP flap surgery, which traditionally involves a 12cm incision in the abdominal wall. However, in Tanya’s case, surgeons employed a keyhole procedure, requiring only a small 2cm incision.
The minimally invasive technique, known as TEP DIEP, significantly reduces recovery time. While patients typically need five days to recover, Tanya was able to go home in just two to three days after the surgery.
Future Plans for Robotic Surgery
The surgical team is now working to refine this innovative procedure, with plans to introduce robotic surgical systems in the future. This step marks a significant advancement in micro-breast reconstruction, offering patients a less invasive option with fewer complications.
Mr. Nikkhah, one of the surgeons, explained the importance of this technique: “The Royal Free Hospital is now one of the few centers globally that can offer this minimally invasive surgery. It reduces issues like hernias and bulging and shortens hospital stays. Though more challenging to perform, it allows for better recovery.”
Overcoming a Long Wait
Tanya’s journey to breast reconstruction was not easy. After undergoing a mastectomy in 2020 due to breast cancer, she faced a long wait for surgery due to the pandemic and a backlog of patients. Despite the delay, Tanya was determined to see the process through and is now grateful for the outcome.
Mr. Slessor, one of the surgeons, expressed his pride in the breakthrough, stating: “I am honored to have performed this surgery with my team. This is a great step forward for Hillingdon Hospital.” He also acknowledged the collaborative effort that made the surgery possible: “I’m excited to continue innovating with the plastic surgeons to offer this type of surgery for our breast cancer patients in the future.”
Tanya’s Remarkable Recovery
Tanya’s recovery was notably swift. Just one day after her surgery, she was able to walk around the ward with ease, an accomplishment that her nurses were amazed by. “I thought it was normal,” Tanya shared, laughing. “But they looked at me like it was some kind of miracle!”
For Tanya, the decision to undergo this surgery was deeply personal. After more than four years of feeling disconnected from her body, the surgery gave her a renewed sense of wholeness. She said, “After more than four years of my feminine energy being dim, I can now look at myself and feel ‘yes, I am whole again!’”
A Message of Empowerment
Tanya’s story is not just about physical recovery; it’s about mental and emotional healing as well. She emphasized that the new surgery offers women the chance to regain their independence sooner, which can have a positive impact on both their physical and mental health.
“I decided to do this for all the women who come after me,” Tanya said. “I am so honored to share my story and introduce these talented surgeons to the world.”
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