Grateful patient praises hospital’s 'first class' care in breast reconstruction

Mid Yorkshire Teaching Trust’s Breast Microsurgery team has been praised for their exceptional care and dedication by a recent patient.

Louise Dougill, from Wakefield, underwent a mastectomy followed by immediate DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) reconstruction in September 2022 following an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis at just 47 years old.

DIEP flap reconstruction is a specialist form of autologous breast reconstruction which uses the patients’ own tissues, usually from the abdomen, rather than an implant to recreate a breast.

Louise received exceptional care and support throughout her journey. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed her gratitude for the compassion and professionalism of the team, commenting:

“When I received my cancer diagnosis, my life was turned upside down. I quickly found myself in a blur, having endless scans, biopsies and consultations at Pinderfields breast clinic.

“The breast care nurses provided phenomenal support during my visits and when it was decided that a mastectomy was essential, I met with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Lymperopoulos and Breast Reconstruction Nurse Specialist Sarah Bamfield to discuss my options for reconstruction. During this meeting I felt like the weight of the world had been lifted a little, as they answered all my difficult questions with warmth and compassion.

“I opted for immediate DIEP reconstruction, which went well and I was able to go home a mere day and a half after major surgery. I was delighted and the care I received was first class - I can’t emphasise enough how the team’s positive, calming and knowledgeable approach has been critical in my ongoing recovery, emotional wellbeing and resilience. I am thankful that my cancer journey has been handled by this team of superstars at Pinderfields.”

The Breast Microsurgery service is currently supported by two Consultant Plastic Surgeons, Mr Will Holmes and Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos, and Sarah Bamfield, who has the unique role of a Breast Reconstruction Nurse Specialist. The service has grown out of the regional catchment area with patients from Barnsley and Doncaster hospitals traveling to Pinderfields Hospital when they need autologous reconstruction.

Mr Will Holmes, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, said: “Our focus is not only on providing the highest quality surgical treatment but also on giving each patient the emotional support they need during this challenging time in their lives.

“Our clinic is the only unit in Yorkshire that has a Specialist Breast Reconstruction Nurse and the difference this makes to patients is phenomenal.

“Recognising the growing demand for their specialised services, the Trust is investing in additional staff and expanding their capacity by approximately 20% each year.

I am grateful to Louise for sharing her experience and it fills me with pride to hear her story.”

Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, commented: “Receiving such excellent feedback inspires us to work even harder. We are trying to offer world class treatment but always with the patient in the centre. There is no doubt having cancer treatment can be a difficult time for our patients and we try our best to make this period easier for them.”