I had a final visit to Perth, with appointments at both the Breast Clinic and the plastic surgeon. The surgeon's visit was to discuss whether or not I wanted a nipple added to my reconstructed breast. I've had enough time to think about this, and really cannot be fussed; I don't even notice that I don't have one. So, on balance, it seems better to forego the pleasure. A couple of the nurses on the ward had remarked to me that reconstructed nipples are permanently erect, and that doesn't appeal to me at all - a real turn-off. However, there was one other issue that the plastic surgeon remarked on that made the visit worthwhile. One end of my abdominal scar curves up and out, leaving a soft flap of skin and fat; what is termed a "dog-ear". The surgeon offered to remove it and give me back a flat belly. It won't happen with any speed, but he has put me on the list, and will even carry out the minor op in Albany, even better!

I did discuss the pain I have in my sternum, suggesting it might be from where the surgeon removed part of my rib, but was told that it didn't correspond. I had an x-ray, and both the plastic surgeon and the Breast Clinic doctor discussed a bone scan with me, looking for cancer that had invaded from the breast tissue, but in view of the fact that I had DCIS, that the pathology showed clear margins on the excised tissue, and that this pain was evident immediately post-op, I declined. I'll continue to monitor it, but am not seriously worried - it is a mild nuisance.

I'm still having electrolysis - only occasional hairs pop up on my breast, but they aren't welcome, and I'll continue to discourage them.

So, a year on am I happy with the result? Sure am!