For those who choose it, breast reconstruction is a vital part of treatment and recovery from breast cancer. However, our new report, Delivering Real Choice, reveals that too often, this access and choice is being denied - making it harder for people to rebuild their lives.

These failings must be addressed, removing barriers and making timely and fair access to reconstruction a reality for those who choose it.   

Our report is calling on NHS England to work in partnership with us, the Association of Breast Surgery (ABS) and the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) to develop a practical plan for breast reconstruction services that addresses the backlog, removes barriers and ensures timely and fair access to reconstruction for all women who want it.  

Read the report

Share your experience

To help support our work to ensure the importance of women being able to access the right type of reconstruction, at the right time is understood by decision makers, we need to hear from you. If you are considering, waiting for, or had breast reconstruction, please get in touch to share your experience.

Tell us your story
“I was just stuck in those few years not feeling I could actually progress. That had a huge impact on my mental health. I just couldn’t move forward”

Alison

We surveyed 2,586 people affected by breast cancer who had received or were awaiting breast surgery – this is what we found out.

Of 1,246 people who either underwent or waited for reconstruction surgery, more than 9 in 10 (92%) felt reconstruction was an important part of their recovery.

Between March and July 2020, an estimated 1,500 women missed out on reconstruction.

More than 7 in 10 women (73%) who’d either received or waited for reconstruction surgery, felt it was extremely important to be aware of the different options available.