Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, underwent an arduous eight-hour operation involving a single mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, following which she was kept under strict monitoring in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for a significant number of days.
The Duchess was hospitalized at King Edward VII Hospital in London, and according to a recent report, the operation was "extremely complex and time-consuming". The procedure lasted almost eight hours, said a friend of the Duchess in a conversation with the Daily Mail. Now in recovery at Royal Lodge, Ferguson has expressed her gratitude towards her medical team, in particular, surgeons Christina Choy and Stuart James, who were instrumental in performing the surgery.
Dr. Christina Choy performed the single mastectomy, with the subsequent reconstructive surgery carried out by renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Stuart James. The procedure, known as the "DIEP flap" technique, is a detailed process requiring high precision, and involves fat being sourced from the abdomen to construct a new breast. Noted for its complexity, only the most skilled surgeons are permitted to conduct the procedure. It requires microvascular surgery to delicately cut and reconnect 2mm blood vessels, a process that can exceed six hours, shared Tatler magazine.
Due to the extent of the operation and the duration under general anesthesia, Ferguson had to spend four days in the ICU for close monitoring. However, reports suggest that she was in "good spirits" within days of leaving the hospital.
The Duchess' cancer diagnosis was revealed during a routine mammogram in early May. Rather than a lump, a "shadow" was identified in her chest area. The term "shadow" refers to a wider spread of cancerous cells only detectable through screening, a source explained to the publication. In Ferguson's case, a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of breast cancer.
Given the extent of the shadow, lumpectomy wasn't a viable option. As a result, Ferguson was advised to undergo a single mastectomy, a procedure aimed at eradicating the cancerous cells.
Despite her initial shock, the Duchess expressed her resolve to face the situation head-on. She voiced her determination during an episode of her "Tea Talks" podcast, stating, "Now is my chance... I have to go through this operation and I have to be well and strong."
Currently recuperating at Royal Lodge, Ferguson's family has rallied around her. Princess Eugenie is offering her support by assisting in care duties, while Princess Beatrice maintains constant phone contact. Prince Andrew has also been available, and a source from Buckingham Palace disclosed that King Charles III penned a heartfelt letter wishing her a quick recovery.
