Forum Discussion

Beppie's avatar
Beppie
Member
10 years ago

Disappointed

Hi ladies, 

Ive been trying to get a second opinion regarding my breast reconstruction and have been emailing a surgeons secretary for the last 2 months. I have sent photos of my breasts and unhappiness about the right breast lift and reduction to match the left TRAM flap one. I've had 3 attempts done to match the left side by my current ps and wanted a second opinion. Today was my last phone call from the secretary as she said the dr couldn't help me and didn't want to step on the other  Drs feet, so to speak. Totally disappointed , dont understand without a actuall appointment to see my breasts himself how he could make a determination just from photos. But that's that . Saw my Dr this morning too and wait another 3 months and see then , I think he's hoping I'll just go away. My incision on the right side where the tram flap was taken has bulged more and he said it's just a weakness there but no hernia. It hurts and looks awful but again let's wait and see. Totally disheartened and feel like my opinion doesn't matter as to how I look. The whole point of the reconstruction was to do away with the breast insert and yet I'm told to just pad the right side for symmetry and hope it doesn't still be lopsided. Just feeling sad . 

Reconstruction
  • Jane221's avatar
    Jane221
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Beppie,

    I can totally understand why you are feeling disappointed. It must be frustrating to have spent the time seeking out a second opinion, only to be turned away without proper explanation. Although you are probably feeling like it's the last thing you want to do, there is still the option of seeking other opinions, although you may need to look outside your immediate area (which may be best if you feel like there is a "closed shop" mentality where you are).

    Your GP or breast care nurse may be able to offer some alternative names for referral, or you could contact the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (Plastic surgeons society) and find out who might be best to talk to in this situation. There is a complaints procedure if you want to go down that route, but hopefully you can find someone who will discuss your concerns with you in a meaningful way and who may be able to assist. Best wishes, Jane xx

  • Cosette's avatar
    Cosette
    Member
    10 years ago

    I'm sorry to hear you're having a rough time with this, Beppie. If you're not already a member, please consider joining the breast reconstruction group here. It's very supportive and full of great resources that might be helpful.

  • mum2jj's avatar
    mum2jj
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Beppie,

    Can't really say any more as Jane has it covered.  Just wanting to let you know I feel for you and get why you are so disappointed.  Sometimes after all we have been through it takes such courage to push on and try and resolve things.  Not something you should have to do, but we have to be our own advocates, 

    Sending you big cyber  hugs.

    Paula xxxx

     

  • Lyn11's avatar
    Lyn11
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Beppie, 

    jane has said everything I was going to say, really. I had tram flap and reconstruction too so I know the emotions you have been going through. Don't let these rejections get you down though. Try another doctor and be strong. The plastic surgeons guild should have a list of doctors you could try. Are you north or south Brisbane? 

    Keep trying and if you want another surgeons name I can recommend mine. 

    All the best,

    Lynne

  • Marlee's avatar
    Marlee
    Member
    10 years ago

    Join the reconstruction group here - lots of support 

    Also reclaim your curves website 

    Sounds really disappointing - and very frustrating 

    Keep trying I think it's important to have as much of the body back as you can. Sending hugs 

    ??

  • Beppie's avatar
    Beppie
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Cosette , I'm already a member . That's were I got the referral from, another lady recommended him in Brisbane 

  • Beppie's avatar
    Beppie
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Lynne, I'm in west Brisbane but my current ps is located in the city . I don't mind where I go as long as I can hopefully see someone. If your very happy with your ps then if you would tell me his name that would be good. Thanks Bep 

  • Beppie's avatar
    Beppie
    Member
    10 years ago

    thanks Paula , 

    All  I want is to be roughly the same size and not lopsided. Can't wear any scooped necklines or swimmers as it's very obvious then. I'll keep trying xx

  • Beppie's avatar
    Beppie
    Member
    10 years ago

    Thanks Jane , a good idea. I've rung another Dr since but no joy there either. Starting to wonder if it's just me - so disheartening and I feel so low. I just want to look and feel like a woman again. I started out with such high hopes 2 years ago, especially after seeing other women the ps had done and their end results were wonderful. I think he took too much out the first attempt leaving not a lot of breast tissue to make a equal size to the TRAM flap one. Anyway, I shall plod on. xx Bep