Forum Discussion

Magnetgirl's avatar
Magnetgirl
Member
12 years ago

Choosing a surgeon

Hi

Booked in for a DIEP in Sept with Dr David Pennington who was recommended by another plastic surgeon who didn't do DIEP As advised also saw Dr Alex Phoon, who was equally pleasant but his staff kept mucking me around appointment wise.

So worried I have made the best choice as I only have" one measurable vessel " on the CT is this normal ?

Anyone have experience of either of these surgeons ?

emotions

10 Replies

  • Magnetgirl's avatar
    Magnetgirl
    Member
    11 years ago
    Hi I just had one done. Had CT beaches X-ray macquarie st If you are concerned about cost have you looked for a surgeon who will bulk bill. You will have to wait longer but may be a better option dr alex phoon does public patients. Have you been to a show and tell meeting ? Breast care nurse should be able to advise on this as well as bulk bill PS Best wishes
  • Magnetgirl's avatar
    Magnetgirl
    Member
    11 years ago
    Hi Sorry to take so long It's been a busy time. Finally got dressings of and the results looking good Keep forgetting to ask how long I was on the table. Sorry it isn't that important to me. Will say I was most impressed with Macquarie UNIVersity hosp ( some friends went to Maquarie hosp down the road ) Doc P is very skilled and experienced and I felt in good hands. He was upfront at the first consult that out of pocket would be $15,000. A lot of money but he is good It is an individual choice and decision but I tried a a prosthesis for 9 months drove me nuts. Also was confident he would get it right Most important. Take a LONG singlet to wear under the binder. I was rubbed raw and get the pubic hair waxed as you will have sticky tape there. All the best let me know what you decide
  • prestons2070's avatar
    prestons2070
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hi Magnetgirl, congratulation to you

    finally you done the diep with dr P?

    How long was it takes on the operatng table?

    Now I just cant wait my turn still thinking maybe dr P or dr G

    May I know how long on the operating table, how much out of pocket cost and which hospital?

    Once again well done  and have a good rest and eat well.

    Regards

    Tina

  • Magnetgirl's avatar
    Magnetgirl
    Member
    11 years ago

    Many thanks

    Have been to the Kimberlys and the I pad broke. but do appreciate your reply.

    I have only one vessel on one side (Fallopian tube op )

    but hope for the best on 22/9/14

  • fighter13's avatar
    fighter13
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi magnetgirl, I am seeing Dr Alex Phoon for my bilateral reconstruction and I was told from the CT Angiogram that I only have good vessels on one side so I will probably have a diep on one side and a free tram flap (were they take a small piece of muscle) on the other side. Dr Phoon said he won't know for sure until he cuts me open but he needs good vessels to do diep. There are a few ladies on here that were planning on diep but ended up having a tram reconstruction so I don't think you will know for sure until you are in surgery.  You are in good hands with Dr Pennington I would have gone with him except he doesn't do public patients any more. Good luck!

  • Chenners's avatar
    Chenners
    Member
    12 years ago
    Thanks TonyaM. I am planning on doing this, but waiting till my radiation treatment is finished. I think i have to wait six months post radiation. I am thinking ahead and looking forward to getting rid of the prosthesis. I find it so uncomfortable by the end of the day. Best wishes with your own planning.
  • Chenners's avatar
    Chenners
    Member
    12 years ago
    I am thinking that this option will be the most satisfactory for me also. Could you please advise what fees have been quoted above what your fund covers? Also how long did it take to get your first appointment with Dr Pennington? Best wishes for your surgery.
  • TonyaM's avatar
    TonyaM
    Member
    12 years ago
    My friend had a double DIEP done by Dr Pennington and she was very happy.She thought he was fantastic and I saw her new boobs,they were amazing!She recovered well.If I was to have recon,I'd choose him.I haven't heard of the other doctor so can't comment. Tonya xx
  • TonyaM's avatar
    TonyaM
    Member
    12 years ago
    My friend had a double DIEP done by Dr Pennington and she was very happy.She thought he was fantastic and I saw her new boobs,they were amazing!She recovered well.If I was to have recon,I'd choose him.I haven't heard of the other doctor so can't comment. Tonya xx