Forum Discussion

Chixon's avatar
Chixon
Member
11 years ago

Follow Up Examination

I went to my surgeon for my 2nd check up after having a bilateral mastectomy last June. I know it has been 7 months since my operation ...but I feel a little 'let down' . I was ushered into a room by a nurse..asked to undress and lie down ready for my examination. The surgeon came in...asked how I was as he checked my chest...told me to get dressed..ushered me to the door and said he would see me in 6 months. I wasn't given any opportunity to voice any concerns or at any stage a chair to sit on. No common curtesy given. I am a person who usually speaks up for myself..but after the last 7 months, with having a mastectomy, followed by chemo and radiation I am feeling pretty vulnerable and I said nothing.

8 Replies

  • Chris's avatar
    Chris
    Member
    11 years ago
    Hi Chris, that sounds so wrong. I am 4 years post mastectomies and chemo, and each time I see my surgeon and oncologist, I get to sit in a chair across from them and have a chat. They ask me lots of questions, before examining me fully. I then get ushered back to the chair for a final chat. I am now seeing these guys once a year each, which means that every 6 months I get a full check up. They discuss any scans or tests that have happened in the last 6 months and I feel very well looked after. Maybe it is time to change your Dr. I would certainly voice a complaint if you can. The time after a cancer diagnosis is very scary, and having a great DR to allay your fears is a wonderful tool to have for healing. Good luck with everything. Love Chris xx
  • Sarah54's avatar
    Sarah54
    Member
    11 years ago

    I had my double mastectomy last July 4th and have not been given an appointment as yet...........did not occur to me until now. Somethings about life with cancer do really suck.

    big hug and no how you must feel

    Sarah54

  • Sarah54's avatar
    Sarah54
    Member
    11 years ago

    I had my double mastectomy last July 4th and have not been given an appointment as yet...........did not occur to me until now. Somethings about life with cancer do really suck.

    big hug and no how you must feel

    Sarah54

  • Sarah54's avatar
    Sarah54
    Member
    11 years ago

    I had my double mastectomy last July 4th and have not been given an appointment as yet...........did not occur to me until now. Somethings about life with cancer do really suck.

    big hug and no how you must feel

    Sarah54

  • Chixon's avatar
    Chixon
    Member
    11 years ago
    I have an appointment to see my Medical Oncologist next month. She is Chairperson on the Multi - Disciplinary Team, (of which my surgeon is a member). I will speak to her about the way I was treated, as I am sure he must treat others this way as well. Thanks for caring. Chris.x
  • Hazel_M's avatar
    Hazel_M
    Member
    11 years ago

    That's terrible, you have every right to ask questions. I wonder if it's possible to ring them and explain what happened and your disappointment with the system. They could give you another appointment. It would put your mind at rest. All the best,

    Hazel xx

  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    11 years ago
    My experience is the same as Summer.I go in to the room,sit down and have a chat,and he always asks if I have any concerns.Then I have my examination,then another chat.It is quick,but thorough!!Stand up for yourself Chris,because as we all know,the day of our checkup,is SO important to how we feel and manage things,as we move forward even more.If I was you,next time I would take a list of questions,and tell the nurse that you want to SPEAK to the doctor before your examination.I am sure that there are many other ladies with the same experience as you.Some doctors need to do a course in common courtesy!!!!!!!! Cheers xoRobyn
  • June1952's avatar
    June1952
    Member
    11 years ago

    Hello Chris

    I have just read your post and am sooooooo angry and upset for you.  I simply cannot believe this has happened.  You were probably too stunned to speak up !

    My checkup was quite different so your surgeon's method makes me wonder.  I spoke with my surgeon, then I was asked to hop on the bed for the physical examination, then he had another quick chat.  I did have the opportunity to ask questions.

    I think you need to write a list of questions and send it to the surgeon asking for a proper appointment.

    Mind you, the same procedure happened to my husband at the eye specialist so maybe it is their age/training ?

    Other ladies may have other ideas.  Don't leave this, you pay for his service big time so expect and deserve the answers - and better treatment on the day.

    Regards

    Summer  :-(