Well where to start? I could go back to twelve years of age and the teasing in the playground, or all the other distressing moments this nasty little condition has caused me over the last 3 decades (40 now in case your wondering). But I probably start two years ago when I finally thought enough is enough.
I went to see my GP in Bath, who was very sympathetic and referred me to the RUH Bath NHS hospital. The oddness of being the only bloke sat in the breast clinic and being given a standard questionnaire about my periods on a sheet of pink (of course) paper rather amused me rather than upset me, although I'm sure some it would upset. I saw a very nice chap, who offered me surgery after a trail with Danasol or taxmoxifen. Having read a bit about the types of surgery I asked how he would approach it. He was completely upfront and said that he was a breast doctor and I would probably get a better cosmetic result with a PS.
It was then I turned to the private option. I researched and went to see the usual guys so often reported here, Levick, Karidis and Jan Stanek.
I would highly recommend that anyone thinking of going down this route sees at least two people. The following is pure personal opinion and I am sure that any of the three surgeons would have done a good job, but... I found Mr Stanek to be a little unsympathetic and that seemed to matter to me, and I was keen to avoid a sunken/stuck on nipple. I felt that the small incision in the lower part of the nipple
Dr. Karidis makes would give better control over Mr Levicks “all through the armpit” technique. I also thought I got the best examination with Mr K. So my choice was made. I still didn’t book up immediately but spent another 6 months thinking about it. Eventually I did.
Dr. Karidis has a reasonable waiting list but I was luck enough to pick up a cancellation and had my surgery on the 13 March.
Tazz has already reported the whole experience at Elizabeth’s and St John Hospital, which was excellent. I was scared on the day and had a two hour wait in my room, but when things started it was over pretty quick. I remember having the injection and being told this might make you feel a little relaxed. The next thing I remember was thinking to my self “why have they put this vest on before my surgery” and then realising that it was after my surgery. I was discharged about six hours latter.
The pain has been fairly light, and I have cut down on the pain killers today – day 2 after surgery. I had a shower last night, which did feel odd. I didn’t like touching the chest area it feels numb and like its not mine.
I was given two vests (black ones not sure of the make) I had also order an Velcro shoulder and hook and eye white one (would tell you the make but have it on!) which is more comfortable. I plan to regularly switch makes, avoiding the digging in that these things give you.
Overall – it was a lot better than I thought. Bit tired now, so might update again in a few days in the meanwhile here your usual before and after snaps – taken on day 1 after.
http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/mychesthasgone/my_photos
Topic: My surgery with Alex Karidis 13/2/2007 - new pictures 13 April (Read 5123 times)
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