NOLA anybody travel from out of state?

gaspasser

Hi,

Has anyone traveled from out of state to NOLA center for reconstructive surgery? I know the first phone call is an hour and then from there not sure what to expect. For the consult were you given an appointment with one plastic surgeon, traveled, and met with them...and then was your next travel required the time of surgery? How did follow up appointments go, how were they scheduled? Just looking to hear about anyone's experience who was not local. Whether you were pleased, any words of wisdom, things you wish you knew or had done. Thanks! I had a BMX TE, have one implant but am in need of the other side done. I have very limited options and have heard from you lovely ladies they are wonderful and to consider them. I am quite thin and have not much pectoral muscle left. Thanks for any words of wisdom!

Thanks

Georgia1

Hi GP. I have a friend who went there and loved them. She's also thin, but had a double DIEP (I think that is the term) and it worked out great. I know her appointments were all via Skype but when I see her tomorrow I'll try to get some more info. She stayed in a lovely hotel across the street from the hospital for a few days.

Editing with more: Her initial appointments were via Skype, and when she needed tests done she had them done here and results were faxed to NOLA. Her surgery was in two steps, so two trips to New Orleans. Her post-surgery visits are with a provider here, with lots of email communication throughout the process. Again, she LOVED her experience with them. Hope that helps until others chime in.

KAM5166

Hello,

I had DIEP FLAP in NOLA stages 1 and 2 one year apart. Follow up appointments were handled locally, but Dr. Trahan's RN phoned w/regularity. The PA called, as well, when needed. I would not change a thing and found the entire process to be the best care I had ever hoped for. I have absolutely no regrets over my decision to travel for my care. HOWEVER, travel was daunting, at times. If I had it to do all over again, I would pay for the TSA (I think that is what it is called) clearance so that I would never have to experience the New Orleans "officials" again. I would also wash my hands before entering the terminals. I had taken a Colace (of all things) right before entering the air port. The TSA official swiped my hand , whisked me aside and went thru every bag, patted me down w/drains dangling and every thing...there I stood cold and exposed. I created quite a stink when I DEMANDED she put on gloves. (She said I was as much a health threat to her as she was to me....she said that!) I had medical letter and everything. She said I had drug residue on my hands.....it was Colace which is a simple stool softener). I was in tears because I wanted no infection risks whatsoever. When it was over she tore off her glove, swore and stomped off. The man assisting me apologized for her behavior. Other than that experience, it went better than I had hoped for.

Lula73

I'm a NOLA girl and traveled from central NC. Yes 1 hr phone consult followed by sending pictures front, back and side view from neck to upper thighs wearing panties if you wish to move to the next step. Photos and health history you gave during phone call are reviewed and they let you know if you're a candidate. If you want an in person appointment for a consult you can do one but most of us don't. All your questions are answered in the phone consult pretty much and they can see what they have to work with in the photos. If you opt for moving forward after photos reviewed they'll run your insurance and tell you how much you'll owe and if you agree then they go ahead and schedule you. If you opt for in person consult they are typically a couple months out and surgery won't be scheduled to til after the consult and insurance review.

Traveling was not an issue. NOLA has someone that can help with travel arrangements and they have special discounted rates with many area hotels. A minimum of 10 days in NOLA is what you need to plan for for stage 1. 1st day is pre-op (it's a 1/2-3/4 day affair). Day 2 is surgery day. Days 3-5 are hospital. Day 6 is discharge day, day 9 is post-op visit and Day 10 is travel home (if desired). The nurses train you and your caretaker on how to care for the incisions, what to do/not to do, what to watch out for. Most major complications (if they're going to happen) occur in the first week to 10 days. So you're typically still there. Any minor complications are handled via phone /email including photos. A nurse calls you weekly to follow up/check in and you are encouraged to call anytime (even after hours) with any concerns/questions. Stage 2 is around 5-7 days depending on what you're having done. If you're flying, request wheelchair service from the sidewalk on the return flight thru the airline. I found that if you look too well/happy/energetic in the wheelchair at security you're more likely to be searched as it looks suspicious. If they offer you a hand to help you out of the chair take it. And don't wear anything sparkly or with metal accents that could set the metal detector off.

I would not change a thing about choosing to go to NOLA. Best care I've ever received in a hospital (it's how healthcare should be but sadly isn't). Results are phenomenal. I had my first breast MRI since the diagnostic one I had last January yesterday. The tech said, “I just have to ask who did your recon because I've seena lot and I don't see any scars at all on you!" If I ever had a doubt about their work, her question would've taken it all away. Feel free to PM me or ask additional questions you may have here.

gaspasser

Thank you so much for all the helpful info!