decision on where to have mastectomy

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sdk
sdk Member Posts: 3
edited June 2014 in High Risk for Breast Cancer
decision on where to have mastectomy
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  • sdk
    sdk Member Posts: 3
    edited November 2009

    I went through intense emotional feelings last month for three weeks waiting for test results on mamm., ultrasound bio., and doctors not agreeing.  After meeting with drs I am almost sure that a mastectomy is the right answer for me.  I was told about the breast reconstruction facility in New Orleans which sounds wonderful but is that the only one on the east coast and how do I begin to get this process going?  My doctor said she would do the referral.  I am very ignorant as to how I approach the area of the procedure involved when looking at having both breasts removed and whether or not to have reconstruction done at the same time.  I went through breast cancer regime five years ago and need to make a well thought decision so that I do not have to face this again.

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  • glostagirl
    glostagirl Member Posts: 388
    edited November 2009

    Hi sdk, you don't indicate where you're located, there may be reconstruction options in your area as there are good surgeons in many east coast locations.

    I suggest you start with a search here on reconstruction choices, there's a lot of info both on the discussion boards and within the web sites general information.  

    Many hospital and breast cancer facilities have comprehensive web sites with info regarding the various reconstruction procedures.  Since you mentioned the New Orleans facility take a look at their site.  In addition to very good info regarding the many choices, there are before and after photos you can study.  Here's the link:  

    http://breastcenter.com/doctors/doctors.php 

    Another important issue would be your insurance coverage.  Check into your policy, you may have to appeal to get out-of-network coverage.  This is one of the biggest issues for many women who choose to travel for their care/surgery.  Often your facility of choice will assist with the insurance issues.

    Good luck 

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  • sdk
    sdk Member Posts: 3
    edited November 2009

    Thanks for the info on the insurance.  I will call the facility and see if they can give me pointers on this.   I live in Maine and was told by my oncologist that there weren't any facilities here that can do what I may need.

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  • glostagirl
    glostagirl Member Posts: 388
    edited November 2009

    I do know a gal in Maine who said the same thing.  She went to New Orleans.  After having her stage 1 done there she's just returned from stage 2 procedures a few weeks ago and is very happy.  She ended up in New Orleans after a bad surgical outcome at a Boston hospital.    

    As far as insurance, you shouldn't have much trouble for out of network coverage if you can't get the procedure done in your home network.   

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  • nmi
    nmi Member Posts: 180
    edited November 2009

    i had to go out of network to have the diep flap done by dr. sullivan in New Orleans (i live in the area). It was a big battle with my ins co. , i felt like i might loose my mind-ins people were like talking to a brick wall.   It is definitely worth the battle! Let me know if you need any pointers.  Hope it won't  be so difficult for you

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  • cmharris59
    cmharris59 Member Posts: 496
    edited November 2009

    tHERE ARE DOCTORS IN nyc THAT ARE VERY GOOD ACCORDING TO SOME OF THE POSTS HERE. OOPS SRY, JUST realized caps locks was on and I really do not feel like typing again.

    I am in the southeast and I have a wonderful PS. Please do think this through, because the last thing we ladies need to deal with is botched operations and unsatisfactory results. I think that  some of the results are just horrendous and we need to take a stand.

    Best of luck to you and I hope you find someone soon that can answer all of your questions.

    C

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  • tweekerbeeker
    tweekerbeeker Member Posts: 93
    edited November 2009

    sdk, since this is still new to you, I recommend that before you do anything, you get a copy of Kathy Steligo's "Breast Reconstruction Handbook". You must first know what is available and the pros and cons so that you can make a good decision for YOU. Not everyone opts for the same thing-and there are reasons. You can probably check this book out at your local library.

    NOLA has an outstanding reputation, but I am told that one or twop of the dr.s works in NY as well. You can also get a lot of info about this from the book. Good luck!

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