How Did You Feel Having Your First Surgery Consult?

[Heather Shay]

After so many cancelations due to a variety of reasons, I am finally having my first consult tomorrow with another in February. What were your experiences finally talking to a surgeon about your own medical necessity if you are willing to tell? I understand this may be too sensitive to share.

[Maddee]

I had some problems getting in for a consult.  Several cancellations due to situations in hospitals.

Then the first surgeon that consulted determined that I would not receive any treatments with that program.  Appeal letters from two MDs who worked with me didn’t change that decision.
 There were some technical communication  problems with the consult, and I let frustration show.  That might have been it. 

 

However when a door closes, makes you find others .

 It’s possible I’m best off going where I did.  It was the third place I seriously looked into getting done.

 

It’s behind one of the doors

🌈🌈

 

 

 

[KathyLauren]

I didn't have a choice of surgeons, due to insurance.  So there was no process to pick the right surgeon.

 

My consultation was minimal.  He phoned me at a predetermined time.  I had no idea what questions to ask him.  I assumed he would have questions for me, but he didn't really.  He just confirmed what surgery I was requesting (vulvoplasty plus trachea shave).  It was a short call.

 

Next time I saw or talked to him, I was in a hospital gown half an hour before surgery.

[awkward-yet-sweet]

I didn't get as far as talking to a surgeon.  I went to an ObGyn doctor who specializes in LGBTQ+ patients.  After tests and scans (and a cancer scare), I was told that my intersex anatomy is so unique that surgical options would be excessively risky.  

 

I felt partly OK with that, since I wasn't really considering surgery...but also partly bummed out that my options were limited.  The body I've got...is the body I've got. I could do some cosmetic stuff on the surface, but the plumbing must be left alone.  

 

I did not experience the waiting and payment/insurance difficulties that others experience.  My GF pays for private insurance, and the coverage is practically 100% with a very small deductible.  My husband also has deep pockets and some influence, which helps.   

 

 

[Heather Shay]

Thank you all for sharing. I did have my first consult yesterday and it went so well that I'm walking on clouds today. Doctor was extremely nice, says my insurance will pay and I'm on the waiting list for October or sooner. AND my spouse attended and is fully onboard which was amazing that she has made so much progress in the last couple weeks towards my wishes for surgery.

[Betty K]

Yay! I can hardly believe your wife’s attitude has changed so much. That’s brilliant news Heather. 

[Maddee]

19 hours ago, Heather Shay said:

Thank you all for sharing. I did have my first consult yesterday and it went so well that I'm walking on clouds today. Doctor was extremely nice, says my insurance will pay and I'm on the waiting list for October or sooner. AND my spouse attended and is fully onboard which was amazing that she has made so much progress in the last couple weeks towards my wishes for surgery.

Wow😊

[Maddee]

Sorry lame comment.

I am surprised and happy to hear your good news Heather!

Best to you going forward 🌈🌈

[Heather Shay]

Let's hope there's a cancelation so I don't need to wait until October - though having been accepted on my first shot is amazing and I'm still walking on clouds. Here's the surgeon I'll be using. Thank you for your always supporting me @Maddee you've helped me survive.  HUGS.

https://www.urologytimes.com/view/dr-shubham-gupta-on-building-a-gender-affirmation-care-program

[Marcie Jensen]

Mine was...interesting as I had to go through the VA (TRICARE doesn't cover this), and as I turn 65 just before the surgery is scheduled, Medicare became involved as they become the primary insurer at that point. So, to make a long story short, both had to agree on the surgeon and the hospital. It was kinda like putting two cats in a bag and letting them fight it out. Thankfully, I found one they both approved of and that I liked. I will have to move to the same locale as my surgeon, but that's okay with me. First procedure is scheduled for August.

[Albine]

I felt both scared and excited after searching and finally coming up with a couple of PSs that would consider performing surgery. I went to 3 consults before choosing the one I wanted, just felt like he listened and I could trust him