Stepping Into A Futuristic World

 I went for my breast reconstruction consultation today.  That was an interesting visit, to say the least. The office itself was a little hard to find and I wasn't the only one to feel this way.  Another woman had the same experience in locating their office. When I entered the office I felt as if I was entering a futuristic world of medicine.  As if, I was in some type of futuristic time warp.  Everything was white or light gray, walls and chairs. The receptionist sat in an area which was small and empty.  Only a desk with just a computer and an iPad which was used for us to fill out our paperwork.  The door to enter her small domain blended into the wall, barely noticeable.  Of course, she was very friendly and helpful. There were no pictures on the walls that made the office warm and welcoming. I don't think there were even any plants.  Everything appeared to be very clean and sterile. She also needed to take my photograph for my records.  I've been told it's so they can recognize me whenever I call or come into the office.  I have had to do this at every doctors office I've been to. I'm beginning to feel as if I'm entering some sort of prison.

We were called and walked through double frosted glass doors.  I really felt as if I was entering the twilight zone. We were lead into an examining room which was very clean and neat.  The staff was also friendly. The doctors assistant came in and took more photographs of me at different angles. While we were waiting, we were given an iPad to watch a video presentation of the service they offered.  I believe they really only preferred the Autologous Reconstruction (Diep Flap Reconstruction).  I guess it could also be referred to a tummy tuck.  Wow! what a way to get rid of your extra fat.  

The surgeon explained  to us about the procedure he recommended, the pros and cons of the surgery and any risk factors.  I also had a referral to go and get a CTA of my abdomen due to a previous surgery I had many many years ago.  It's kind of funny how the past can come back and haunt you.  The CTA is a computed tomography angiography.  This is a special kind of picture of the blood vessels in my stomach and pelvis.  This is to make sure the blood vessels haven't been compromised and can still be used.  I pray and hope this doesn't cause more complications.  The doctor told me the skin and fat from my abdomen have the best color to match my breast.  The reconstruction using my own skin and fat tissue would still allow me to feel the touch of someone as in a hug or embrace.  The other procedure had other complications, such as the implant moving and not having any warmth or sensations, also the possibility of any damage or future replacement.  A regular breast implant can be done at the same time as the mastectomy, with a same day in and out procedure.  One the other hand, the Diep Flap Reconstruction can also be done at the same time as the mastectomy but would require a two day stay in the hospital with a longer recovery time.  My thoughts of an implant moving somewhere other than where it was supposed to be was disconcerting.  Not to mention additional surgeries if the implants got damaged or my body rejected the implant.

I was reassured by the surgeon that he had done many of these procedure with no complications or deaths.  That's reassuring, right.  My hopes were lifted, when he told me the surgery could be done withing four weeks.  They would just need to coordinate the date with my other surgeon.

I receive the new date of my surgery and to my disappointment it was six weeks away.  Further, than I had hoped for.

Through all this, I believe God is still working.  My husband will be able to go on the men's retreat and not have to worry about my recovery.  God is good.  I believe this is within God's plan.  I am continuing to pray for healing, eating healthier and exercising.  Hopefully, these three things will make the surgery flow smoothly and minimize any complications.

Scarlett