I am still waiting to hear from insurance regarding my lower surgery. I called them today and they said that my surgeon called them but due to time zone stuff they missed the call. They called back with the best time for the "peer to peer" conference to determine whether I need to be hospitalized after surgery or not. The surgeon is out of town right now traveling so they will have to follow up when back at the office which wont be til around Tuesday!
If the surgeon calls Tuesday then I will know something for sure by May 19th the latest. Hopefully I will know something by the end of next week.
I am still optimistic about the whole thing.
My boxing gear came in the mail today and I am excited to put it to good use!
There will be lots of blogging about that I am sure since it does feel like another chapter that I have opened. Another part of myself I am learning about. We shall see
Friday, April 30, 2010
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Weekend of MEN!
I am enjoying my "MANLY" Weekend. Saturday I went to my soccer/football/social in the park as usual and it was very fun. Eventhough I felt awesome I didn't run as much because I didn't want to overdo it and end up hurting myself. I did wish I had my boxing gloves(they should be arriving soon).
After that we took a drive into the city which was long but fun. Then FOOD WAS on... Burrito power!
The plan was to go bowling but that was a bust. The place was packed due to parties and other reservations plus the Whack place had a no "boots" rule which sucked because half of us had boots on. We ended up going to play pool which was a BLAST!
It felt awesome talking to guys and hanging with them. Emerged in male energy. The game was on the TV while we were playing pool and inbetween card games were being played with the undertone of old school music. It made me feel like I was at a cookout. The only thing missing was the grill and some dominoes!
It made me realize how much I enjoy male bonding. NOT transmale bonding but male bonding. Bonding as just men in the world who enjoy life not bonding over a transition of sorts. Hell who is to say who in the group was trans, not trans or anything of the sort. We were just a bunch of dudes out on a saturday night having fun! I LOVED IT!
After that we took a drive into the city which was long but fun. Then FOOD WAS on... Burrito power!
The plan was to go bowling but that was a bust. The place was packed due to parties and other reservations plus the Whack place had a no "boots" rule which sucked because half of us had boots on. We ended up going to play pool which was a BLAST!
It felt awesome talking to guys and hanging with them. Emerged in male energy. The game was on the TV while we were playing pool and inbetween card games were being played with the undertone of old school music. It made me feel like I was at a cookout. The only thing missing was the grill and some dominoes!
It made me realize how much I enjoy male bonding. NOT transmale bonding but male bonding. Bonding as just men in the world who enjoy life not bonding over a transition of sorts. Hell who is to say who in the group was trans, not trans or anything of the sort. We were just a bunch of dudes out on a saturday night having fun! I LOVED IT!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Life goes on
I called the number on the letter I got from my insurance that "denied" clearance for me to stay in the hospital post op. They were very nice and said they just needed more info. The woman informed me that there is a Peer to peer medical review board where if they surgeon calls the number she can speak to the medical review doc herself and explain what exactly will be done and why I need to stay in the hospital overnight. I called the surgeon's insurance person and passed on this info. They said they were already getting things together to be on top of it. I am happy that the surgeon has someone who is nice and willing to do what needs to be done. I know some surgeon's don't have someone so awesome. I am just trying to get myself together to be healthy as possible and ready for when I get cleared for lower surgery.
Today was a good day and life goes on!
Today was a good day and life goes on!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
My insurance company makes no sense and other happenings
The title explains it exactly! THEY MAKE NO DAMN SENSE! I got a letter today from my insurance company. When I opened the letter it was from the department that covers "inpatient" stays. The letter basically says that they will not certify for me to stay in the hospital overnight after bottom surgery. When I read further it states that "The proposed procedure is normally performed on an outpatient/short-stay (ambulatory) basis and there is no documentation of a medical condition that would warrant an inpatient level of care". ARE THEY SERIOUS! This is freaking crazy! It is okay for insurance to cut into my penis and remix stuff but they can't keep me in the hospital overnight?! They pulled this mess with my hysto. For my hysto I was fine with it because I know people who had the surgery and went home the same day. That is the beauty of that hysto technique. This is a different ball game!
I think part of the issue is that the procedure is being requested for coverage by the codes and the individual codes are done as outpatient procedures INDIVIDUALLY but these are being done all at once which I think requires a little more than me just getting up and walking out after surgery!
The letter does go on and tell me how to appeal and send further documentation and that they respond within 15 calendar days which is a plus. This letter was also sent to the surgeon's office the date says 4/13/10 so I don't know if that was the letter that the surgeons office got before when they asked me to get the documentation from my local doc and stuff but I will call them tomorrow and see.
To be honest I am not worried because when I requested authorization for me to get T shots covered by my insurance they denied me. I wrote a letter my doc completed some form and now my T is covered til 2014 at which point I will just have to get re-approved.
I think it will all work out but now I have to spend tomorrow on the phone probably between insurance and the surgeon's office which would be fine if it weren't Friday and I wouldn't have to be on the phone also for work stuff. Oh well this is my penis we are talking about so I just have to do what I have to do! I will just go in early and get as much work done as possible and go from there.
In other news I finally found out why my student loans (which I have been paying off by the way) were weighing down my credit report. Someone Messed up and my consolidation loan was pending and eventually got disregarded by default which causes my largest loan to appear defaulted though I have been paying it off! I found this out when I was trying to get financial aid for my MBA program. Luckily after playing much phone tag I found out how to get my financial aid stuff in order and rectify the situation with my old loans. This will help boost my credit score BIG TIME and allow me to start my program as long as all documents are in on time.
Things are moving which I am happy about! I just wish they would move a little faster!
I think part of the issue is that the procedure is being requested for coverage by the codes and the individual codes are done as outpatient procedures INDIVIDUALLY but these are being done all at once which I think requires a little more than me just getting up and walking out after surgery!
The letter does go on and tell me how to appeal and send further documentation and that they respond within 15 calendar days which is a plus. This letter was also sent to the surgeon's office the date says 4/13/10 so I don't know if that was the letter that the surgeons office got before when they asked me to get the documentation from my local doc and stuff but I will call them tomorrow and see.
To be honest I am not worried because when I requested authorization for me to get T shots covered by my insurance they denied me. I wrote a letter my doc completed some form and now my T is covered til 2014 at which point I will just have to get re-approved.
I think it will all work out but now I have to spend tomorrow on the phone probably between insurance and the surgeon's office which would be fine if it weren't Friday and I wouldn't have to be on the phone also for work stuff. Oh well this is my penis we are talking about so I just have to do what I have to do! I will just go in early and get as much work done as possible and go from there.
In other news I finally found out why my student loans (which I have been paying off by the way) were weighing down my credit report. Someone Messed up and my consolidation loan was pending and eventually got disregarded by default which causes my largest loan to appear defaulted though I have been paying it off! I found this out when I was trying to get financial aid for my MBA program. Luckily after playing much phone tag I found out how to get my financial aid stuff in order and rectify the situation with my old loans. This will help boost my credit score BIG TIME and allow me to start my program as long as all documents are in on time.
Things are moving which I am happy about! I just wish they would move a little faster!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Call me Mister Business!
I got into my MBA program that I applied for. I just have to figure out the Financial Aid and I will be taking things to the next level with my business. I tried to avoid the business stuff for so long but I am a business man through and through so I might as well take it to another level.
Life is happening!
I am excited about my new group it is giving me more to think about but in a good way and it has helped me with making more lower surgery decisions. The bladder spasms subsided drastically and I haven't noticed them in a few days. They appear to be gone and I don't even know when they stopped. lol. I feel better than before the hysto. Prior to the hysto I had some pain but since then NO PAIN! I am very happy about that. I bought some boxing gloves and can't wait to start sparring! I am very happy that life is happening.
Monday, April 19, 2010
April 19th- is a big day for me
There was a lot going on today.
First off today is my 2 year Anniversary of Top surgery! Hurray!
I also had my post op appointment today for my hysto. The surgeon looked at my incision (which are so tiny) just to make sure that they are closing properly and arent infected. I was nervous that she would have to look between my legs which she didn't she also told me that I would never have to have any "exam" again. She did say that some docs suggest getting the hole checked every 2- 3years just to make sure there are no other issues or if using those parts to check for STD/STIs. I told her I plan to have that hole closed by next year this time so we need not worry about that. She laughed. She informed me that my pathology came back fine and that while she had her "scope" in me she looked at my liver since she knew it was a "concern" she stated that my liver looks perfectly normal externally. It is NOT enlarged, it is normal color and appears fine. She reported that she put this in her OR report as a side note. Her looking was justified due to previous medical notations. She said I could get a copy if I wanted to take to my Liver specialist since he was deciding whether or not they should "scope" me or do a biopsy. I am on cloud 9 right now! I am SOOOO happy that I got this done!
Today was a great day!
First off today is my 2 year Anniversary of Top surgery! Hurray!
I also had my post op appointment today for my hysto. The surgeon looked at my incision (which are so tiny) just to make sure that they are closing properly and arent infected. I was nervous that she would have to look between my legs which she didn't she also told me that I would never have to have any "exam" again. She did say that some docs suggest getting the hole checked every 2- 3years just to make sure there are no other issues or if using those parts to check for STD/STIs. I told her I plan to have that hole closed by next year this time so we need not worry about that. She laughed. She informed me that my pathology came back fine and that while she had her "scope" in me she looked at my liver since she knew it was a "concern" she stated that my liver looks perfectly normal externally. It is NOT enlarged, it is normal color and appears fine. She reported that she put this in her OR report as a side note. Her looking was justified due to previous medical notations. She said I could get a copy if I wanted to take to my Liver specialist since he was deciding whether or not they should "scope" me or do a biopsy. I am on cloud 9 right now! I am SOOOO happy that I got this done!
Today was a great day!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Lower surgery planning and Decision making
I realize that transition has to just flow and isn't a race. I feel like though I can set goals and time frames life happens and that is not a sign of failure but just part of life. Sometimes things not working out the way you want works out better in the long run. My process to start T is an example of that so is my hysto process. If my plan would have worked out for the way I wanted to start T I would have been dealing with a lot of stress and drama with the clinic I originally wanted to go to.
With regards to my hysto if I had it when I wanted I would have an abdominal scar AND I would have had to deal with a longer recovery process. I am a positive thinker but at the same time if things don't work out the way I want with this initial insurance claim it might work out better. Now that my hysto is out of the way I can focus more on deciding different aspects of my lower surgery. Many people think of lower surgery as "THE BIG SURGERY" but it is more like "Surgeries" even if done at the same time different aspects have to be thought about.
Do you want a meta?
Do you want a phallo?
Do you want a meta as a deliberate first stage of a phallo?
Do you want a vaginectomy?
Do you want urethral lengthening?
Do you want testicular implants? What size?
Do you want expanders before your implants?
How far do you want to travel?
How will you pay for it?
How will you deal with complications?
All of these questions to answer I feel makes it okay if you need "a little more time". Now that I am really focusing on my lower surgery exclusively I am certain more than ever that I want it BUT at the same time there are aspects of surgery that I have to finalize for me in my head. For such an important decisions I realize it is okay to take time and there is no rush. Do I want surgery now? HELL yes BUT if it doesn't happen now I will not be as devistated as I thought . It would just allow me more time to plan.
With regards to my hysto if I had it when I wanted I would have an abdominal scar AND I would have had to deal with a longer recovery process. I am a positive thinker but at the same time if things don't work out the way I want with this initial insurance claim it might work out better. Now that my hysto is out of the way I can focus more on deciding different aspects of my lower surgery. Many people think of lower surgery as "THE BIG SURGERY" but it is more like "Surgeries" even if done at the same time different aspects have to be thought about.
Do you want a meta?
Do you want a phallo?
Do you want a meta as a deliberate first stage of a phallo?
Do you want a vaginectomy?
Do you want urethral lengthening?
Do you want testicular implants? What size?
Do you want expanders before your implants?
How far do you want to travel?
How will you pay for it?
How will you deal with complications?
All of these questions to answer I feel makes it okay if you need "a little more time". Now that I am really focusing on my lower surgery exclusively I am certain more than ever that I want it BUT at the same time there are aspects of surgery that I have to finalize for me in my head. For such an important decisions I realize it is okay to take time and there is no rush. Do I want surgery now? HELL yes BUT if it doesn't happen now I will not be as devistated as I thought . It would just allow me more time to plan.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Day 11 post op update
I am feeling great 95% back to normal. I ran from one part of my home to the next for something and felt no pain or discomfort today. I also ran to catch a bus yesterday and felt normal. Still no aftermath from yesterdays "self gratification" session yesterday.
I am really itching to workout! Though I feel that I am ready to start now I'm going to wait. I will have my post op follow up in 2 days and I think the doc will either clear me then or tell me exactly how many more days I have to wait. I have a feeling she will clear me to "start slow" which would be fine by me.
I really feel better in my body and am one step closer to feeling whole. I am SO glad that I had the hysto. Feeling this great makes me feel more ready to have lower surgery and just be. I have my path laid out before me and I am ready to go forward with regards to that. I started a new yahoo group related to that to help other guys out with their lower surgery decision making.
I didn't take my T shot the week of surgery or the week after surgery but I plan to take it this week. My Doc said I didn't have to stop but I stopped for myself since I was going to be hormonally all crazy anyway why waste my T? It worked out because I got my vial of T late from the pharmacy. I think missing the 2 shots actually helped because I am not having any hot flashes and I haven't had any since day 4 or so since the hysto. I will get my levels checked in a few weeks to see where things are.
I am increasingly interested in boxing and can't wait to start training. I am thinking of starting an unofficial fight club for men of trans experience in my area.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I saw the liver specialist and since my labs are normal and I have no symptoms I DO NOT have to get a biopsy (for now) and they will just follow me. I will have to get an abdominal ultrasound in 3 months just to make sure the masses aren't getting bigger but for now they aren't worried neither am I and I was given the Green light to continue taking T so no need to worry about stopping.
Today I just feel really AWESOME!
I am really itching to workout! Though I feel that I am ready to start now I'm going to wait. I will have my post op follow up in 2 days and I think the doc will either clear me then or tell me exactly how many more days I have to wait. I have a feeling she will clear me to "start slow" which would be fine by me.
I really feel better in my body and am one step closer to feeling whole. I am SO glad that I had the hysto. Feeling this great makes me feel more ready to have lower surgery and just be. I have my path laid out before me and I am ready to go forward with regards to that. I started a new yahoo group related to that to help other guys out with their lower surgery decision making.
I didn't take my T shot the week of surgery or the week after surgery but I plan to take it this week. My Doc said I didn't have to stop but I stopped for myself since I was going to be hormonally all crazy anyway why waste my T? It worked out because I got my vial of T late from the pharmacy. I think missing the 2 shots actually helped because I am not having any hot flashes and I haven't had any since day 4 or so since the hysto. I will get my levels checked in a few weeks to see where things are.
I am increasingly interested in boxing and can't wait to start training. I am thinking of starting an unofficial fight club for men of trans experience in my area.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I saw the liver specialist and since my labs are normal and I have no symptoms I DO NOT have to get a biopsy (for now) and they will just follow me. I will have to get an abdominal ultrasound in 3 months just to make sure the masses aren't getting bigger but for now they aren't worried neither am I and I was given the Green light to continue taking T so no need to worry about stopping.
Today I just feel really AWESOME!
Day 10- post hysto upate (WARNING TMI)
Today I got restless.
TMI WARNING!
I had the day off of work. I was horny and home alone so I masturbated. It was good! I thought about it and they said do not put anything in the hole which I didn't do pre-surgery so I had no issue with that post op. They never said anything about giving my penis a little stimulation so I did. When I came it was a different feeling but good different and no cramping when I came which was good.
My wife doesn't know yet. lol. But I am sure I will get an ear full when she finds out. Oh well it felt good so I am perfectly happy. *Knocks on wood* no issues related to me masturbating so that is a plus.
TMI WARNING!
I had the day off of work. I was horny and home alone so I masturbated. It was good! I thought about it and they said do not put anything in the hole which I didn't do pre-surgery so I had no issue with that post op. They never said anything about giving my penis a little stimulation so I did. When I came it was a different feeling but good different and no cramping when I came which was good.
My wife doesn't know yet. lol. But I am sure I will get an ear full when she finds out. Oh well it felt good so I am perfectly happy. *Knocks on wood* no issues related to me masturbating so that is a plus.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Briefest blog I have ever done thus far
I want to have sex or at least masterbate but I guess I should wait. UGH!! SMH.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Brief update.
8 days post hysto.
-No longer peeing green (from the blue dye they put in the bladder during surgery to make sure it isnt injured).
-Bladder spasms still there but getting better slowly but surely.
-Throat stopped hurting around day 4 but I forgot to mention it before.
-Wrist and hand still hurts from the IV but the hand swelling is down and my ring fits. My wrist is still a little tender.
- No pain mets at all. After day 3 I was just taking pain mets at night to help alleviate swelling and pain from all day activity and the fact I sleep on my stomach. As of daay 6 I stopped taking even the motrin.
That's all!
-No longer peeing green (from the blue dye they put in the bladder during surgery to make sure it isnt injured).
-Bladder spasms still there but getting better slowly but surely.
-Throat stopped hurting around day 4 but I forgot to mention it before.
-Wrist and hand still hurts from the IV but the hand swelling is down and my ring fits. My wrist is still a little tender.
- No pain mets at all. After day 3 I was just taking pain mets at night to help alleviate swelling and pain from all day activity and the fact I sleep on my stomach. As of daay 6 I stopped taking even the motrin.
That's all!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Life is moving forward
I will keep it as brief as possible by sectioning things off. Here we go!
Hysto
Day 7 post Hysto and I am doing GREAT! No pain just the mild discomfort still upon urination due to bladder spasms which are fading. No bleeding to date.
Lower surgery
I called my insurance regarding the letter the conversation was very good, better than I thought it would go. My documentation has to be reviewed and I may need to update some paperwork but things are looking good. No matter what I am happy I went forward with the submission of documents. I called surgeon's office to follow up regarding the conversation and things on their end. Things on their end is looking up.
Higher Education
I was going to put off my application process for the Master's Progam I wanted to do but decided to take the plunge. My application is already submitted and everything has been a go. I hope to hear soon. I have been wokring on this half assed for over a year but decided to confirm my desire to enroll in the program and hopefully I can get started soon. It seems like I am doing a lot but it is just enough.
Physical Fitness
I was going to get a family gym membership because my wife and I both need to work out more. We discussed it and decided to enhance our "home gym" (which so far consists of yoga mats, cardio rope, dumbells, curl bar, ab slide,, exercise ball, iron gym and perfect push up). The "enhancement" will lead to me getting some boxing gloves which I was interested in getting anyway. Once I can commit to doing it at home then I can revisit the formal gym issue. With the baby, the potential return to school and need for actual sleep I think this would be the best option. Plus I have my biological brother and enough friends with gym memberships that If I really need a formal gym day several have offered to have me go to their gym with them as a guest on the weekends and my days off.
Liver health
I have my appointment friday to see if those silly doctors will finally leave me alone OR if they would like to do more test to figure out why my liver looks crazy on imaging but lab wise I am still in awesome health. Nomral liver function, normal liver enzymes, All labs normal not one lab too low or too high. It has been like that for a long time. Specifically the past 5 months it has been checked it has been the same.
That's all for now! Life is moving forward
Hysto
Day 7 post Hysto and I am doing GREAT! No pain just the mild discomfort still upon urination due to bladder spasms which are fading. No bleeding to date.
Lower surgery
I called my insurance regarding the letter the conversation was very good, better than I thought it would go. My documentation has to be reviewed and I may need to update some paperwork but things are looking good. No matter what I am happy I went forward with the submission of documents. I called surgeon's office to follow up regarding the conversation and things on their end. Things on their end is looking up.
Higher Education
I was going to put off my application process for the Master's Progam I wanted to do but decided to take the plunge. My application is already submitted and everything has been a go. I hope to hear soon. I have been wokring on this half assed for over a year but decided to confirm my desire to enroll in the program and hopefully I can get started soon. It seems like I am doing a lot but it is just enough.
Physical Fitness
I was going to get a family gym membership because my wife and I both need to work out more. We discussed it and decided to enhance our "home gym" (which so far consists of yoga mats, cardio rope, dumbells, curl bar, ab slide,, exercise ball, iron gym and perfect push up). The "enhancement" will lead to me getting some boxing gloves which I was interested in getting anyway. Once I can commit to doing it at home then I can revisit the formal gym issue. With the baby, the potential return to school and need for actual sleep I think this would be the best option. Plus I have my biological brother and enough friends with gym memberships that If I really need a formal gym day several have offered to have me go to their gym with them as a guest on the weekends and my days off.
Liver health
I have my appointment friday to see if those silly doctors will finally leave me alone OR if they would like to do more test to figure out why my liver looks crazy on imaging but lab wise I am still in awesome health. Nomral liver function, normal liver enzymes, All labs normal not one lab too low or too high. It has been like that for a long time. Specifically the past 5 months it has been checked it has been the same.
That's all for now! Life is moving forward
Monday, April 12, 2010
6 days post hysto returning to work and a surprise in the mail
Today makes 6 days since my hysto and I returned to work. I was feeling great and restless being in the house so I went back today. I thought it was going to be hard on me physically but I felt fine. The only issue was that I had to remind myself not to over do it. I actually took the elevator all most of the day. I usually only take the steps so that I can add to my cardio.
I made it to work, picked my daughter up from daycare and made it home without incident.
In other news I came home and there was a letter from my insurance. I opened it and is said.
Dear Mr. _______
We received a request dated February22nd, 2010 from ____ _____MD for (Insurance company's name) schedule of allowances for CPT (CODE was here) clitoroplasty, (CODE) urethroplasty and (CODE) vaginal hysterectomy for your tentative surgery scheduled on July 23rd, 2010. In order to determine the medical necessity of these services, we will need additional information from you. Please contact .... @..... or via email @...... We lookg forward to hearing from you!
I almost peed myself! This was dated the day I had my hysto and I already spoke to the surgeons assistant/ insurance person the day after my hysto and had the paperwork to her the day after that. This is just reassuring to see them willing to do the surgery. Though I know they would do it seeing it in writing makes it real!!
I don't know if I get to keep that July date but that was put in just to get the Auth. hopefully they let me keep it cause that means I would be healing right in time for my B-Day. I'm a LEO BABY!
We will see what happens in the coming weeks!
P.s. I started applying for programs I am going for another degree! I am one busy man.
I made it to work, picked my daughter up from daycare and made it home without incident.
In other news I came home and there was a letter from my insurance. I opened it and is said.
Dear Mr. _______
We received a request dated February22nd, 2010 from ____ _____MD for (Insurance company's name) schedule of allowances for CPT (CODE was here) clitoroplasty, (CODE) urethroplasty and (CODE) vaginal hysterectomy for your tentative surgery scheduled on July 23rd, 2010. In order to determine the medical necessity of these services, we will need additional information from you. Please contact .... @..... or via email @...... We lookg forward to hearing from you!
I almost peed myself! This was dated the day I had my hysto and I already spoke to the surgeons assistant/ insurance person the day after my hysto and had the paperwork to her the day after that. This is just reassuring to see them willing to do the surgery. Though I know they would do it seeing it in writing makes it real!!
I don't know if I get to keep that July date but that was put in just to get the Auth. hopefully they let me keep it cause that means I would be healing right in time for my B-Day. I'm a LEO BABY!
We will see what happens in the coming weeks!
P.s. I started applying for programs I am going for another degree! I am one busy man.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Lower surgery most recent thoughts and ramblings
I have been thinking over all my surgical options. A few weeks back I blogged about the list of 8 surgeons who are covered by my insurance. Weeks ago before seeing this list I submitted my insurance for a surgeon who does meta because I was pretty set on NOT waiting til the MLD in serbia for lower surgery. I figured that I wanted NEEDED lower surgery ASAP so that I wouldn't kill someone. I figured meta would work. As I researched more phallo options stood out to me and I was finally finding more guys who had success with different techniques here in the US that I often thought was not possible due to the myths.
Let the ranting begin
Now I have one surgeon locally willing to start my phallo ASAP since he takes my insurance and I already consulted with him. He requires his patients to have hysto first which I just had so as early as 6 weeks from hysto he starts planning the stages. I was nervous about sensation because he has experience doing Forearm which I really wanted to stay away from for several reasons. The reasons being 1)I have tattoos on my non- dominant arm which is usually the one they use 2) I didn't want a visible scar 3) The nerves in my non- dominant arm are all weird anyway and I have funny tactile sensation issues so the benefits of the forearm phallo probably wouldn't be there for me anyway so why should I risk it? 4) My arms are extremely hairy and I am not interested in electrolysis.
He offers groin/HIP flap and abdominal. I decided that I would stay away from abdominal. I am leaning more towards a HIP/Groin flap phallo if I get phallo done in the US.
I REALLY WANT AND MLD phallo because it appeals to me on several levels. Sensation, scar placement and lack of the need for electrolysis BUT to be honest after doing my research all of these things are possible for me to get here in the US with the Groin/HIP flap depending on what I discuss with my surgeon MY needs can be met on home soil.
The thing is that if I get a phallo that's really it surgeries done and I really can't benefit from a lot of the new technology/techniques that are up and coming.
I have been pumping and seeing good results with that. I recently been talking to other friends who religiously pump and seeing the Meltzer presentation again with the guys who has gotten a good amount of size from pumping is rather inspiring. Also with the strattice stuff going on and the regenerative cell stuff being kicked around it makes me feel like I am young enough to benefit from other advances in lower surgery in the future even 10 or 20 years from now. I am married to so my needs are different than if I were single and on the prowl I think. All of that makes me consider getting a meta because it will alleviate immediate disphoria and if I am still having a hard time coping even with pumping then I can get a phallo later or benefit from the strattice stuff happening. Meta would allow me to have less surgeries (if all things go well) and still allow me to get more size and whatever else I feel I need in the future if I need something. Meta leaves the road ahead open while phallo doesn't it is the period at the end of the sentence for me it feels. I want my medical transition to be over with so that seems appealing as well ending the surgical part of this journey.
I also have a daughter and I want to be done with transition related surgeries before she is old enough to ask questions. She is only 6 months old so I think I have a good 5 years to work it all out on my own time line.
As I stated in the beginning insurance paperwork has been submitted for a meta but that doesn't mean that is the final answer. Insurance already replied requesting more documentation which was submitted so we shall see where things go with that. In the mean time I have more time to "figure it all out" which I have.
I have a clear plan A and plan B in my head with a possible plan C.
I will add that Dr. Perovic passing away affected my initial plan I had set 2 weeks ago. Some other things happening in the US healthcare system and with guys that I know has left me reworking my plans as well with more optimism. It all doesn't seems so stiffling anymore.
The hysto in itself alleviated much dysphoria and pain. I am in less pain 5 days post hysto than I was prior to my hysto (I had endometriosis and chronic pain). I feel that being in less pain makes things less stressful and allows me to think more clearly.
This rant though all over and confusing honestly has me feeling very clear headed. Funny how my mind works.
Seems like I made my decision? Maybe but life happens so only time will tell the end result.
Let the ranting begin
Now I have one surgeon locally willing to start my phallo ASAP since he takes my insurance and I already consulted with him. He requires his patients to have hysto first which I just had so as early as 6 weeks from hysto he starts planning the stages. I was nervous about sensation because he has experience doing Forearm which I really wanted to stay away from for several reasons. The reasons being 1)I have tattoos on my non- dominant arm which is usually the one they use 2) I didn't want a visible scar 3) The nerves in my non- dominant arm are all weird anyway and I have funny tactile sensation issues so the benefits of the forearm phallo probably wouldn't be there for me anyway so why should I risk it? 4) My arms are extremely hairy and I am not interested in electrolysis.
He offers groin/HIP flap and abdominal. I decided that I would stay away from abdominal. I am leaning more towards a HIP/Groin flap phallo if I get phallo done in the US.
I REALLY WANT AND MLD phallo because it appeals to me on several levels. Sensation, scar placement and lack of the need for electrolysis BUT to be honest after doing my research all of these things are possible for me to get here in the US with the Groin/HIP flap depending on what I discuss with my surgeon MY needs can be met on home soil.
The thing is that if I get a phallo that's really it surgeries done and I really can't benefit from a lot of the new technology/techniques that are up and coming.
I have been pumping and seeing good results with that. I recently been talking to other friends who religiously pump and seeing the Meltzer presentation again with the guys who has gotten a good amount of size from pumping is rather inspiring. Also with the strattice stuff going on and the regenerative cell stuff being kicked around it makes me feel like I am young enough to benefit from other advances in lower surgery in the future even 10 or 20 years from now. I am married to so my needs are different than if I were single and on the prowl I think. All of that makes me consider getting a meta because it will alleviate immediate disphoria and if I am still having a hard time coping even with pumping then I can get a phallo later or benefit from the strattice stuff happening. Meta would allow me to have less surgeries (if all things go well) and still allow me to get more size and whatever else I feel I need in the future if I need something. Meta leaves the road ahead open while phallo doesn't it is the period at the end of the sentence for me it feels. I want my medical transition to be over with so that seems appealing as well ending the surgical part of this journey.
I also have a daughter and I want to be done with transition related surgeries before she is old enough to ask questions. She is only 6 months old so I think I have a good 5 years to work it all out on my own time line.
As I stated in the beginning insurance paperwork has been submitted for a meta but that doesn't mean that is the final answer. Insurance already replied requesting more documentation which was submitted so we shall see where things go with that. In the mean time I have more time to "figure it all out" which I have.
I have a clear plan A and plan B in my head with a possible plan C.
I will add that Dr. Perovic passing away affected my initial plan I had set 2 weeks ago. Some other things happening in the US healthcare system and with guys that I know has left me reworking my plans as well with more optimism. It all doesn't seems so stiffling anymore.
The hysto in itself alleviated much dysphoria and pain. I am in less pain 5 days post hysto than I was prior to my hysto (I had endometriosis and chronic pain). I feel that being in less pain makes things less stressful and allows me to think more clearly.
This rant though all over and confusing honestly has me feeling very clear headed. Funny how my mind works.
Seems like I made my decision? Maybe but life happens so only time will tell the end result.
Recap- Saturday, April 10th,2010 - 4 days post hysto
Yesterday, Saturday April 10th was a good day for me. I was out of the house for the longest amount of time since my hysto. I was out for about 10 hours and I loved it all! I went out to my Football/Soccer/fun in the sun meet up. I didn't play but I watched and talked to some other guys who came out just to watch. After we went back to one of the guys house and I got to see one of his "projects" which had my senses VERY stimulated. I also got on his mic and freestyled a little but by the time I was really warmed up I opted to go home so that I didn't get home too late. Usually I would go home late and not worry but since it was only 4 days since surgery I decided to be good. My wife did get worried and started to give me the whole "You-were-to-come-straight-howme" speech on the phone. When I got home I thought she was going to be MAD but she was happy to see I was home and fine.
I am really amazed at how great I feel. To be honest I sometimes forget I had surgery. The only reminders I have is the surgical glue on my abdomen and my bladder spasm when I go to the bathroom. This next part might be a little TMI.
It doesn't hurt exactly but it feels uncomfortable which I know is to be expected. When I am done using the bathroom the spasms stop and I am fine again.
I was so busy having fun I forgot to buy my powerball ticket but my numbers didn't hit. Well 2 of them hit but not the important numbers so I didn't miss out. I would have been really upset if I didn't buy the ticket and my numbers hit.
I have my lower surgery plan very clear in my head and I am totally happy with the plan I have made. The more days that pass by the moreright at peace I feel with it. It will all be unveiled soon enough for now. It makes sense in my head and that is all that matters.
I am really amazed at how great I feel. To be honest I sometimes forget I had surgery. The only reminders I have is the surgical glue on my abdomen and my bladder spasm when I go to the bathroom. This next part might be a little TMI.
It doesn't hurt exactly but it feels uncomfortable which I know is to be expected. When I am done using the bathroom the spasms stop and I am fine again.
I was so busy having fun I forgot to buy my powerball ticket but my numbers didn't hit. Well 2 of them hit but not the important numbers so I didn't miss out. I would have been really upset if I didn't buy the ticket and my numbers hit.
I have my lower surgery plan very clear in my head and I am totally happy with the plan I have made. The more days that pass by the more
Friday, April 9, 2010
3 days post hysto and more!
3 days since my hysto and I feel great!Today I ran errands again and felt fine. I was out of the house today for about 6 hours with no issues. I still take a nap during the day but I think that has more to do with my inability to go to bed at a respectable time of night no matter what I do. I am returning to work on monday which will only be 6 days post op. In that case I plan to go to bed at a decent hour. Work doesnt require as much walking as I have been doing the past 2 days so I know I will be fine. I only work 4 days next week anyway.
I have been thinking about my maleness since having my hysto and for some reason in my mind I feel more at ease now that I have rid myself of those unwanted parts. I do not see other guys having those parts as less male but for some reason I feel more at home in my body and more like the man I should be because those parts are gone. I don't feel like I am more male in relation to others but more male in relation to pre surgical myself if that makes sense. I hold different standards, wants and needs for my body and medical transition yet respect other peoples paths/journeys/needs whatever that may be.
Though I still REALLYwant NEED lower surgery since having this hysto I feel really calm and at peace. I think it may be the initial Euphoria of it all only time will tell. I am still planning lower surgery but I don't feel the same sense of time crunch/ pressure that I did prior to the hysto. Interesting...
I have been making some business decisions while home that I am very happy with to take my non-profit to the next level. It will allow me to help more peole in the "community" while maintaining more of the boundary that I feel I need for my own personal sanity and safety.
I have been thinking about my maleness since having my hysto and for some reason in my mind I feel more at ease now that I have rid myself of those unwanted parts. I do not see other guys having those parts as less male but for some reason I feel more at home in my body and more like the man I should be because those parts are gone. I don't feel like I am more male in relation to others but more male in relation to pre surgical myself if that makes sense. I hold different standards, wants and needs for my body and medical transition yet respect other peoples paths/journeys/needs whatever that may be.
Though I still REALLY
I have been making some business decisions while home that I am very happy with to take my non-profit to the next level. It will allow me to help more peole in the "community" while maintaining more of the boundary that I feel I need for my own personal sanity and safety.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
2 days Post Hysto and other news
So I had my hysto 2 days ago and I feel great. I woke up this morning and helped my wife get the baby ready for daycare. I got scolded for lifting the baby. (I am on a 10lb weight restriction and my daughter weighs 17lbs.) After they left I ate breakfast checked email then took a nap. Woke up watched some netflix and was feeling restless.
I followed up on some lower surgery stuff. Those calls yeilded positive stuff which I will wait to blog about another time. I had to submit some paperwork for insurance stuff ASAP so I decided to scan it and email it. Based on the information I got yesterday and today my lower surgery plans have to be modified but I don't consider that bad. It just is what it is. Things are still moving forward.
I was still feeling restless so I decided to break out the house. As I was contemplating my grand escape one of my friends was texting me about how I really should be resting. As he was texting me all the reasons I should't leave the house I was walking down the street with the sun beating down on my face. It was a beautiful day. I walked like I was on a mission. I stopped by to say hi to some people I know who work near where I live. My wife caught me in the street. LMAO. I thought she was gonna kick my ass but she just bought me lunch and sent me home. I didn't go home I decided to be productive and take care of some business matters.
I eventually got back home and was still feeling restless so I decided to walk the dog and take out the trash (it was less than 10lbs!)
After all of that I was still feeling good and restless but decided that since I was out of the house for almost a good 4 hours I should just take it easy the rest of the day.
Right now I am online checking emails and chilling but I want to go back outside and play! I will take it easy though because I don't want to overdo it.
I am still celebrating my choice of hysto technique and my surgeon. I have no bleeding and really no pain at all.
Today was a good and productive day!
I followed up on some lower surgery stuff. Those calls yeilded positive stuff which I will wait to blog about another time. I had to submit some paperwork for insurance stuff ASAP so I decided to scan it and email it. Based on the information I got yesterday and today my lower surgery plans have to be modified but I don't consider that bad. It just is what it is. Things are still moving forward.
I was still feeling restless so I decided to break out the house. As I was contemplating my grand escape one of my friends was texting me about how I really should be resting. As he was texting me all the reasons I should't leave the house I was walking down the street with the sun beating down on my face. It was a beautiful day. I walked like I was on a mission. I stopped by to say hi to some people I know who work near where I live. My wife caught me in the street. LMAO. I thought she was gonna kick my ass but she just bought me lunch and sent me home. I didn't go home I decided to be productive and take care of some business matters.
I eventually got back home and was still feeling restless so I decided to walk the dog and take out the trash (it was less than 10lbs!)
After all of that I was still feeling good and restless but decided that since I was out of the house for almost a good 4 hours I should just take it easy the rest of the day.
Right now I am online checking emails and chilling but I want to go back outside and play! I will take it easy though because I don't want to overdo it.
I am still celebrating my choice of hysto technique and my surgeon. I have no bleeding and really no pain at all.
Today was a good and productive day!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Today was an interesting day
It is the day after my hysto and I am doing well. My hand that the IV was in is swollen still. Doesn't hurt but just puffy.
I received a call from a surgeon's office today. The one I submitted my insurance info for approval for a meta. They told me that my insurance said that they would pay contingent upon documentation stating this procedure is medically necessary and why it is medically necessary. They also stated that they will only give approval within 90 days of the procedure so a date has to be set. This makes me happy. Getting the documentation stating surgery is "medically necessary" won't be an issue because between the MH provider and my surgeon I have that covered. My focus now is just trying to get all my ducks in a row. I am VERY happy that it worked out this way. Gives me more time to do what I need to do and shows that insurance is willing to cover surgery without a fight (which I already knew) but this solidifies it.
One of the other surgeons I have been considering has been M.I.A and I found out earlier this week that Perovic died so my plans A through E for lower surgery have to be reworked so to speak. I am still optimistic. I feel like I am on cloud 9 and willing to do what needs to be done in order for me to have my goals reached.
Also I have been having some "sweaty" moments. I don;t know whether this is due to weather changing here (it's been getting warmer) or if it is the beginning of HOT flashes. We shall see.
I received a call from a surgeon's office today. The one I submitted my insurance info for approval for a meta. They told me that my insurance said that they would pay contingent upon documentation stating this procedure is medically necessary and why it is medically necessary. They also stated that they will only give approval within 90 days of the procedure so a date has to be set. This makes me happy. Getting the documentation stating surgery is "medically necessary" won't be an issue because between the MH provider and my surgeon I have that covered. My focus now is just trying to get all my ducks in a row. I am VERY happy that it worked out this way. Gives me more time to do what I need to do and shows that insurance is willing to cover surgery without a fight (which I already knew) but this solidifies it.
One of the other surgeons I have been considering has been M.I.A and I found out earlier this week that Perovic died so my plans A through E for lower surgery have to be reworked so to speak. I am still optimistic. I feel like I am on cloud 9 and willing to do what needs to be done in order for me to have my goals reached.
Also I have been having some "sweaty" moments. I don;t know whether this is due to weather changing here (it's been getting warmer) or if it is the beginning of HOT flashes. We shall see.
Hysto- Surgery day- 4/6/10 recap
I wanted to post yesterday but was a little tired. Today I am more awake and aler so I figured now would be a good time to blog about my experience before I start forgetting all the details.
I was scheduled to Arrive at 8AM but my wife being herself (habitually late) we arrived at 8:10AM luckily it wasn't an issue. I signed in letting them know my name and surgeon's name. At 9:15AM a nurse called me in took my vitals checked to make sure I didnt eat or drink after midnight, made sure I knew what surgery I was having, checked to make sure I stopped taking aspirin and all that. They called down to the OR area to see if I should start getting dressed. They said not yet so I went back out to the waiting area.
10:30AM another nurse came to get me and told me I could change. They put your clothes in these fancy duffle bags which you get to keep. They took me upstairs to the OR holding area where another nurse cross checked when I ate and all of that. This nurse when it came to what surgery I was having she looked at the paper then looked at me then looked at the paper. Then she said in a whisper "I hope this is okay to ask you but do you have female parts?" I said, I nodded. I guess she sensed I was uncomfortable and replied, "I'm sorry, but look on the bright side after today they will be gone!" I smiled when she said that. She said the case before me it taking longer than expected but as soon as they finish up the surgeon will come see me and then I should be all set to go. I was sitting in chairs and the nurse offered me a blanket but I refused. She offered me a bed so I could lay down, but I refused. She kept trying to make me comfortable which I appreciated but I just wanted to go in and get rid off all these parts!
Around 11:30am my surgeon came in she stated that her previous case was longer than expected. (It's funny she said this because I know her previous case is another transguy I know in for the same surgery). She went over the surgery again stating what she was going to do, what was coming out (which was everything). She asked if I had any questions which I stated that I didn't. She also told me that eventhough the patient can be done outpatient and the plan is for me to go home after surgery depending on how things go in the OR and how I feel if they think it is better for me to stay the night then I will. I told her that was fine.
She said since it was in the OR so long she was going to grab something to eat and stretch while they cleaned the OR and then see me in about an hour. She apologized for the delay.
The anesthesiologist came to see me and asked the same questions the first 2 nurses asked me. I saw my chart and saw that there is a line for each person to initial after they ask these questions so it wasnt that they lacked communication but their way of making sure everything is in order. I answered her questions told her about my allergies and she said she would be right back to do my IV. She tried to do my IV in the OR holding area but my veins are bad and especially after not drinking anything for hours they were hard to find. She said she didn't want to poke around in my arm so she will wait til we are in the OR and do it there since there is way more lighting.
Around 12:40pm a nurse came to get me from the holding area. She had to sign me out of OR holding and escort me to the OR. We passed the surgeon who smiled and said "This is it!" I got on the table, my IV was put in. They told me to take deep breaths then the next thing I remember is being moved from one bed to the next. I woke up in the Recovery room. I was in and out but Around 5:08pm I was more alert. I told the Recovery room nurse I had to pee and she said I will have that sensation because of the catheter being out but she will give me the bed pan so I can try. I tried but couldn't pee. The nurse moved it so I wouldn't hurt my back. I could only open one eye at time. I asked the nurse if I could go home today or if I had to stay. She said I was cleared to go home as long as I didn't have too much pain. I told her honestly I have no pain. I touched my stomach to make sure they did the right incision. I felt a round patch on both sides of my abdomen which I later realized was surgical glue to seal the incisions. I told her again no pain just really need to pee. She told me wait to wake up a little bit more and if I had an "accident" she wouldn't hold it against me. I asked when I could leave and she said if I continue to do well then about 6:30pm. I asked if my wife was spoken to she said yes the surgeon spoke to her. I asked for something to drink which she brought me and I downed. She asked if I wanted juice this time and I said yes. She encouraged me to drink it slowly since some people get nauseous after anesthesia. I downed the juice. I told her I really have to pee now. She made me sit up slowly then she took my blood pressure which was fine. As I got off the bed I saw all this plus and purple stuff on the sheets she said it was dye they use during surgery. She informed me that I will pee bluish-green for the next 24 hours probably. I went to the bathroom and peed slowly but surely. When I was done I felt like I could run a marathon. The little bit of discomfort I had was gone but I still took it easy since I was a little high on the Anesthesia and didn't want to over do it. When I came out the bathroom I saw the guy I knew who had surgery before me. I was surprised he was still there. He said that he had to stay the night. I told him I was going home. We wished each other well and the nurse took me to chairs so that I could start getting ready to go home. She went over my discharge instructions. They prescribed me percocet and told me that I could use motrin once the pain wasn't so bad. They didn't prescribe me an antibiotic since I had no "open" wounds. I was happy about this.
The gave me more apple juice, ginger ale for my stomach and some Matzo crackers. I laughed at the matzo crackers and she said it's all we have. I told her it was fine because I love matzo crackers I just found it funny for some reason. She checked my pain level which was really none, She checked if I was feeling nauseous which I didn't. She called my wife to come up and meet me so that I could go home. My wife can to the Recovery area a few minutes later and when she saw me she got teary eyed. I said "Baby, why are you crying? I'm the one they cut open!" The nurse and my wife laughed. The nurse took my wife and I to a room so I could get changed. My wife offered to help me but I told her I was fine. I told her look at my belly. She said she couldnt see anything but some sticky looking stuff in my abdominal hair. She kept saying "so where is the cut? where are the bandages?" I told her there really wasn't any cut just 4 holes. She kept asking if I was okay and I kept assuring her I was fine. I went and peed again to alleviate the discomfort in my abdomen which peeing did help. We went downstairs where my friend was waiting with my daughter to drive us home. There was a Thai restaurant next to the car so my wife got me some food. We were on our way.
Eventhough my eyes felt heavy I was able to give my friend directions to get me home safely since my wife is bad with directions. Once I was home still no pain just discomfort which always went away after I peed. I peed a lot! I ate, drank gatorade and just relaxed. My eyes felt heavy so I just took 2 motrin and went to bed. I didn't feel I needed percocet. I slept fine but had to get up to pee every time I felt that discomfort. The getting in and out of bed made me feel a little sore. I feel great.
I also wanted to add that from the time I arrived at the hospital for surgery 'til the time that I left everyone was very respectful calling me he, him, sir and Mister even when they knew what I was there for. This made me feel amazing. They were consistant even when I was high on the anesthesia and not as alert as I could have been.
I survived surgery day!
I was scheduled to Arrive at 8AM but my wife being herself (habitually late) we arrived at 8:10AM luckily it wasn't an issue. I signed in letting them know my name and surgeon's name. At 9:15AM a nurse called me in took my vitals checked to make sure I didnt eat or drink after midnight, made sure I knew what surgery I was having, checked to make sure I stopped taking aspirin and all that. They called down to the OR area to see if I should start getting dressed. They said not yet so I went back out to the waiting area.
10:30AM another nurse came to get me and told me I could change. They put your clothes in these fancy duffle bags which you get to keep. They took me upstairs to the OR holding area where another nurse cross checked when I ate and all of that. This nurse when it came to what surgery I was having she looked at the paper then looked at me then looked at the paper. Then she said in a whisper "I hope this is okay to ask you but do you have female parts?" I said, I nodded. I guess she sensed I was uncomfortable and replied, "I'm sorry, but look on the bright side after today they will be gone!" I smiled when she said that. She said the case before me it taking longer than expected but as soon as they finish up the surgeon will come see me and then I should be all set to go. I was sitting in chairs and the nurse offered me a blanket but I refused. She offered me a bed so I could lay down, but I refused. She kept trying to make me comfortable which I appreciated but I just wanted to go in and get rid off all these parts!
Around 11:30am my surgeon came in she stated that her previous case was longer than expected. (It's funny she said this because I know her previous case is another transguy I know in for the same surgery). She went over the surgery again stating what she was going to do, what was coming out (which was everything). She asked if I had any questions which I stated that I didn't. She also told me that eventhough the patient can be done outpatient and the plan is for me to go home after surgery depending on how things go in the OR and how I feel if they think it is better for me to stay the night then I will. I told her that was fine.
She said since it was in the OR so long she was going to grab something to eat and stretch while they cleaned the OR and then see me in about an hour. She apologized for the delay.
The anesthesiologist came to see me and asked the same questions the first 2 nurses asked me. I saw my chart and saw that there is a line for each person to initial after they ask these questions so it wasnt that they lacked communication but their way of making sure everything is in order. I answered her questions told her about my allergies and she said she would be right back to do my IV. She tried to do my IV in the OR holding area but my veins are bad and especially after not drinking anything for hours they were hard to find. She said she didn't want to poke around in my arm so she will wait til we are in the OR and do it there since there is way more lighting.
Around 12:40pm a nurse came to get me from the holding area. She had to sign me out of OR holding and escort me to the OR. We passed the surgeon who smiled and said "This is it!" I got on the table, my IV was put in. They told me to take deep breaths then the next thing I remember is being moved from one bed to the next. I woke up in the Recovery room. I was in and out but Around 5:08pm I was more alert. I told the Recovery room nurse I had to pee and she said I will have that sensation because of the catheter being out but she will give me the bed pan so I can try. I tried but couldn't pee. The nurse moved it so I wouldn't hurt my back. I could only open one eye at time. I asked the nurse if I could go home today or if I had to stay. She said I was cleared to go home as long as I didn't have too much pain. I told her honestly I have no pain. I touched my stomach to make sure they did the right incision. I felt a round patch on both sides of my abdomen which I later realized was surgical glue to seal the incisions. I told her again no pain just really need to pee. She told me wait to wake up a little bit more and if I had an "accident" she wouldn't hold it against me. I asked when I could leave and she said if I continue to do well then about 6:30pm. I asked if my wife was spoken to she said yes the surgeon spoke to her. I asked for something to drink which she brought me and I downed. She asked if I wanted juice this time and I said yes. She encouraged me to drink it slowly since some people get nauseous after anesthesia. I downed the juice. I told her I really have to pee now. She made me sit up slowly then she took my blood pressure which was fine. As I got off the bed I saw all this plus and purple stuff on the sheets she said it was dye they use during surgery. She informed me that I will pee bluish-green for the next 24 hours probably. I went to the bathroom and peed slowly but surely. When I was done I felt like I could run a marathon. The little bit of discomfort I had was gone but I still took it easy since I was a little high on the Anesthesia and didn't want to over do it. When I came out the bathroom I saw the guy I knew who had surgery before me. I was surprised he was still there. He said that he had to stay the night. I told him I was going home. We wished each other well and the nurse took me to chairs so that I could start getting ready to go home. She went over my discharge instructions. They prescribed me percocet and told me that I could use motrin once the pain wasn't so bad. They didn't prescribe me an antibiotic since I had no "open" wounds. I was happy about this.
The gave me more apple juice, ginger ale for my stomach and some Matzo crackers. I laughed at the matzo crackers and she said it's all we have. I told her it was fine because I love matzo crackers I just found it funny for some reason. She checked my pain level which was really none, She checked if I was feeling nauseous which I didn't. She called my wife to come up and meet me so that I could go home. My wife can to the Recovery area a few minutes later and when she saw me she got teary eyed. I said "Baby, why are you crying? I'm the one they cut open!" The nurse and my wife laughed. The nurse took my wife and I to a room so I could get changed. My wife offered to help me but I told her I was fine. I told her look at my belly. She said she couldnt see anything but some sticky looking stuff in my abdominal hair. She kept saying "so where is the cut? where are the bandages?" I told her there really wasn't any cut just 4 holes. She kept asking if I was okay and I kept assuring her I was fine. I went and peed again to alleviate the discomfort in my abdomen which peeing did help. We went downstairs where my friend was waiting with my daughter to drive us home. There was a Thai restaurant next to the car so my wife got me some food. We were on our way.
Eventhough my eyes felt heavy I was able to give my friend directions to get me home safely since my wife is bad with directions. Once I was home still no pain just discomfort which always went away after I peed. I peed a lot! I ate, drank gatorade and just relaxed. My eyes felt heavy so I just took 2 motrin and went to bed. I didn't feel I needed percocet. I slept fine but had to get up to pee every time I felt that discomfort. The getting in and out of bed made me feel a little sore. I feel great.
I also wanted to add that from the time I arrived at the hospital for surgery 'til the time that I left everyone was very respectful calling me he, him, sir and Mister even when they knew what I was there for. This made me feel amazing. They were consistant even when I was high on the anesthesia and not as alert as I could have been.
I survived surgery day!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Surgery Day- HYSTO
That's right today was surgery day. I want to give a really detailed account of what happened but I am still a little blah from the anesthesia. I am home though and resting so I feel great.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Less than 10 hours to go
That's right! Today I woke up hoping that the day would fly by and it truely has! I went to work and was busy non stop. I was told that after 2pm some would call me with my time for surgery but if I wanted I could call. I decided to call so at 2:05pm I was on the phone. I got my surgery time and I started texting my wife and closest friends. By luck another guy I know who I referred for surgery is having his hysto with the same surgeon the same day RIGHT BEFORE me. He was hoping they would make us roomies but the technique is so minimally invasive that I get to go home the same day which to be honest I actually prefer. Next time I post I will be celebrating the fact that I am FREE of those parts!
Less than 10 hours til surgery!
Less than 10 hours til surgery!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
2 more days
I have 2 more days until my hysto. The weekend flew by just how I wanted. My Easter Sunday was full of food, fun and film! Hopefully tomorrow goes by fast. Tomorrow I find out the time I should arrive for surgery. I hope that it is really early that way I hahve time for the anesthesia to wear off and I can be up and online the night of surgery.
so close I can taste it!
so close I can taste it!
Saturday, April 3rd, 2010- Funday!
Yesterday was such an awesome day! I had been so caught up in my head preparing for my hysto and planning lower surgery that I wasn't having any fun.
Started out the day hanging with my beautiful wife and daughter. Got my daughter a ton of baby food (she is officially eating solids) and an Easter dress. My wife would like us to go to Easter Service so we are going to try and do that.
Ran into some professional aquantances of mine which resulted in some FREE Mets tickets. SCORE! Too bad I don't like the Mets that much. I still may go to the game because the seats appear to be pretty Sweet.
It was off to the Park. It was sunny out but then it got windy and chilly so I wasn't too interested in running around. Tossed around the football, kicked around the soccer ball and chatted as guys slowly came out. It ended up being around 10 of us which was fine. We were able to get a 3 on 3 going with people subing. We played soccer and it was fun! My team lost BUT we did give the other team a good fight so it was cool.
Went to one of the guys' house and ate, talked smack, enjoyed his massage chair, got some free clothes he was giving away, competed in everything possible: push ups, pull ups, hanging knee raises (I won the hanging knee raises contest). Then we decided to start boxing. (No face shots allowed, we're all too pretty for that. lol.) It was great.
On the way home stopped off in the city for some pizza and some "entertainment" the shenanigans in the pizza shop were hilarious!
All and all it was a great day that made me very happy. I total reduced my stress level and got some serious cardio in between all of the running, jumping and boxing.
Sometimes you just have an awesome day!
Started out the day hanging with my beautiful wife and daughter. Got my daughter a ton of baby food (she is officially eating solids) and an Easter dress. My wife would like us to go to Easter Service so we are going to try and do that.
Ran into some professional aquantances of mine which resulted in some FREE Mets tickets. SCORE! Too bad I don't like the Mets that much. I still may go to the game because the seats appear to be pretty Sweet.
It was off to the Park. It was sunny out but then it got windy and chilly so I wasn't too interested in running around. Tossed around the football, kicked around the soccer ball and chatted as guys slowly came out. It ended up being around 10 of us which was fine. We were able to get a 3 on 3 going with people subing. We played soccer and it was fun! My team lost BUT we did give the other team a good fight so it was cool.
Went to one of the guys' house and ate, talked smack, enjoyed his massage chair, got some free clothes he was giving away, competed in everything possible: push ups, pull ups, hanging knee raises (I won the hanging knee raises contest). Then we decided to start boxing. (No face shots allowed, we're all too pretty for that. lol.) It was great.
On the way home stopped off in the city for some pizza and some "entertainment" the shenanigans in the pizza shop were hilarious!
All and all it was a great day that made me very happy. I total reduced my stress level and got some serious cardio in between all of the running, jumping and boxing.
Sometimes you just have an awesome day!
Friday, April 2, 2010
My penis will be fine
I decided to stop worrying about my lower surgery decision because ultimately whatever decision I make will be the RIGHT ONE... For ME. I keep taking other people's thoughts, concerns and experiences into consideration. I keep asking myself well if I do A then people might think this or if I do B people might say that! Though what people say and think won't stop me from doing what I am doing I need to not think about that. I am still working on that habit I have. I spend hours on end wondering but I know in the end the decisions I make will be the best one for me and no matter what the complications, amount of stages or any other issues. I have a plan A through E in my head right now and I am happy with the plan that I have. Some aspects may not seem as "practical" to people but to me they make perfect sense and take into consideration all the areas that I have been trying to balance in making this decision for my lower surgery. I may have to come out of pocket at least partially for what I want BUT that is okay. I think making sure my penis is what I want it to be is worth the investment. As long as I do what is right FOR ME ... My penis will be fine!
*4 days til my hysto.
*4 days til my hysto.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
5 days til Hysto and the twist in the plot!
Today I was at work minding my business and I get a call from the Hospital where I am to be having my hysto in 5 days. The woman first asks for me and made sure she had the right person. She said," I'm used to speaking to people with higher voices... Women. So Mister (Lastname)" She proceeded to tell me "I contacted your insurance today about the Prior Authorization for surgery and they said they will not approve the surgery-" Excuse me?! (I cut her off).
She said "Let me finish please sir" (I apologized). She proceeded to explain that they will not approve me to stay in the hospital overnight after surgery due to the technique the surgeon is using is so minimally invasive (Total Laparoscopic Hysto). So my options were to either take a slightly more invasive yet minimally invasive surgery which would be LAVH OR go home after surgery. I already knew that I did NOT want to have the LAVH (Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysto) because of the longer "bleeding" than the TLH. Since I knew about the TLH and knew that it is common practice for it to be done outpatient I was confident in my decision. Obviously if there are any complications or I am not feeling well then they will keep me overnight and insurance will pay for the night.
The woman was calling them today since for this type of surgery they need authorization only 2 days before. Though there are technically 3 business days between today and the surgery tomorrow is a Holiday (Good Friday) for certain hospitals with Religious affiliations so some offices are closed which is why today is why they did it. If there was any other issue she would call me back today. It is 9:34pm EST and she has not called me back. I will take that as my Green light. After spending 2 weeks in the hospital back in December I am perfectly fine NOT staying in the hospital overnight. A good buddy of mine agreed to give me a ride home since with this new development my wife might not be able to take me home since she will probably be picking our daughter up from daycare when they are releasing me. I find out my surgery time the day before surgery (Monday). I have a 3 day weekend (I am also off for Good Friday). Usually I would want the weekend to go slowly BUT this is one weekend in which I would like it to fly by!
5 more days!
She said "Let me finish please sir" (I apologized). She proceeded to explain that they will not approve me to stay in the hospital overnight after surgery due to the technique the surgeon is using is so minimally invasive (Total Laparoscopic Hysto). So my options were to either take a slightly more invasive yet minimally invasive surgery which would be LAVH OR go home after surgery. I already knew that I did NOT want to have the LAVH (Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysto) because of the longer "bleeding" than the TLH. Since I knew about the TLH and knew that it is common practice for it to be done outpatient I was confident in my decision. Obviously if there are any complications or I am not feeling well then they will keep me overnight and insurance will pay for the night.
The woman was calling them today since for this type of surgery they need authorization only 2 days before. Though there are technically 3 business days between today and the surgery tomorrow is a Holiday (Good Friday) for certain hospitals with Religious affiliations so some offices are closed which is why today is why they did it. If there was any other issue she would call me back today. It is 9:34pm EST and she has not called me back. I will take that as my Green light. After spending 2 weeks in the hospital back in December I am perfectly fine NOT staying in the hospital overnight. A good buddy of mine agreed to give me a ride home since with this new development my wife might not be able to take me home since she will probably be picking our daughter up from daycare when they are releasing me. I find out my surgery time the day before surgery (Monday). I have a 3 day weekend (I am also off for Good Friday). Usually I would want the weekend to go slowly BUT this is one weekend in which I would like it to fly by!
5 more days!
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