I'm looking into an orchi with Dr Oates. I'm on a high deductible, privately purchased insurance plan with a substantial out of pocket limit. Essentially, I'm going to be cutting a big check for this and I was hoping to get a ballpark figure on what it costs. Also curious what the healing/downtime was before returning to work. I do light hand work, but I'm sitting all day. Thanks in advance for any input.
Hugs, Devlyn
Thanks for posting this Devlyn, I'm very curious to hear the answers.
Paige :)
Mine was pretty easy and cost about $1,200, but that was over a decade ago. I was definitely sore for a few days, and after about a week I was a bit slowed down but not too bad. I would say you could go back to a desk job in a week or so, but if you do anything active I would take several weeks off. Your doctor, of course, can advise you better.
Thanks, hon! It's a few days until I can ask, so I figured I'd put the feelers out here.
Hugs, Devlyn
Letter and referral are at the surgeon's office, they just called and scheduled my consultation for July 20th. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on June 13, 2017, 12:24:45 PM
Letter and referral are at the surgeon's office, they just called and scheduled my consultation for July 20th. :)
Congrats Devlyn, hope it goes well.
Paige :)
Congrats Devlyn. Be sure to keep us that come after you informed with "helpful" information.
Hugs,
Laurie
Hey Devlyn, good for you.
I consider an orchiectomy to be a very sound choice for reducing our medication needs and their associated risks and for the comforting permanence it provides.
I had mine over a year ago as a birthday gift for myself. I respectfully recommend you keep your testicular sack in the event that you ever consider going for GCS where they need that donor material for vaginal lips. A dear friend had hers about the same time, at a different place with a surgeon who does the "works" too. The university medical center charges for her were about 10K.
My charges were about 5 grand but I have a good Kaiser Plan and paid $10.00. I also recommend you consider having it done with a local anesthetic and sedation as I did. I mostly "slept" through the procedure, less than an hour, but avoided a general anesthetic with the associated risks, costs and recovery. My initial recovery was very quick and I was home on the couch within hours. My pain was well controlled by oral medications, ice bags and mostly laying around for a week. Sensitivity and the ability to return to work after that varies for individuals but it is easy to recommend two weeks off at a minimum.
The unexpectedly wonderful sense of permanence, no more AAs, no possibility of slipping back has been very reassuring. I was certain of my decision and gave myself years to consider it. I am less certain about any next surgical steps but have greater confidence if that choice becomes more obvious. I am happy for now.
It took some time to recover from years on AAs with some pedal edema and a rebalancing of body fluids. Very happy to be off those drugs and have a more simple and effective drug regimen for going forward. So nice to have much less bulk to my shrunken basket and shenis. I have no need to tuck, can wear what I like and always crossed my legs anyway but now with more comfort. Your gona love it!
Thanks, ladies! I'm definitely going to give updates as I find things out.
Tessa, great information! I'm extremely needlephobic and have White Coat Syndrome, the idea of NOT sleeping through a surgery horrifies me. I intend to bring that up during the consultation. At work I usually sit but I can do most of it standing at a table as well.
Hugs, Devlyn
Question on my mind, have you been looking at the bilateral surgery or dual inguinal? I've read where some have had inguinal once for a tumor and scrotal later and said the inguinal was actually easier on them as far as recovery went. I am planning on talking with a urologist about both. I know the bilateral is likely quicker and the inguinal may require full anesthesia but no worries about scar tissue for later use.
Devlyn,
I had mine done in Mexico during FFS. It was like $600.00 USD. I consider that the best money I've ever spent on a surgical procedure. It had zero impact on my eventual GRS. It was also the first thing I checked when I woke up from surgery too. ;D
Quote from: EmmaLoo on June 19, 2017, 08:47:48 PM
It had zero impact on my eventual GRS.
Hi EmmaLoo,
That's very interesting. I've never considered the orchiectomy because so many people say it could negatively affect a GRS. If you don't mind me asking, who did your GRS?
Thanks,
Paige :)
I did not have an Orch but I tucked them up inside over 12 years ago and haven't seen them since. The Scrotal Sack has really shrunken a lot and I was very concerned they would not have enough skin for GCS. My surgeon however didn't think twice about it. She said it would be fine. I was also concerned about her retrieving them and she said, "no way, we'll get them, they're sayonara" (she has a great sense of humor). Surgery date: Aug 11th. . .
I'm not getting a vaginoplasty, one of the things that made the decision to go with the orchiectomy easier for me. Thanks for the information, ladies!
Hugs, Devlyn
Congratulations Devlyn.
I can not help on the experience side but I am very interested on your experience.
QuoteThat's very interesting. I've never considered the orchiectomy because so many people say it could negatively affect a GRS. If you don't mind me asking, who did your GRS?
I'm not sure why that issue of negativity remains about Orchs. In last 15 years, I've never actually read about anyone who had one and then ran into issues with GRS because of it. I'm not saying it hasn't happened, I just haven't read about it and I've been around long enough to know if this was a chronic problem as a prelude to GRS.
I had my GRS done by Dr. Sidhbh Gallagher in Indianapolis. She had no hesitation whatsoever about it and I have 5 1/2"-6" of depth without any difficulty. Dr. G's only comment on the issue was, "No problem, that skin is really stretchy and pliable". She was correct!
Good inputs! I'm looking at getting it done in July or August in Plano, TX. Closest to me and I know girls from my local support group that have used Dr. Raphael and have had good results. He does the inguinal with no cuts to the scrotal sack. Downside is full anesthesia and $3500 cash. His group also does GRS so he's familiar with the procedure.
$3500 is a number that I can live with. :) Thanks!
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Paige on June 20, 2017, 07:52:00 AM
Hi EmmaLoo,
That's very interesting. I've never considered the orchiectomy because so many people say it could negatively affect a GRS. If you don't mind me asking, who did your GRS?
Thanks,
Paige :)
My experience, including recently talking with a GCS team in Phoenix, is that the scrotal sack and penis may shrink after years on HRT and "less use" or far less frequent erections. My understanding is that the penile tissue available for creating a vagina is a far bigger issue than the scrotal sack that is often used for creating vaginal lips. Use it lose it may apply to this situation perhaps?
Had my initial consult today. Didn't talk money but I addressed my other questions and concerns. Dr Oates performs all his surgeries on Friday. I can return to work the following Tuesday. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and someone will be required to pick me up afterwards. I'm alone up here, so that's going to take some finagling.
He needs letters per WPATH standards, and I have an appointment with a Fenway Health therapist coming up next Tuesday, the 25th to get the first one. I assume she'll refer me to a Psychiatrist for the second one in short order (I'm neither questioning myself nor looking for therapy). Once he receives the letters, it's a couple weeks to get in the operating room.
He doesn't have an issue with orchiectomy before GRS for those looking at that route.
More updates on the 25th. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on July 20, 2017, 01:03:04 PM
Had my initial consult today. Didn't talk money but I addressed my other questions and concerns. Dr Oates performs all his surgeries on Friday. I can return to work the following Tuesday. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and someone will be required to pick me up afterwards. I'm alone up here, so that's going to take some finagling.
He needs letters per WPATH standards, and I have an appointment with a Fenway Health therapist coming up next Tuesday, the 25th to get the first one. I assume she'll refer me to a Psychiatrist for the second one in short order (I'm neither questioning myself nor looking for therapy). Once he receives the letters, it's a couple weeks to get in the operating room.
He doesn't have an issue with orchiectomy before GRS for those looking at that route.
More updates on the 25th. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
If I was anywhere near you I would brave the New England traffic again to act as taxi.
Hugs,
Laurie
Aw, thanks! :-*
Hugs, Devlyn
You may be able to stay overnight, for extra money, and be allowed to exit the hospital by yourself.
That's an idea if I can't line someone up. Thanks!
Hugs, Devlyn
Just don't hang them from your trailer hitch. >:-)
They're going in a jar. With my tonsils, appendix, baby teeth, and a bezoar. :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
No promises, but when you set the date let me know. Where in Massachusetts are you? I'm in Kingston, NY.
That's sweet, Dee! :-* I'm in Weymouth.
I have one local option, I'm looking into that tomorrow.
Hugs, Devlyn
Devlyn, I can't help with what it costs since my urologist had been treating me for problems and wrote my orchi up as medically necessary and my share was like $147. For me, recovery was a piece of cake. I had no pain and Miss Dee had to make me take it easy. You'll need ice packs for a couple of days at least and we found the best thing to use was small bags of frozen green peas. Seriously! The biggest problem for me was drainage and wearing a pad 24/7 for a couple of weeks. At least I got to turn the tables on Dee. "Honey, I'm about out of pads. Would you pick me up some while you are out?" LOL
It wasn't the best week for me. Monday I went to work then got so violently ill they dragged me to the emergency room. They pumped me full of anti-nausea medications and then filled me with about five bags of iv fluids. Oh, and kept sticking me for blood, then a second iv. Then two trips through a scanner with the medicine that makes it feel like you're peeing yourself. :o
By Tuesday morning I was telling anyone who came in the room that I had to get out of there so I wouldn't miss my 4:00 PM appointment in Boston. Doctor made rounds and said if I ate breakfast and held it down I could go. I ate everything, even the orange slice garnish on the plate. They adjusted my potassium and told me to wait another day before restarting my spiro, and sent me on my way at 11:30. By Wednesday morning my face was all bloated up after 48 hours off the diuretic. Popped a spiro and cup of coffee and I was losing weight all...day..long. :laugh:
But that's not what this post is about. Tuesday afternoon I spent an hour with the therapist and talked about some of my plans and concerns, and she brought up issues that she felt I should consider. Near the end she said:
"You have about ten minutes and I want to explain the next step. I'll formalize my notes on you, and in about a week send you a draft of your letter to check for accuracy. If you OK it, I'll put it on letterhead and send it to you.
I want you to be aware that we understand genderfluid. We get that you're two-spirit, but insurance companies don't. Your letter will stress your need for continuing feminization and putting the man that was your past behind you. I don't want you to think that I wasn't listening to you. We use people like you to push the system so someday everyone can get the treatment they need. But we don't push so hard that you don't get what you need"
So yay, I got my first letter out of the way with one visit, but I'm left with a funny taste in my mouth that my truth needs to be modified to be acceptable. Oh well. Now eagerly waiting for a letter and notification of who I see next. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Dee Marshall on July 20, 2017, 08:22:19 PM
No promises, but when you set the date let me know. Where in Massachusetts are you? I'm in Kingston, NY.
I have lined up a local ride, a dependable guy. He doesn't support my decision to get this surgery but he absolutely supports me so he's going to be there for me. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on July 27, 2017, 07:49:37 PM
I have lined up a local ride, a dependable guy. He doesn't support my decision to get this surgery but he absolutely supports me so he's going to be there for me. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
I'm glad! Although it would have been an adventure!
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
We call an adventure a Laurie now.
If you do it in a truck, it's a Lorry Laurie.
If something fabulous happens, it's a Lorry Glory Laurie.
If someone gets hurt performing the fabulous it's a Sorry Lorry Glory Laurie.
<running away>
QuoteSo yay, I got my first letter out of the way with one visit, but I'm left with a funny taste in my mouth that my truth needs to be modified to be acceptable. Oh well. Now eagerly waiting for a letter and notification of who I see next. :)
Devlyn, I think all of our truths have to get bent some just to get through the system.
Congrats on getting your orchi letter! ;)
Btw, love the tee shirt in you avatar pic.
Thanks, Josie! It's still tough knowing that if you were truthful the system would turn you down. :-\
Hugs, Devlyn
Also, I just remembered that the therapist warned me the old GID language would still be on the letter, and not to bristle at being diagnosed with a disorder, because it was how the system works.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on July 27, 2017, 07:57:05 PM
We call an adventure a Laurie now.
If you do it in a truck, it's a Lorry Laurie.
If something fabulous happens, it's a Lorry Glory Laurie.
If someone gets hurt performing the fabulous it's a Sorry Lorry Glory Laurie.
<running away>
OMG You Devyl!
I see I am going to have to keep my eye on you a little closer Dev.
1. Sorry you were sick.
2. Glad you made your appointment.
3. Very happy you got your letter.
4. Glad you were able to find transportation.
5. I got a good laugh from your Laurie story in a lorry for the glory, omg I'm sorry.
Hugs,
Giggling,
Laurie
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on July 28, 2017, 01:42:21 PM
Also, I just remembered that the therapist warned me the old GID language would still be on the letter, and not to bristle at being diagnosed with a disorder, because it was how the system works.
Hugs, Devlyn
That's not right. The current medical diagnosis is " gender disphoria adult".
I think she said it would show up that way in the IDC coding?
Anyhoo, more progress! I got an email this afternoon telling me who to contact for my second letter. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on July 28, 2017, 06:03:50 PM
I think she said it would show up that way in the IDC coding?
Anyhoo, more progress! I got an email this afternoon telling me who to contact for my second letter. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
IDC coding does still say GID. Europe is behind the times in some things.
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
Keep moving forward soldier! Advance and never retreat!
Laurie
Dee, nice pic! :) Florida?
I have an appointment next Monday night for the second mental health letter. I have a previously scheduled physical and hormone recheck on Tuesday. The ducks are starting to form a line. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on August 01, 2017, 05:48:30 PM
Dee, nice pic! :) Florida?
I have an appointment next Monday night for the second mental health letter. I have a previously scheduled physical and hormone recheck on Tuesday. The ducks are starting to form a line. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Cocoa Beach at the end of, I kid you not, "I Dream of Jeannie Drive."
Happy for you!
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
Good news: I got the draft of the letter today and OK'd it.
Bad news: I understand now, and appreciate why she warned me about it ahead of time. I feel like I'm reading someone else's therapy report.
Every silver cloud has a dark lining.
Forgot to post it, but I got my second letter Monday night. I can schedule the surgery whenever I'm ready. Will update again when I know the date.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on August 08, 2017, 07:37:15 PM
Forgot to post it, but I got my second letter Monday night. I can schedule the surgery whenever I'm ready. Will update again when I know the date.
Hugs, Devlyn
Congrats Devlyn.
Paige :)
No posts for the last three weeks. :( Curious minds just gotta know.
Seems a difference in the way these letters are written. My therapist used a lot of the language that according to her is required to satisfy the standards set. My psychologist wrote a much more direct and easy to understand letter. The surgeon scheduled a surgery date the day he got the letter from the psychologist.
His letter was four paragraphs, the very first sentence was . . .
"I am writing in support of my clients request for an orchiectomy."
In the third paragraph he wrote . . .
"I confidently affirm that Ms. (name) is an appropriate candidate for the surgery".
Last sentence of the letter says . . .
"I believe it would be psychologically beneficial for her to undergo an orchiectomy."
I also would be interested in what the cost might be. I'm fairly confident the insurance will cover it, they have everything else so far but until I hear from them I'm saving my pennies. Surgery is scheduled for September 26th.
Last we heard, she is gone for surgery and she is taking break from the site. We have specific orders to tell her to go away if we see her back on the site. I having figured out if that means I can ban her >:-)
Na, we don't want to ban her. With my orchi 4 weeks from today needless to say I am quite curious about her experience. Any idea when she will be back? Seems from my perspective she got a quick surgery date, took me 4 months just for the first appointment with the Urologist and another 2 1/2 months after that to the surgery date. 672 hours from now but hey, who's counting?
She said sometime in September but didn't give an exact date. I suspect it will be early in the month because the surgery isn't that major and should only require about a two week recovery period though you could use the computer before that. I think she was a couple of months between first appointment and surgery as well with the major hangup being all the paper work.
Surgery was performed this morning. Nothing but good things to say about Dr Oates and his team. The local anesthetic is wearing off and my scrotum is as big as a baseball and really sore. I'll update again after I get some rest
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 08, 2017, 03:33:35 PM
Surgery was performed this morning. Nothing but good things to say about Dr Oates and his team. The local anesthetic is wearing off and my scrotum is as big as a baseball and really sore. I'll update again after I get some rest
Hugs, Devlyn
Hoping you have a quick recovery Devlyn.
All the best,
Paige :)
Congratulations Devlyn Marie, I'm really happy for you. Strange as it probably sounds I am really looking forward to that soreness. The soreness is something that will heal up in short order and so far I haven't been able to convince myself that it will be any worse or more painful than living with the evil twins. It will also be confirmation that the 60 year nightmare is finally over and they really are gone. 18 days from this morning for me and time is moving so slowly. Looking forward to hearing more about your experience.
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 08, 2017, 03:33:35 PM
Surgery was performed this morning. Nothing but good things to say about Dr Oates and his team. The local anesthetic is wearing off and my scrotum is as big as a baseball and really sore. I'll update again after I get some rest
Hugs, Devlyn
Congratulations Devlyn! ... I just caught this thread so didn't know of this until today. I hope you have a wonderful recovery... enjoy your time off and new you!
FWIW, my letters for surgeries had similar language... as you've seen it's what a therapist or letter-writing care provider must do to successfully fit into the boxes within the system... to me it's just boxy stuff based on where we're at. It doesn't define you...
Anyway... Congrats again... feel better... hugs, Ashley
Thanks, Paige, Chris, and Ashley! First orchiectomy for me, I'm a bit surprised by the extent of the bruising. Last night it looked like both inguinal canals were defined by black and blues, this morning the whole pubic area is bruised. The entire shaft of my penis is purple, that may be pooling blood (yay gravity). Pain level is manageable, I need to be careful getting up and down. Better to roll on my side and let the hip do the cushioning.
Finally got a cup of coffee. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Woot Dev! I'd not realized you'd been, congratulations, V.happy for you :-)
On another site I recently viewed a series of photos of a girl that had an orchie, day before, day of, day after and then weekly for a month. The amount of black and blue was a bit surprising but the pics were quite interesting and informative for anyone about to have the surgery. Took two weeks for most of the bruising to be gone and the month for all of it. She said the first week was pretty sore but manageable and after that wasn't much of an issue. She didn't appear to have much swelling, a little though.
17 days for me from right now. Can't describe how anxious I am, hours seem like days and days seem like weeks.
Yeah the coffee is a must, caffeine is my drug of choice. Take care, mend quickly and enjoy your new life. :)
Quote from: Chris8080 on September 09, 2017, 06:05:04 AM
On another site I recently viewed a series of photos of a girl that had an orchie, day before, day of, day after and then weekly for a month. The amount of black and blue was a bit surprising but the pics were quite interesting and informative for anyone about to have the surgery. Took two weeks for most of the bruising to be gone and the month for all of it. She said the first week was pretty sore but manageable and after that wasn't much of an issue. She didn't appear to have much swelling, a little though.
17 days for me from right now. Can't describe how anxious I am, hours seem like days and days seem like weeks.
Yeah the coffee is a must, caffeine is my drug of choice. Take care, mend quickly and enjoy your new life. :)
Thanks, Chris! I was a wreck getting the IV put in. She did a great job and knew about my needle phobia, I just had a really bad time with this one. After that it was smooth sailing. They put the rails up on the bed and said "Hugs and kisses time" and I told John I'll see you on the other side and that is absolutely the last thing I remember. Then I woke up and lifted my head and someone brought me cookies and a drink!
Quote from: SadieBlake on September 09, 2017, 05:53:11 AM
Woot Dev! I'd not realized you'd been, congratulations, V.happy for you :-)
Thanks, Sadie! I would have updated more, but apparently Dena somehow "accidentally" banned me. :laugh: >:-)
Seriously, I took some time away from Susan's and the internet in general to be in top form for the surgery and healing. No distractions, no politics, and as little news as possible. I'm back now, though. Brace yourselves! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Ah, you had general anesthesia. I'm getting it with a local which I am grateful for, may not be able to see what they are doing but will able to hear them, should be interesting. I have no needle phobia's, I've had so many blood tests and needles in my life that one more is meaningless. Also I've been told that the recovery from a local is easier. I've had three surgeries where I was put under, two were not a problem in the slightest but for the last one I had a really bad reaction to the anesthetics, hard to believe ya can be that sick and live. Also they told me that with a local they keep an eye on ya for an hour or two and if there are no problems they discharge you. With the general it's an overnight stay that radically effects the cost. I think my insurance is covering this but not yet positive so the cost could be a huge factor. It'll be a local for me. Surgery on the 26th that will end a 60 year nightmare, I still haven't convinced myself that this isn't just a dream and I will wake up on the 26th.
I was under general anesthesia and they applied a local after I was out so the pain would be controlled upon waking. I could definitely feel it wearing off on the ride home. ;)
I was discharged within an hour or two of surgery, we were headed out of Boston at 2:30PM.
Hugs, Devlyn
So how are ya doing this morning? Pain better? Worse? The same? Swelling down any? Mentally better than before? I would ask them for a couple of pillows to prop up my head so I could watch but I'm sure all that giggling when they snip them off would be distracting for them. ;D
It's not pain so much as a feeling of cramping. Standard kick to the jewels feeling, but it ain't going away. Mentally I do feel satisfied. I'm on estrogen only now, no more Spiro, and I'm happy about that. Although I was liking the extra salt requirement! :laugh:
The last week before the surgery flew by for me, I hope it's the same for you. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
I run out of spiro the week before surgery, last week my doctor wrote and told me to not bother refilling the script. She did say to stay on the finasteride though. I've read where some are instructed to stop hormones a week before surgery but my surgeon only said no aspirin or aspirin products for two weeks before. Nothing to eat or drink for 12 hours before. That's the tough part, going in cold without my caffeine. Yikes.
The prep nurse was explaining the sequence of events to me and she said I'd be getting something to relax me before I went to surgery. I asked for coffee flavour. :laugh:
Devlyn, congrats on getting the stones removed! :D
Did it end up being ingunal? I just read about your bruising. Hope you have a speedy recovery.
I'm getting closer to being able to get it done myself. My urologist would just do it through the midline of the scrotum. I have decent self pay prices for both her and the surgical center. Can't seem to get a call back or email return from the anesthesiologist billing person though. I have had a vesectomy so I'm hoping bruising will be minimal since my cords we're already cut, burnt, and sewn closed. Just waiting to see.
Quote from: josie76 on September 09, 2017, 07:56:59 AMI have had a vesectomy so I'm hoping bruising will be minimal since my cords we're already cut, burnt, and sewn closed. Just waiting to see.
Now that's interesting and curious. I had never thought of that before, have you asked the Urologist anything about that. Will be most interesting to get an answer. Curious minds just gotta know.
Thanks, Josie! It was a midline incision on the scrotum, but the bruising has really spread. Pretty sure I wouldn't have wanted to be awake for any of it! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Glad it went well!
Devlyn, I remember you always used to self-identify as a cross dresser. I was surprised when you said that you were going for the orchi. Did your identity evolve? (Obviously, not that it had to.)
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
Thanks, Dee! Yeah, as late as February I didn't plan on surgery. But the blockers were a total flop in my case, and one of the choices my doctor offered was the orchi, so I thought it over and decided to go this route.
I have evolved, I leave the crossdresser on my avatar so people can see they'll be supported here no matter their identity.
Hugs, Devlyn
Hi Devlyn,
I would like to add my congrats as well. You may have talked about this and I missed it, but is this your end game? Are you looking at vaginoplasty at a later date or is this your happy place?
Moni
Thanks Moni! I'm very much in a happy place. Surgery was not initially part of the plan, but a plot twist had it become my answer. I'm not interested in a vagina, though.
Hugs, Devlyn
I need to rephrase that.
"I'm not interested in a vagina...on me."
I'd still take a look at one. :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 09, 2017, 05:12:37 AM
...
Finally got a cup of coffee. :)
...
My favorite post-OP moment. :D
Congrats again Devlyn... get well soon! A big hug, Ashley
Quote from: Chris8080 on September 09, 2017, 08:21:40 AM
Now that's interesting and curious. I had never thought of that before, have you asked the Urologist anything about that. Will be most interesting to get an answer. Curious minds just gotta know.
I didn't ask and she never said. I just figure there's only blood vessels and a bit of tissue holding in. After the vesectomy they were a little freer to move about. That caused some pain once in a while for a few years. I'm just guessing / hoping that means they'll slide out easy.
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 09, 2017, 08:40:13 AM
Thanks, Josie! It was a midline incision on the scrotum, but the bruising has really spread. Pretty sure I wouldn't have wanted to be awake for any of it! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Ok midline is what my dr will do too.
Do you know what your out of pocket is yet? Just curious still. Looks like I need about $3000 which I'm very close to right now.
I'd just love to be free of those things. That and in case it takes many years before I might get vaginoplasty, she will sign the paperwork so I can do the legal stuff the moment I feel ready to. That is a plus to me.
No, but I'll put the numbers up as soon as I get them. ACA cheerleaders will moan, but
I know a lot of people who forego insurance because the penalty is all they can afford.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 09, 2017, 07:41:11 PM
No, but I'll put the numbers up as soon as I get them. ACA cheerleaders will moan, but
I know a lot of people who forego insurance because the penalty is all they can afford.
Hugs, Devlyn
I did that until I convinced my current employer that I wouldn't go full time without insurance.
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
Taken right before they wheeled me in for surgery.
(https://www.susans.org/forums/gallery/0/13844-100917073959.jpeg)
Lots of white Devlyn, very virginal looking, but then you are sooo pure of heart. :)
Moni
Looks can be deceiving! >:-)
I just about flatlined getting the iv put in and was "shaking like a leaf" in the nurse's words so she brought me a hot blanket.
Hugs, Devlyn
Another "lucky" for me, needles just don't bother me. As I said earlier, if they would let me I would get pillows to prop up my head so I could watch. ;D
So Devlyn, two days now, how are feeling? Getting more comfortable I hope. Swelling going down? Hoping for a quick, easy recovery for you. Keep us informed on progress and changes please.
Quote from: Chris8080 on September 10, 2017, 08:12:00 AM
Another "lucky" for me, needles just don't bother me. As I said earlier, if they would let me I would get pillows to prop up my head so I could watch. ;D
So Devlyn, two days now, how are feeling? Getting more comfortable I hope. Swelling going down? Hoping for a quick, easy recovery for you. Keep us informed on progress and changes please.
Two days out and pain isn't an issue. I haven't taken Tylenol today and probably won't. Here's what it looks like at two days.
(https://www.susans.org/forums/gallery/0/13844-100917082012.jpeg)
That's interesting. Other photos I've seen had worse bruising than that, almost black actually but not nearly as far out on the hips or high up on the belly, much more central to where the "work" was done. Also doesn't appear to be any "baseballs" as you described the swelling so that's a big plus. 16 days from this morning is my turn so I am quite curious about all the after effects that I will have to look foreword to. Thanks for posting. :)
The swelling is slowly easing. Under the bikini I am nearly black and it has spread up the whole penis with the exception of the head. There is an "S" curve in the penis, presumably from everything being pulled tight by the swelling. Peeing works normally so I'm not concerned about that right now. Waiting to return to my new normal size and colouration!
Hugs, Devlyn
I never seen or heard of anybody getting that type of bruising after GCS. The markings on my body were minimal even though there was a fair amount of swelling. They must have put up quite a fight and weren't willing to go willingly. >:-)
I think the surgeon put his foot there and pulled them out. "Scalpel? We don't need no steenking scalpel" :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 09, 2017, 02:26:39 PM
I need to rephrase that.
"I'm not interested in a vagina...on me."
I'd still take a look at one. [emoji23]
Hugs, Devlyn
Lol. If I ever get my own I'll send you a picture hehe.
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Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 10, 2017, 12:45:33 PM
I think the surgeon put his foot there and pulled them out. "Scalpel? We don't need no steenking scalpel" :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
OMG Devyl n I was thinking something similar.. My though was the doctor must have stood on your hips, Planted his feet in taking his stance before taking his tee shot. Foorrrre ! LMAO Wonder if he made the greens.
Hugs,
Laurie
Quote from: meganjames2 on September 10, 2017, 02:08:15 PM
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 09, 2017, 02:26:39 PM
I need to rephrase that.
"I'm not interested in a vagina...on me."
I'd still take a look at one. [emoji23]
Hugs, Devlyn
Lol. If I ever get my own I'll send you a picture hehe.
Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk
Woohoo! If PM isn't working, my email is in the signature! ;)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Laurie on September 10, 2017, 02:11:59 PM
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 10, 2017, 12:45:33 PM
I think the surgeon put his foot there and pulled them out. "Scalpel? We don't need no steenking scalpel" :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
OMG Devyl n I was thinking something similar.. My though was the doctor must have stood on your hips, Planted his feet in taking his stance before taking his tee shot. Foorrrre ! LMAO Wonder if he made the greens.
Hugs,
Laurie
LMAO!
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 10, 2017, 12:45:33 PM
I think the surgeon put his foot there and pulled them out. "Scalpel? We don't need no steenking scalpel" :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Oh geez, that's painful just thinking about it. Yep, no doubt at all . . . I will be wide awake for mine.
Congrats Devlyn! I didn't realize how much bruising there would be.
Quote from: Chris8080 on September 10, 2017, 02:20:13 PM
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 10, 2017, 12:45:33 PM
I think the surgeon put his foot there and pulled them out. "Scalpel? We don't need no steenking scalpel" :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Oh geez, that's painful just thinking about it. Yep, no doubt at all . . . I will be wide awake for mine.
I don't think I was doing the proper mental math on the connections between testicles and body. Turns out they don't come out like a pair of Clackers and you just cut the strings! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Christine1 on September 10, 2017, 02:23:06 PM
Congrats Devlyn! I didn't realize how much bruising there would be.
Thanks, Christine! Honestly, I wasn't expecting this much bruising either. But that's why I'm documenting it, so the next person knows what to expect. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
QuoteIf PM isn't working, my email is in the signature!
And if PM is working, it's not??? ;)
Quote from: AnneK on September 10, 2017, 02:29:37 PM
QuoteIf PM isn't working, my email is in the signature!
And if PM is working, it's not??? ;)
This is no time for logical logic, we're talking about my balls, and their undisclosed location! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Your Welcome Devlyn. A little bruising doesn't keep a bad girl >:-) like You down that's for sure.
Devlyn holy cow girl. I had the right removed yrs ago and had no bruising at all.
I wish you a speedy total recovery !
Karrie
Thanks, Karrie! I'm scheduled to resume work tomorrow and I don't see any reason I can't. Well, other than being in desperate need of a shower and this afternoon will make 72 hours from surgery, so I'll be draining that hot water heater!
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 10, 2017, 12:45:33 PM
I think the surgeon put his foot there and pulled them out. "Scalpel? We don't need no steenking scalpel" :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 10, 2017, 12:45:33 PM
I don't think I was doing the proper mental math on the connections between testicles and body. Turns out they don't come out like a pair of Clackers and you just cut the strings! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Eyes wide open for me, don't want no football, no golf and no billiards goin on. Yikes! :o
That's why the thread is here. I had no idea what to expect going in. If someone else gains insight from this it's all good.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 10, 2017, 02:33:14 PMThis is no time for logical logic, we're talking about my balls, and their undisclosed location! :laugh: Hugs, Devlyn
Um . . . Possibly a garbage disposal and the city sewer system? A fitting end to something so repulsive don't ya think? ;D
15 days, 360 hours and mine will see the same fate but I'm not really counting or anxious. ;D
I'm thinking a medical waste incinerator....well done! :laugh:
Three full days and I finally got to take a shower. It looks like 8 or 9 stitches. Bad viewing angle and all, you know. ;D The swelling is definitely diminishing at this point, I'm starting to have wrinkling of the scrotal skin again. Looking good for a return to work tomorrow, and probably a barrage of jokes! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Glad you're mending well and probably smelling better too [emoji6]. X
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I've officially spotted a pair of panties at this point, I'm claiming victory! 8)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 11, 2017, 02:24:25 PM
I've officially spotted a pair of panties at this point, I'm claiming victory! 8)
Hugs, Devlyn
Lol [emoji23]
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Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 11, 2017, 01:45:59 PMThree full days and I finally got to take a shower. Hugs, Devlyn
Three days? :o Oh well, it's for a good cause. ;D
Very important update! You want some of those nonstick pads around after surgery, like the kind that the surgical team put over the incision. Plain gauze will get caught in the stitches. Heed my warning!
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 11, 2017, 01:45:59 PM
Three full days and I finally got to take a shower. It looks like 8 or 9 stitches. Bad viewing angle and all, you know. ;D The swelling is definitely diminishing at this point, I'm starting to have wrinkling of the scrotal skin again. Looking good for a return to work tomorrow, and probably a barrage of jokes! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Do coworkers know the nature of your surgery?
Absolutely. I'm the poster child for diversity there. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 12, 2017, 05:44:42 AM
Absolutely. I'm the poster child for diversity there. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
With your long absence from here, we were thinking more milk carton child. ;)
:laugh: Except it wouldn't be my face on the carton! >:-)
And it wouldn't be a milk carton, it would be a 12 pack.
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
Now I'm a beer wench! :laugh:
Work is harder than I expected. I'm really tired and only halfway through the day.
Don't overdo it, rest up when you can. General anaesthetics can take quite a time to fully recover from. X
Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk
You're right about that, I'm wiped out. Gonna be glad to go home.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: meganjames2 on September 12, 2017, 12:41:53 PM
Don't overdo it, rest up when you can. General anaesthetics can take quite a time to fully recover from. X
Yeah that's my experience with a general, takes a couple of weeks to completely get the stuff out of your system. I was a bit surprised when you said you were going back to work that quickly.
Five days out and my scrotum is only slightly bigger than before the surgery. The bruises are fading fast. I figured out yesterday that the center seam in pants falls exactly on the new center seam on me, which is very uncomfortable. I took a flyer and wore a dress today, but they're sticking to the dress code and concerns about hot metal splattering around, so my dress is now the longest T-shirt you ever saw in your life over a pair of xxl sweatpants (hint: I weigh 127 lbs, so the pants are barely touching me anywhere). I look pretty frumpy but I'm comfortable. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
A couple notes about the healing process.
1. Sneezing, coughing and fast movements, wow!
2. Penis position. In the early stages the swollen scrotum will have your penis facing straight up and not dribbling on yourself while peeing is difficult. Have some toilet tissue ready. As the swelling subsides the penis will point straight forward (this is where I am now).
3. Nerves. I assume that's what was causing the crazy itchiness on the incision line about three days post-op. That lasted about 24 hours.
4. Standing and sitting. I found it best to roll onto a hip before getting up or down.
5. Clothing. Loose loose loose! On surgery day I wore a simple dress, no bra, panties and flats. I think that was a smart bit of planning on my behalf. Immediately following surgery, picking up either foot more than an inch or two wasn't comfortable. Having to only move my arms to get dressed was a big plus.
Hugs, Devlyn
I am really looking forward to starting the healing process. Can't get started with that until ya got something to heal up from. ;D 12 1/2 days, 324 hours and it's my turn. Time is moving so slowly, would probably help if I'd stop staring at the calendar. Is it the 26th yet? >:(
September 26th, a day that will go down in history as Testicleless Tuesday. :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Testicleless Tuesday ;D I like that! A day to celebrate every year.
Kinda wish I had someone to go with me but that ain't gonna happen. Hospital is a 3 1/2 hour one way drive, going to drive down there the day before. The hotel is close to the hospital and runs a 24/7 shuttle service to the hospital door. After the big event it will be either the shuttle or a taxi back to the hotel, will stay there a minimum of one day, possibly longer depending on how I feel. If I'm not feeling 100% up to the drive home I'll stay in the hotel close to the hospital, I didn't wait 60 years for this only to leave the hospital, be a complete fool getting behind the wheel and dying in a flaming car crash.
12 days, 288 hours.
The hospital was VERY specific that Thou Shalt Not Leave In A Taxi, you might want to make a call and verify that you'll be good for a self checkout. How would you feel if you got there and they postponed the surgery?
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 13, 2017, 09:09:48 PM
September 26th, a day that will go down in history as Testicleless Tuesday. [emoji23]
Hugs, Devlyn
Lol, a national holiday?
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Last visit with the Urologist I told him of my Taxi plans to the hotel and he said that would be fine. His concern was that I wouldn't be driving. I won't, not a chance. Since then I learned of the hotel's shuttle service and may use that cause it's a lot bigger and easier to both get into and sit in for the 5 minute ride. I'll stay in the hotel at a minimum of one full day. Prepared to stay there as long as it takes to be sure nothing is amiss such as unusual pain, bleeding, whatever. Won't head home until I am 100% confident both driving AND sitting in the car for the 3 1/2 hour drive home won't be an issue. Would do the same even if I were a passenger and not driving.
Besides, other than the medical staff there is not a soul that knows me that knows I am doing this, plain and simple nobody's business or anyone that needs to know. That's just me and how I am I guess.
Day six, the scabs on the incision are breaking up and there's a little bit of blood showing up on the pad, as expected. Colouration of the scrotum is almost back to normal. There's actually some cool tiger striping on the penis, I'm sorry that's going to disappear. It really adds to the exotic hybrid aura. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 14, 2017, 12:16:18 PM
Day six, the scabs on the incision are breaking up and there's a little bit of blood showing up on the pad, as expected. Colouration of the scrotum is almost back to normal. There's actually some cool tiger striping on the penis, I'm sorry that's going to disappear. It really adds to the exotic hybrid aura. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
You're more of a pussycat than a tiger Devlyn, no matter how you try to hide it [emoji6]
Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk
Okay... I'm caught up... :D LoL and congrats on your recovery Devlyn!
One week update.
As the initial swelling subsided, a hematoma on my penis became very apparent, and very frightening. It soon emptied, to my great relief!
The scrotum is nearly back to regular colour and the swelling is down to the point that my penis can now point down again. If I'm warm. :laugh:
The bruising after one week, it's fading and spreading.
(https://www.susans.org/forums/gallery/0/13844-150917170610.jpeg)
Waiting on the big bill to show up now.
Hugs, Devlyn
Are you sure you didn't spill coffee in your lap?
That much bruising is startling. I've seen several photos of the "after" bruising and none where like that. Have you seen the doctor since the surgery? If so what did he say?
Yeah, the big bill. I still have heard nothing about or from the insurance and I would be shocked if the hospital doesn't do an insurance pre-check. Also have heard nothing of what out of pocket costs would be if the insurance says no.
10 days from this morning and I'll get to find out what my bruising will be and if I'm flat broke.
That's just settling blood, I think. It's probably good that the bruises are startling, right? You, me, and a lot of other people had no idea what the process was like a month ago. In a few days I expect we'll all know how much it sets us back financially.
I haven't done a follow-up with the surgeon. He left it as "if you want to come in" and anytime a doctor tells me that they never see me again! My primary care is seeing me on the 25th, 17 days post-surgery. I'll show her the bruising pictures.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Ashley3 on September 14, 2017, 02:20:29 PM
Okay... I'm caught up... :D LoL and congrats on your recovery Devlyn!
Thank you!
Hugs, Devlyn
On the afternoon of the 25th I will be checked into the hotel 3 1/2 hours from home and 5 minutes from the hospital awaiting the following morning. Will be very interested in what your PCP says about that much bruising. Will be far more interesting to see how much bruising I end up with. ;D On Tuesday the 19th I have an appointment with my doctor to discuss HRT, dosages, spiro etc after surgery the following week, got lot's of questions for her.
Day 9 post-op. The stitches are starting to dissolve and come out. There's a little blood weeping from the area but nothing to be concerned about. Yeah, sure! I should say that I'm trying not to be concerned about the blood between my legs! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Glad your recovery is proceeding nicely, blood aside! X
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Glad to hear you're doing well Devlyn... wishing you a completely excellent week!
And on the eleventh day she bled out.
Not quite, but a small section of the incision spread open overnight and I woke up with a sopping wet pile of bloody gauze in my panties. The blood was dark, I believe it was in the scrotum and made its escape when the hole opened up. There's been very little blood since then.
Hugs, Devlyn
Hi Devyln, Happy to hear everything is going well in the recover. The above post, Pleasant
You had me sold on the procedure till then. LOL
I Think I have made up my mind that an Orchieo is the way to go for my circumstances and your posts have been very helpful on what I can expect.
Best wishes on your continuing recover.
Huggs Niki
Thx for posting the steps you have gone through as we are similar in weight and size.
Glad you're finding it helpful, Niki! I've documented all my big stuff on the site, coming out, name
change, informed consent HRT, and this. I owe it to the community, they got me this far. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Congrats Devlyn... a continued great relaxing recovery your way!
I'm bleeding again, so I'm on my way to see the surgeon now. Will update again later.
Hugs, Devlyn
Ooo keep well. X
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Doc daid "Wow! Yeah, something let go and this is it finding its way out."
So it's alarming but not a problem because it's just old dark blood. He said there was a still a lot in there so it would do this until it was out. He really admired my leg bruise. :)
Most importantly, hearing that it was OK calmed me down. My mind was racing, you don't want something to go wrong with this.
Hugs, Devlyn
Glad it's nothing worse. Better out than in, as they say! X
Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk
Came home to good news. There was a letter from my insurance company saying they had reviewed the surgery request and were going to cover the surgery! They have to, but sometimes they need to be reminded of that. I still don't know if I'll have to pay towards my out of pocket expenses. I'm expecting the bill any day now.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 20, 2017, 10:50:39 PM
Came home to good news. There was a letter from my insurance company saying they had reviewed the surgery request and were going to cover the surgery! They have to, but sometimes they need to be reminded of that. I still don't know if I'll have to pay towards my out of pocket expenses. I'm expecting the bill any day now.
Hugs, Devlyn
At least it is sounding better.
Laurie
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 20, 2017, 11:24:34 AM
I'm bleeding again, so I'm on my way to see the surgeon now. Will update again later. ...
Scary!
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 20, 2017, 01:40:56 PM
... So it's alarming but not a problem ... Most importantly, hearing that it was OK calmed me down. My mind was racing, you don't want something to go wrong with this. ...
...yeah, no kidding... a relief... glad you are OK!
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 20, 2017, 10:50:39 PM
Came home to good news. ... my insurance company saying they ... were going to cover the surgery! ... I still don't know if I'll have to pay towards my out of pocket expenses. ...
... and great news to boot... I'm surprised by how much isn't covered by my current monthly insurance premiums... makes me appreciate junk insurance at low premiums... it's not so much that junk insurance is any good... we know it isn't... but it can act as a "penalty avoidance fee" and then I just pay out of pocket for my procedures which I do anyway! ??? You apparently have good insurance at this point in time.
Anyway... continued goodness in your recovery Devlyn.
Thanks, ladies! There's a huge difference between waking up and saying "omigod I'm bleeding" and "yuck, its still draining".
No, I have crap insurance. $480 a month, $3,350 deductible, $3,000 out of pocket expenses. They have to cover it in Massachusetts but sometimes they need to be reminded of that.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 21, 2017, 05:58:34 AM
... No, I have crap insurance. $480 a month, $3,350 deductible, $3,000 out of pocket expenses. They have to cover it in Massachusetts but sometimes they need to be reminded of that.
Hugs, Devlyn
I'm not far behind that plan. Makes me wonder, if you need to remind them... perhaps plans with premiums over $500 include a "we don't forget as much" service fee. ;D
Yeah, $480 and $720 were the only two I qualified for. Basically the same, the expensive plan came with better prescription drugs coverage.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 21, 2017, 06:14:11 AM
Yeah, $480 and $720 were the only two I qualified for. Basically the same, the expensive plan came with better prescription drugs coverage.
Hugs, Devlyn
My plan does not cover my Estradiol ... it costs about 3 times the cost of Estradiol. I went to an out of network doc... listed as "out of network" and I figured out of network meant they'd at least throw me a $20 bill to cover something... you know, a gesture for paying through the teeth each month... no dice... not one cent paid for that visit. I'm like, "Where's the trash $25 insurance... I can pay for that to make folks happy, use the rest for my medical expenses!" :icon_dizzy:
Glad you went to see the surgeon, some of your comments since your surgery had me worried. Comforting to know he didn't seem alarmed. Did he give you any idea of how long you can expect the "drainage"? I take it he didn't recommend closing the stitches that opened up? Any possible risk of infection from that? Close on it's own? Any pain left or is that behind you now. Swelling gone?
I had originally reserved a hotel suite near the hospital for two nights, due in part to some of your experiences the other day I extended the reservation to three nights after surgery. The hospital is a 3 1/2 hour drive from home, the hotel is 5 minutes so as a safety net against any possible problems I thought being close until I could see what to expect might be a good choice. Surgery is Tuesday morning and the hotel is now reserved until Friday morning so I should be good. I think. Hotel says there is no early check out penalty or fee so if I leave for home on say Thursday no problem. The surgeon says he won't need to see me for two weeks after the surgery for a follow up but to call if I feel anything is out of the ordinary. All I could think was that since I've never been castrated before how am I supposed to know what is ordinary?
Quote from: Chris8080 on September 21, 2017, 07:06:31 AM
Glad you went to see the surgeon, some of your comments since your surgery had me worried. Comforting to know he didn't seem alarmed. Did he give you any idea of how long you can expect the "drainage"? I take it he didn't recommend closing the stitches that opened up? Any possible risk of infection from that? Close on it's own? Any pain left or is that behind you now. Swelling gone?
I had originally reserved a hotel suite near the hospital for two nights, due in part to some of your experiences the other day I extended the reservation to three nights after surgery. The hospital is a 3 1/2 hour drive from home, the hotel is 5 minutes so as a safety net against any possible problems I thought being close until I could see what to expect might be a good choice. Surgery is Tuesday morning and the hotel is now reserved until Friday morning so I should be good. I think. Hotel says there is no early check out penalty or fee so if I leave for home on say Thursday no problem. The surgeon says he won't need to see me for two weeks after the surgery for a follow up but to call if I feel anything is out of the ordinary. All I could think was that since I've never been castrated before how am I supposed to know what is ordinary?
He wants me to keep an eye on it and email in a week. He said whatever leaked settled into the scrotum, producing the swelling and hematoma. The blood first clots, then starts to break down and liquefy, thats whats finding its way out. No pain at all. He said I had the most swelling and bruising post op he's seen in his patients.
Chris, remember that I was on my own after the ride home. This is all manageable, and while my healing departed from the norm, yours probably won't. :)
I'm not looking at this as a bad result or less than satisfactory. I am thrilled. The quiet and calm that so many people mention has descended on me following this surgery. I know now that the tests were right and my T wasn't being lowered by the Spiro.
Hugs, Devlyn
I too will be on my own right from walking out of the hospital doors. That's the reason for the three day stay in the hotel after. Just want to be close in case something isn't right, not that I'm expecting anything to go wrong but 5 minutes from the hospital sounds so better than 3 1/2hours. This surgeon has done several orchi's on the recommendation of my MD. Says he hasn't encountered any problems in the past and doesn't expect any this time. Sounds good to me. ;D
My T hasn't been reduced as much as I would have liked or my MD expected. She did say this past week that I could/should stop the spiro. Yippee. She said the orchi should be the equivalent of an increase in estradiol so recommended staying on the current dosage for now. Is it Tuesday yet?
Dr. Greenwald in Tampa charges $3,500 if you're self-pay or $5,000 for insurance. That's for scrotum rentention, extra 1k to remove it at same time.
Leslie :icon_walk:
Thanks, Leslie! We're getting a lot of information in this thread. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
I don't know how you ladies deal with such mind boggling expensive worthless insurance. I stuck it out in a very tough industry for 34 years, up & down amounts of work and frequent 16-18 hour days and 80-90 hours in 5 day weeks. Did it because of the good health coverage and a mediocre pension so I wouldn't have to live on a SSA check. I pay nothing for my health insurance now other than some deductibles which aren't bad. At 65 and retired my work health insurance switched to Medicare as the primary and the work insurance pays what Medicare doesn't, before 65 work insurance paid everything. Medicare has an annual deductible of something like $175 a year snagged right out of your January SSA check. Then the work insurance has deductible's of $15 per Dr. office visit and $10 for generic prescriptions and $50 for name brand prescriptions. To hear of your monthly payments and incredible deductibles and still have basically zero coverage is enough to curl my hair.
My insurance wasn't free by any means, I paid dearly for it with my health for 34 years. Often counting how many hours of sleep I got last week the way most people count how many hours they got last night. Sleep deprivation is an ugly beast and causes all manor of problems. But it is what it is and at least I now have the health insurance.
What your medicare coverage really looks like is about $134 a months for part b, a bit over $2,000 for supplemental insurance and then drug coverage which is around $20 a month. Before I was on medicare I had to have a private policy and that had reached over $600 a month and the only advantage of having it was I paid out of pocket the negotiated price instead of full price. Insurance may have covered one flue shot but that was it. I probably paid around $2,000 out of pocket while I had that policy.
Yeah thinking about it your probably right on the Medicare monthly Dena. Since I don't write a check for it I most likely got it wrong. I don't have Medicare for prescription coverage though, that is from my work insurance. My supplemental is also my work insurance and that costs me nothing except the deductibles I mentioned.
Had to get the cards out to check, my Medicare is"
Hospital Part A
Medical part B
Supplemental insurance and prescription is covered by my work insurance with Blue Cross - Blue Shield. Dental and vision plans are also covered by the work insurance with similar deductables.
I didn't think I was done here, but apparently I am. Thanks for all the contributions. Thread locked.
I think it is way past time for certain members to grow up and stop hijacking threads into political arguments.
I have removed a number of posts and I have been very lenient in moderating comments.
If there is any more such carry on I shall not be so lenient.
Cindy
Forum Admin
Thread Unlocked
Thank you, Cindy.
Sixteen days post orchiectomy. Bruises fading fast, swelling continues to go down. Tomorrow I am having a routine hormone levels recheck and expecting T to be pretty low.
(https://www.susans.org/forums/gallery/0/13844-240917144444.jpeg)
I'm shifting gears on this topic. The orchiectomy I expect is a complete success. However, now I'm dealing with the aftereffects of whatever caused the bleeding. The incision is still partially open and draining small amounts.
The mental effects are starting to wear on me. The delay in healing. The uncertainty of where this will end. The worrying about it getting infected. I have about a teaspoon of emotional strength left.
Hugs, Devlyn
Hang in there Devlyn, sending some extra emotional strength first class air mail.
FWIW the bruising looks much better. X
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I agree with Megan the bruising has gone down a ton. It looks so much better Girl! One way to stop the bleeding is to stop putting ur legs behind ur head. I know it's a bad joke but I couldn't help myself.
It will work its self out Girl!
Stay positive girl!!
((Hugs))
Love Christine
Quote from: meganjames2 on September 24, 2017, 03:17:56 PM
Hang in there Devlyn, sending some extra emotional strength first class air mail.
FWIW the bruising looks much better. X
Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk
Thanks, Megan!
Quote from: Christine1 on September 24, 2017, 03:25:08 PM
I agree with Megan the bruising has gone down a ton. It looks so much better Girl! One way to stop the bleeding is to stop putting ur legs behind ur head. I know it's a bad joke but I couldn't help myself.
It will work its self out Girl!
Stay positive girl!!
((Hugs))
Love Christine
Do you think I'll be ready to have Megan's first class postman do it? >:-)
Hugs to both of you! Devlyn
If he's Hot and came give You the Boom Boom! lol!!
I know how you feel! I'm spending time on the computer and watching videos. Still sore too.
Wish it was farther behind me/
Leslie
Devlyn, I've just been catching up on the thread. I'm glad to hear you're doing good. I guess I was lucky or I had a great surgeon or both since I had no swelling, no bruising, no pain and Miss Dee practically had to sit on me the first couple of days to keep me in bed. On the way home from surgery, we stopped and picked up lunch which I sat at our kitchen table to eat. Oh and Devlyn, I know what you mean about the coffee. When I woke up the nurse asked if I wanted something to drink and I asked for coffee. No such luck and I had to settle for a Coke. And be glad you had started HRT before the orchi. I didn't get estrogen until five weeks later and the hot flashes were so bad, I had fans blowing on me from three directions.
It did result in one those humorous married moment things. "Dear, I'm running low on pads and still spotting at little. Would you stop by the store and pick up a pack for me." Miss Dee had said that to me a few times over the years but I never thought I would be saying that to her. :laugh:
Quote from: BeverlyAnn on September 24, 2017, 05:43:26 PM
Devlyn, I've just been catching up on the thread. I'm glad to hear you're doing good. I guess I was lucky or I had a great surgeon or both since I had no swelling, no bruising, no pain and Miss Dee practically had to sit on me the first couple of days to keep me in bed. On the way home from surgery, we stopped and picked up lunch which I sat at our kitchen table to eat. Oh and Devlyn, I know what you mean about the coffee. When I woke up the nurse asked if I wanted something to drink and I asked for coffee. No such luck and I had to settle for a Coke. And be glad you had started HRT before the orchi. I didn't get estrogen until five weeks later and the hot flashes were so bad, I had fans blowing on me from three directions.
It did result in one those humorous married moment things. "Dear, I'm running low on pads and still spotting at little. Would you stop by the store and pick up a pack for me." Miss Dee had said that to me a few times over the years but I never thought I would be saying that to her. :laugh:
Ah, revenge. It tastes like chicken. :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 24, 2017, 03:00:43 PM
... I'm shifting gears on this topic. The orchiectomy I expect is a complete success. However, now I'm dealing with the aftereffects of whatever caused the bleeding. The incision is still partially open and draining small amounts.
The mental effects are starting to wear on me. The delay in healing. The uncertainty of where this will end. The worrying about it getting infected. I have about a teaspoon of emotional strength left. ...
Hey Devlyn, I just checked in here today saw your post... hang in there gal! I'm not sure if you're busy doing a lot of forum stuff but make sure you create space to relax and recover without a lot of mental logistics/strain.
Also make sure to use your doctor's phone number if you have genuine new concerns... I don't say that as a standard online forum post disclaimer thing... (I can just see you rolling your eyes right now... :rolleyes: :D ) I genuinely mean you should feel comfortable leaving a message on your doc's service if you have concerns...
I gotta say... from your earlier post...
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 20, 2017, 01:40:56 PM
... So it's alarming but not a problem because it's just old dark blood. He said there was a still a lot in there so it would do this until it was out. ... Most importantly, hearing that it was OK calmed me down. ...
... I got the feeling that your doc was somewhat alarmed but not troubled by it, just told you to monitor things but that it would need to drain until all gone. Did your doc give you any parameters to watch for? Any limit on the number of days to expect to observe this, or perhaps what might be likely vs abnormal? I can't imagine your doc letting you be on your own like this if this wasn't a possibility, perhaps not typical but not unheard of either is the feeling I got from your post.
I get the feeling you'll call your doc if you feel something is out of bounds ... but make sure you do that if your concern is beyond anxiety driven. My guess is you can tell the difference for yourself but don't play tough either. You don't have to prove anything.
By the way, while I much prefer photos which reveal your lovely face... your most recently posted "medical" bottom recovery photo looks much much better... really, I'd not have guessed that person had surgery had I not known the context.
Anyway, you probably didn't want lecturing which hopefully I'm not doing above... but I guess it's all a way of saying... I'm sending you warm positive wishes Devlyn... big hug to you. You will be fine.
Thanks, Ashley! He told me to monitor it for a week, watch for redness, swelling, bright red blood, fever. He wants me to get in touch after the week, good or bad. That's Wednesday. Today it looks good, still open a bit at the top. It's going to be a wide scar, but I'm betting the pucker factor will hide that. I'll see what my pcp says today.
Hugs, Devlyn
Doc says the healing of the incision doesn't concern her, but she wants me to have the surgeon take another look at the firmness of the swelling that remains.
Chris, good luck tomorrow! Looking for updates whenever you're able.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 25, 2017, 07:18:52 PM
Doc says the healing of the incision doesn't concern her, but she wants me to have the surgeon take another look at the firmness of the swelling that remains. ...
That's good on the incision and it sounds like everything else is actually coming along... sounds like she's being overly cautious about the swelling which is a very good sign about your doc... good doc. I feel it's always best to be overboard with care issues... Enjoy annoying your doctors, I do! ;D Seriously, the good ones "get it" when it comes to being overly cautious and will hear out a patient, relieve a patient's concerns.
BTW, thank you so much for sharing your very personal journey here... very helpful info. Big hug... You're going to be fine! ... enjoy the rest of your recovery!
I'm going back to the surgeon Thursday at 2:00 PM. My primary care spoke to him and he agreed that I should come in. This is in regards to hard swelling on the left and right sides along what appears to be the canals, as compared to the soft swelling (now greatly reduced) of the scrotum caused by blood.
Anyone have any lembas? This path is longer than I thought. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 26, 2017, 07:13:03 PM
I'm going back to the surgeon Thursday at 2:00 PM. My primary care spoke to him and he agreed that I should come in. ...
Hey Devlyn, I don't know much about this type of surgery... is the hard swelling you're talking about a potential thing which just takes longer to diminish if you happen to experience it? I mean have you heard of this before in any experiences or literature the doc gave you before surgery? It seems like they're being cautious but not rushed which makes me think this is a known possibility that just needs extra time... but I haven't heard you mention anything on that.
A little secret I employ... if I'm anxious to get something checked out, like get something biopsied or something... which has happened before... I'll call in the morning, not demanding but sort of matter-a-factly ask "Hey, was curious if you had any time open up today... would be great to stop in if so." Sometimes a spot opens up... it's great for me to get past some thing instead of waiting a few days or a week or whatever it is. The fact that they're not rushed seems good... I'm more thinking that you really want to get past any anxiety with great news... waiting one day before Thr just seems like a pain... wish the surgeon could just find a spot of time and see you tomorrow.
Again, verbose me... but a way of sending you my best... A big hug... sending you positive thoughts, Ashley
The surgeon felt that the swelling would continue to resolve itself, he wanted an update in a week unless it seemed to be getting worse. The overall swelling has continued to go down, but that has revealed a hard knot inside the scrotum at either side of the base of the penis.
I figured the best way to give the surgeon the update was explain my healing to the primary care during our hormone visit, and ask her what I should tell him. She called the surgeon directly and asked him to see me again. I hope it will go away. I don't want more procedures and medical stuff. :(
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 27, 2017, 06:14:06 AM
The surgeon felt that the swelling would continue to resolve itself, he wanted an update in a week unless it seemed to be getting worse. The overall swelling has continued to go down, but that has revealed a hard knot inside the scrotum at either side of the base of the penis. ...
symmetrical knots on either side... my layperson's guess is that this is normal and will diminish. I don't say that with any profound knowledge... just that bad things don't seem to happen in a symmetrical way... it sounds like part of the healing process. I'm also wondering if your GP has general concerns but is perhaps not familiar with all of the healing potentials ... so her caution is good but perhaps should be tempered. What I say probably doesn't matter... I don't know anything here and I know for myself if I'm anxious about something until seeing a doc, it doesn't matter what anyone else says.
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 27, 2017, 06:14:06 AM
... I hope it will go away. I don't want more procedures and medical stuff. :(
I completely forgot... setting you up on the IV is like a moon launch. :D ... really though considering your level of anxiety there I can especially feel for you. Regardless, another procedure isn't fun but I forgot that any procedure is especially big for you. :( ... you will be fine though. It will work out. You just need to see the surgeon... that is the one and maybe only person who knows the expectations and anomalies and so forth.
I'm thinking about you sending positive thoughts... I know so many others here are as well. What can I say, people like you! ... I think it must be the wit... takes courage and has to be good... I can't tell you how time over the years I've backspaced to delete what i felt was a witty humorous response... I inevitably stick my foot in my mouth for there is always some interpretation I was unaware of... so when I see your wit, or sometimes very courageous replies (not necessarily to be funny but make an important point), it's obvious someone's got courage... meaning you. Okay here I go on and on... :icon_blahblah: ...have a good sleep, you'll be fine. A big hugaboo, Ashley
Reading Devlyn's posts has had me thinking I might be in for quite a ride. Not enough to even consider not going through with it but certainly thinking of what might be.
My surgery was supposed to be Tuesday but due to somebody before me that was scheduled for a 2 hour procedure they canceled my surgery after the poor guy was still under the knife 7 hours in. They re-scheduled me for 7 the next morning. So now almost 24 hours after I am absolutely delighted. Not a hint of bruising anywhere, a few small spots of blood up until yesterday afternoon and clean light day pads since including overnight. No pain though they did give me codeine I haven't even opened the bottle. Very minor swelling but only across the top, seems to be none in the scrotum. Some tenderness inside the scrotum and up the sides but I don't feel that at all walking or sitting etc. Only when exploring. So dummy if it hurts doing that don't do it. My surgeon said the results looked so good that he doesn't want to see me for three weeks for the follow up.
Quite the difference comparing my experience so far with Reading Devlyn's posts, I assume just the difference in people and doctors and probably a good dose of luck. It's only been one day for me but so far so good.
Will be interesting to hear what Devlyn has to say after her appointment with her surgeon today.
Oh and another difference from what others have posted. I asked the surgeon about showering because others have posted no shower for up to three days. He said no, go home and take a shower, take three or four showers a day because that will go a long way to preventing infection. He said no soaking such as bathtubs, swimming pools etc. He said no rubbing the stiches and towel pat dry.
Really happy to hear the good news, Chris! I was expecting what you described. I certainly wasn't trying to scare anyone off. My experience deviated from the norm, I'm still glad that I documented it so everyone can learn.
Quote from: Ashley3 on September 27, 2017, 11:08:56 PM
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 27, 2017, 06:14:06 AM
The surgeon felt that the swelling would continue to resolve itself, he wanted an update in a week unless it seemed to be getting worse. The overall swelling has continued to go down, but that has revealed a hard knot inside the scrotum at either side of the base of the penis. ...
symmetrical knots on either side... my layperson's guess is that this is normal and will diminish. I don't say that with any profound knowledge... just that bad things don't seem to happen in a symmetrical way... it sounds like part of the healing process. I'm also wondering if your GP has general concerns but is perhaps not familiar with all of the healing potentials ... so her caution is good but perhaps should be tempered. What I say probably doesn't matter... I don't know anything here and I know for myself if I'm anxious about something until seeing a doc, it doesn't matter what anyone else says.
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 27, 2017, 06:14:06 AM
... I hope it will go away. I don't want more procedures and medical stuff. :(
I completely forgot... setting you up on the IV is like a moon launch. :D ... really though considering your level of anxiety there I can especially feel for you. Regardless, another procedure isn't fun but I forgot that any procedure is especially big for you. :( ... you will be fine though. It will work out. You just need to see the surgeon... that is the one and maybe only person who knows the expectations and anomalies and so forth.
I'm thinking about you sending positive thoughts... I know so many others here are as well. What can I say, people like you! ... I think it must be the wit... takes courage and has to be good... I can't tell you how time over the years I've backspaced to delete what i felt was a witty humorous response... I inevitably stick my foot in my mouth for there is always some interpretation I was unaware of... so when I see your wit, or sometimes very courageous replies (not necessarily to be funny but make an important point), it's obvious someone's got courage... meaning you. Okay here I go on and on... :icon_blahblah: ...have a good sleep, you'll be fine. A big hugaboo, Ashley
Thanks, honey, the moon launch line made me laugh, and I need that. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Oh no, would I think need to be far worse than you reported to even get me thinking of cancelling. Your posts only had me digging in for what "might" be and to be ready for it. I am/was much better informed by your posts, really glad you are documenting your experience and looking forward to hearing the surgeon's report later today.
I have the hotel reserved until tomorrow but I think I feel up to the 3 1/2 hour drive home today. Got a few hours yet before check out time and I have to decide.
It's great and useful to hear the different experiences that can be expected, thank you both for sharing.
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Since we're not going to have Testicless Tuesday, how about Whop-em-off Wednesday? ;D
Hugs, Devlyn
hehe . . . That'll work. Can't describe how depressing it was to walk out of there Tuesday with those things still intact. I spent weeks after I got the surgery date trying to get myself to stop trying to convince myself that something would go wrong and it just wasn't gonna happen. Then here I am leaving the hospital and they are still there. Was truly devastating, didn't sleep a minute Tuesday night. Then to make matters worse my pre-arraigned ride to the hospital on Wed morning didn't show up and I had to call a cab, explain to them what happened and try to get them to show up in time. Much added stress but the cab was quick and the hospital is less than 10 minutes and it worked out well. The hospital seemed determined to make it up to me for Tuesday's fiasco and I was one of the first into pre-op.
Surgery on Wed is exactly one week before my birthday, the following Wed. Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me. What a present that is. ;D ;D
Quote from: Chris8080 on September 28, 2017, 08:01:04 AM
hehe . . . That'll work. Can't describe how depressing it was to walk out of there Tuesday with those things still intact. I spent weeks after I got the surgery date trying to get myself to stop trying to convince myself that something would go wrong and it just wasn't gonna happen. Then here I am leaving the hospital and they are still there. Was truly devastating, didn't sleep a minute Tuesday night. Then to make matters worse my pre-arraigned ride to the hospital on Wed morning didn't show up and I had to call a cab, explain to them what happened and try to get them to show up in time. Much added stress but the cab was quick and the hospital is less than 10 minutes and it worked out well. The hospital seemed determined to make it up to me for Tuesday's fiasco and I was one of the first into pre-op.
Surgery on Wed is exactly one week before my birthday, the following Wed. Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me. What a present that is. ;D ;D
"pre-arraigned ride" is going to be the best typo of the day, mark my words! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Dr Oates was pleased with the progress. The lumps on the left and right are apparently the ends of the cords where they're tied off. He said they will continue to reduce and my healing seems to be back on track. :)
The draining has stopped, the edges of the incision are now joining together, and I'm down to a thin nonstick pad over the site. I should be able to stop using that any day now.
September was a rough month for me with a lot of highs and lows. I'm still going to give it a big thumbs up. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Good news [emoji4].
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QuoteThen to make matters worse my pre-arraigned ride to the hospital on Wed morning didn't show up and I had to call a cab,
Dern spell checker anyways. Sometimes it saves ya and then just to prove it was only kidding it goes and does that. Oh well, arraigned they were and the sentence carried out. I sincerely hope they are now as happy as I am. ;D
So good news then, the doc thinks things are now on the correct path.
A bit more soreness for me on the second evening, nothing bad just some more than last night. Not even close to thinking about those pills they gave me. Last time the docs gave me that stuff for a broken knee I didn't poop for two weeks, was far worse than the knee. ??? I told them that so he also gave me a script to give me diarrhea. Say what? Far better to sit here and enjoy the minor discomfort just because of what it's from. ;D
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 28, 2017, 03:26:16 PM
Dr Oates was pleased with the progress. The lumps on the left and right are apparently the ends of the cords where they're tied off. He said they will continue to reduce and my healing seems to be back on track. :)
The draining has stopped, the edges of the incision are now joining together, and I'm down to a thin nonstick pad over the site. I should be able to stop using that any day now.
September was a rough month for me with a lot of highs and lows. I'm still going to give it a big thumbs up. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
There we go! Great news... Congrats Devlyn! Now please rest, relax, and enjoy the rest of your recovery... enough rollercoasters for now. :D A big hug, Ashley
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 28, 2017, 03:26:16 PM
Dr Oates was pleased with the progress. The lumps on the left and right are apparently the ends of the cords where they're tied off. He said they will continue to reduce and my healing seems to be back on track. :)
The draining has stopped, the edges of the incision are now joining together, and I'm down to a thin nonstick pad over the site. I should be able to stop using that any day now.
Told ya. LOL That seems to be very common from everyone I've talked with. Apparently most surgeons don't seem to go very high up on the cords to tie off and sever so the swollen ends are still outside of the inguinal canal. One person said the ends of the cords after their orchi were actually larger than the testicles that were removed.
Sounds like your drainage is about equivalent to what mine was. I had one little spot where a stitch had dissolved that lasted a lot longer than anywhere else on the incision. Just one tiny little dot lasting a week longer than everywhere else.
I'm only riding the teacups from now on. Maybe the merry go round, but only if
there's sedatives and a warm blanket. ;D
Thanks to everyone who's been here for me. You're all my safety net. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Oh, go ahead and live a little, ride the rollercoaster!
Dee
The hole in your safety net.
[emoji48]
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
Devlyn you are very generous to have shared your story with detail and good cheer. One of your gifts, then, is for folks to recognize that even a relatively simple surgical procedure has the potential for complications that can be annoying or even life threatening. Infection, wound dehiscence, hematoma formation and more are well documented risks.
During my career as an anesthetist I was required to provide people "informed consent" and explain in detail, if desired, the procedures and associated risks. Most of us don't think these complications will happen to us and the odds are good they won't. Still they do happen, as you have graphically acknowledged, and there can be life long consequences.
Surgery and anesthesia entail serious matters. My costs for my simple and uncomplicated orchiectomy with local anesthesia were half the costs a dear friend was charged at the University in the same town. Our goals may be quite valid and well thought out but to err is human. The rest of the story is that we most often recover, heal and have an improved quality of life. On with the security of living well, more breeze through our skirts and crossing our legs so easily. ;D
Amen, Tessa! :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 29, 2017, 05:58:41 AM
I'm only riding the teacups from now on. Maybe the merry go round, but only if
there's sedatives and a warm blanket. ;D
Thanks to everyone who's been here for me. You're all my safety net. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
I'm ending a busy week... just saw this very funny post... LoL :D
Confirmation from my primary care that the orchi was a complete success:
"I hope things went ok with Dr Oates. Your estradiol is 196, which is exactly where we want it to be, and your testosterone is 53, which is nearing the level we would expect for someone assigned female at birth.
I would not increase your estradiol at this point. We can repeat it in 6 months, but I think this will be your steady dose for awhile."
So back to business as usual: It's going to take wyld horses to get me back in a doctors office anytime soon, and they'll had to have stepped on me at that! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Good news, glad to hear. X
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Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 30, 2017, 11:22:00 AM
Confirmation from my primary care that the orchi was a complete success:
"I hope things went ok with Dr Oates. Your estradiol is 196, which is exactly where we want it to be, and your testosterone is 53, which is nearing the level we would expect for someone assigned female at birth.
I would not increase your estradiol at this point. We can repeat it in 6 months, but I think this will be your steady dose for awhile."
So back to business as usual: It's going to take wyld horses to get me back in a doctors office anytime soon, and they'll had to have stepped on me at that! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
Hey Ruffian,
Good test results and it sound like your attitude has gotten better too. Though I doubt it helped your devylish demeanor. No doctors huh? Well have you at least gotten your flu shot yet? Oh come on , it's only one more little stick. You can do it.
Hugs,
Laurie
Flu shot? Oh yeah, I flew when they said shot. :D
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 30, 2017, 11:22:00 AM
Confirmation from my primary care that the orchi was a complete success:
"I hope things went ok with Dr Oates. Your estradiol is 196, which is exactly where we want it to be, and your testosterone is 53, which is nearing the level we would expect for someone assigned female at birth.
Hugs, Devlyn
Good news indeed and from both doctors. ;D
How's your recovery going, Chris?
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 30, 2017, 02:54:38 PM
How's your recovery going, Chris?
Good, I am quite pleased actually and feeling pretty lucky. Did get some bruising, top of the scrotum on each side of the P. Looks very much from the size, square corners & shape that it is where they pulled off tape. Yikes, that must be some tape. Got some minor discomfort, wouldn't call it pain really but some discomfort mostly when standing up or sitting down when the leg muscles squeeze on the tubes but even that is greatly reduced today and it's only 3 days. Feel nothing while sitting, walking, laying down, just when getting up or down. Still some minor swelling, it's kind of a curved frown across the low belly, hasn't gone down yet. Not a hint of bleeding since a few hours after the surgery. Bottom line is that I feel wonderful and quite fortunate. Not to mention soooo happy. ;D
Awesome, that's what we want to hear! :)
Hugs, Devlyn
I'll be calling to schedule a consultation on Monday. I found a plastic surgeon that does GCS as well as orchiectomy surgeries. Thank you for all of your posts, Devlyn. As well as everyone else that's posted. Great information!
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Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 30, 2017, 11:22:00 AM
Confirmation from my primary care that the orchi was a complete success:
"... your testosterone is 53, which is nearing the level we would expect for someone assigned female at birth."
Not forgetting a genetic male can be assigned female at birth... :) ...I think I get that your doc is saying your T level is nearing that of a genetic female at birth... I'm curious, does "at birth" actually matter here?
Putting my boring over-scrutinizing of logic here aside... Congratulations! No more Spiro I assume? ... what it must be like to be a hydrated woman... one day I may find out. :D
Well I got some disappointing news today. I contacted the nearest surgeon's office that does orchiectomy surgery. He only does this procedure as an inguinal incision which means it's general anesthetic surgery. It'll cost $6000. I was hoping for a local anesthetic operation which would be considerably cheaper. (I've seen anecdotal costs of $2500 to $3500). I have the $3500 I expected to need. So now it looks as if I'll have to wait until after the first of the year. Seems like there's always one more obstacle after another. Feeling a bit depressed about having to wait even longer.
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Quote from: Ashley3 on October 01, 2017, 02:11:56 AM
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 30, 2017, 11:22:00 AM
Confirmation from my primary care that the orchi was a complete success:
"... your testosterone is 53, which is nearing the level we would expect for someone assigned female at birth."
Not forgetting a genetic male can be assigned female at birth... :) ...I think I get that your doc is saying your T level is nearing that of a genetic female at birth... I'm curious, does "at birth" actually matter here?
Putting my boring over-scrutinizing of logic here aside... Congratulations! No more Spiro I assume? ... what it must be like to be a hydrated woman... one day I may find out. :D
Spiro is long gone. I kinda miss the salt cravings, to be honest! :laugh:
Quote from: StacyRenee on October 03, 2017, 06:14:10 PM
Well I got some disappointing news today. I contacted the nearest surgeon's office that does orchiectomy surgery. He only does this procedure as an inguinal incision which means it's general anesthetic surgery. It'll cost $6000. I was hoping for a local anesthetic operation which would be considerably cheaper. (I've seen anecdotal costs of $2500 to $3500). I have the $3500 I expected to need. So now it looks as if I'll have to wait until after the first of the year. Seems like there's always one more obstacle after another. Feeling a bit depressed about having to wait even longer.
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Awww. :( I had general anesthesia, I'm waiting for the bill to show up to see what the insurance covered. Hopefully I'll be paying the additional $3,000 out of pocket expenses and they'll pick up the rest.
Hugs, Devlyn
QuoteSpiro is long gone. I kinda miss the salt cravings, to be honest! :laugh:
Did you ever see this old Star Trek show? ;)
http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/The_Man_Trap_(episode) (http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/The_Man_Trap_(episode))
Quote from: AnneK on October 03, 2017, 08:25:29 PM
Did you ever see this old Star Trek show? ;)
http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/The_Man_Trap_(episode) (http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/The_Man_Trap_(episode))
I knew that was the one you were linking Anne lol
Devlyn, any more updates on the healing up? Been a few days since you added anything.
I too am waiting to find out about the insurance. Near as I can tell all the hospital did was to verify that my insurance is current but not what they will pay for or not pay. I still have no idea of what the costs will be insurance or not. I spoke with my surgeon the day before surgery and he was fine with using a local. On the morning of the surgery a doc shows up and says this is better with general anesthetic and says he has recommended a general to my surgeon. I'm in pre-op with tubes sticking out of both arms and tell him I would rather have a local because last time I had general I about died, I ended up in the ER the next day all day with an IV in each arm. This doc says he will make sure that doesn't happen and wham, lights out. Woke up and it was all over. Guess I had a general.
Still waiting to find out costs and what the insurance will cover. My experience with this hospital and medical network is that it will take about two months before I get co-pay bills etc. Regardless the deed is done and they can't put them back so the bills will be what the bills are I guess.
Quote from: StacyRenee on October 03, 2017, 06:14:10 PM
Well I got some disappointing news today. I contacted the nearest surgeon's office that does orchiectomy surgery. He only does this procedure as an inguinal incision which means it's general anesthetic surgery. It'll cost $6000.
Have you looked around for any other doctors in your area? He may not be the only one. I am well versed on how tough the waiting is, it may be worthwhile to spend some time looking/shopping around.
Quote from: Chris8080 on October 03, 2017, 09:11:22 PM
I spoke with my surgeon the day before surgery and he was fine with using a local. On the morning of the surgery a doc shows up and says this is better with general anesthetic and says he has recommended a general to my surgeon. I'm in pre-op with tubes sticking out of both arms and tell him I would rather have a local because last time I had general I about died, I ended up in the ER the next day all day with an IV in each arm. This doc says he will make sure that doesn't happen and wham, lights out. Woke up and it was all over. Guess I had a general.
I think some doctors flinch from having a patient awake during an orchi fearing the patient might freak out when the removal begins so they opt for general. Plus it's more money.
I have looked around. The closest is three hours away. The next closest is 6 hours away, and they only do general as well. I don't have a price quote from them, but I'm sure it's in the same price range. Unfortunately, my insurance covers nothing when it comes to transgender medical care. I set up a Health Savings Account anticipating this, but could only afford to contribute $5000 a year to it. After the hormone costs, I'd hoped the rest could cover the orchi. If I have to travel any further, I'll be spending the same money on travel and lodging as I would anyways.
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Quote from: BeverlyAnn on October 04, 2017, 01:42:02 AMI think some doctors flinch from having a patient awake during an orchi fearing the patient might freak out when the removal begins so they opt for general. Plus it's more money.
More money alright. The doc doing the anesthetics gets as much or more than the surgeon and he alone accounts for at least half the bill. Any wonder why he so strongly recommends a general?
Yeah I can see where some people might freak if awake. Don't think I would have, in fact I would have loved to watch. Get them ready to snip and hand me the scissors. ;D
I've been told, even from my own surgeon when he agreed to do the surgery that with a local it would be outpatient surgery and with a general it would mean an over night stay in the hos[ital. Didn't happen that way though, I was walking out the door of the hospital within a few hours. checked in at 7 AM, into preop about 7:30 and was back at the hotel around 11:30 AM.
I'm doing well, everything is going in the right direction. I can still feel some bumps and swelling but it's reducing daily.
Dr Oates said that general anesthesia made it easier for everyone involved. ;D I was concerned with when the local would be administered. Fortunately that comes after you go to happyland, and it is there to control pain until you can get meds into your system.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quoteand with a general it would mean an over night stay in the hos[ital
I had a general when I had some wisdom teeth out. It was done in the doctor's office and I was out of there shortly after. However, I had to have someone take me home and stay with me for a few hours. The total cost was less than what the you say the general costs.
Happyland? It was lights out like light switch, came to in post op with all the tubes & stuff already removed. I have no idea what sorts of drugs were in those IV bags hanging there, no doubt some kind if pain reliever included or at least I would think so. Haven't had or needed so much as an aspirin since the surgery. 7 days for me now and no trace of what bruising there was remains. Next to no swelling remains either. Tenderness is now reduced to almost nothing and the knots on the ends of the tubes are smaller and have moved up inside out of the scrotum. Stitches remain, I don't know how long it's supposed to take for self dissolving stitches to go away, best I can say is that not in 7 days. Seems odd that the incision and the stitches are not sore or tender or numb, no redness or swelling. Basically nothing, gotta look to see the stitches are still there.
Quote from: AnneK on October 04, 2017, 08:40:36 AMHowever, I had to have someone take me home and stay with me for a few hours.
Oh yeah, no doubt. I've done some pretty silly things in my lifetime but general anesthetics, surgery and a steering wheel all in the same morning is not one of them. For me it wasn't home after it was back to the hotel less than 10 minutes away, home is 3 1/2 hours away.
Quote from: Chris8080 on October 04, 2017, 09:03:03 AM
Oh yeah, no doubt. I've done some pretty silly things in my lifetime but general anesthetics, surgery and a steering wheel all in the same morning is not one of them. For me it wasn't home after it was back to the hotel less than 10 minutes away, home is 3 1/2 hours away.
I wasn't planning on driving, but even taking a taxi was ruled out. Someone had to be there, in case of problems.
I took a cab to the hospital from the hotel. I was picked up after by the hotel shuttle. I had made it pretty clear that I would be in town for the surgery alone. I live alone and don't feel it anyone else's business what surgery I was having so asking someone to make a 7 hour round trip drive and a minimum 2 nights in a hotel wasn't something I was even capable of doing.
Quote from: Chris8080 on October 04, 2017, 08:55:56 AM
Happyland? It was lights out like light switch, came to in post op with all the tubes & stuff already removed. I have no idea what sorts of drugs were in those IV bags hanging there, no doubt some kind if pain reliever included or at least I would think so. Haven't had or needed so much as an aspirin since the surgery. 7 days for me now and no trace of what bruising there was remains. Next to no swelling remains either. Tenderness is now reduced to almost nothing and the knots on the ends of the tubes are smaller and have moved up inside out of the scrotum. Stitches remain, I don't know how long it's supposed to take for self dissolving stitches to go away, best I can say is that not in 7 days. Seems odd that the incision and the stitches are not sore or tender or numb, no redness or swelling. Basically nothing, gotta look to see the stitches are still there.
Yeah, same here. I lifted my head and the nurse had cookies and a drink in front of me in nothing flat. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 04, 2017, 11:27:24 AMYeah, same here. I lifted my head and the nurse had cookies and a drink in front of me in nothing flat. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Say what? Now I feel cheated, I didn't get no lousy cookie or a drink.
Yeah, my boss told me that you get cookies in the recovery room after anesthesia, and he was right!
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 04, 2017, 01:07:39 PM
Yeah, my boss told me that you get cookies in the recovery room after anesthesia, and he was right!
I never had that either. Maybe he said you tossed your cookies... ;)
Quote from: AnneK on October 04, 2017, 01:21:38 PMI never had that either. Maybe he said you tossed your cookies... ;)
hehe . . .
Or maybe they are like those famous hospital aspirin tablets . . . $800.00 each! :o :o
Quote from: AnneK on October 04, 2017, 01:21:38 PM
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 04, 2017, 01:07:39 PM
Yeah, my boss told me that you get cookies in the recovery room after anesthesia, and he was right!
I never had that either. Maybe he said you tossed your cookies... ;)
When I had my voice surgery, they didn't give me anything other than water until dinner and I had my surgery about 7AM. They slipped me a drug in the pre op that prevented my short term memories from becoming long term so I didn't remember my trip to the operating room or even them giving me the drug. After I woke up they asked me three time if I had any nausea and I responded no each time. It was only after I was out of the hospital I figured out what was going on. While I was wheeled to surgery, they asked me why I was so nervous about surgery. I explained waking up sicker than a dog after surgery but some how they didn't realize that was the result of them using ether. I never got sick on injectables after that. I missed out on my cookie and drink because of a communication error.
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 03, 2017, 06:25:26 PM
Spiro is long gone. I kinda miss the salt cravings, to be honest! :laugh:
:D ... an excuse to eat chips... and congrats on spiro being long gone.
Okay, the bill is not here but my summary of payments from bcbs arrived. It looks like:
The grand total was $4,469.75 (The operating room was $3,044 of that).
Insurance pays $2,681.85
I pay $1,787.90
Well girl the is way better than you thought it would be. You can buy food.
Yeah, as long as I stay healthy I can buy food! :laugh:
Been thinking about getting it done myself as soon as I have the budget for it. I have a couple questions though:
1. Eliminating spiro from medication, has been covered. But does it also eliminate the need for finasteride if you currently need both? Or would i just drop down to a very small dose of one or the other? Currently been taking spiro and Finasteride, the last 3 months for the Finasteride, last 6 months for the spiro and I still get numerous erections a day, though my T levels have reduced, they are still higher than either I or my Doctor want them, but those are max recommended doses. (AKA really, really strong Testosterone production, partly thanks to the Army.)
2. I live in a multi story townhouse with the bathroom on the upper floor. Am I gonna be in for it on recovery or are stairs not that much of a problem if your pain threshold is high enough?
3. How does it affect prostate function, since the prostate also produces Testosterone? Does it further reduce the risk of cancer, or does the prostate go into hyperdrive, increasing risks? I'd get that removed too if I could, assuming it doesn't have any effect on post op vaginal self moisture.
It's gonna be a couple years before I can afford GRS, and equally long before that A.D.A. suit could possibly have the effect of forcing insurance to cover it. This would be at least a step closer to my desires. There is also a technique being applied experimentally in the UK where the testicles (if present) are manipulated into the cavity and the penis is manipulated into itself with the scrotal sack and penis being held in place by surgical glue, giving the general appearance of a vagina. It's been used as a stop-gap temporary solution for those not ready for GRS, especially for minors. I haven't had any luck finding the name of the procedure though, or who stateside would perform it, or how much it costs. Anyone with any answers to any of these questions please chime in.
HUGS!
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 05, 2017, 07:59:18 PM
Yeah, as long as I stay healthy I can buy food! :laugh:
Oh you're healthy Ruffian. You are made of strong stock.
Now go buy a hoagie
Quote from: JennyBear on October 05, 2017, 08:59:45 PM
3. How does it affect prostate function, since the prostate also produces Testosterone? Does it further reduce the risk of cancer, or does the prostate go into hyperdrive, increasing risks? I'd get that removed too if I could, assuming it doesn't have any effect on post op vaginal self moisture.
My urologist told me at a checkup after my orchi that, while I still needed to get prostate checks, the treatment for one form of prostate cancer is an orchiectomy and the treatment for the other form is estrogen therapy. And no, the prostate does not go into hyperdrive. My orchiectomy was April 26 last year and by the end of May, my T levels were less than 20 which means undetectable. No, you don't want the prostate removed; too many problems are caused by that.
Quote from: BeverlyAnn on October 06, 2017, 02:21:20 AM
My urologist told me at a checkup after my orchi that, while I still needed to get prostate checks, the treatment for one form of prostate cancer is an orchiectomy and the treatment for the other form is estrogen therapy. And no, the prostate does not go into hyperdrive. My orchiectomy was April 26 last year and by the end of May, my T levels were less than 20 which means undetectable. No, you don't want the prostate removed; too many problems are caused by that.
Thanks for the info. I already knew about prostate removal, it was just wishful thinking, like ovary and uterus implants. That still leaves questions 1 and 2. BTW, after being informed on the policy, I have removed the dosages from my post.
HUGS!
Quote from: JennyBear on October 06, 2017, 03:07:53 AM
Quote from: BeverlyAnn on October 06, 2017, 02:21:20 AM
My urologist told me at a checkup after my orchi that, while I still needed to get prostate checks, the treatment for one form of prostate cancer is an orchiectomy and the treatment for the other form is estrogen therapy. And no, the prostate does not go into hyperdrive. My orchiectomy was April 26 last year and by the end of May, my T levels were less than 20 which means undetectable. No, you don't want the prostate removed; too many problems are caused by that.
Thanks for the info. I already knew about prostate removal, it was just wishful thinking, like ovary and uterus implants. That still leaves questions 1 and 2. BTW, after being informed on the policy, I have removed the dosages from my post.
HUGS!
As ever I shall qualify that this as opinion.
You may not need to continue to use Spiro or Finistrade to control Testosterone production or activity BUT. There is always the BUT. Spiro and Finistrade are also used to regulate body hair growth and to place you into a female body hair cycle that may take a while to stabilise, if that is important to you.
You will need a cross sex hormone which is usually oestrogen of some form once T is absent.
As for climbing stairs, the pain tolerance becomes an irrelevance it is whether you start to pull out stitches etc and cause damage. Pain is natures way of saying don't move, and it is usually for a reason. I suspect most surgeons would put limits on movement and exercise following surgery. You will also have a limit on any weight you can carry.
Quote from: Cindy on October 06, 2017, 03:25:33 AM
You may not need to continue to use Spiro or Finistrade to control Testosterone production or activity BUT. There is always the BUT. Spiro and Finistrade are also used to regulate body hair growth and to place you into a female body hair cycle that may take a while to stabilise, if that is important to you.
You will need a cross sex hormone which is usually oestrogen of some form once T is absent.
As for climbing stairs, the pain tolerance becomes an irrelevance it is whether you start to pull out stitches etc and cause damage. Pain is natures way of saying don't move, and it is usually for a reason. I suspect most surgeons would put limits on movement and exercise following surgery. You will also have a limit on any weight you can carry.
Thanks for the info. I am currently on Oestrogen, and the dosage should be increased once my BP and weight drop a bit more. Had a vasectomy years ago, and the doctor made a small mistake, causing excessive pain on one side (testicle.) are the pain and movement limitations that much worse?
HUGS!
Quote from: JennyBear on October 06, 2017, 03:31:42 AM
Quote from: Cindy on October 06, 2017, 03:25:33 AM
You may not need to continue to use Spiro or Finistrade to control Testosterone production or activity BUT. There is always the BUT. Spiro and Finistrade are also used to regulate body hair growth and to place you into a female body hair cycle that may take a while to stabilise, if that is important to you.
You will need a cross sex hormone which is usually oestrogen of some form once T is absent.
As for climbing stairs, the pain tolerance becomes an irrelevance it is whether you start to pull out stitches etc and cause damage. Pain is natures way of saying don't move, and it is usually for a reason. I suspect most surgeons would put limits on movement and exercise following surgery. You will also have a limit on any weight you can carry.
Thanks for the info. I am currently on Oestrogen, and the dosage should be increased once my BP and weight drop a bit more. Had a vasectomy years ago, and the doctor made a small mistake, causing excessive pain on one side (testicle.) are the pain and movement limitations that much worse?
HUGS!
My surgery was somewhat more radical so I can't comment on that.
Obviously, my healing deviated from the norm. I had a lot of swelling, stairs had to be taken at an old persons pace. Pain was never the issue, it felt like a cramp way down low.
Chris seems to be on the normal path, more indicative of what to expect.
Hugs, Devlyn
I don't think there is a stock one size fits all answer to a pain level, seems everyone is just so different as are the surgeons that perform the surgery. I experienced no pain to speak of other than some minor discomfort but in my case the testicles were pretty painful for the last several years and any discomfort from the surgery was actually less than what the testicles caused 24/7. My surgeons only advice post op was no heavy lifting, no soaking in a tub, spa or pool for a couple of weeks. He advised a couple of showers a day starting on the day of surgery to help keep it clean and prevent any possible infection. Other doctors recommend no showers for 3 days. On the evening of the day of surgery I went for a couple of long walks and it was not only quite comfortable but a wonderful feeling with the evil twins not there.
It took 8 days but the stitches are finally starting to dissolve and with that there is a very small amount of blood spots. Kind of like little pin points where the stitches were.
I was on both spiro and Finasteride and as luck would have it both scripts were due for refill about a week before the surgery and my MD said to not re-fill either of them. Fine by me, I have no idea if I'm right but I blame both of those drugs for a continuing decrease in any sexual sensations. Didn't bother me much for down below but losing nipple sensation is pretty devastating for me. Off those two drugs for a couple of weeks now and some sensation has returned so maybe I was correct about the reason.
As for your question on prostate function that's a question for your Urologist and I wish I had gotten a little more time to discuss that. I had great hope for the enlarged prostate shrinking after surgery. Before surgery best I could hope for is two hours sleep at a time and off to the pottie. Starting on the day of surgery I was up every hour on the hour to tinkle. :( 9 days since surgery now and the last couple of nights I went 4 straight hours of sleep before tinkle time and that hasn't happened in several years.
I hope some of this helps ya out JennyBear, good luck and let us know how things go for you.
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 05, 2017, 07:45:03 PM
Okay, the bill is not here but my summary of payments from bcbs arrived. It looks like:
The grand total was $4,469.75 (The operating room was $3,044 of that).
Insurance pays $2,681.85
I pay $1,787.90
I could live with that, not a want to but it's doable. I check every day and nothing has shown on the online statement yet but their history is at least two months before any office visit co-pays or money due shows up. If that holds true for the surgery and hospital it'll be late November or even December before I know anything. With my luck I'll get a Christmas greeting from them that says . . . Surprise and Merry Christmas. :o
Quote from: Chris8080 on October 06, 2017, 07:47:54 AM
I don't think there is a stock one size fits all answer to a pain level, seems everyone is just so different as are the surgeons that perform the surgery. I experienced no pain to speak of other than some minor discomfort but in my case the testicles were pretty painful for the last several years and any discomfort from the surgery was actually less than what the testicles caused 24/7. My surgeons only advice post op was no heavy lifting, no soaking in a tub, spa or pool for a couple of weeks. He advised a couple of showers a day starting on the day of surgery to help keep it clean and prevent any possible infection. Other doctors recommend no showers for 3 days. On the evening of the day of surgery I went for a couple of long walks and it was not only quite comfortable but a wonderful feeling with the evil twins not there.
It took 8 days but the stitches are finally starting to dissolve and with that there is a very small amount of blood spots. Kind of like little pin points where the stitches were.
I was on both spiro and Finasteride and as luck would have it both scripts were due for refill about a week before the surgery and my MD said to not re-fill either of them. Fine by me, I have no idea if I'm right but I blame both of those drugs for a continuing decrease in any sexual sensations. Didn't bother me much for down below but losing nipple sensation is pretty devastating for me. Off those two drugs for a couple of weeks now and some sensation has returned so maybe I was correct about the reason.
As for your question on prostate function that's a question for your Urologist and I wish I had gotten a little more time to discuss that. I had great hope for the enlarged prostate shrinking after surgery. Before surgery best I could hope for is two hours sleep at a time and off to the pottie. Starting on the day of surgery I was up every hour on the hour to tinkle. :( 9 days since surgery now and the last couple of nights I went 4 straight hours of sleep before tinkle time and that hasn't happened in several years.
I hope some of this helps ya out JennyBear, good luck and let us know how things go for you.
Chris are you sure the 2 hour thing was the prostate? Spiro does that to me.
:
April 22, 2015, the day of my first face to face pass in gender neutral clothes and no makeup. It may be months to the next one, but I'm good with that!
Being transgender is just a phase. It hardly ever starts before conception and always ends promptly at death.
They say the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train. I say, climb aboard!
Think outside the voice box!
Quote from: Dee Marshall on October 06, 2017, 01:47:50 PMChris are you sure the 2 hour thing was the prostate? Spiro does that to me.
No, not sure. Best I can say is that I was only on the Spiro this year and the pottie breaks all night have been going on a lot longer than that. Maybe the spiro was making it worse but I dunno, could be huh? Starting the night of surgery it was worse than it's ever been getting up every hour on the hour but that seems to have stopped now. Thinking possibly swelling from the surgery but that too is a guess on my part. My post-op appointment with my surgeon is in less than two weeks and I do plan on asking him about this.
Oh my. Yikes . . . Title of this thread is orchiectomy cost and concerns but maybe it should be - Concern over the cost of orchiectomy?
They have posted the costs on their online statement and it is shocking to say the least. First it's pretty tough to decipher and figure out just what they are saying. There is no info regarding insurance, not paid/pending/denied, just charges so I can only assume they either haven't yet charged the insurance or haven't heard back from them.
What's confusing is that there are three separate charges with a total of $7948.80 :o
Then there is a line that says payments/adjustments of $4,019.96
A charge for a doctor I have never heard of for $42.00 (curious)
Another charge of $1688.00
All three of the charges are listed only as "Professional Services". Nothing broken down as to what the charges were for such as surgeon, operating room, anesthetics etc. If they did give an adjustment of over $4,000 why not list it as what the balance really is? A $42.00 doctor charge? I don't know a doctor that would cancel an appointment for $42 but maybe that was for the cookie I was supposed to get. ???
Near as I can figure out right now the total is $3928.84 (I think) and primary insurance should cover 80% leaving $785.77 for Blue Cross/Blue shield. Can't say for sure yet that insurance will cover any of it which would leave me on the hook for the 4 grand. Yikes! Insurance has paid everything so far but as of right now I can't say the surgery will be covered. If the insurance denies the claim I will of course pay it but not right away, I'll let the hospital billing department duke it out with the insurance first to see if they can get any of it covered.
Bottom line is that so far I only know what I think the total is and nothing else.
Healing up has been uneventful. Still getting a few tiny pin points of blood that I think is from the stitches dissolving. No pain, what minor swelling there was is long gone. Only new development is minor itching along the line of stiches.
Quote from: Chris8080 on October 09, 2017, 10:16:03 AM
Oh my. Yikes . . . Title of this thread is orchiectomy cost and concerns but maybe it should be - Concern over the cost of orchiectomy?
They have posted the costs on their online statement and it is shocking to say the least.
Congratulations on getting there and then the medical $$$ mess begins. IMHO a for profit medical system such as the US ensures is rife with opportunities to make a buck and for patients to get the sticker shock. I had a 35 year career in the system and know that many relationships between providers, hospitals and clinics is all about the $. That extra MD charge could have been for the pathologist who ascertained that yes, those were actually testicles they removed or to simply review the chart. Some day we will evolve and the sooner the better that we recognize all health care as a right and not the privilege it is today.
Tomorrow is five weeks out from surgery. The incision has disappeared in the scrotal skin. There is a small lump under the skin on the right side, but the left side has retracted nearly flush to my body. I'll be very pleased if the right side follows suit. There is a very faint shadow of the falling blood in my right leg. My mental and emotional state is on the rebound. Dealing with the uncertainty (and the blood) was wearing me down. I'm back to my long walks, looking svelte, and loving life. Oh, and causing mischief! >:-)
The first actual bill arrived today, from the anesthesiologist. The charge was $1,120.00, insurance paid $942.84 and I pay $177.16
I'll get all the numbers start to finish into one post when the dust settles.
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 11, 2017, 07:50:31 PM
Tomorrow is five weeks out from surgery. The incision has disappeared in the scrotal skin. ... I'll be very pleased if the right side follows suit. ... My mental and emotional state is on the rebound. ... I'm back to my long walks, looking svelte, and loving life. Oh, and causing mischief! >:-) ... The charge was $1,120.00, insurance paid $942.84 and I pay $177.16
Hey Devlyn, really cool, congrats dear (mischievous) one! ;) ... so happy for you... and insurance coming through for you makes me feel good as if it were my bill... I just love seeing when it actually covers stuff, you're very fortunate with your plan. Overall inspiring... I need to get out for some long walks! ... big hug, Ashley
Great news Devlyn & thanks for the update. I've always heard about the shrinking scrotum but at 2 weeks one day I'm still in waiting mode on that. You must be really happy that all that bruising is nearly gone. You didn't mention the swelling so I assume that is gone? Great news also that your insurance came through, I'm in waiting mode on that too. I have absolutely no reason to believe my insurance won't pay, they have paid everything else so far but what would life be without something to worry over?
My online statement has been updated, it now includes the anesthesiologist charge of $680.00 added to the total bringing the total to $4608.00 after the adjustment down of $4019.96. Next column says payments received $0.00 and patient responsibility $0.00. I don't know if they have yet to bill the insurance or haven't yet heard from the insurance. Took you 5 weeks to get your co-pay, this hospital has been slower than that taking 2 months+ to post co-pays on office visits. Also strange is that my insurance says co-pays for office visits are $15 but I get co-pay bills like $6.50 or $9.35 etc.
Congrats, so glad you're doing better!
Leslie
Thanks, Leslie!
Last night the gun was fired for the first time in about five weeks. All systems go, I even had a partial erection. There was a small amount of ejaculate. Reports are it was salty. >:-)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on October 15, 2017, 06:49:51 AM
Thanks, Leslie!
Last night the gun was fired for the first time in about five weeks. All systems go, I even had a partial erection. There was a small amount of ejaculate. Reports are it was salty. >:-)
Hugs, Devlyn
Brilliant, and thanks (I think) for the descriptive detail! X
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I assure you that will stop. ;D It did for all my trans friends at some point. Especially when on high E. Arousal still occurs for me even after Penis removal although it's a bit early to see if Orgasm will occur.
L
Congrats Ms. Devlyn... so happy you are happy... and functioning!
Statements and bills keep rolling in. Today the payment statement from insurance indicates that Dr Oates charges are $2,530.00 and I am going to pay $279.43.
So, by my estimate it's
$310 for two psych letters (I paid $120)
$75 for surgical consultation (I paid $75)
$2,530 for the orchiectomy (I paid $279.43)
$1,120 for anesthesia (I paid $177.16)
$3,044 for the operating room (I paid $1787.90)
$7,079 total. (I paid $2439.49)
Somewhere in there they hid the charge for those cookies! ;D
Hugs, Devlyn
$2400 seems steep for cookies, I hope they were good!
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For those wondering about the costs for an orchi here is the hospital billing breakdown of charges for mine. So far no word from Blue Cross/Blue Shield and even if they thumb their nose at me I'll be on the hook for $1224.99. This doesn't mean Blue Cross/Blue Shield won't pay, just means it hasn't shown up on my account detail yet. It still shows my balance as zero, nothing owed by me. Normally takes about 2 months with this hospital billing for my co-pays to show up and it's been 4 weeks as of today.
Hospital Encounter Surgical Services - Main OR on September 28
6,218.80
Primary Ins Payments and Adjustments -1,759.06
Primary Ins Payments and Adjustments -4,010.99
Blue Cross/Blue Shield balance 448.75
Patient balance 0.00
Hospital Encounter - Main OR on September 28
SURG PATH,LEVEL II - 42.00
Primary Insurance Payments and Adjustments -11.05
Primary Insurance Payments and Adjustments -28.13
Blue Cross/Blue Shield balance 2.82
Patient balance 0.00
Surgery Visit - Main OR on September 28
REMOVAL TESTIS,SIMPLE - 1,688.00
Primary Insurance Payments and Adjustments -366.20
Primary Insurance Payments and Adjustments -1,228.38
Blue Cross/Blue Shield Balance 93.42
Patient balance 0.00
Anesthesia Visit / Surgical Services - Main OR September 28
ANESTH,MALE GENITALIA SURGERY - 680.00
No insurance payments made as of 10/25/17 Balance 680.00
Total Patient Outstanding Balance: $0.00
Update on the billing. The primary insurance has now paid all but $38.34 of the $680 Anesthesia charges. Blue Cross I suspect is just plain slow which would account for the normal 2 months for co-pays to show up on my billing statement. Total unpaid as of this morning which now also includes the post op office visit and waiting on Blue Cross is $687.33. Once Blue Cross finally pays and they have on everything so far, just slowly, I should be left with only my normal co-pays which should be well under $100.00 out of pocket for me. ;D There were other costs, Monday thru Thursday in a hotel, gas money, some eating out etc.
The orchi was 6 weeks ago this morning and so far nothing has changed on the online billing statement. It still shows -
Insurance balance $669.53
Patient balance $0.00
The insurance balance now includes the post-op office visit at 3 weeks after surgery. I think the co-pays should show up in another 2-3 weeks. With 5 separate charges on the statement co-pays will most likely be on all 5 and I estimate probably around $50-65.
7 weeks yesterday since surgery and the insurance is finally coming through. Primary insurance paid their share a few weeks ago and now secondary insurance Blue Cross is paying also. 4 separate hospital/surgery charges and so far Blue Cross has paid on two of them leaving the surgery unpaid insurance balance as follows.
Insurance balance $2.82 (Professional Services)
Insurance balance $32.34 (Anesthesia)
Patient Balance $0.00
Everything else has been paid and the online statement isn't even showing a co-pay. Yet. Can't describe what a relief it is to not have that bill hanging over my head, almost as good as the evil twins being gone. Well ok, not that good but really good.
Had the post-op appointment with the surgeon 3 weeks after surgery. This doctor was quite reluctant to do the surgery at all and he didn't schedule a surgery date until I had given him 3 letters but this hospital does have a gender clinic so reluctant or not he did it. First thing he asked about was post-op pain/recovery and any issues or regrets. I told him that a couple of hours after surgery I walked out of the hospital with less pain than I had walking into the hospital and he just beamed. Seems he thought he had made a terrible mistake cutting them off. I told him no, that he literally saved my life and the only thing if I had the chance I would change would be to have done it a few decades sooner. Doc seems happy so hopefully the next orchi they send his way will have a little easier time getting the surgery date with him.
As for recovery time for me there just wasn't any. No pain, no bleeding, very minor short lived swelling and very minor short lived bruising. I walked out of the hospital the same morning as the surgery and went on with my life one very happy camper.
that's great Chris, I look forward to the day ...
I really hope my insurance accepts it when the time comes. I do know that when it is time it's going to happen no matter what.
Thanks Faith. :angel: I went into it without knowing either if the insurance would pay or have an idea what the cost could turn out to be. Didn't care, those things had to go and if I got strapped with a big bill I would just have to pay it off as I could. Insurance has come through though, will be 8 weeks come Thursday but they finally paid.
One of the final two surgery/hospital bills came through today leaving this much unpaid so far by Blue Cross . . .
Insurance balance $2.82 (Professional Services)
Patient Balance $0.00
That's it for the surgery/hospital bill right now, Blue cross still owes two dollars and eighty two cents. ;D
The primary insurance has paid on the post-op office visit leaving an $88 bill for Blue Cross. That appointment was 3 weeks after surgery so it will probably another 3 weeks from now before Blue cross gets to that. They have paid on every office visit so far so no reason to think they won't now. Just typically slow.
My insurance has also been paying all the costs for the HRT too. I've never checked with them to find out if they cover GRS. Given my age it's pretty doubtful I'll ever get to that even if they do cover it. Right now after waiting decades the progress made this year with the HRT and orchi is wonderful and I'm pretty content. Will sit back and see what the next year or so brings.
It's been four months and I have some updates. All of the swelling and hard knots have disappeared, the scrotum has drawn up and is just a small flap of skin. But that's not the kind of update we're here for. I made the rounds of my doctor and surgeon's offices today dropping off boxes of Godiva chocolates as thanks for the life changing work they did for me this year. My last stop was the surgery center, and in exchange for a box of chocolates, I got a big hug from a recovery nurse....and these. The recovery room cookies. :)
(https://www.susans.org/forums/gallery/0/13844-111217153744.jpeg)
Hugs, Devlyn
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on December 11, 2017, 04:08:12 PM
It's been four months and I have some updates. All of the swelling and hard knots have disappeared, the scrotum has drawn up and is just a small flap of skin. But that's not the kind of update we're here for. I made the rounds of my doctor and surgeon's offices today dropping off boxes of Godiva chocolates as thanks for the life changing work they did for me this year. My last stop was the surgery center, and in exchange for a box of chocolates, I got a big hug from a recovery nurse....and these. The recovery room cookies. :)
(https://www.susans.org/forums/gallery/0/13844-111217153744.jpeg)
Hugs, Devlyn
Lovely thing to do and I know that they would really appreciate your thanks and kindness but I do have a question. Did the cookies contain a warning that they may contain...traces of chocolate chips?
The cookies came five minutes after waking up from general anesthesia, they could have told me I was eating wedding cake and I would have believed it! :laugh:
Hugs, Devlyn
I had an Orchiectomy with Dr. Alter within the past week.
Total cost, including surgery room costs, was $7000 even. Was a bit erked, because was originally told $6500, but a two months later when I setup it the surgery costs went up.
other notes: By the time I wandered across Dr. Alter I was just grateful to find someone who would do it. My other option was a guy in Chicago who quoted me like $6500, and the original doctor I tried to line up in WI went sideways on me.
That seems very high, I only paid Dr. Greenwald in Tampa $3,500.
L
Out of curiosity, how long ago was that?
18 months ago.
L
wytes cost is some higher than mine but not radically so, total medical/hospital costs on mine was $6500. Very fortunate for me is that insurance covered every dime of it, I didn't even have a co-pay. There were other costs of course, several visits with my gender counselor and a psychologist, travel & hotel expenses etc.
Quote from: wytes on December 29, 2017, 03:26:11 AM
I had an Orchiectomy with Dr. Alter within the past week.
Total cost, including surgery room costs, was $7000 even. Was a bit erked, because was originally told $6500, but a two months later when I setup it the surgery costs went up.
other notes: By the time I wandered across Dr. Alter I was just grateful to find someone who would do it. My other option was a guy in Chicago who quoted me like $6500, and the original doctor I tried to line up in WI went sideways on me.
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You know how sometimes you're in the middle of a bunch of stuff and an important occasion just slips right by unnoticed? Well, today is my one year, nine days orchiectomy anniversary! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Quote from: Devlyn on September 17, 2018, 09:29:13 PM
You know how sometimes you're in the middle of a bunch of stuff and an important occasion just slips right by unnoticed? Well, today is my one year, nine days orchiectomy anniversary! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Well congrats on you no T anniversary. I've been T free since late April of this year.
My final out of pocket was 0. My urologist made the case for medical nescesity based on testicular pains. I had several years of that along with the sonograms showing nothing ever found. This urologist was more expensive as was the hospitals surgical center. The end bill to my insurances was near $20,000. If I had the cash, the other urologist would have done it self pay for under $4,000. Crazy what happens when a hospital is involved but I can't complain. Insurance paid it all.