I'm scheduled for a 6/19 SRS date with Dr. Kathy Rumer. Since there is not a lot of info on her surgical experience in the forums, I'm hoping to post my experiences here to help whomever comes next (assuming I go through with this craziness).
I'm scheduled for a phone examination with Dr. Rumer the day after tomorrow. She has not ever examined me in person, and probably will not until I arrive for surgery. The phone consult is (in my understanding) for the purpose of allowing her to prescribe medicine and tests, since it's frowned upon for doctors to do that without some type of exam.
Today I got a 25-page packet of information, instructions, and release forms.
Highlights of the pre-op instructions include:
* Taking a homeopathic concoction call Arnica to prevent bruising.
* Stopping hormones a month before surgery.
* Consuming no foods and only clear liquids the day before surgery.
* Starting noon on the day before surgery, clearing my system (not looking forward to this).
* Arriving at her facility between 2PM and 5PM on the day before surgery.
* Labwork to be done less than 4 weeks before surgery and forms for my doctor to fill out when he does the pre-op exam.
* No smoking (not a problem for me - I've never smoked) for 4 weeks before.
* A whole list of drugs not to take 10 days before, including aspirin, ibuprophen or vitamin E.
* Bring feminine wipes, adult diapers, and absorbent bed pads.
I have to pay three separate bills, one to Dr. Rumer, one to the hospital, and one to the anesthesiologist.
EDIT:
You can find the final review and summary of my experience here: https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,164493.msg1590634.html#msg1590634
I want to wish you the best and speed in recovery.
Time will speed by faster then you know.
Isabell
Those instructions sound so darn familiar, and the procedures so similar to what I had with my surgeon that I do think you are going to be fine and have good results -- if you don't chicken out before hand!! I can sympathize with the "craziness" element all too well, I still wonder if my sanity is intact, but then why should it be, it was not before hand.
Best wishes there girlfriend!! You will do fine.
grats on the surgery date
Quote from: suzifrommd on May 07, 2014, 09:10:41 AM
Highlights of the pre-op instructions include:
* Taking a homeopathic concoction call Arnica to prevent bruising.
I can personally attest to it doing what it says on the tin although Dr Reed "suggested" more than just Arnica. Not sure if that or the combo was what made the difference.
QuoteBruising can be reduced (many believe) with Bromelain 500 mg twice a day, Arnica montana (Boiron brand) dose 30C (take 4 small tablets sublingually, 4 times a day), vitamin C 500 mg (3 times a day) starting 1 week before surgery.
Quote from: suzifrommd on May 07, 2014, 09:10:41 AM
* Starting noon on the day before surgery, clearing my system (not looking forward to this).
I hated this part. Magnesium citrate and antibiotics tastes like ass no matter what you wash it down with.
Quote from: suzifrommd on May 07, 2014, 09:10:41 AM
* Bring feminine wipes, adult diapers, and absorbent bed pads.
Moist toilet paper is cheaper and flushable (great for bowel prep). Hospital gave me adult diapers that I didn't touch not less use and 10 medium sized (24x32ish) disposable chux were more than enough for 2 weeks post
Good luck, hon! I'll be watching for your review!
I take it that this the physician is located out of town? Is insurance covering this? How did you get referred to Rumer? Doctors who want to do a surgery without ever having met the patient me very nervous.
Quote from: Suziack on May 08, 2014, 02:06:34 PM
I take it that this the physician is located out of town?
She's just outside Philadelphia Pennsylvania, so it's about a 2 hour drive from where I live. I wanted someone I could see without getting on a plane.
Quote from: Suziack on May 08, 2014, 02:06:34 PM
Is insurance covering this?
I wish. It's all out of pocket.
Quote from: Suziack on May 08, 2014, 02:06:34 PMHow did you get referred to Rumer? Doctors who want to do a surgery without ever having met the patient me very nervous.
I met her at the Philadelphia Trans Health conference. She gave a talk about her technique and her results. I later met with her and she took my information personally to send me my surgical quote.
on that note, what do her services run?
oh wow, there's a srs doctor in philly. thats good news cuz i live an hour and a half away from philly. looking forward to the reviews lol. good luck
Thinking of going to her for FFS stuff, let us know how it goes!
Quote from: Umiko Liliana on May 08, 2014, 06:03:55 PM
oh wow, there's a srs doctor in philly. thats good news cuz i live an hour and a half away from philly. looking forward to the reviews lol. good luck
There are three, well-known SRS doctors in the Philly area. Christine McGinn is the most famous. There's also Dr. Sherman Lies, who has been practicing for a long time.
Quote from: suzifrommd on May 08, 2014, 07:10:58 PM
There are three, well-known SRS doctors in the Philly area. Christine McGinn is the most famous. There's also Dr. Sherman Lies, who has been practicing for a long time.
well imma have to check them out and get their quotes. awesome to know they are super close. a bit anxious to travel across seas so, good info lol
Quote from: Umiko Liliana on May 08, 2014, 06:03:55 PM
oh wow, there's a srs doctor in philly. thats good news cuz i live an hour and a half away from philly. looking forward to the reviews lol. good luck
Since you are a local girl, check this out and get ready to go -- http://www.trans-health.org/content/13th-annual-philadelphia-trans-health-conference-june-12-14-2014 (http://www.trans-health.org/content/13th-annual-philadelphia-trans-health-conference-june-12-14-2014) The major U.S. Surgeons will be there, and this is where Suzi met her doctor.
Quote from: Vicky on May 08, 2014, 07:43:16 PM
Since you are a local girl, check this out and get ready to go -- http://www.trans-health.org/content/13th-annual-philadelphia-trans-health-conference-june-12-14-2014 (http://www.trans-health.org/content/13th-annual-philadelphia-trans-health-conference-june-12-14-2014) The major U.S. Surgeons will be there, and this is where Suzi met her doctor.
thnx vick. i'll make sure to look at it this week. need to buckle down for finals next week :'( god how i hate finals lol
Quote from: suzifrommd on May 08, 2014, 02:26:46 PM
I met her at the Philadelphia Trans Health conference. She gave a talk about her technique and her results. .
Is her technique different from all the other Americans surgeons, you know penile inversion ?
or just a variation of the theme ?
Quote from: peky on May 08, 2014, 08:34:39 PM
Is her technique different from all the other Americans surgeons, you know penile inversion ?
or just a variation of the theme ?
She practices penile inversion. I was not interested in scrotal resection - I wasn't willing to accept a harder recovery for an inch or two of depth, though I understand why a lot of women would.
Just wanted to chime in to say that I have a close friend who used Rumer, and she's thrilled with her results (coming up on 2 years post-op). She sent me photos, too, and I agree - gorgeous outcome. Good luck!!
Quote from: Jenna Marie on May 09, 2014, 10:28:20 AM
Just wanted to chime in to say that I have a close friend who used Rumer, and she's thrilled with her results (coming up on 2 years post-op). She sent me photos, too, and I agree - gorgeous outcome. Good luck!!
I havent seen a single picture of her results anywhere (its like its a big secret or something!) how do they fare compared to other surgeons?
Quote from: suzifrommd on May 08, 2014, 07:10:58 PM
There are three, well-known SRS doctors in the Philly area. Christine McGinn is the most famous. There's also Dr. Sherman Lies, who has been practicing for a long time.
McGinn was doing her surgery residence with Dr Leis when I had my BA done. She was #2 on my short list.
Did not meet Kathy she came I think after McGinn and worked with Dr. Leis. Any of them would be a great east coast choice.
Izzy
Quote from: generalchaos34 on May 09, 2014, 02:14:42 PM
I havent seen a single picture of her results anywhere (its like its a big secret or something!) how do they fare compared to other surgeons?
She doesn't post them on her website. I think her website is "under construction" but maybe not a great priority for her to upgrade it.
She showed pictures at the presentation I attended at Philly trans health. I'm not really interested in aesthetics - I'll never be stealth, so I don't need my underparts to "pass" - so the pictures didn't make much of an impression on me.
Well, I've only seen the pictures of the one friend who shared with me, and as she *is* a friend, I'm not comfortable analyzing beyond generalities - as I said, it looked good. At least as good as the other top surgeons. :)
I had my phone consult today. We spent less than ten minutes on the phone. The purpose was really to make sure I completely understand the preoperative instructions completely and to highlight some that absolutely had to be followed or she wouldn't perform the surgery.
She comes across very patient and empathetic over the phone. She encouraged me to ask questions and answered them completely.
The next step will be for her to give me prescriptions for the pre-op labwork and medication.
I had my pre-op physical today. It was very quick - about ten minutes. He did the usual things, nothing more. Because of my age, I also had an EKG (much easier now without chest hair :)), and a nasal swab looking for MRSA (really nasty bacteria) in my nose. He assured me if it's found, then the surgeon can take precautions and it would NOT call off surgery.
My lab hadn't sent over the results, so there had to be some back and forth phone calls but they got the blood work in the end and it looks fine.
So I passed.
Holy cripes, it looks like this is really going to happen. 16 days and counting...
Hugs Suze, you'll be in my prayers, til well after then..
Very happy for you Suzi!!
Very interested in your experiences with her too...
*hugs*
I am very happy for you, and I must admit a little envious. McGinn was who I was mainly interested in due to proximity and the results I have seen. Like you I would prefer not to have to get on a plane, and I could I suppose even take a train to philly (IDK why that appeals to me I have a car). Of course this is all moot until I can get some sort of job that pays much more than mine currently does.
I really hope you have a speedy recovery and I really hope that you don't have to go thru the recovery process alone, I understand from your other thread you have that covered but, still I worry about such things.
Quote from: mind is quiet now on May 09, 2014, 05:19:02 PM
McGinn was doing her surgery residence with Dr Leis when I had my BA done. She was #2 on my short list.
Did not meet Kathy she came I think after McGinn and worked with Dr. Leis. Any of them would be a great east coast choice.
Izzy
Actually, both Dr. Rumer and Dr. McGinn trained in the same program and graduated the same year. Dr. Rumer was never in practice with Dr. Leis.
Good luck and a speedy recovery! :)
There is another thread here on Susans. https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?topic=134780.0
I don't know. I keep hearing about surgeries that have gone wrong form virtually every surgeon out there. I get weirded out everytime I think about it.
Suzi, I really wish you the best. Please keep us posted.
Hugs,
Jen
Quote from: JLT1 on June 11, 2014, 12:51:48 AM
There is another thread here on Susans. https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?topic=134780.0
I don't know. I keep hearing about surgeries that have gone wrong form virtually every surgeon out there. I get weirded out everytime I think about it.
Suzi, I really wish you the best. Please keep us posted.
Hugs,
Jen
Yeah, I watched that thread closely (as you might imagine). I had some private correspondence with the member who had had a lousy experience. She gave me the details of what went wrong. I also talked to a few people IRL who had been to Rumer.
Hopefully, at this point I have a really good idea of her strong and week points.
Thanks for the good wishes, Jen. I intend to keep everyone updated.
Quote from: suzifrommd on June 11, 2014, 05:35:15 AM
Yeah, I watched that thread closely (as you might imagine). I had some private correspondence with the member who had had a lousy experience. She gave me the details of what went wrong. I also talked to a few people IRL who had been to Rumer.
Hopefully, at this point I have a really good idea of her strong and week points.
Thanks for the good wishes, Jen. I intend to keep everyone updated.
Just remember that there are always two sides to every story and that the surgeon cannot publicly refute claims without violating HIPAA laws. I'd contact Dr. Rumer directly about your concerns and let her explain the situation as best she can within HIPAA guidelines.
I know you will be in great hands and wish you a speedy recovery!
We arrived in Ardmore at 1PM. We're not supposed to check in until 2, which is annoying because the cleansing regime starts at 12 noon, after which I need to be near a bathroom. I started mine at 1:00, which turned out to be no problem, because the main street in town is only a half block from Dr. Rumer's office, and we sat in a Starbuck's for an hour.
Dr. Rumer's office is an old 3-story building with only 3 spaces in the back for her employees and two spaces in the front for patients who are not staying here. Fortunately the library parking lot across the street has ample spaces for my companion.
We were greeted by Dr. Rumer's receptionist who introduced us to the surgical coordinator (who I talked to a half-dozen times over the phone. The waiting room for the office is off a tiny front hall. The receptionist took us up two flights of stairs, past the private entrance to Dr. Rumer's personal apartment to the recovery center on the 3rd floor. There is a security combo lock to get in, leading to a hallway. On the left are the doors to the three rooms for residents. The first door on the right is a spacious kitchen, but the refrigerator, oven/range, and dishwasher are off-limits. There are plenty of dishes and silverware and a book that gives directions to supermarkets, takeout places, and the local wifi password. The second door on the right is the bathroom (communal) with tub and shower.
After about 45 minutes to unpack, we went back down to the office, where Dr. Rumer was waiting for us. She sat for about ten minutes answering all kinds of questions, and then she examined me (this is the first time). She didn't spend long. Just poked things for about 15 seconds while looking around, before standing up and telling me that everything looks fine and she expects a good result based on what she sees. She gave me a warm hug and told me she'll see me at the hospital tomorrow (I've got to be there at 6AM. Ugh.)
Now, I'm back in the room. It's comfortable – a full size bed and a sofa for my companion to sleep on, flat screen TV, refrigerator/freezer, and a couple tables. There isn't a lot of drawer space, but it seems to be enough.
Quote from: suzifrommd on June 18, 2014, 03:51:55 PM
We arrived in Ardmore at 1PM. We're not supposed to check in until 2, which is annoying because the cleansing regime starts at 12 noon, after which I need to be near a bathroom. I started mine at 1:00, which turned out to be no problem, because the main street in town is only a half block from Dr. Rumer's office, and we sat in a Starbuck's for an hour.
Dr. Rumer's office is an old 3-story building with only 3 spaces in the back for her employees and two spaces in the front for patients who are not staying here. Fortunately the library parking lot across the street has ample spaces for my companion.
We were greeted by Dr. Rumer's receptionist who introduced us to the surgical coordinator (who I talked to a half-dozen times over the phone. The waiting room for the office is off a tiny front hall. The receptionist took us up two flights of stairs, past the private entrance to Dr. Rumer's personal apartment to the recovery center on the 3rd floor. There is a security combo lock to get in, leading to a hallway. On the left are the doors to the three rooms for residents. The first door on the right is a spacious kitchen, but the refrigerator, oven/range, and dishwasher are off-limits. There are plenty of dishes and silverware and a book that gives directions to supermarkets, takeout places, and the local wifi password. The second door on the right is the bathroom (communal) with tub and shower.
After about 45 minutes to unpack, we went back down to the office, where Dr. Rumer was waiting for us. She sat for about ten minutes answering all kinds of questions, and then she examined me (this is the first time). She didn't spend long. Just poked things for about 15 seconds while looking around, before standing up and telling me that everything looks fine and she expects a good result based on what she sees. She gave me a warm hug and told me she'll see me at the hospital tomorrow (I've got to be there at 6AM. Ugh.)
Now, I'm back in the room. It's comfortable – a full size bed and a sofa for my companion to sleep on, flat screen TV, refrigerator/freezer, and a couple tables. There isn't a lot of drawer space, but it seems to be enough.
Suzi,
I wish you well tomorrow. Kathy is doing the hard part tomorrow.
I will have you in my thoughts, hugs and speed in recovery.
Hugs
Isabell
My best to you GF. I guess tonight will be a long night for you & I hope you do get some decent sleep. I know you will be relieved when you awake & are told everything went very well & maybe perfect with your surgery.
It's not as serious as GRS however I had a face & neck lift with eye lid surgery a week & a half ago. I was pretty nervous about that GF. When I came to & the doc said everything went very well that was such a relief. I'm taking it easy & healing up now.
I so hope you hear the same type words & that everything goes well.
I look forward to your news when you feel like posting. Sweet dreams GF.
Francis
Best wishes Suzi! *hugs*
Thanks for sharing so much detail. I hope everything goes well and wish you a speedy recovery! :)
Suzi,
Wishing you well. Keep us up to date!
Hugs,
Jen
Suzi-
My thoughts are with you girl! :)
~Eva
Good luck and have a speedy recovery!!
I met with Dr Kathy Rumer and her husband at the Philly Trans Conference last week and she showed some photos in a session and they were really good. I'm torn between her and Dr Bowers on the west coast. I'm close to Dr Rumer, but Dr Bowers will work with insurance where as Dr Rumer does not.
Hope everything goes well. Good luck with the surgery and I hope your recovery is quick. Thanks for sharing this especial time in your life with us
Good luck Sis,
Thinking of you
Hugs and Kisses
Cindy
Has anyone heard from Suzi,
I hope all has went well and you are just now spending your time relaxing and healing.
Isabell
I'm back at Dr. Rumer's recovery center from the hospital. I'm pretty comfortable sitting on a doughnut cushion I brought from home. There is another patient here, someone who had SRS and FFS.
The hospital stay was largely unremarkable. Most of the nurses were really terrific though there was one I got a really bad feeling about. The hardest part about the hospital was that Dr. Rumer wanted me flat on my back for the full three days. They didn't even have me sitting up until this morning. I'm sure it helps healing, but I never realized how the ability to make minor shifts to my position promotes comfort. The first day I was getting all sorts of muscle cramps and kinks. I talked to the doctor when she came to see me on the second day and she OKed my lying on my side with a pillow between my legs. Every hour or so I'd buzz the nurse (those poor nurses) and have them shift me from one side to the other. Once I discovered this, I was A LOT more comfortable.
Dr. Rumer came in every morning to take a look at the site. She told me she was pleased with how things are going and that I should expect to be really happy with my result. She told me not to expect much for the first three months ("It'll look like a Frankenpussy", she said). I haven't looked yet, but the nurse who was checking the dressing told me it looked really natural.
Now I'm back at the recovery center. I'd been warned how agonizing the two flights of stairs would be three days post-op, but it was no big deal. Actually, I'll have to say that, other than having to stay still in the hospital, nothing has been a big deal. The pain has been manageable. The one time it got intense was when one of the nurses accidentally jolted the catheter and I suddenly felt pain in a place that I never before had. Otherwise, the feelings I have down there are quite strange. They're sort of like pinpricks in places that I know I don't have any more. I'm curious what it will feel like in the end – what my nervous system will make of the way things have been rearranged – but time will have to tell.
Dr. Rumer plans to leave the drains in one more day. My understanding is that the catheter will stay in place until I'm a week post-op, after which she removes the packing and instructs me on dilation and the real fun begins.
Suzi,
Glad things so fare are going good. Take the time to relax and get your walking in. It will help with the healing. Do what the doctor asks and get yourself ready for the joy of dilation.
Speed in recovery
Hugs
Isabell
Congratulations!
As a newly postop girl myself, all I can say is: endurance is good! Stick with it and things'll be good, even when it hurts like hell.
Very excitd for you suzi and thank you for sharing your experience in detai, I think that way we can expect the realities of healing will happen and be prepared for them, congratulations on the new you x x
It is so wonderful to hear that all went well and WELCOME TO THE OTHER SIDE sis. Getting to turn on my side was a big moment too, oh the relief!! Each day you will know it is getting better. Like Isabell said, do get out walking, it really helps you gain strength again, and keeps you off the painy spot! It takes a while to figure out where sensations are really coming from but they will sort themselves out.
Speedy recovery to you!!
Congrats Suzi.
Thinking of you
Hugs
Just had a skype session with Suzi. She is doing great.
Very happy, tired but going really well.
I am so glad that it went well Suzi. Frankenpussy? :laugh: Sounds like your doctor has a great sense of humor.
Omg im so happy to hear everything is going well.. I'm scheduled for srs with her in September
Congrats Suzi :) Best wishes to heal quickly
Hugs
Dr. Rumer came in to see me again today, but is not removing the drains. I know she told me yesterday she would do that today. When I asked her whether she saw something that caused her to delay a day, she told me, no, she just wanted to do it tomorrow.
I'm disappointed. I was hoping not to spend another night worrying about where the drain hoses were when I tossed in my sleep, but I'll have to live with it.
I packed ridiculously in hindsight. What I really need is a bunch of grungy sweatshirts and sweatpants, but somehow it didn't occur to me to pack them. I assumed (1) it would be hot (the center is heavily air-conditioned) so t-shirts would be enough and (2) that it wouldn't be as messy.
The other people here are grousing about their not being enough supplies up here - paper towels, toilet paper etc., and why couldn't Dr. Rumer's people provide them. My friend went out and bought more of each. I had been warned about this ahead of time so I didn't expect much (easy for me to say, I'm not the one that has to go out and buy everything).
I hope you a speedy recovery!
Also frankenpussy is about the funniest thing ever lol but from pics I have seen of the recently post OP accurate. I do wonder if people really expect things to just look all healed after the surgery lol
Suze, Zoe, I'm tearing up, knowing you are finally where you want to be (ok, well, really in a few months from now), but you're in my prayers for a speedy, incomplicated recovery! Hugs, sis's! <3
Thanks for the update!
Drains? I've never heard of them being used in SRS before. Are they commonly used? Sounds uncomfortable, for sure. You must feel like a science project, with all those tubes (catheter and drains) comming out of your crotch. :/
About a half hour ago, Dr. Rumer came in and examined the site, declaring it looked fine. She then removed both drains. This was the most painful moment so far in the whole process, but didn't last long. I feel a lot more free without them, now that two thirds of the things hanging off my body are gone.
She also emptied the garbage basket in our room.
This is a good time to talk about the fact that the entire office is (necessarily) run on a shoestring. She caters to transgender people and cosmetic surgery clients who have saved up for the largely uninsured procedures she offers, so she needs to keep her prices down. It's clearly a family operation. Her husband is her business manager (former aerospace engineer) and her stepdaughter runs the reception desk.
That's the reason why accommodations in the recovery area are so basic. There are multiple schools of thought on this, but I'm inclined to see it as a good thing. If prices for SRS and other gender-confirming procedures stay low, more of us will be able to have them. Would it be better to have a modern facility with round-the-clock nursing care? Sure, but if it raised the price of SRS a few thousand, how many others would not be able to afford it?
The legal basis by which we occupy this room is interesting. The surgery fee reasonably included nine days of consultative care, which included the pre-surgery exam, exams for each of the three hospital days, and for each of the five days in the recovery center. Once this package is included, the rooms (for all nine days, including the day before surgery) come with no charge. According to the documents, we are "guests" in Dr. Rumer's home. I imagine this eliminates the need for her to get licensure as some time of in-patient facility or perhaps even as a boarding house.
Quote from: Pickles on June 23, 2014, 01:18:24 PM
Drains? I've never heard of them being used in SRS before. Are they commonly used?
After seeing your post, I asked Dr. Rumer whether drains were standard for this type of surgery. It's her understanding that they are.
Quote from: Pickles on June 23, 2014, 01:18:24 PM
Thanks for the update!
Drains? I've never heard of them being used in SRS before. Are they commonly used? Sounds uncomfortable, for sure. You must feel like a science project, with all those tubes (catheter and drains) comming out of your crotch. :/
Yes Drains are very common in GCS. I only had 1 but it was not uncomfortable until it was removed.
Felt like burning as it was pulled out but pain only lasted a minute or two.
Isabell.
I had another surgeon from Suzi and Isabell, and yes I had a drain. Drain removal was a definite YIPE moment as a suture was dug out of swollen skin and snipped, and then the pulling out that Isabell described. Mine had been a suction bulb on a long tube that a nurse emptied every shift change. It came out the day I was discharged from the hospital.
Dr. Rumer saw me again yesterday, asked me to hold off one more day before trying to figure out what I was shaped like. Today, the catheter comes out (Aagh!!! Spray Pee Syndrome! Save me! The other post-op who was here recommended holding a huge wad of TP above the area so no fluid escapes upward.) Also today, the packing comes out meaning my dilation adventure begins.
OK. Lots to report.
Went downstairs to get the catheter removed and for the "clowns in the circus car" show as Dr. Rumer calls it. I watched the yards of packing come out (though I was freaked out over the possible pain, which never happened, so I didn't really enjoy it). She gave me a tour of my new parts and how they were made. Everything was there and I had no complaints, and I will wait three months before I judge the outcome. Right now it's swollen and misshapen and looks from above like I've been injured, so I probably should reserve judgment.
She brought out my dilators. There was a narrow purple one, which I was to find out was just for show. There was a slightly wider orange one, and then a scary looking blue one.
She brought the orange one to bear. "It needs to go in until the last dot" she insisted, and I watched it do just that. I later measured about 5 1/2 inches, or about 13 cm., so that would be my post-op depth. Not sure whether this is good or bad. Probably unimportant. Not likely anyone's ever going to be in there. She declared this an excellent result and told me not to tell anyone because most of her patients don't do that well.
She pulled the orange one out and reached for the blue one. "You've got to be kidding" I thought to myself, but she lubed it up (spreading lube over the forward one third of the tube) and managed to get it to go in. So I'm already on the biggest dilator she uses.
This sounds very different from other womens' experiences with other surgeons. She did mention how she "had a lot to work with." I asked whether that meant I didn't have a small peeny, and she sort of reluctantly nodded.
Among other information I received:
* I'll dilate 4x/day, 10 mins on each dilator for a total of 20 mins. Drops to 3x/day after 1 month, and 2x/day after 3 months. After six months, only once/day, to continue forever.
* Before dilating, wash hands and dilators with anti-bacterial soap.
* Don't explore inside with my finger for at least six weeks. No sexual stimulation for "6 weeks to 3 months". I suppose she's leaving sort of up to me.
* Douche 1/week with iodine based douche and then immediately after with saline.
* Detailed washing instructions to keep the area clean.
* Nothing strenuous for at least six weeks.
And the she sent me out into the world with my new neo-vag.
Woo! Congrats!
How're you feeling now, sister? Excited? Elated? Interested?
Clowns in the circus car? LOL That is just too funny.
I was tearing up, knowing you are where you wanted to be (well, minus the forever-after-care), hugs for you and hope you heal really quickly!
Quote from: Pickles on June 26, 2014, 03:42:49 PM
Clowns in the circus car? LOL That is just too funny.
*cue circus music*
Yah, Hard plastic and KY jelly.
Oh what a life we lead, day after day after day.................................................
LOL.
Glad things are going good up to this point, Welcome to the sisterhood.
Just keep up with your aftercare and healing should be on track.
Isabell
Quote from: ZoeM on June 26, 2014, 03:36:18 PM
Woo! Congrats!
How're you feeling now, sister? Excited? Elated? Interested?
At this very moment, I just finished my first solo dilation. I had really been scared, that I'd screw something up or make a mess or not even be able to get the narrower one in.
None of those things happened.
The only mishap was that I missed the final timer alarm and left the blue guy in a few minutes longer that I was supposed to. No harm done.
How do I feel?
Ecstatic. I have a vagina. It works. Something really big goes in there and does no damage. I'm going to be able to make this work. So many of the things I was concerned would be obstacles turned out not to be.
Clitoris is still a a raw mess, feeling like it's been crammed into one tenth the space it should be (this is normal, right?) I felt a little something there as the dilator went by - sort of like the feeling I'd have if I had to pee with the old body. Nothing like sexual excitement. But it seems to have some feeling (and seems to get uncomfortably erect at inopportune times) so there most be some nerve activity in there. I'm taking this as a good sign.
Quote from: mind is quiet now on June 26, 2014, 04:46:09 PM
Yah, Hard plastic and KY jelly.
Oh what a life we lead, day after day after day.................................................
I know you're joking, but actually, that doesn't sound so bad. To spend time each day reminding myself I finally have a girl-shaped body. I so could live with that.
Quote from: Paula Christine on June 26, 2014, 04:09:25 PM
I was tearing up, knowing you are where you wanted to be (well, minus the forever-after-care), hugs for you and hope you heal really quickly!
You are really sweet. Thanks for the hugs and the good wishes.
This is so great of you to keep us posted like this! I am taking notes lol.
Do you have any idea the diameter of the dilators? I also am amazed that you didn't have any trouble with the larger ones, I have read some horror stories about then, hopefully the recovery will proceed swiftly and without complication.
Also, do you feel Rumer was attentive enough, like she checked up enough on you?
Quote from: Hikari on June 26, 2014, 07:47:27 PM
Do you have any idea the diameter of the dilators?
I don't have anything to measure here. But I'd say the blue one was just a tad more than an inch in diameter.
Quote from: Hikari on June 26, 2014, 07:47:27 PM
Also, do you feel Rumer was attentive enough, like she checked up enough on you?
No question about that. She came to see me every day since my surgery, and looked at the site each time. She always stays to answer every question to my satisfaction.
Quote from: suzifrommd on June 26, 2014, 03:18:49 PM
She declared this an excellent result and told me not to tell anyone because most of her patients don't do that well.
Thats kinda scary considering i plan on only being with men!! :(
Quote from: yayapineda on June 27, 2014, 04:31:18 AM
Thats kinda scary considering i plan on only being with men!! :(
I'm more than thrilled. There is a lot of depth there. I'm not sure how she measured it, but she came up with 7 inches of depth.
I can't imagine any guy dissatisfied with what I've got. If so, a cis woman is not going to fare any better.
I think this is a great result.
We're leaving Dr. Rumer's recovery facility shortly. I'm glad we stayed here. It provided a place for my companion to stay all 9 nights (night before surgery, 3 in hospital, 5 here). Other advantages:
* There is a large TV in every room with a lot (to my mind) of channels.
* If something runs out during office hours, Dr. Rumer is happy to send someone up with a replacement. Though sometimes you might need to ask more than once.
* The rooms are spacious, and well furnished.
However, if you're having surgery with Dr. Rumer and plan to stay here, please be cautioned. You are largely on your own. There is no personal care. When people hear that it's a recovery facility, they think of nurses coming in to check on you, rooms being cleaned every day, etc. Do not expect anything like this. It's a few rooms to help you be comfortable, but not a staffed facility by any means.
Some suggestions on what to bring:
* Bring a companion. This is a must! Do not imagine you will be in any state 3 days post-op to take care of yourself.
* Bring extra pillows. There is only one per person and there are lots of uses for them.
* Bring a tall back cushion. The couches are low and deep.
* Bring a doughnut cushion. Saved the day. Enough said.
* You will need to buy your food. Keep that in mind. If you don't feel like going out the day before surgery, you might want to bring some stuff so you have something for when you get back.
* Bring hand towels, especially if you want to wash your hands each time you empty your catheter. They provide washcloths, a floormat, and bathtowels, but no hand towels.
* Consider bringing a rubber bathmat. There is a bar by the bathtub you can grab onto, but nothing providing friction when the tub gets slippery during a shower.
Quote from: suzifrommd on June 27, 2014, 08:56:38 AM
I'm more than thrilled. There is a lot of depth there. I'm not sure how she measured it, but she came up with 7 inches of depth.
I can't imagine any guy dissatisfied with what I've got. If so, a cis woman is not going to fare any better.
I think this is a great result.
Oh you have 7 inches depth ? Sorry i thought you said only 5 1/2
Quote from: yayapineda on June 28, 2014, 05:01:34 AM
Oh you have 7 inches depth ? Sorry i thought you said only 5 1/2
I did. The doctor declared I had 7 inches. I measured the place where the dilator stopped going in and got 5 1/2. Not sure which is the right number.
Quote from: suzifrommd on June 28, 2014, 06:34:07 AM
I did. The doctor declared I had 7 inches. I measured the place where the dilator stopped going in and got 5 1/2. Not sure which is the right number.
Swelling in the vaginal cavity may temporarily decrease the amount of depth you have available. It should self-resolve...
Quote from: suzifrommd on June 28, 2014, 06:34:07 AM
I did. The doctor declared I had 7 inches. I measured the place where the dilator stopped going in and got 5 1/2. Not sure which is the right number.
Suzi, I just wondered how you are doing???Are you feeling well & how about the depth. 7 inches would be so nice.????
Quote from: FrancisAnn on July 01, 2014, 05:52:28 AM
Suzi, I just wondered how you are doing???Are you feeling well & how about the depth. 7 inches would be so nice.????
I'm doing OK, thanks for asking. I'm moving around OK, but as little as possible, because I'm really achey when I move. I've gotten the hang of dilating 4x/day. Theoretically only 20 mins, but with all the setup and cleanup, I don't seem to be able to do it in less than 45 mins. So I'm spending 3 hrs/day dilating.
Good news: Clitoris is sensate. I can feel it a definite tingle there when I pull the dilators out. Not really when I want to be aroused. Oh, well, bodes well for things to come.
As for depth, it really doesn't make a whole lot of difference to me. I've never been into men in the past (though now that I have one of these, who knows...) and if anyone is dissatisfied with any piece of my body, it really is their problem.
Suzi,
Glad to her things are on track with your healing and going as scheduled.
Keep up the good work, Air as much as you can. Clean and dry it the key.
Hugs
Isabell
Quote from: suzifrommd on July 01, 2014, 08:02:48 AM
I'm doing OK, thanks for asking. I'm moving around OK, but as little as possible, because I'm really achey when I move. I've gotten the hang of dilating 4x/day. Theoretically only 20 mins, but with all the setup and cleanup, I don't seem to be able to do it in less than 45 mins. So I'm spending 3 hrs/day dilating.
Good news: Clitoris is sensate. I can feel it a definite tingle there when I pull the dilators out. Not really when I want to be aroused. Oh, well, bodes well for things to come.
As for depth, it really doesn't make a whole lot of difference to me. I've never been into men in the past (though now that I have one of these, who knows...) and if anyone is dissatisfied with any piece of my body, it really is their problem.
Suzi, Thanks for your reply. It sounds rough for you still. I feel for your pain & I know every SP member feels the same. She is having a tought time GF's. A get well/heal up note to her would be nice to send.
Dr. Rumer called today for my two week follow-up. She basically asked how I was feeling (no major complaints) and whether I was having any problem with the dilation. I told her that the orange (narrower) dilator goes all the way in to the last spot as she instructed, but that the much wider blue one goes only to the second to last spot. She told me not to be concerned – more depth will be possible as the swelling goes down. She encouraged me to keep trying to work it in a bit further.
My next (phone) appointment will be four weeks from now, when I would be cleared for normal activity if all goes well.
I can't wait. Just can't wait.
Glad all is still well and on track. :eusa_clap:
Its all we can work for in our aftercare. Do our best.
I found as you go up in size it will take a little longer to reach depth. More of the dome that needs to be worked.
It is all normal.
Hugs
Isabell
Quote from: suzifrommd on July 03, 2014, 04:15:03 PM
Dr. Rumer called today for my two week follow-up. She basically asked how I was feeling (no major complaints) and whether I was having any problem with the dilation. I told her that the orange (narrower) dilator goes all the way in to the last spot as she instructed, but that the much wider blue one goes only to the second to last spot. She told me not to be concerned – more depth will be possible as the swelling goes down. She encouraged me to keep trying to work it in a bit further.
My next (phone) appointment will be four weeks from now, when I would be cleared for normal activity if all goes well.
I can't wait. Just can't wait.
When trying to work it in a bit further, as she said, is that painful?
Also I am very happy for you, things seem to be going off without a hitch.
Quote from: Hikari on July 03, 2014, 05:07:44 PM
When trying to work it in a bit further, as she said, is that painful?
No. There is no part of the dilation that is painful. It just stops. Won't go any further, like it's up against some barrier. I'll put a little more pressure on it, but won't force it.
The only physically unpleasant part of dilating is when I remove the dilator and it rubs against my clitoris and I get these unwelcome electric tingles. In a few months, I'm sure I'll love them, but I'm not allowed to test my sexual function yet.
When will you be able to test your sexual function? Just curious about all of that as I am looking into different surgeons
Quote from: Kassie on July 10, 2014, 01:03:12 PM
When will you be able to test your sexual function? Just curious about all of that as I am looking into different surgeons
She told me "six weeks to three months" post-op.
I already know my clitoris is sensate. I feel definite tingles there as I pull the dilators out.
I'm now 1 month post-op. Here's what's happening:
* I'm still in some pain (bearable, but unpleasant), both sitting down, and moving around. Only flat on my back is completely comfortable. The pain resolves itself into three major issues. (1) There is a raw, swollen area inside, just anterior to my vagina. The whole area hurts when I walk or sit. (2) When I stand or walk, my clitoris feels like someone has stuck a piece of glass in it (can't get Annie Lennox's "Walking on broken glass" out of my head). (3) There is still an area on either side where sutures are still dissolving that feels like I have a scrape. This is improving.
* Dilation is comfortable, but not as comfortable as it was initially. It's harder to get the biggest dilator in. I suspect because as the tissue heals, the area becomes more constricted. I still feel nothing once the dilator is in. I just lie back and relax.
* I still look hideous. "Cloven hoof" is what I've heard one woman describe the immediately post-op appearance. That's an apt description for me. I think I look like I've been shot there.
* The area right above my pubic hairline is sensitive. When there's pressure on it (like anytime I wear a belt, seatbelt or an article of clothing that fastens around my waste), the whole area feels painfully tight, and the "broken glass" feeling I described above intensifies.
* I need to go back to work in less than a month. Right now, that would be impossible. I'm hoping a lot of healing happens in the next four weeks.
* My stomach is back to normal. When I first got back from the hospital, it was so loose, I had to take medication. I suspect this is because of all the antibiotics they pumped into me that killed the natural microbes in my gut.
I've avoided taking pain meds. The Percocet they gave me made me loopy the one time I took one, and I'd rather be alert. The pain is bearable. But I wish it would hurry up and get better already.
They did a lot of work down there. It will take time. My best guess is 2-3 more weeks should show marked improvement.
HUGS!!!
Jen
Is it okay if we email? im having surgery with her in September
News is better this time:
* I'm home now. YAY!
* Before I left, I had a phone consult with Dr. Rumer. She was happy with how things were progressing. Was a little concerned that I seem to be tighter - now have to work the larger dilator in. She asked me to call her if things got tight. She also said to keep working the larger dilator in deeper if possible, but not to force it.
* She verified that eventually I might get down to one or two dilations a week. Everyone is different.
* Pain is much, much better. It still hurts, but no longer feels fragile. The feeling now is like painfully tight panties. I can walk at a normal pace (though I still have a bit of a waddle). Dr. Rumer believes the swelling will go down in time and I'll feel better. Sitting is still painful, especially without the doughnut cushion.
* I still have the "cloven hoof" look. Not sure whether that will improve. Dr. Rumer says not to expect anything like a final appearance until 3 months, so I have time left.
* I made a follow up appointment at approximately the three month mark.
Progress, Suzi! Progress! These things require patience.
I just had my 6 month follow-up with Dr. Rumer. Everything is going well, so I think I'm going to retire this thread and post my final review.
SUMMARY
I'm very happy with the results. I have full sensation, like the aesthetics, and have had no complications to speak of. Throughout the process Dr. Rumer and her staff were completely professional, accessible when I needed them, and helpful whenever we interacted. She was prompt for her appointments, answered ALL my questions with patience and understanding, and had a comfortable easygoing manner that made her approachable and easy to get along with. There were a few minor issues with the recovery facility (detailed below) and the hospital.
HIGH POINTS
* Every time I needed to contact her office, they got back to me promptly with a helpful answer to whatever question I had.
* The estimate she gave me was detailed, easy to read, and completely accurate. It included ALL the money I needed to spend, except things like prescriptions and supplies.
* The process worked exactly as she said it would. There was not a single broken promise, inaccurate prediction, or point of confusion.
* She and her staff were obviously putting a priority on making sure the entire experience was as pleasant as possible.
* Based on what I've heard about other surgeons, she took all the state-of-the-art precautions and followed all the best practices to ensure the best outcome possible.
* My level of pain post-op was manageable and my mobility was good only a few days after surgery.
* The recovery facility was easy to afford. Dr. Rumer put a lot of effort into making it as inexpensive as possible. I will say, though, that the TV there was state-of-the-art and had a wide selection of channels.
* At one point, in the recovery facility, the dressing got caught on my clothes, as I was trying to use the bathroom. I called and a staff member came within minutes and quickly fixed the problem (despite the fact that it was a tad gross).
* After the surgery, Dr. Rumer came to see me every day for the next week to make sure the site was healing and to ask if I had any concerns.
* Miraculously, I did not find my stitches in any way uncomfortable. I couldn't say when they dissolved because I honestly didn't feel them.
* The pre- and post- operative instructions were easy to understand and follow.
* From the start, dilation was comfortable and her schedule was manageable.
* My healing was steady. I was back at work with no problems 8 weeks post-op and exercising strenuously 6 weeks after.
* If there are scars at all, they are hard to find. I don't see them.
* I LOVE my new VJ.
ISSUES AND CAUTIONS
* The recovery facility was convenient (located upstairs from her office), but basic. There was no care at the facility - if we needed help we called down to the office or beeped Dr. Rumer after hours. I would HIGHLY recommend having someone there with you.
* The furniture in the recovery facility was also basic. The couch and the bed were both low - not optimal for someone recovering from surgery. I would also recommend bringing extra pillows. There was no shower mat in the recovery facility shower (which was shared by all patients). Again, not optimal for post-surgery patients whose footing is not sure.
* Delaware County Memorial Hospital was inconsistent. Some of the nurses were diligent and attentive, while others clearly wanted to be somewhere else. The procedures were chaotic. I was mistakenly served a hamburger a few minutes after waking up post-op. When I couldn't swallow it, I was putting on liquid food for days until I rebelled. I had to fight with a nurse to get her to look at my chart, after which she noticed that I could be given solid food as soon as I could tolerate it. TV access required physically reaching into my purse and handing them a credit card, something that was prohibitive while required to stay on my back.
* The billing department at DCMH was a nightmare, and several times gave me wrong information just to get me off the phone. They insisted on writing on my bill that they expected insurance to cover my stay, despite the fact that they knew it wouldn't. This complicated tax stuff.
@suzifrommd
Did you have professional electrolysis or laser hair removal of the gential area before surgery and is there NO regrowth? I know Dr. Rumer technique does not require it.
But I wanted to know if you got it anyway.
You mentioned stairs, Suzi...is it difficult to go up or down? How's it feel re: straining, balance, etc?
I live in a third floor apt (16 steps), and was considering moving to a ground floor to avoid steps, if its too much for daily effort.
Quote from: MandyCali88 on December 19, 2014, 08:20:36 PM
@suzifrommd
Did you have professional electrolysis or laser hair removal of the gential area before surgery and is there NO regrowth? I know Dr. Rumer technique does not require it.
But I wanted to know if you got it anyway.
Dr. Rumer said that it was only necessary for hairs on the shaft itself, which I did not have. I did not have any hair removal.
Quote from: Beth Andrea on December 19, 2014, 08:59:45 PM
You mentioned stairs, Suzi...is it difficult to go up or down? How's it feel re: straining, balance, etc?
I live in a third floor apt (16 steps), and was considering moving to a ground floor to avoid steps, if its too much for daily effort.
Even 3 days post up, the stairs were
no issue. Nothing to worry about there.
Thank you! (I *hate* moving to a new place!)
I'm so happy for you I'm thinking about using her for my surgery. I just can't stop
Smiling for you!
Sorry to reply to an old thread, but I had an additional question I hope you don't mind answering. I had SRS with Dr. Rumer recently. One of the reasons I chose her was this thread so, first I want to thank you for the detailed write up. I ended up having very similar experience as you did. You mentioned you had a "cloven hoof" look after surgery. Did that ever go away? I have that, too, and I am really hoping the appearance improves.
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Quote from: zxlpx on September 05, 2015, 05:06:56 AM
You mentioned you had a "cloven hoof" look after surgery. Did that ever go away? I have that, too, and I am really hoping the appearance improves.
Congrats on your surgery.
There is still a bit of separation in the middle, but nothing like it was. Labia come together well in the back and in the front, but in the middle, near the urethra, there still is a fingertip or so of separation. Not clear whether it is still going down, but I'd say it looks within the range of normal.
Hi Suzi... if your still around
I have my pre-op skype exam with Dr. Rumer this week and surgery at the end of November.
Now that you 2+ years post op, are you still happy that you went with Dr. Rumer?