I had a slightly different issue: my nipples were pointed almost sideways before the surgery. My PS said he could move them more centered/facing forward, the way the majority of women's do. I said "Wow, you can do that?" He replied, "Yes, and if you want it done, now's the time to say so." So when I said yes, he made sure to mark the new location before the surgery and get my approval. Apparently they do have some leeway regarding placement, and you should not be shy about voicing your opinion. You're the one who's going to live with the outcome, after all!
The first time I applied for insurance coverage, I was denied for the same reason (no medical documentation for back/neck pain.) So I looked up my policy guidelines, (which is great for insomnia, by the way,) and found it said I had to have at least 12 months of documentation. So for over a year I got physical therapy, went to my doctor several times, and had a physiatrist (which is a pain management specialist) write up a statement. I then resubmitted my request and was approved. Sometimes you just have to be patient. I found the year wait to be well worth it! If you're thinking about the surgery, it pays to start getting documentation now.
I used the gel sheets and my scars look great, but my regular doctor says I 'scar really well,' so it may be due to that more than the sheeting. My PS says the other thing that really helps is to massage along the scars in gentle, circular movements with your fingertips, which is easy and inexpensive.
Because of my size, I didn't have much sensation before the surgery. Now I'm more sensitive than ever on one side, and I'm numb on the other. lol - I think I'm the odd one out, here. My PS says it's possible I can regain some feeling on the numb side eventually.
I'm glad you're finding a new PS. As to your other questions: I had drains for 3 days, although a lot of doctors don't use them. I didn't have much fluid in the bulbs either. I got a mammogram beforehand, but I was 41 years old. The tissue removed during the surgery was sent to a lab to be checked for any cancerous tissue as a routine matter. Six months after my surgery my doctor wants me to get another mammogram for my new baseline. Good luck with your insurance. You can ask the office of your former PS to send your complete medical records to you, and you can see what he told the insurance company. This can be helpful for your new surgeon.
Recent comments
Posted to Lets talk nipple size and placement! on 27 Dec 2011
Posted to Insurance and your BR on 27 Dec 2011
Posted to Is it worth it to buy silicone gel or gel sheets? on 1 Sep 2011
Posted to I am considering a breast reduction, I am wondering if I will still have feeling in my nipples. Does anyone know? on 1 Sep 2011
Posted to mammogram necessary & time limit on drains? on 24 Aug 2011