BEWARE for Breast cancer reconstruction, especially post radiation

I was completely fooled, thinking I was under the right care for breast reconstruction with Dr. Kara Criswell. Everything seemed great at first but soon significant problems arose. I was under Dr. Kara Criswell’s care for 2 years for breast cancer reconstruction surgeries. Unfortunately, her experience and awards did not help in my situation, or the 3 other women that I am now in contact with that have had very similar issues.

I had 10 failed surgeries, multiple implants, 4 infections, one life-threatening. With the last infection I was given antibiotics (that did not work) and I was told to put cream and gauze on the open wound FOR FIVE MONTHS. Like a fool, I didn’t doubt her expertise and did accordingly. Finally the open wound became so large that the breast implant was visible and fluid was draining from it.

Also, while still seeing Dr. Criswell and going through breast reconstruction I found a new lump under my arm. Dr. Criswell told me it was a cyst and not to worry about it. I asked her about it a second time, one month later and got the same response stating she would lance it in the future. During my last surgery with Dr. Criswell, right before I was put under, I insisted she remove the cyst because it was bothering me. She added it on to the surgery at the last minute. It ended up being a cancerous cyst! If I had listened to Dr. Criswell the cyst would still be there, possibly growing.

One of my breasts was healthy and cancer free. She tried to match it to the cancerous breast during reconstruction. When I asked why the healthy breast looked odd, she said that it “bottomed out.” Also, the areola is crooked, pointy and there is a “dart” under the breast.

I would never recommend this doctor to any patient that is dealing with breast cancer reconstruction especially post radiation. I hope this helps future women do their research before choosing a doctor.