Patient Stories
What's it like to have a DIEP flap?
Please read these first-hand experiences from our patients as they went through DIEP flap breast reconstruction:
Rhonda's Letter - "I Just Donated My Breast Prosthesis!"
Christina Bowers, Georgetown, TX - Bilateral DIEP Flap With Lymph Node Transfer
I came to PRMA seeking delayed reconstruction following chemotherapy, bilateral mastectomy and 33 radiation treatments. As a consequence of my treatments and the loss of 27 lymph nodes, I spent significant effort managing the early stages of lymphedema. I had constant relentless pain which radiated down my arm and swelling most notably in the truncal region. In addition to wearing compression sleeves, I worked with a physical therapist and used a Flexitouch pump daily to manage my symptoms.
The first thing my husband and I felt upon coming to PRMA was the passion these doctors have for helping women in my circumstance to feel whole and healed. There was such compassion and caring and no sense of feeling rushed. Following the early visits and throughout my recovery our nurse was easily accessible to answer questions.
Unlike other clinics we had visited, at PRMA we felt we had a clear understanding of what we could expect with the reconstruction--and the expectations went beyond what we thought possible. At our first visit, Dr. Pisano told us that the clinic was beginning to transfer lymph nodes during the DIEP flap reconstruction. I was eager to give this a try.
Upon waking from surgery, despite the expected discomfort, I noticed immediately a reduction in pain in my arm. I am now 6 months out from surgery and my arm has gone down a whole sleeve size. I no longer experience truncal swelling and my overall range of motion is vastly improved. While I have continued to work with a physical therapist during recovery to manage the effects of scar tissue and to keep ahead of possible changes, lymphedema no longer dominates my every day. I wear a sleeve when I exercise or fly as precautionary measure and I continue to do self massage for lymphatic drainage. I still measure my arm weekly to monitor changes. But my measurements have gone down and the pain in my arm has not returned.
Initially I did not intend to undergo reconstruction. I felt that getting rid of the cancer was enough. Living with the tightness of the scars and the swelling and pain in my arm compelled to seek other options and I am so grateful that I did. I would encourage any woman in my situation to visit PRMA for a consultation.
Fran Clark, Fredericksburg, Virginia - DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
Some people think I was crazy for flying all the way from Virgnia to Texas for my breast reconstruction. I had my initial mastectomy at Sloan Kettering in NYC. I was not treated well, my pain wasn't controlled and as a nurse of 20 years I know how things should be while in the hospital. My nurse at Sloan told me at 3am that "nurses make the worst patients."
When I was at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio and under Dr. Arishita's care, I was relieved to find excellent care. Dr. Arishita gave me back what breast cancer took away. I woke up laughing from my surgery and spent 5 days at Methodist. I was always treated with kindness and respect. My pain was controlled. I feel the staff monitored me to keep me safe from complications. I have nothing but good things to say about PRMA and Methodist Hospital. A special thanks to Dr. Arishita's nurse, Heather!
Rhonda Manee, Grand Junction, Colorado - DIEP Flap Reconstruction
"I just donated my prosthetic!" - Rhonda's Inspirational Letter
In 2011 I had two car accidents and three surgeries. The last surgery being a mastectomy to cure me of breast cancer. Because I had radiation treatments and a bleeding disorder, it was recommended that I wait to have reconstruction and just get through the healing process. It had been a nightmare of a year and I was exhausted. I had a huge hole in my chest and it felt like I had a hole in my heart as well.
I celebrated because I survived the cancer. However, I felt I was just alive, not living. I had survived, but I wasn’t thriving.
I began to look for options for reconstruction. I wanted reconstruction but due to the radiation treatments, I had few options. Only tissue transfer would work and I have a bleeding disorder. Most surgeons that I met with did not want to take the risk. I needed experts, but had become too tired to keep searching.
Prosthetics were very helpful and certainly made me feel better when I was dressed, however sometimes they were heavy and I had to inch one side higher. They caused me to be hot in warmer weather and made me sweat underneath the prosthetic. They were sometimes visible when I bent down. I was always pinning something or adding lace so something would not show. Getting dressed everyday was a major drag. I became depressed. I wanted to feel whole again but was so tired from the stress of the last few years.
One day while I was at the local hospital for follow-up care, I was crying to my physical therapist about how I felt. She said she knew of a woman who had reconstruction by a group of experts in Texas. She said she would call her and see if she might be willing to meet with me. On our way out of the building the woman walked in. The therapist introduced us and told the woman what I was going through. She was willing to help immediately. She told me about PRMA and was even willing to go to the ladies room and show me her results after only stage one of her surgery. She was four months recovered and had scheduled her stage two surgery. I was very impressed with what I saw. It did not look like blobs, but rather breasts without nipples and I thought to myself, I could live with that. If we could just deal with my bleeding disorder then this could be my answer. I found that people from all over the country go to see this team of plastic surgeons because they are experts.
I called PRMA and spoke with Brandy, the patient liaison. She was wonderful. She gave my name to Dr. Chrysopoulo and he called me back. We discussed my medical issues and he ordered blood work to determine if I was a candidate for the DIEP flap surgery, which he thought would be the best choice for me. In the meantime, Brandy helped me find answers to my insurance questions, travel questions and everything I needed to know. I was beginning to think, with this team of experts, I could be restored. The blood tests came back and Dr. Chrysopoulo, along with the team of surgeons, evaluated them. They felt with the right precautions I could have the surgery safely.
Shortly after this, my husband left. My heart had been so broken and I had been through so much the last few years, I did not know what to do from here. I still had insurance through my husband’s work, but could not afford the deductible. I knew I could not get the surgery on my own. One of my nurses suggested a car wash to pay the deductible. Much of the community showed up to help and to make donations. My local church helped raise much of the money. A friend of mine who was a nurse offered to travel with my daughter and me if we could pay her travel. My church answered the call again and arranged for her flight and paid for her airline ticket. My community seemed to understand that I needed this.
When I arrived in San Antonio, we had planned to stay at a certain hotel, but it was not the nicest. It was a place for “long term guests” to stay. I called Brandy and told her what had happened and that we needed a place to stay. She arranged for a night at the Towne Place Suites on Prue. It was wonderful. They gave us the PRMA medical discount, so we reserved the room for our entire stay. The room was clean and the service was incredible. I was ready for surgery on Monday morning.
When I woke up from surgery, it seemed we had conquered the bleeding issues, I was so grateful. I looked down and saw what looked like a breast again. What a gift. Perhaps having that deficit so long made me more grateful than ever. To have something real and alive back in that space, it made me feel whole again.
It was a big surgery, but the nursing staff at the Methodist Hospital and the surgeons at PRMA monitored my progress carefully. They kept a careful watch to make sure the bleeding or bruising was within normal limits. The surgery was somewhat painful and it involved quite the healing process, but I am grateful I had the best team on board to take me through it. I found the experts at PRMA.
I will always have a special place in my heart for Dr. Chrysopoulo. This surgery gave me my life back. I can get up every day and take a shower, get dressed and be grateful.
Along this difficult journey, I was able to experience miracle after miracle. I experienced love in abundance from my children, from my friends, from my church family, from the nurses at Methodist Hospital and from the wonderful team at PRMA. It was a life changing, lifesaving surgery.
I look forward to going back to San Antonio for stage 2 of my surgery, where I know I am in good hands.
If you have had breast cancer and you need reconstruction. I am confident you will find what you need at PRMA. Trust the experts! I am glad I did.
Melanie, Los Angeles, CA - Nipple-Sparing Mastectomies and Immediate Single-Stage Reconstruction with Implants (Alloderm One-Step)
My name is Melanie and I am writing this two weeks after surgery with Dr. Chrysopoulo at PRMA. Like so many others, I feel so grateful to Dr. Chrysopoulo. I’m so glad I came to San Antonio to do this surgery. I feel great, and once my incisions heal, I’ll have no visible scars. I love how I look, like myself, only better/”perkier."
I have known since 1997 that I have the BRCA1 gene that predisposes me to both breast and ovarian cancer. I was 33 years old when I did that genetic testing. I was young, healthy and single. Despite lots of cancer in my family (my Mom has had breast cancer three times and ovarian cancer once, and she’s alive! My Dad died of renal cancer when he was 50), I honestly thought, despite “having the gene,” it wouldn’t happen to me. I also couldn’t contemplate “cutting off my breasts,” when I was so healthy and single. Because I knew I was BRCA1+ though, I kept up with my mammograms and breast sonograms, pelvic sonograms and CA-125 tests.
In April 2012, when I was 48 years old, my CA-125 was elevated. I remember I was out riding my bike when I got the call. I started to shake when my doctor told me my CA-125 was 164. It had always been around 14 before. My urine had been smelling strange for a couple of months, but I couldn’t figure out why. I had no other symptoms. Within the week, I went to a gynecological oncologist. He said, “That’s not a very high number. High is 900, or 3000.” He examined me and said, “I doubt it’s cancer. But you know what they say with BRCA1, you’ve got to get it out.” My husband and I agreed to go out to lunch, come back to the emergency room, I’d get admitted and have a total robotic hysterectomy the next day.
The surgery went well and I recovered easily, but within a few days learned I did have cancer—transitional cell carcinoma in my left fallopian tube. It was just starting to spread to my left ovary. Because that’s an unusual kind of cancer, and because of my genetic status, and because no one had expected to find cancer, so I hadn’t been staged during surgery, we all agreed I should do chemo, but weren’t sure which drugs would be effective. My husband and I went for a second opinion to MD Anderson in Houston.
That visit was wonderful and affected the course of my treatment. While there, I met with a geneticist who said, “When you’re done with treatment, you really ought to consider prophylactic mastectomies and reconstruction.” She said the surgery is “evolving rapidly,” and there are now “new options that didn’t exist even five years ago.” She told me about FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered, http://www.facingourrisk.org/) and there I saw an ad for PRMA.
When I first looked at the pictures on the PRMA website, I could see both from the photos and the tone of the website, that the doctors at PRMA were not simply out to save the woman’s life, but to help her regain a sense of herself. The other sites showed scars and results of surgeries that to me looked barbaric and cruel. Having watched my mother go through mastectomies and reconstruction and having seen friends’ scars, I kept feeling like, “I don’t want to put myself through that.”
The issue came to a head when I began to really consider the surgery. Having cancer was so hard! Chemo and then second-look surgery 6 months ago were both very challenging for me physically and emotionally. I can write that sentence now, but if you’ve been through it, you know that one sentence summarizes months of feeling bad, not at all like your true self. My feeling completely changed from, “I don’t want to put myself through mastectomies prophylactically,” to “I don’t want to go through cancer ever again if I can help it.” I knew by having the hysterectomy my risk of breast cancer had decreased, but doctors were saying it was still somewhere between 70-85% chance I’d get breast cancer, too.
I’d like to live a long life. I have work to do. I love my husband very much and want to live a long time. He reassured me that he “wants decades” with me (that felt so good!) and that me having implants would not affect his feelings for me. He said he’d prefer me alive. Me, too.
I met with two teams of surgeons at top hospitals in Los Angeles, and they said things like, “It can’t be done,” (in one surgery). “They’re just telling you what you want to hear.” I began to doubt my decision. They insisted on doing the surgery with skin from my thighs, stomach or back, with expanders, then swapping the expanders for implants, then tattooing the areola and maybe making a “nipple” somewhere down the road. They pushed for a sentinel node biopsy, which I didn’t want because I’m already learning to cope with lymphedema in my legs and didn’t expect to find breast cancer.
I did more research online and saw that PRMA and Dr. Chrysopoulo keep being mentioned by many, many women who’ve traveled to San Antonio to do various kinds of breast reconstruction. Everyone had a positive experience. This reassured me.
At that point, I flew down to San Antonio and met in person with Dr. Chrysopoulo. He had already taken a lot of time to answer all my questions by phone. When I met with him in person, he was so warm. Brilliant and an excellent listener, he was able to explain exactly how he’d do the surgery. He kept saying, “Nope, you don’t need several procedures.” “Nope,” he could keep my skin, areolas and nipples alive and connected to their blood supplies, and this despite a scar from a prior biopsy which other surgeons had said would make skin-sparing impossible. “Nope,” I didn’t need to have any visible scarring, and he’d make the incision “just a smidge,” above the inframammary fold, so if I chose to wear a bikini in the future, and the bathing suit rode up a little, no scar would show. “Nope,” I didn’t need to do a sentinel node biopsy; we could always go in and do that later through my armpit if the pathology came back and happened to unexpectedly show cancer. None of the other doctors had talked this way. I felt profoundly like Dr. Chrysopoulo was able to put himself in my shoes and sense how I’d want to live and look after the surgery.
I was delighted.
His empathy is profound. His emotional intelligence is off the charts. He was confident, but not even remotely arrogant. I felt he was part of my healing team, not an expert who would swoop down, wreak havoc on my body using the latest techniques, and yes, maybe save my life, but leave me with ongoing consequences. On the contrary, I felt he is a deep human being who has taken his years of training in several areas (not only breast surgery but burn treatment and hand surgery, too) and integrated all his learning with a very real sense of the impact of his work on our bodies and our lives. You can probably hear that this is high praise coming from me!
Dr. Chrysopoulo and the whole process of this surgery has exceeded my hopes. His nurse Denise is wonderfully compassionate as well. All the nurses at the hospital were attentive and kind. Everyone at PRMA has been great.
Like so many others, I’m very happy I chose Dr. Chrysopoulo and PRMA to do the surgery.
Sharon Pira, Monterey, California - DIEP Flap Reconstruction
My name is Sharon Pira and I am from Monterey, California. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2011 and underwent the whole routine of chemo-therapy, radiation and a full mastectomy of my left breast in March 2012. After all of my treatment was complete I began looking into my options for breast reconstruction. My local doctor advised against an implant (because of the effect of radiation on the area) so he suggested the TRAM-Flap as the best option for me which I agreed. In May 2012 I attended a women's conference in Scottsdale, AZ which was life-changing in itself, however I had no idea just how incredible this trip was going to turn out. On Sunday I got on a shuttle to the Phoenix airport along with another woman and as the driver pulled away I turned to her and asked, "Were you here for the women's conference?" She said, No, I am a breast cancer surgeon from San Antonio, TX and was here for a breast cancer symposium. I removed the hat I was wearing to reveal my still very bald head and she proceeded to ask me questions about my treatment. She asked what kind of reconstruction I was having and I told her about the Tram-Flap. She asked if I knew about the DIEP Flap? I explained that I had a friend in San Jose who was having the DIEP Flap operation but that no one in my area performed this procedure. She gave me her card with the info about PRMA Medical Clinic and said I should at least check out their website. We hugged at the airport and I thanked her for the info!
When I returned home I went online to the PRMA website and was amazed by the before and after pictures and actually found a picture of a woman who looked just like me and I could not get over how great she looked one year later. So I called the clinic and scheduled an appointment with Dr. Peter Ledoux in June. I traveled to San Antonio by myself and Dr. Ledoux was kind enough to let me tape the interview so I could share the information with my husband, John. After sending my paperwork for insurance approval I was able to schedule my surgery for August. Everything from beginning to end went incredibly smooth and I am so grateful to the staff of PRMA for their amazing support and care during my hospital stay and my follow up appointments. I feel so blessed to have found Dr. Ledoux with his expertise, talent, and dedication to his patients and am thrilled with my results! It feels so good to have my new breast created from my very own body and my friends are all jealous of my incredible tummy tuck - Wow, what a bonus!
God Bless you all and I look forward to seeing you in January!
Heidi Hogan, Ketchum, Idaho - Delayed DIEP Flap Reconstruction
I am feeling stronger and better every day! Three weeks today. The hardest part for me is trying not to do too much because I am feeling good. I want to hike, bike, and enjoy summer in Idaho! I am so grateful to Dr. C and Dr. Ledoux for their artistry, expertise, passion for what they do and compassion for the women they care for. Everyone at PRMA has been amazing!
Erika Russell, Sidney, Maine - Bilateral prophylactic mastectomy and Immediate DIEP flap breast reconstruction
Not sure where to begin...I am lying here in a San Antonio hotel recovering on day 5 and in awe of this journey. Dr C, all staff, and the nurses and team at Methodist have exceeded all expectations, and I assure you that I have high standards. Trying to always be on top of my game and providing gold service to my clients is a must for me, and I have to accept defeat from Dr C;) I have read other women's blogs about their recovery (having had diep performed by other surgeons) and the difficulties that they endured. I feel so blessed that I have been provided with a totally different experience. Having traveled from Maine to Texas in pursuit of the best, I can say that God led me straight to Dr. Chrysopoulo.
Lisa Layton, Jacksonville, Florida - Delayed DIEP Flap Reconstruction
After just spending 3 hours in a (non-cancer/surgery related) doctor's office, of which there was 8 minutes to see the assistant and 4 minutes to see the doctor, AND nothing came of the appointment, now I know why I flew 1500 miles to find the best. You look for the best doctors and you go there - simple as that. Find the best and go to the best! Go PRMA!!
Sue, New York (NY) - Bilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction
For me, arriving at the decision to do a DIEP flap reconstruction was simple. The key was finding the perfect surgeon for the task. Being from New York, I was concentrating at first, on the surgeons in my area, until I learned that it was the PRMA group who performed the majority of this type of reconstruction in the US. I knew that this was the group I wanted to perform my second mastectomy, remove my silicone implant and do a bilateral DIEP flap reconstruction; someone who sees this and does this every day. That was all fine; however there was a logistics issue. PRMA was in San Antonio and I was a wife and a mother of 4 children living in New York. “How could I make this work?” I asked. How could I ever recuperate in San Antonio, away from the people who could help me, and where would I convalesce? Well, I didn't even have to try and figure any of that out. The PRMA staff did the work for me and found the perfect place for me to stay after being released from the hospital. My husband and I felt so comfortable with the post-op arrangements that it only made sense that he return to NY to take care of the children and go back to work while I recuperated comfortably with the help of everyone from PRMA and the staff of the assisted living. (I almost felt like I was on vacation.)
This facility offered me 3 meals a day, room service, 24 hour nursing care, a private studio apartment with handicapped bathroom and the opportunity to meet some great people. All of my post-op doctor visits took place in the privacy of my room at the assisted living facility. Now, that is service and the best care you could ask for!
During my stay in San Antonio, I never felt alone. I was cared for by the staff of PRMA. I received phone calls and visits. Someone was always checking up on me. After 13 days (actual days may vary) total in San Antonio, it was time to return to New York. I was really able to gain my strength back and focus on myself and the healing of my body and soul. Boarding the flight back to NY, I knew that the decision to travel to San Antonio for my DIEP flap surgery was the perfect decision for me. I am now a very thankful 48 year old woman with a lot of living to look forward to.
I always say, “You can make it work.” Thanks to all of you at PRMA for helping me make it work. I am forever grateful.
Stanlie Murray, San Antonio, TX - Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate DIEP flap breast reconstruction
Watch Stanlie's Video Testimonial
Many ask me how I found out about the cancer, because I was not old enough to start mammogram screenings. I really found out by mistake, I had no symptoms, felt no lumps…nothing. My insurance offered this wellness benefit that allowed mammograms starting at age 37, so the year prior I took advantage of the benefit…after all I was paying for it. That test came back normal, so the next year I was going to skip the screening since I thought I did not need it, but some of my female colleagues were on this wellness kick and we decided to screen then go out for drinks. A week later, I started to get a barge of calls, but I was so busy with work I did not return them. The following week I get a letter from the boutique where I had the screening telling me my test results were abnormal - ahh that is why the doctor was calling.
I contacted the boutique on May 16 and they scheduled me to come in to have another mammogram and an ultrasound that day. I was a little concerned, but not really, I figured it was just a precaution. Therefore, I arrived for the appointment had the mammogram and ultrasound, just when I think I am going to leave, the radiologist emerges from this dark room and says, “We need to talk." He takes me to a room and says, “We see a mass on your left breast." I respond “ok, you sure it is not nothing?” He says “no, it’s not nothing” and schedules the biopsy for the next day. The pace at which everything was moving made me take pause, but I still had little concern. I have no family history, no risk factors, never smoked a day in my life - I cannot possibly have breast cancer.
On May 18, 2012, I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer; I was 38 and a single mom. My life changed that day. I was in disbelief, sad, scared and I did not know if I would live to see my son turn 18, see him graduate from high school, or even get married. I immediately went into research mode. A friend provided resources that helped me put together a great healthcare team.
I made PRMA part of my healthcare team because of their proven record of accomplishment, reputation in the community and the plethora of information provided on their website. I looked at every picture, watched every video, and read every bio on their website. That gave me the hope and confidence I needed to move forward. I knew emotionally I could not wake up without breast and I wanted the “best” to work on me. PRMA is the best, from the very first appointment my doctor, Oscar Ochoa was awesome. He was kind, patient, gentle, understanding, and very thorough he answered my questions, my family’s questions, my friend’s questions, and he was always compassionate, optimistic, and forthright. An excellent bedside manner and that is so important when you are so scared.
I underwent a bilateral mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction on July 10, 2012; my first surgery was 14 hours. Recovery was long, hard, painful, and I initially felt like Frankenstein’s protégé, but after a few weeks that passed. Dr. Ochoa and his nursing staff supported me throughout my recovery; they educated me on my home care, answered my questions whether via phone or email, and made sure I knew I was not alone. On March 1, 2013, I underwent phase two of my reconstruction that surgery was six hours, by this time I was a pro, so recovery went by fast and I followed all of Dr. Ochoa’s directions to make sure I had the best possible outcome. I am thrilled, content, and amazed with my results. I could not have imagined anything better. I cannot wait to have the micro pigmentation done and see everything come full circle.
All of the doctors, nurses, and staff at PRMA are true gems; they understand the emotional turmoil a breast cancer diagnosis causes and they work very hard to help you cope.
Gail, Washington (WA) - Bilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction
I am not quite sure where to begin with my story.
Getting breast cancer is not usually considered a gift, but may be getting the right treatment for it is a unique kind of gift.
It is with deep gratitude, owed to Dr. Peter Ledoux, his staff, the Methodist Hospital staff, Dr. Rosenthal and my brother, Dr. Gary Unzeitig that this letter is sent.
The news came on November 29, 2004. This was the same day my mother died of stomach cancer at age 43, when I was five years old. My first emotions were that of sheer fright and then sadness. “What will happen with my husband and children?”
Though I live in Washington State, my ties to my brother Gary are tight. Now, more than ever, I thank God that I was blessed with such a wonderful brother. Gary's first advice was of course to come to Texas so we can take care of you. Worried about my husband and my sons, I wanted to seek medical care in the Spokane and Seattle areas. My brother was by my side every step of the way, literally and spiritually, accompanying me to specialists visits in my area. After, dragging him across the country twice, I finally decided to concede to his recommendation for getting the best treatment available.
In early 2005, we visited Dr. Peter Ledoux. Fortunately, our first exposure to PRMA was Sharon who graciously made me feel as if I was having coffee with a friend. Nonetheless, I was quite nervous upon meeting Dr. Ledoux. With his kind smile and soft nature, it did not take long for me to feel at ease. My procedure entailed a DIEP flap mastectomy, nipple sparing on the left breast.
Pre-op, my surgical team of Drs. Ledoux, Rosenthal, Unzeitig and the anesthesiologist all made contact with me. Another physician who stopped by said, “you are in the hands of the A team.” Surely, I was. Thanks to their skill, my surgery was a complete success. As the Oncotype DX test was favorable, no chemotherapy followed.
In June of 2005 I returned to San Antonio for additional reconstruction by Dr. Ledoux and now, no one can tell that I had breast cancer. Cosmetically, Dr. Ledoux has done a tremendous reconstruction. There have been moments in the coffee shop restrooms with other women when I proudly share my results. They all think it is phenomenal and tell me “I will certainly go to Texas if I am ever diagnosed with breast cancer.”
I believe God places gifts in our lives, my gift was the “A Team”.
Lisa, Austin, Texas - DIEP flap reconstruction
I found out about DIEP Flap from a friend and at the time she went through it in February, I never dreamed I would be dealing with a decision about breast reconstruction. I just assumed that if I ever needed to deal with it that I could choose to have the natural reconstruction that DIEP flap provides. I had a wonderful general surgeon here in Austin. She knew about my pending decisions and said that knowing what she knew, she would not recommend DIEP flap to me. She said that she would not do it for herself either, as she is a higher BMI woman. She told me how much easier getting implants would be, but I have never wanted implants. In fact that was the only options she told me about, until I asked about DIEP Flap. Implants are good if that is the only option, but for me, I wanted that choice only as a last option.
The second doctor I spoke to was actually a top plastic surgeon out of Seattle. He is a personal friend of my nephew, so my nephew hooked us up. We eventually spoke over the telephone and he got copies of my "before" photos. In our discussion, he asked my weight and my height and calculated my BMI, which is 37. He point blank told me I am not a candidate in his mind for DIEP flap and that he would not touch me unless I was a BMI 25. It was about this time I found PRMA and I wrote to find out if your doctors would even touch me, as I was beginning to assume, I might be too heavy to have a choice. I was relieved to hear you would consider me for a candidate and you got the photos and I came in for a consult and it was determined that I was a good candidate.
So here I am, post surgery and all is looking good. I am thankful to PRMA, because you gave me a choice. I can now have the body I want and I've been trying to get that word out not only about DIEP flap but also about PRMA. PRMA has the training and expertise to help women have the choice as to what type of reconstruction they want. I think that is important when all of us facing these options did not have a choice in getting cancer.
Catherine Lutz, Corpus Christi, Texas - DIEP flap reconstruction
The summer of 2010 begin like any other summer; registering the kids for summer camps, planning weekend getaways and having fun. Little did I know this would be the summer that changed my life forever!
At 39, I had a routine mammogram and was told another mammogram was needed and when that confirmed suspicious spots on the right breast a needle biopsy was scheduled. I never felt a lump, in fact, there was no lump. It was fine sand like spots that could only been seen microscopically. A needle biopsy was done on my right breast and on August 19, 2010, I received the call- YOU HAVE BREAST CANCER! The immediate devastation took my breath away as the end of my life flashed before my eyes. That’s what I envisioned: my death and leaving my two children Matthew and Alyssa without a mother and my husband Richard without a wife. In the middle of the storm it was my kids and husband that gave me the strength to fight this battle.
After an unsuccessful lumpectomy, I was told the dreaded news, you need to have a mastectomy on the right breast. The thought of removing my breast was devastating! I quickly “googled” everything I could on breast cancer and reconstruction. Given that I lived in a smaller city, Corpus Christi, Texas, I knew I would look elsewhere to have the surgeries performed but was still searching for the BEST doctors. I received several recommendations on a General Surgeon in San Antonio, Texas so the next step was to find a Plastic Surgeon and Oncologist in the same city. After much research I had made the decision to have breast implants and had selected the Plastic Surgeon and but was still searching for an Oncologist. Then I received a phone call from a friend who said her friend worked for an Oncologist in San Antonio and highly recommended this particular doctor. I took the lead and called the friend and somewhere in the middle of our conversation she asked me, “What type of reconstructive surgery do you plan to have?” Confident of my decision and all the research, I quickly responded with my decision to have implants and the reputable Plastic Surgeon’s name. That’s when she shared PRMA with me and the success story her friend had with the transfer of natural tissue. I’d never heard of PRMA and was shocked that my long hours of research did not reveal this place or Dr. Ledoux she recommended. I immediately “googled” PRMA and started to read about TRAM FLAP, DIEP etc and wanted to find out more about the procedures and the doctors. While I was excited about this new information I was concerned that I could not get an appointment within 72 hours as I had scheduled appointments with the General Surgeon, Oncologist all on the same day. Disappointed that Dr. Ledoux did not have an opening, the friendly receptionist told me that Dr. Pisano did have an opening and could see me. Who is Dr. Pisano? My anxiety increased as I knew nothing about Dr. Pisano and was going off a referral from a friend of a friend despite all the long hours of research I had already did via the internet. I prayed about it and told myself, what harm would it cause to visit PRMA and see what Dr. Pisano had to say?
Until my visit with Dr. Pisano, most doctors suggested I only remove the right breast as the left breast did not show suspicious spots. In fact, a few doctors were disappointed I would even consider removing the left breast “that was perfectly okay." Some of the things I thought were, “Perfectly okay to who?” Could anyone tell me with absolutely certainty the “fine like sand” cancer was not in the left breast?
In September 2010, I visited PRMA and met Dr. Pisano. I can’t recall everything he said but I’ll never forget how he made me feel. He spent a long time talking to me about all my options. He was authentic, genuine and forth coming with my diagnosis, age, and challenged me to think of everything. I needed that, because when you’re told you have CANCER all you think about is living and removing the CANCER. But I’ll never forget his words, “At some point you will care how your breast look” and I want to make sure I give you all the information to help you make your decision. He was very honest about the left breast and the possibility of CANCER reoccurring if kept. He did not treat me like a statistic but a person who was on a quest to find as much information possible so I could make the decision on what to do. At the time, I thought the decision to remove both or only the right breast was the hardest decision, but looking back, it was the easiest and best decision!
So on October 18, 2010, I had bilateral mastectomy and the DIEP initial reconstructive surgery on both breasts. Fortunately, I did not need Chemo or Radiation and was able to proceed with the additional reconstructive surgery. I’m amazed with my breast and thrilled I do not have horrible scars on them that would be a constant reminder I had breast cancer. Yes, I have the tummy tuck scar but that itself does not represent Breast Cancer as scars on breast would.
Yes, I’ve experienced dark, lonely days, and having my breast removed have at times made me feel, unworthy, undesired and incomplete. If you let it CANCER will invade your identity. But even on my worst days I still feel more beautiful with my new breasts and battle wound scar.
I decided not to hide behind this illness and begin to share my story with others. It’s been challenging but I always said, “if I can help one person it’s worth all my tears”. This has been the biggest lesson learned, when I think I’m helping others they’re really helping me. “I refuse to become powerless over breast cancer”!
When death is knocking at your door, your life changes, mine did. Sometimes it takes death to put things into perspective. At the end of the day, it’s still faith, family and friends that matters! My life was saved and now it’s my job to make sure my life is worth saving. Catherine F. Lutz
Holly, Austin, Texas - GAP flap breast reconstruction
I will never be able to thank Dr. Ledoux, his partners, and his staff enough; they made an extremely difficult time in my life much easier for me and my family.
In January of 2009 I found a lump in my left breast which turned out to be breast cancer. It had not shown up on my annual mammogram and, in fact, never showed up on any mammogram. (Ladies, do your self-exams!) This began a very frightening time for me and my family. It was a time of much stress, many unknowns, and massive amounts of information gathering. I was figuring out that I preferred a flap procedure to implants, and that I would likely need the gap flap procedure because I had more excess fat on my bottom than tummy. However, the plastic surgeons that I spoke with in Houston and Austin were not comfortable performing free flap procedures. In Austin, one particular appointment left me in tears because the surgeon was so negative about flap procedures. While I was concerned with aesthetics during this time, I was also going through the agony of the unknown as far as what my prognosis would be. At my very first appointment with Dr. Ledoux, I remember a feeling of relief come over me as the tight hold of worry and fear began to loosen. It was quite obvious to me and to my discerning friend, who had come to take notes for me, that we were in good and extremely competent hands. With great relief, I realized that my decision was made and the big part of my work was done. All I had to do was to put myself in the hands of this doctor, who I believe was an answer to my prayers, and do what he told me to do. That is exactly what I did!
Dr. Ledoux and his partners and staff as well as the nursing staff at the Methodist hospital shepherded me and my family through, what for me, turned out to be a lengthy process. I had a mastectomy with the gap flap procedure on my right breast in 2009 and then was diagnosed again and had the gap flap procedure on my left breast in 2010. I am thrilled with my results. My new physique is lovely; I do not even have to wear a bra! Plus I got a bottom reduction and thigh lift out of the deal!
The doctors at PRMA are unbelievably skilled and talented. These guys are serious rock stars in the breast reconstruction world, and they are incredibly unassuming about their amazing gifts and talent. Faith is a big part of their practice. Each time we went into surgery, Dr. Ledoux would pray with my family and friends. I love that whenever I try to compliment Dr. Ledoux he always defers and "gives all the glory to God who guides his hands."
I would recommend the PRMA group to anyone who finds herself needing breast reconstruction. I am eternally grateful to them for carrying me through this time in my life and for bringing some levity, making it not so scary and giving me a sense of normalcy and hope.
Carrie Scott, San Antonio, TX - Tissue Expanders and Implant Breast Reconstruction
Dr. Chrysopoulo, your superior attributes of class and grace to PRMA Plastic Surgery and each life you touch is truly amazing. I personally have been blessed with your expertise, perfection and phenomenal bedside manner.
My story started in September 2012 with family history of breast cancer, multiple mammograms, several biopsies, genetic counseling and my maternal aunt's life taken at the hands of breast cancer. I decided to pursue a prophylactic double mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction.
It was definitely a huge decision but worth each drain, stitch, tissue expander, sleepless night and tear. With your keen eye for perfection, optimistic outcome and charming British accent, I had no doubt I had the best of the best and was placed in great hands. You are truly a first class plastic surgeon.
Your genuine compassion for your work is outstanding. A gift and blessing to present and future patients and their families. Your honorable demeanor reflects in your nurse, Denise. She has been amazing, simply a treasure and quite knowledgeable.
With my final surgery behind me, my mind at ease and an awesome pair of reconstructed breasts, I thank you!
Wendy Shepherd, Edmond, Oklahoma - Nipple-Sparing Mastectomies and Immediate Single-Stage Reconstruction with Implants (Alloderm One-Step)
I had my One-Step with Alloderm in November 2012 with Dr. Chrysopoulo. I traveled from Oklahoma City. His bedside manner is amazing and his staff is also incredible. He is a perfectionist and does absolutely beautiful work! He made me feel at ease and I have already referred two people to him that also traveled. I highly recommend Dr. C and PRMA!
Michelle Coben, San Antonio, TX - Nipple-Sparing Mastectomies and Immediate Single-Stage Reconstruction with Implants (Alloderm One-Step)
My name is Michelle and my story begins 20 years ago. My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992. When she was diagnosed again with breast cancer less than five years later I asked her to take the BRCA Test with me.
I worked for the Cancer Care Center at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles. They were offering free genetic testing to Jewish mothers and daughters during a clinical trial. My mother refused to participate stating that nobody had ever had cancer in our family before her.
My mother developed cancer every five years after her first diagnoses in 1992. She passed away in 2010 from metastaic lung cancer. It took me one year after her death to get tested. Her oncologist said to me “you will not be BRCA positive” after all your mother was the only one in your family to have cancer. Six weeks after testing the oncologist calls, Michelle, your BRCA positive. Now what?......
I spent several months researching prophylactic mastectomies.
Was I really going to this? What would I look like? Who voluntarily does this I thought to myself…. I do!! This is to save my life. To not repeat history and to lower my percentage rate of getting cancer. I do! So, that I get to see my children grow up and I get to grow old and love every wrinkle that may come my way. I do! So, that I can grow old with my husband and see my grandchildren. I do! So, that I can reach out and save another woman from having to go through this alone.
I found PRMA and Dr. Chrysopoulo. My reconstruction is fabulous. I do not have any visible scars. He is an artist. PRMA is one of the few practices that perform the one step procedure with immediate reconstruction. Thank you to PRMA and your entire staff.
Linda, Fort Worth, Texas - Bilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction
"I knew insurance would cover my reconstruction anywhere, and anything I wanted, so, for me, the outcome was the only criteria. I interviewed the only local plastic surgeon who would do a Tram flap (nobody would perform a DIEP), but I was unimpressed with his photos. His nurse said the aim was to look good in clothes. That wasn't good enough for me. I wanted to look good naked. After all, I have to look at myself every time I get out of the shower for the rest of my life. I didn't want to see the effects of cancer on my body forever. Since insurance was covering it 100 percent, the costs of traveling wasn't a real issue. PRMA's photos were the most natural I found online. I decided that I finally needed to put myself first for once. Yes, it was inconvenient, but I was worth it. I would only have one opportunity to get it right, and the results would be life-long. My ob-gyn said my scars "lie". They tell him I've had a breast reduction and a tummy tuck instead of bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction."
Sandra, Fredricksburg, Texas - Unilateral DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
In the past nine months, you were an inspiration in my fight against breast cancer. Thank you!! You were professional, thoughtful and explained all procedures very well and in detail. I could not have asked for a better plastic surgeons to handle my case. When everything seemed extremely bad, something good came out of it, this was you the PRMA group.
My mastectomy, reconstruction and lipo could not have been handled or done any better that it was. Due to you PRMA, I have lost weight, lowered my blood pressure, and everyone that sees me now tells me how much better I kook now, than I ever have and I feel extremely good. Thanks to you!!!!
Your staff (nurses, receptionists and bookkeepers) all are professional, caring and understanding. Thank you again for being there in my fight against breast cancer. You made my breast cancer, so much easier to deal with and BEAT!!!!
Anna Boggess, San Antonio, Texas - GAP flap breast reconstruction
I had a bad feeling the day my mammogram session went longer than usual. And sure enough, I ultimately got the diagnosis that the doctors had found cancer, again. I had been cancer-free for nearly 20 years after having a lumpectomy in 1992. Believe me, the news wasn’t any less scary this time around. The good news was that the advancements in imaging technology allowed my doctors to find this small speck of cancer very early. The bad news was since I already had my limit on radiation and chemotherapy earlier in my life, a mastectomy was what I needed to do this time around. After praying about the challenge and talking things through with my doctors, family and close friends, I decided to have a double mastectomy.
One of the comforting pieces of information I had to work with was that Dr. Peter Ledoux would be handling the reconstruction surgery. The surgeons at PRMA helped me before and I knew I’d be in the hands of a true surgical master.
I had the GAP flap breast reconstruction on the right side in November 2011 and the left breast surgery performed in April 2012. There is still one more short session later this year to complete the whole process, but I was very happy with Dr. Ledoux’s work and gentle care for me and my family.
To those of you who may be reading these stories and facing the same diagnosis as I and other women on this page have confronted, have faith in God’s healing powers through the work of His faithful servants like Dr. Ledoux. Dr. Ledoux’s prayers just before my surgeries comforted me and my husband. His surgical expertise gives me a reason to be a confident woman for the rest of my life.
Debbie, Karnes City, Texas - Unilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction
I want to thank you for all you did to keep me “whole” after my breast cancer diagnosis. I was very fortunate in so many ways after being diagnosed…. first being referred to you and then having all the cancer removed during surgery and not have to undergo chemotherapy or radiation.
Your skill and ability are gifts from God that blessed my life and others. I had no idea of what my options were until meeting with you. You took the time and care to explain how the DIEP Flap procedure worked. You laid everything out and helped make my decision a little easier. From the moment I met you, I knew I was in the most capable hands.
Jamie Greene, Amarillo, Texas - Delayed DIEP flap breast reconstruction
PRMA treated me like a person, actually a Queen, instead of a patient! My cancer surgeon and first plastic surgeon left me with a botched breast lift, an extremely huge mastectomy scar and an unnecessary hole in my arm pit. I had a second opinion and was still not satisfied with his answers. Dr. Chet Nastala was my third opinion and he was very kind, compassionate and professional. I finally felt safe! He performed a DIEP on June 4 and now I finally feel normal! I'm so excited to finish the breast reconstruction with the staff at PRMA!
Lisa, Spring Branch, Texas - Bilateral mastectomy with DIEP flap breast reconstruction
Even before the shock of being told I had breast cancer was over I was scheduled for an appointment with Dr Nastala at PRMA. He and the office staff were so kind and understanding and answered all of my crazy questions. I chose to have the DIEP procedure and also to have both breasts removed even though only one was affected. The staff at Methodist Hospital were knowledgeable, kind, and always available during my post op recovery. I have never regretted my decisions for surgery and my sweet husband says I look better than ever! He would like to encourage husbands to accompany their wives to appointments and procedures. A direct quote from my husband Charley – “At first I thought going with you was just for encouragement but it was way beyond that.”
We can never thank Dr. Nastala, his partners and the entire PRMA staff enough – they have a lot of heart for their patients and obvious passion for what they do. Thank you for keeping me whole!!!
Patricia, Austin, Texas - Bilateral mastectomy with DIEP flap breast reconstruction
I was diagnosed with DCIS in my right breast in August of 2010. My mother had breast cancer, so I always kind of expected it, but nothing prepared me for actually hearing the words. I was given the option to have a lumpectomy and radiation, but I knew that I would always worry about cancer coming back, and I had seen the damage that radiation could do. I began looking at other options, but didn't like any of them. I didn't know what to do, so I finally talked to a plastic surgeon friend and he directed me to the PRMA website. When I saw the DIEP flap procedure, I knew that it was the right choice for me. I live in Austin, TX, but I have a wonderful husband/caregiver, so the travel was not a problem. I had my bilateral mastectomy and immediate DIEP flap the day before my birthday in September of 2010. I told the hospital staff that this was my birthday present; getting rid of cancer, getting a breast reduction and getting a tummy tuck. I thought I would be terrified, but everyone had told me how great Dr. Ledoux was and how wonderful the hospital staff was, so after Dr. Ledoux prayed with me, I was ready to go. I won't say that recovery was easy, but it wasn't near as bad as I thought it could be. They do everything they can to reduce the pain. There was more discomfort from the drain than pain. By the second day, I was off the pain meds. I went back to Austin after 4 days and was back to work in 4 weeks.
Prior to the revision surgery, Dr. Ledoux was concerned about my overall health. I was quite a bit overweight and he encouraged me to lose about 50 lbs before the revisions. He suggested I go to Medi-Weightloss here in Austin, so my husband and I started the program. I lost the weight and was able to get off all of my medications. I had been diabetic and had high blood pressure. On the day of my revision surgery, Dr. Ledoux had to take a double take and didn't even recognize my husband. I spent one night in the hospital after the revisions, but never took any pain meds. I went back to work the following week. Three months later I had my nipples done and 3 months after that I got tattooed. Thanks to Dr. Ledoux and the staff at PRMA, I not only got rid of cancer, got a breast reduction and a tummy tuck, but I am also no longer diabetic, my blood pressure is normal, my cholesterol is normal and I am healthier that I have ever been. They saved my live in so many ways.
Nancie - Breast reconstruction with DIEP flap
I can't believe a year has gone by since I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was only 36 with three kids. I thought my life was over, but I was told it was in the early stage. All I needed to do was have a mastectomy. What about my body? Yes, I was vain. I was too young to wake up with a scar across my chest. After talking with the doctor and looking at pictures, I thought well, maybe it would be okay. July 17, 1997 I had a mastectomy with reconstruction. To my surprise I have a beautiful breast. I'm still a woman. A special thanks to you and your staff for your patience, kind words, and prayers. It made such a difference. You really do care about us. It's a very scary feeling to hear the words, "you have cancer," but you took time with me. Thank you very much. People have asked me do I ever ask God, why me? Not really, because through it all I have met some exceptionally wonderful women who have all gone through this. We have a special bond that no one else can have. See, we understand true friendship. We don't take normal for granted. Life is really too short, so we value our time together. I wouldn't change a thing. I'm so lucky. A year has gone by since I went through surgery and chemo. I MADE IT! My life goes on - Thank God!
Antoinette - Breast reconstruction with DIEP flap
I felt compelled to write and let you and your staff know how very pleased I was with the care I have received since last February.I was totally shocked to learn that I had cancer and was so relieved to learn that you were highly recommended, as I know your wife Debbie, I felt more comfortable consulting with you on my condition.Upon our first meeting, I knew I was going to receive excellent care. From the initial consultation, the office visits, my hospitalization, to the many telephone calls I made to your office, you and your most capable and compassionate staff members addressed each and every concern.The tragic impact of losing a breast is devastating, so as I awoke with the partial reconstruction, I was immediately pleased with the results. I would also like you to know that there are people who have no idea that I had breast cancer and would never be able to detect the fact that I had breast reconstructive surgery.
Deborah - Breast reconstruction with DIEP flap
I would like to express my deepest gratitude for all your dedication, hard work, and sincerity you provided for me as your patient. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September of 2001 I was devastated and didn't know if I was going to fight for my life or die. However, I was fortunate and blessed with many family members and friends who prayed for me and for my doctors under my care.Therefore, having you as my doctor was God's work and a blessing. My faith in the Lord has carried me through out my life. I have faced many storms, but this one (breast cancer) has been one of the biggest storms for me to battle. However, thanks to the abundance of faith the good Lord has blessed me with, I was able to go through my surgeries and chemotherapy treatments with grace. On one of my routine doctor visits with you in your office, I noticed the cross around your neck. Seeing that cross only ensured me that you were a doctor who really cared and was sent from heaven. You gave me advice and ensured me that the final outcome of my plastic surgery was going to be fine. I remember looking at pictures from different books and feeling miserable because the scars that were left from a modified radical mastectomy and reconstruction of the breast. My surgery for the revisions was completed on June 21, 2002. after the post surgery doctor's visit, I left your office with tears of joy. My scars were nothing like I saw in that book. In fact, my scars were minimal and I couldn't believe it! I had always prayed for God to help me work through chemo, to help me care for Katelyn, my 6 month old baby, to help me transport my daughter, Jacqueline, to all her softball practices and games, and to help me guide my 22 year old son, Benny. Well, the good Lord definitely answered those prayers and more. God planned for you to be my doctor and perform such a miraculous job on my revisions from the reconstruction surgery. No one would ever guess what my body has been through. I've sent a picture of me in my bikini to prove it. This picture was taken approximately 1 month after my last surgery on June 21, 2002. Once again, THANK YOU for your devotion as a doctor.
Barbara - Breast reconstruction with DIEP flap
Let me take this opportunity to "thank you" for giving me a new perspective on life. I never though I would be as happy as I am now after hearing the words "you have breast cancer."Being single, I thought having breast cancer would put an abrupt end to my social life. If a man heard I had cancer, I though he'd run to the nearest door. How shocked I've been to discover that the exact opposite is true. They have been kinder, warmer and some have even contributed financially to a charity fundraiser I was involved in for breast cancer research.The biggest change in my life since this experience is my attitude towards work & play. I have slowed down to "smell the roses." I don't spend as much time at work - life is too much fun and I want to enjoy it!I am up early to exercise at the gym by 6 a.m., play golf every weekend and sometimes during the week if I'm lucky. I have taken skeet shooting lessons and go dancing Sunday evenings with friends. I have a very active social calendar and surround myself with people I love and cherish that I have met through work, golf, and dating.I worship the special relationships I have with the many women I have me who have also had breast cancer. We have a special bond that will always keep us together and we will strive to be there for each other.
Kathy Friedrichsen - Breast reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi Flap
I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Gary Arishita, Heather Waggoner and the PRMA staff. What a pleasure to be associated with them as a breast reconstruction patient.
After diagnosis, I went through chemotherapy, a single mastectomy then radiation. At every turn I was overwhelmed and so blessed by the level of care and compassion my various medical teams bestowed upon me.
Fortunately, my general surgeon recommended I consult with PRMA. In April of 2012 I underwent another mastectomy plus double reconstruction with a Latissumus Dorsi Flap surgery. From the start, Dr. Arishita and Heather have been so very informative and caring. I was totally mentally and emotionally prepared for surgery.
My rapid recovery from this procedure is unbelievable to me! After a few short months the scar on my back is fading quickly and I have resumed my swim workout ranging 1-2 miles a day, holding forth with the two piece I wore before surgery! I was worried about the latissimus transplant weakening my left side, but actually there is no difference! All of this and I feel great.
Post-surgical appointments are always something I look forward to. The incredible "pain free" expertise continues. My scars are healing, I’m exercising, I feel good and if I do say so myself, I look great. I’m proud to say I owe it all to Dr. Arishita, Heather and staff! I am so blessed, life is good.
Rebecca - Breast reconstruction with muscle-sparing free TRAM flap
In May of 1998 I felt I was on the road to recovery, after my divorce. I was being recognized in "People Magazine" for being beautiful, of all things! My excitement was short lived, unfortunately. On Memorial Day 1998, I went water-skiing and became quite sore. I then noticed a large lump in my right breast. After a series of nightmarish exams, biopsies, watching people horrified expressions of me having cancer, I had a mastectomy with reconstructive surgery, a muscle-sparing free TRAM FLAP, as it would be called. I was blessed with having you as my Plastic Surgeon. Your staff was ever so patient and kind, and your gift and artistry of re-creating my breast out of my stomach was miraculous. It's not so much for vanity sake that I had reconstructive surgery, but it's that I wanted to be "ME" again and you gave that to me.
Oleata - Breast reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi flap
In April 2003 I came to visit you having received a 12-24 month terminal diagnosis of Metastatic Breast Cancer to the Lymphatics of the skin. Due to my health and immune system problems the military had refused to perform the surgery recommended my MD Anderson Cancer Center. The military told me I would never survive the extensive surgery to remove the cancer in lymphatics of the skin and replace the skin with a skin graft from my back. And, in their opinion, if I survive the surgery then I would never heal with my impaired immune system. I told you their concerns and I had been denied my right to surgery. You never hesitated. You simply agreed to perform my surgery. And in doing so, you literally saved my life, cured my cancer and gave me my life back. I can never thank you enough.
Your stitches were so precise, tiny and beautiful. Other doctors marvel at how you chose to perform the surgery and the beautiful, almost invisible and ingenious outcome of your masterpiece and surgical work under the worst of cancer and surgical conditions. Five years later, I am so pleased with your work. Most of all, I have treasured the past five years watching our family grow through our children's marriages and the births of grandchildren. Thank you for giving me the gift of life and the gift of becoming a Nana to six wonderful grandchildren and, especially, the gift of time to make wonderful memories with them.
Barb - Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
I just wanted to thank you again for all you have done for me. I hope you take my before-and-after photos with you; although they don't show how happy I am, they do show your great work. My daughter's wedding is in 2 weeks and I can't wait to wear that beautiful dress she picked out for me. I won't have to try to suck in my tummy all night either! It was a pleasure to have met you. You have changed my views about plastic surgery - it is for us "ordinary" women too. I'm sorry to see you leave, but wish you the best. Thank you so much!
Marlis, Madison, Wisconsin (WI) - Body lift
Thank you for some of the most terrifying and yet elating moments in my life! It wasn't easy, as you promised, but without your concern, not so gentle prodding and ability to make me laugh when I wanted to scream, I wouldn't have made it through as easy as I did.
From a patient's standpoint, well at least this patient, having a doctor who remembers he's human and not afraid to laugh make going through surgery and follow-up all the easier. I hope that you grace your other patients with the same kind of "tough care." I've been fortunate with my docs and I have recommended you to many who wish plastic surgery.
Neelima - Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
I do not know how to begin to thank you for all that you have done for me. I am sure that I have aged you. You said during our first meeting that you would take care of me and know doubt you stuck to your word. On every visit, I was impressed with your gentleness, expertise and professionalism.Your artistic abilities are evident to me in the results that I see everyday. You have really changed my life in that I am so much more confident and happy. I will miss your expert care. I wish you and your family the best in the future.
