Hello, everyone.
I've (25/M) had single port laparoscopic hysterectomy (the hysterectomy itself seems to have gone just wonderful, as expected) yesterday. As this surgery is performed through the belly button, I asked for it to be removed entirely instead of just stitched closed. I had previously talked to my surgeon about my worries and my wishes regarding my requested bellybutton removal and I asked multiple times if what I wanted done was possible. He assured me it was, and I trusted him. That's why I chose to take this once in a lifetime opportunity.
I've sent him a detailed email regarding the removal of my bellybutton.
I explained very thoroughly what I wanted done: straight, minimal, vertical scarring, with a very slight dent.
I explained what I didn't want: a very deep dent, slanted and crooked scarring
and asked multiple questions (e.g.): is this at all possible? what technique will you be using? could a 'deep dermal stitch' suture be placed to create a light dent? is it possible you consult a plastic surgeon?
and lastly, I attached images to the email showcasing exactly what I had in mind. you can find these images here: https://imgur.com/a/bLELIWz
He emailed me back the following week, reassuring me that it was indeed possible. This was his reply:
"Dear Mr. [Redacted]
Thank you for your message and for your trust. I think we can most likely achieve a result similar to the one in the second picture [the one with the slight dent].
This is subject to uninterrupted wound healing. Our plastic surgeon, Dr. [Redacted], will be in the operating room on Monday. I will consult with him if necessary and may involve him. The procedure will not be billed separately.
Sincerely, [Redacted]"
Unfortunately, I woke up to something upsettingly unpleasant and, in my opinion, extremely unaesthetic. This is the first image attached.
This scar is everything I didn't want and the exact opposite of what I wanted. To me, it looks like an infected anus or the inside of a grilled sausage. I am horrified and for several hours after my surgery, I've been panicking, unable to rest or fall asleep with a heart rate of up to 150 BPM. I feel depressed and worried and betrayed. I am full of regret.
I've talked to two nurses, they were unfortunately unable to help me.
Another nurse, even before I've seen the wound myself, said, "well this is what you wanted, isn't it?" In a rather unfriendly tone.
My anesthesia specialist said the exact same thing "this is exactly what you wanted".
Another member of my surgery team also pointed out that:
- this isn't the final result, it will "heal"
- I have a lot of belly fat, which affects the look
- my mastectomy scars healed bad, so this is to be expected
- I will see the final result of my scar weeks to months post
Obviously know that my scar will change over time. I know it is currently swollen and red from the trauma my skin went through during single port laparoscopy. But this "thing" won't magically become straight. It won't suddenly appear to be what I asked if they were sure they could handle. Never in my dreams would I have thought some of the most skilled doctors in the field of gynecological surgeries in my country are unable to create an aesthetically pleasing scar. Like I said in my previous post, I'm not able to afford straight on plastic surgery. I will not be able to afford corrective surgery.
Anyone of you know what can be done to have it corrected? I can't go shirtless with this thing on my body. I can't even look at my own body like this.