1 week successfully laparoscopy for 12cm fibroid abroad

My name is Alex, live in UK, I am 1 week now after my laparoscopy operation so I thought to share my story  in case it may help any of you at some point in this horrible fight against fibroids. I was diagnosed with an 8 cm fibroid last year and by the time I have seen the gynecologist, has grown to 10cm. I was seen by an NHS doctor who after long talks, put me down for an open myomectomy.

I have asked for an horizontal incision but he refused saying he can only do a vertical one as I am a difficult case due to other 4 abdominal operations.  

I have said no to vertical cut and asked to see another doctor that can do an horizontal one as my stomach is already full of scars. Five years ago after the removal of the cyst, I developed an infection soon after and had to be cut fully open to be flushed out. I was in hospital for six weeks after. I then had wound healing problems in which I reopened when I stood up after having had the staples removed so I had to have a special vacuum put on it to draw it together. I've been left with a huge scar due to that.

My consultant wont do another horizontal cut so he recommended me a private hospital in Romania, Wellborn where the doctors are experienced in high risk/difficult gynecology procedures. 

At the beginning I was a bit wary about going abroad for surgery but my doctor said I am not the first patient referred to Wellborn and all the operations done were a success.

So I have started doing a bit of research and read quite a lot (translation) about both the medical team and the hospital, the reviews were great and quite a lot of info about fibroids cases treated by them.

I have reach to the doctor who had some problems at first receiving my emails, had a few phone conversation and we agreed on open myomectomy horizontal cut. I have arranged all detail and on the 3rd of September  I flew to Romania.

When I have arrived I was seen by the 2 consultants that I was under for operation. Both were very friendly, professional and both agreed that fibroids has a huge impact on our lives and the doctors should consider the best options for the patient not the easiest one for them. 

I have had an internal examination plus ultrasound and I was asked if is ok with me for them to try laparoscopy first and if too difficult to do the open one. I have said yes and next morning went in for laparoscopy.

The laparoscopy was a success, no blood loss, came out 6h later and was told that the fibroid was actually 12 cm and I had another "hidden" one at the back. 

I flew back 3 days after the operation and I am now at home, recovering very well, no pain and already took a few walks around the park. 

If you are not happy with what the doctor says, try and find another one, because the impact on our lives after the procedure can be big. Do your research and chose the best option for your body. 

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