AllBodySurgery.com

open heart surgery?

has anyone else around my age(22) gone through open heart surgery? what was the reason for the surgery? how old were you when you had the surgery? does it run vertical or horizontal? how do you feel about your scar? how do you feel when its pointed out? AND would you ever have plastic/cosmetic surgery to get rid of the scar?? I was 16 months old when i had my ASD repaired. but i still had a mitrol vavle leak and tricuspid valve leak. they left that alone until i was 20 and then repaired those(after my heart had enlarged some and i had pressure on my right chambers). both times they did it vertical(top to bottom). when i was younger i hated my scar, it was bumpy and other kids always asked questions i didnt know how to answer. now that ive had my second surgery and im more aware of what has happened im completely comfortable...and i wouldnt have surgery to take the scar away, its part of who i am and reminds me of things ive overcome in my life!!! lol people see the scar if i happen to be wearing a v neck shirt or swim suits...its not like im flashing people!!! thanks for the reply!

Public Comments

1. Why do people see scars on your chest :S? And dont worry what others think.. its the best way to do it :D Keep your scar som ppl find them cool lol :D... Good Luck with that anyway :D
2. Look at it as your "Badge of courage." Don't let what others think or say disturb you..to hell with them!
3. I had a mitral valve replacement 2 years ago, at age 34, due to congestive heart faliure. I have an UGLY scar, about 5 inches long, going down my breastbone. It is *lanced*, so it looks like a worm. Its not pretty, but it is my battle scar, and would never have plastic surgery to change it. It also makes me laugh, when everyone can hear my valve click, it sounds like a clock in my chest. It makes me unique and I love it!
4. Be happy about your battle scar, had a 4 way CABG proud of it, be thankful you live in a country where it can be done. In Vietnam this would be the end of the line for you.
5. I am 22 and I had 3 open heart surgeries when I was a child. I had what's called 'Single Ventricle' and I had the 'Fontan Procedure' which is a series of three surgeries for major repairs. My scar is vertical, from about my clavicals to two fingers above my belly button and assorted scars around it from tubes that drained fluid. I used to hate it, but now I just don't care. I don't really notice it, and no one else seems to care. Most people are just honestly curious and I'd rather they ask than stare so I don't get upset when they ask, I welcome questions, and most people, after hearing the story think it's pretty cool. I thought about getting rid of it, but why?