Acessa for fibroids 2013 - UPDATED - procedure repeated 2015

I am 53 still with a regular cycle. I had a 9.5cm fibroid that had grown around the outside of my uterus (combo fibroid). The MRI showed 2 small calcified fibroids as well.

I had the Acessa procedure after being told by 2 different doctors that my only option was a hysterectomy. I feel my age was a huge factor in their responses. I knew about all of my options for fibroids and was told given my circumstances, it was a hysterectomy or wait and see.

I continued to search and found my current doctor. He is one of three doctors who perform Acessa in my state. His concern was the size of the fibroid. He only made 2 incisions laparoscopically and had to zap the fibroid SIX times! I have the pictures from the surgery. Crazy. I am on week three and a half of recovery. I had a stomach of a 6 mo pregnancy. My worst reaction from the procedure was the anesthesia.

I had the procedure on a Tuesday and was back to work on Monday. I have had spotting but no heavy bleeding, some minor twinges of pain but nothing major. I did not take the pain medication after surgery as I wanted to heal faster and drive. I have not had a cycle yet as I was on mine during surgery. My swelling/edema in my limbs has greatly reduced, my stomach has shrunk considerably and my other hormonal issues (increased breast size, etc...) are reducing as well.

Prior to Acessa, I used cypress essential oil with a carrier to control the crazy bleeding which has made me iron deficient anemic. I was changing every 15 min. and at one time, bled for 4 mos straight. Post Acessa, I am back using my Cypress oil and it is working like a charm as well as helping my enlarged uterus shrink. It was 19cm!!!!!

My surgery took 2 hours (was told most take 1 hour) but was told it was due to the size and complexity of the fibroid. Excellent doctor! My doctor believes in less invasive procedure first-I do not regret having this done! I provided details due to the fact people wanted personal experience with the procedure. While it is early, I am optimistic. I am watching my diet, cut out all caffeine (I was a coffee junkie), and taking a few herbs which helped pre-Acessa. Until I go through the change, I am going to be diligent. My doctor was pleased with my post-op condition. I recommend this procedure!!!!!

Re: Acessa for fibroids 2013 - UPDATED - procedure repeated 2015
I am 53 still with a regular cycle. I had a 9.5cm fibroid that had grown around the outside of my uterus (combo fibroid). The MRI showed 2 small calcified fibroids as well.

---How did you pay for the procedure? I have an 11ish cm fibroid and have heard it doesn't always work when they are that large and I don't have 10K and the doctor in CA only takes cash and one insurance. They wouldn't even submit to my insurance so I could try to appeal.

I am from MI-my insurance covered it. My out of pocket was minimal. I admit, I am spoiled with my insurance. My advice is to do your research. CA has quite a few doctors who perform this procedure. (unlike MI-only 3!) Find one that takes your insurance!!! I was prepared to travel for the procedure and would still if it was the way to have it and get a good doctor. Just a hint: even though it's outpatient, the hospital costs are significant. You have to pay for the anesthesiologist as well. I overheard a nurse tell a prospective patient over the phone to add in all costs if insurance doesn't cover it. $10k sounds low based on what I heard so I'm concerned it is not covering all costs and I would hate to have you stuck with a crazy bill. Sometimes, you can contact the company and they can help you find a doctor with your insurance. Not sure if they do, but the company website I think has a list of providers. I would start calling....Everyone is different. I was concerned about the size of mine as well. The doctor was fine with it though. The website states they have done fibroids up to 14cm. I'm sure there are a ton of factors that go to the procedure's efficacy so I don't want to give the impression that your results will be mine. But I am happy with the procedure! My advice: be persistent and don't take "no" for an answer. I know it can be hard and emotional--trust me, I left several doctor's offices in tears-it can be overwhelming. Best of Luck and I hope all works out-sending positive health your way!

Thanks again! Could you message me who your doctor was? I'd be willing to travel. Also did you get proof the fibroid shrunk with an ultrasound or MRI? If so , how much did it shrink? I also had hormonal issues, breast growth etc. Is that caused by a fibroid? Thanks!!

SO CONFUSED. You are saying Acessa worked? First I don't have the cash up front for Acessa or the right insurance and the best doctor doesn't even have a billing department. So he pushes you to pay up front even if you can't. I've also heard from multiple women with large fibroids that Acessa failed and not only did the fibroids not shrink, but they grew. I don't see a lot of honest real stories when I even Google. All I get is Acessa ads. If this really is a miracle cure why aren't doctors doing this instead of UFE? So confusing and fed up with options and shady doctors.