Facelift: Stories
Write a ReviewGood experience so far, Los Angeles, CA
- Lolita2010
- updated 8 months ago
- Worth It
- Cost: $24,500
- Renato Calabria, MD (Beverly Hills, CA)
I read a lot of article in RealSelf and they...
- 14 Jun 2012
I read a lot of article in RealSelf and they helped me a lot in the whole process, so I thought I will share mine.
I am 45 years old, I am not sure if it is a bit young to get this kind of procedure. I lost 35 pounds in the past year by myself with no help, maybe my diet was not well balanced. Not sure. I really didn't like what I saw in the mirror every morning. I had jowls, I looked alway unhappy as the corner of my mouth was drooping, I think I looked older than I was. I live in Los Angeles, and had my procedure done in Beverly Hills.
After over a year of research and few years of saving. I found who would be the best surgeon for me. The cost I mention includes full neck and facelift. Also includes operating room, Anesthesia. I also had the tip of my nose reduced which is not counted in there (another 6K). I also spent one night in a specialised clinic.
I lookea
As supplement, I started to take Arnica a few days before surgery as it helps with swelling and bruising.
It has been almost 3 months now since my surgery....
- 24 Aug 2012
I still have a tiny bit of numbness on both sides by the upper cheeks, eyes and to the hairline.
My cheeks are very flat and I looked at some pics of myself 20 years ago and I never had big cheeks but I am thinking of getting a bit of filler in them at least to make them more even. One being bigger than the other. I am also hoping it will help with the "bump" that I have just under the right cheek, I thought it was part of the jowls (not sure how to call it) but it is still there. I slep on that side so it could be due to that.
Great review?
My Doctor: Renato Calabria, MD
My rating:
You should be thrilled! Good job, hang in there and I've heard that by 6 mo. you will see your final results although complete healing takes 12 mo. Keep on posting! :D
Unfortunately being retired I could not afford it. So great you were able to save and have it done there. I see your face with more volume and that is what shows the aging most of all is volume loss. You look a lot younger.
So I opted for Cancun where it was 1/4 the cost. I did find an amazing surgeon Dr Velasco and clinic. But I researched a lot. So had a 2 weeks vacation, condo/meds/compression garments and all transfers to and from the airport , all Dr appts for $5900.00 USD.
It was a great choice for me.
Keep posting and wow you look great
Thanks for sharing your story!! I am excited to see your results. I also went for a consultation with Dr. Calabria (you can't beat those before and after pics on his site--although, always REMEMBER, for those interested out there--the pics are of his clients before recovery is complete and you are seeing a lot of swelling, so it is not the final results. I only wish he DID present his clients 1 year after.) Never mind that, I know he's a good surgeon and I am happy for you!!
Question:
1. when did you have surgery?
2. did you experience any mild complications?
3. Overall what was your experience?
I had a facelift 2 months ago and am very happy with results! :D I was in the same boat you were in. I looked much like you and about the same age. That is why your story touches me so much. I think you did the right thing! You are ready when you are ready. There is no magic age to get it done.
Congrats!!
As you mentioned dr. Calabria has amzing before and after pics and a lot of them, that what I like, otherwise it will be hard to get an idea of what you are getting. I am almost 2 months post surgery, most of the swelling is gone and I look more human :P.
Now, I do not think I look 20 years younger hehe, but I will guess about 9 years. You be the judge. Not sure if my face is going to change more or if it is what I will look like now. I edited the pics, and posted pics 3 days before, 5 days after, then 7 weeks later...Tell me what you think. Thank you!