Here We Go! - Kelowna, BC

Hello everyone, I have found your posts and info very helpful and thought I would join the fun! I spent my childhood and teens years seeing specialists and surgeons for health problems beyond my control. I have been doing really well health wise for about 9 years now. I have always been sad, pretty much since I was sixteen, that I never 'developed.' (...all the women on both sides of my family have 'excess boobage!'...someone forgot to share with me, bahahaa)
I had my consultation almost two years ago, but in Sept/Oct...after saving and psyching myself up...I finally called the office and booked my pre-op and surgery date!! Wahooo! During that phone call my hands were shaking and I was all giggly (LOL)
My pre-op was on Wed Nov 27th. My husband (married for 5 years now) came in with me for the consultation two years ago and again for the pre-op. The staff-from the secretary to the nurses to the surgeon and the anesthetist-were very kind, encouraging, informative and professional. I'm typically a 'I'm okay, I'm in control' type person, but while I was sitting in the examining room, I was all 'bouncy'...I couldn't sit still for a second. Funny what nerves will do to ya!
I am so excited to finally be getting this done. (I'm also aware of what surgeries and recovery from them are like, so I'm really nervous too.)

DEC 17th is my date...only 18 days away! Ahhhh!

I am currently a 34a (barely even an A...) and the Doc and I (and of course my husband) chose high profile 425cc implants. (should make me a C) Doing a inframammary (under the boob fold) incision and a submuscular placement.

I see that almost everyone has posted their 'hope chest' (LOL) pics and before/after, etc...I will get to that, and soon because the 'big day' is coming up very fast!

Until later, Thanks!

Well, I would love to say the first pic is of me, but it's not, LOL...the second one is, but only until Tuesday the 17th, and then 'she' (just a bathing suit model...) will want to look like me!
(If you knew me, and how insecure and self-conscious I've ALWAYS been, you'd really find this post laugh worthy, but hopefully it'll be true!)
I know no one really knows for sure who I am outside of this website, but I am so nervous of posting myself topless, teeheee...blushing. (Even my husband wouldn't recognize this pic of me, he rarely gets to see me without at the very least a bra on...sad I know, but very true.)
He will, I'm sure of it, enjoy the 'new me' too...
I'm nervous and excited...

I think it's a shame really, but I haven't told anyone about this new info of my life and all the nerves and emotions I'm going through. Yes, I have the support of my doc and the office staff, and my GP, and my husband...but that seems kind of...well not quite enough. I know if I told my Mom that I've booked the date and it's just around the corner, she'd probably faint. She's always known about me wanting to do this, and she knows I had the consultation. (two years ago though...bahahaa) I just feel like I will be judged or something, like it's just about vanity. It's really not though, is it?! Like I said before, this is something I've always wanted. It has affected me in not buying the clothes and bathing suits I want, feeling 'less' in a group of other girls who are well-endowed, and even been jealous of others for having...
Tonight I went to the gym and then a steam and shower, and like always...tried to hide myself. It's so stupid, I know I'm not a bad looking girl, but this 'no boobs' thing has really messed with my self-esteem.
(ANYONE ELSE 'hiding' what's going on or feeling these things??)

Happy thought: I did, however find myself smiling...thinking of my upcoming 'change'...I am so excited.

Okay, so for the millionth time, even at work...I look at my calendar and literally count each day to see how many days I have left before my BA...I don't seem to be able to count properly anymore! Man, what nerves can do to a girl! (-;
It's 12 sleeps left now. Gulp...

Everything sounds like a cup size these days including the 'title' to this post! (-;
In good weather, I live 4 hours away from where I'm having my surgery done. (Uh Oh...) ??
So...my BA is Tues the 17th, I have booked a hotel for that night and the following night, checking out Thurs 19th by 11am. Boy, I sure hope I will be okay with the long drive home...bumps, corners, icy roads, etc. (Husband driving)

I'm going to Wal-Mart tonight to buy some items that are on my list of must haves in prep for the big day next week. (-:

Happy thoughts and hugs, xo

Well, I finally did it, I told someone...and not just anyone...I told my Mom (-:
She's heard all about my insecurities and feelings since, well forever. She's also heard about the research I've done over the years, and the consultations, etc. Tonight I finally shared my excitement and my nerves with her. I didn't know what to expect, as she can say things that are quite emotional, but she actually took it very well. She says she feels that it's even the 'right time' in my life for it too.
Good stuff (-:

(8 more sleeps)...whahoo!

My surgery is next Tuesday already! Check-In time is 7:30. Hope everything goes quickly and smoothly. I'm so excited. This morning my husband texted me from work doing his own count down, so cute...he's really excited too (-:

28 years old (29 in January)
5'3 (and a bit) (-;
125-130 lbs
34A

Married 5 years so far
No kids of my own, just step kids (they don't live nearby...)
I work a lot right now, but will have to take it a bit easier for a while after next week!

(Six Sleeps Left)

Yesterday and today I haven't been excited, just plain terrified of all the things that can go wrong during/after, of the post-op meds and possible allergic reactions, of being in a hotel room for three days not in the comfort of my own home, of all the work that I have to hire ppl to care for while I'm healing, of soooo many things...I'm freaking! (I think what added to my fears was yesterday morning I googled what Dr.Oz's website had to say about BA...the Dr's that he had quoting things were brutally honest of the horrors of what could go wrong...and even a bit judgemental of girls who get a BA.) Yikes, I feel like "I hope I'm making the right decision, and I hope it's not something I will regret doing."
Sorry girls for the negativity, I was thinking of keeping it to myself, but then I remembered...you're my friends and support and I'm here for you too! (-:
Anyone out there that's had/having these feelings?

It's kind of freaky...the antibiotics I've been prescribed are a close relative to Penicillin, which I'm allergic to. Spoke with pharmacist about my concerns...they said "it should be fine"...not too reassuring, lol
Called the surgeons office and voiced my concerns on the research I did on the meds...the nurse got onto the phone and said that wasn't even the correct med for me, the pharmacy screwed up! Holy am I thankful I didn't just 'go with it!' The Doc will be filling out a new prescription and forwarding it to my pharmacy today...yay, one less thing to stress about!

Bahaahaa, so last night I had my husband follow me into the laundry room for a 'lesson'...soooo funny. We were in there for what seemed like forever!
I informed him a few days ago that he's going to have to be the new laundry designate for us while I'm healing up. (I didn't want him bleaching my fav...anything!)
Anyways, to his dismay he 'passed' the test with flying colors! So cute.

Friday night, Saturday night, Sunday night - sleeps left at home...
Monday night - one sleep left in a hotel...
TUESDAY - BA day!

(Have a lot of work the next three days...will keep my mind off the nerves a bit!)

Hugs and happy healing to all you girls out there!

but to one person, YOU are the world!

Hugs and happy thoughts!

So, as I've said...only a very small handful of ppl know about this. One of my close friends asked us over for dinner next week. Told her couldn't because my hubby and I are going away from Mon morning to about Thurs or Fri.
"She's like, oh wow! You finally get your honeymoon, enjoy!"
(We've been married quite a while now, no honeymoon yet...and trust me...this upcoming week 'aint gonna be no honeymoon either' !!) Hahahaaa

So, my small little house has had stuff neatly piled in several corners for the past week or so...Tonight I started checking things off my list, packing items, washing veggies and fruits and organizing the house a bit more...

In the pics I've posted last week, you can see my surgical bra. It's shoulder straps keep falling off, the clasps are in the back and I'm not too sure if I'm happy just having this one only, so on Monday when we get to the city, I'm going to buy a secondary bra. (My town only has one place to go for bras and such, lol)

Tomorrow I will finish my last day of work, then cook up a chicken, veggie and brown rice stir-fry for the first two nights at the hotel, pack the fresh berries, and pack up the car. I also have to pack a bag for my hubby...he's either 'helpless' for real, or he pretends to be so that I do everything for him...hmmmm (-;

I own my business, and have to hire helpers for the time I'm away and a helper to be an assistant to my hubby for when we get back. So I've written out dates, times, instructions, invoices, bills in-out, etc. (Stressful but I think my efforts in this area will pay off and all will be fine!) I've also written a sheet for what bills come out from what accounts and when type of thing...who knows how long I will be all loopy/dopey!

I bought a care package from Wal-Mart that has soft purple slippers, eye mask and neck rest (-: Also, new soft PJ's ... front is button up! I've got a couple of magazines, my laptop, DVD's, antibiotics and pain meds, ice pack, my pillow and an extra blanket, heating pad (always need it, but most girls on here complain about sore back...) house coat, laxative tea, ginger-ale, crackers, jello, digestives, my folder with 'like and no like boobies pics' and a bunch of questions for the Doc to see, the paperwork I've signed, spectro-gel, rub A535 muscle relaxant gel...etc

Anything else?!
Hugs and warm fuzzy happy thoughts to all you 'before and after' girls!

Kinda wish I hadn't posted to the Doc site...I resolved the issue on my antibiotics fear (I was prescribed the wrong med, and it was changed...) like moments after I hit 'send'...now it's embarrassing and kinda annoying the Docs are making me feel like I'm 'in trouble' or like a little kid or something. (blush) Oh well, I guess there are worse things! (-;
At least they care enough to reply, right?!

Well, on my way to work...last day for who knows how long! (I have a very physical job)

Happy thoughts to my fellow 'boobie-got-em-nows' and 'boobie-wannabee-gonna get-em-soons' - HUGS!

So yesterday worked hard, got cooking, cleaning done at home, did a bunch of laundry, packed, final touches...

This morning I had a 1/2 hr massage, (getting period really soon, probably tomorrow, which figures because I have ALWAYS have gotten it when something important is happening...wedding, vacations, etc...crazy body!) then came home and packed up the car.
My hubby and I drove 3'ish hrs and we are here, in Kelowna.
We made it just in time for my last pre-op. First the nurse/helper woman came into the room and I asked her my list of questions, crossing off the ones that she could answer, and circling the ones I have to ask the Doc. She also let me try on the sizers again...I tried 375, 400, and 425...over and over and over again! LOL (husband like the 425cc) Then the Doc came in.
You know I have to say, I've had other surgeries for health reasons (not cosmetic) in the past and my surgeons where good, but they have no 'bed-side' manner. This surgeon is (according to the employees/nurses, etc) a great surgeon...and he has a kind, funny, realistic, educated, gentle, reassuring way about him. He answered all of my questions quite well! I also brought a bunch of "hope chest pics" (most are on my profile) and also a few of my 'no likey pics.' On my like pics, he told me how many cc's it would take to achieve the look, in the no like pics, he told me what was/went wrong. He's made me feel at ease and 'light hearted.' (which is big!!) (-:

I went to lululemon afterwards to get a second surgical bra. It's pretty different, so I will just bring both tomorrow morning and they can put my in whichever they see fit!

Then we went out for dinner. (Had water with dinner, no alcohol)
Picked up a small thing of milk and a chocolate bar. (okay okay, it was two chocolate bars! teehee) Then we got to our hotel. There were some 'mix ups' at the check-in, but she quickly resolved it, and it's all good now.

The room has two beds...I don't want my hubby accidentally flipping over on me for at least a few days! There's a mini kitchen...fridge, stove, dishes, toaster, kettle...pretty much all I will need (-; The sink and bathroom are good too. I spent about 15-30 mins unpacking, organizing, and then sanitizing surfaces, remote control, etc. I also set out all my pills and such for the next couple days for easy access. (You should hear how well I have to explain where something is, exactly what it looks like, and so on...in order for my cute hubby to be able to 'find' what I need! So set out and organized is very important, lol)

We enjoyed some much needed relaxation in the hot tub and pool for a bit, then 'ran' back to our room (it's a motel...all outdoors stuff)

Did my 'wash the boobies for 3 mins with spectro-gel' thing, showered, shaved all the important stuff, moisturized, and now we're watching Despicable Me 2. (giggle worthy!)

Other than being a bit achy and bloated from my possible monthly 'treasure' (bahahahaaa) coming, I feel pretty calm and happy. I will be having a little sleeping pill tonight, soon actually...hope to sleep.

Up at 6:25 am, shower the boobies again with the spectro-gel, get my comfy pants and zip up sweater on, bring my socks/undies/shorts/paperwork/bras/meds/crackers and applesauce...plus the bag of stuff for my hubby to keep busy with while I'm getting boobies! (-:

My time to be at the surgical center is 7:30am. Think lots and lots of happy thoughts for me! Will keep you up to date, as I can. Well girls, lots of hugs!!!

in a Barbie world, it's fantastic...my boobs are plastic! Lol

Well girls, I started off my profile with the words "Here we go!"...I now can say I've done it! Yesterday morning my surgery was sometime after 8am'ish. I will fill you in will a ton of details from the night before to day of and such when I can type a little less sloppy. (perfectionist you know) (-;
I will say though, if you take your pain meds as prescribed afterwards, esp the first day...it's easier than u think. Today I have pushed it from every 4 hrs to every 6 hrs. (plus antibiotics every 6 too) and doing fine. There's quite a lot of pressure on the chest the first day esp, and breast bone (in between boobies) hurt, and using arms was not too easy, but having said that, I could go to the bathroom and wipe, so...Yay! haha(-;
Today is day two, Im counting surgery day as day 1 because it started early enough. The nurse called me today, she said I sounded 'tense' I'm like, uh...Ya! She eased my fears, was helpful, and told me I can and should let my shoulders 'down' and 'back' if I can, and also the instructions were to take 3 deep breaths per hour. (feels terrible and wonderful all at once, hard to explain) Ice area until pack gets warm, about every hr first day, then every few hrs. I have eaten well from the start, with the pills, and guess what?! I had a BM this morning! I know, right? Weird stuff to be excited for, but totally valid! (-;
All in all, it's been pretty good so far. We checked into the hotel the night b4-Mon, and check out Fri. The laying down at a propped up angle all the time is tough. Back and butt and shoulders hurt. Brought a heating pad, keep it on the back, and once/twice a day exchange it with ice pack...helps, plus have someone rub A535 gel stuff on back. It feels really good to have a hand on the back to support/pull u forward when u get outta bed, and have pillows under arms and legs. Walk around the room whenever can, it's helpful to the whole body.
Well, that's good for now...thank you for ur support girlies (-: Happy healing to all of us on the other side and happy thoughts to the before girls, we are all awesome and individually wonderful! Hugs! (-:

Mon night-After my post, had such bad period pains, by 11:45 (15 mins til can't eat/drink anymore) I had to take an ibruprophen. (and half sleeping pill...) Then calmed down and slept!
Tues-surgery 6:30...alarm. I said to my hubby "I change my mind, I dont' want to do this!" (pretty serious too...) Showered. 7:30 got to Doc's office/clinic. Waiting...then a secretary/nurse took down some of my info and made sure of details etc. Then I got undressed (kept on boy short undies) put on blue hospital gown and a housecoat and hair net...waited. Nurse again. Wait...Then anaesthesiologist came in and went over allergies, etc - really nice professional guy...said he's take care of me (-: wait...Then the surgeon (and an apprentice) came in, he said "and survey says...?" I said, "Well, I'm here aren't I?!" (he meant which size cc did I decide on, LOL) =425cc HP Silicone Gels
Then he marked me with blue sharpie...dot dot dot and incision / dot dot dot incision - on each boobie. (I took my wedding ring off and put it on a necklace and put it around hubby's neck...wanted to cry, actually I did) Then wait...nurse came in and said I'm ready. (Hubby gave a tiny hug and took off) I followed nurses for like half a second, then turned the opposite way and went to where saw hubby leave (wanted to hug him again) The nurses are like "Um, where are u going? He's left already hunny." I fought back tears...got around the corner and saw 'the OR' nurse in there asked me my allergies again, I started to cry...couldn't talk. The other nurse answered for me, and then gave me a little hug and said everything will be ok. Then I unhooked my gown, got onto the table, they put my arms on what looked like salmon fillets and my legs in warm/blood flow legs thingys, the nurse turned down the rock and roll music playing (apparently my Doc is a big rocker!) They asked me what song was on my mind...I was hoping it would be the woman- empowering-blood-flowing-song "roar" (katy perry) but...it was "rhinestone cowboy"!!! How embarrassing! lol (u-tube it...glen Campbell, lol lol lol lol)! They laughed, then the anesthetist said, "ready for your morning cocktail?" I'm like, uh YA!!! (he put in needle, then the mask by a nurse) She told me to think happy thoughts because if I do I will have a really nice dream while I'm out, I started to tear up again, she said again, think happy thoughts! (and I was out)
After, so drugged, took quite a while to come out of the loopy can't open my eyes stage. The nurse kept sitting me up little by little, asked if I was nauseous, but I was fine...up, up, up...then she had me sit on the edge of the bed/table took my gown off and then put my bra on (I was shocked they didn't do that in the OR while I was out) the my zip up hoodie, and pants...then stood up and walked a couple feet to a lazy boy recliner looking out huge windows over the city...cool although very drugged. I even saw my hubby walking way down there! (he was getting me two really nice cards for later) Nurse made me drink gingerale and my soda crackers and apple sauce and took pain killer. Waited there for a bit, another nurse gave me my implant info and SN #, gauze and 24-48 hr instructions...put me in wheel chair and then into waiting room where my hubby was...so happy to see him (-: Nurse took me right to car, hubby helped me out/in...pillow on boobies/seat belt over...drove to hotel. (He was emotional on first part of drive home, looked like he could cry, asked him bout it, he said he was really worried...took longer than thought, I guess...sooo sweet, poor guy) Got tucked into bed, pillows behind me-sit up, pillows under both arms to take pressure off chest muscles...(pain killers every 4 hrs Tues/Wed, every 6ish Thurs/today, and antibiotics every 6 hrs til gone.)
Wed and Thurs in hotel, rest/ice/food/drugs/water/pee/...and repeat! LOL...yep in a nutshell, that's about it. But you won't believe it, both Wed night-first day after and second night, hubby gave me pain meds, dressed me up warm, put on my boots, put a blanket over me, put a pillow over my chest (treasure chest, lol) put on seat belt, and we went for a drive! Was scary and tiring, but refreshing and wonderful (-: (Wheeled me around in a wheelchair at Wal-Mart too!)
Hubby filled tub with warm water and I could sit in it to tummy (don't soak badages!) Felt so good, (only used awkward leg movements to get out though...have to be under a certain weight I'm sure, lo...bambi legs!) and slept really well! (Back and neck so sore, wish I could soak everything)
Fri-today 3rd day after BA (sorta 4th...) Got up, tried to verbally help hubby pack up all our stuff from the hotel room (we had a small kitchenette too) and then...du-da-dahhhh! I took a bath/shower! Tub filled to tummy (not to soak bandages) then shower handle un-hooks and he got me hair wet, put soap in, rinsed (-: such a good dude (found out most of his good side just this week!) I could somewhat use the blow dryer enough...looked and felt normal and un-zombieish for the first time since Mon night! (Truth be told...was completely freaked...shower was the first time I was allowed to take my bra off too...scared to see them and how they'd feel outside of the tightest bra ever, and then to get them wet...but everything was fine!)

After shower/ready/hotel emptied...to Doc office-nurse took off bandages, re-stuck a loose steri-strip...looks good...bra back on and appt for Jan 13th when the Doc sees me.

Drive in snowy weather, lots of traffic, princess auto (gotta do something for the hubby!) eat and meds and on way home...4 hr drive (snowy bad roads)

Tonight been more sore and swollen than have been b4...drive I guess. But all in all, good (-:

Best wishes to all of you girls -many stages- b4, brand new, after, d&f'd, and whatever other category! HUGS!

(-: Aren't you proud of me?! Lol Hubby went to work from 10:45-4:30, I got in and out of bed (with leg strength), water/pills, etc.

Today at noon I took an ibruprophen, instead of the ketoralak...but took it with dinner, one less is better than nada!

Been having weird shooting pains in, well basically directly under my left armpit underneath the bra...nothing really happened there, but whatever.

Tonight I'm going to go 'commando' for a bit. I convinced my hubby he'd love me more if I didn't stink (-; He's going to scrub my surgical bra in the sink and let it dry over our heating vent. (I might just shower too...) SO much to be excited for LOL

Happy thoughts/speedy healing to everyone, HUGS

ouchy...bra is too tight? Probably all it is right?

Maybe I did a bit too much yesterday...not much but did tidy things up, but the shooting pains in my leftie is nasty, when I go to lay down or get up or cough, my leftie's stitches feel like they're gonna pop, and my tummy/ribs and my muscles just below my left collarbone feel bruised, just all of a sudden. Leftie and it's arm feels bruised and useless. Last night was sucky as I couldn't get to sleep, and this morning I felt like I was back to the 't-rex' arms of day 1.

Okay, enough complaining...I still have been having 1-2 BMs a day and I think it's thanx to Equate Meal Replacement drinks-full of vitamins and protein. Maybe the oranges and oatmeal and raisin bran too? Whatever the reason, I'm thankful. (The first 2 days felt 'sharp' and I bled a little, then it looked like dear terds, and now it's 'normal') (-; fun fun

For the girls who are freaked about getting their period for surgery, I go it the night b4 and still have it, and I'm doing fine with it...thanx to the drugs, I'm sure!
Hugs and happy thoughts to everyone (-:

Looking at my pics...bra is way too tight. My hubby cut off the clasps from an old bra, sowed the left/right side together...then put it between the left and right back clasps of my surgical bra, and ta-da! WAY BETTER FIT. The support is still there, but my boobies can breath now, and my underwire isn't digging in. Yay for good men, that can sew! Giggle

So this time last week, I was seeing the nurse/Doc for the last time b4...then out for dinner, and prepping the hotel room, and freaking out...LOL

One week later, today I had a 1/2 neck massage (and feet...mmm), went out for lunch (well almost dinner...so late), got a few movies and groceries...

About 1/2 hr ago I was feeling all 'stuck' so got my hubby to take my bra off (feels weird when the clasps are loosened and off) and they feel soooooooo good being out, breathing all the fresh air in, heehee. My hubby looked at me like a kid in a candy store, that was really nice to see!

I can sort of move them around...like a millimeter only but I hope that's good enough for now, they are a bit sore on the upper insides and certain other spots and numb to the touch around the nipple area...like inch wide section. Left arm is still weaker and heavy but getting better.

Love and hugs and happy healing (should obey the Doc and put the vice back on...just a couple more minutes, I promise...giggle) (-:

Took the bra off (I keep referring to it as a vice, I don't have the strap...just the bra and for the next 3-4 months I wear it 24/7)
I showered without using saran wrap to cover my steri-strips...sooooooo nice! Loved the shower. I blotted dry the strips, then used the hair dryer on cold setting to ensure they were dry again so I don't get 'moldy' under there! (-;
My hair is all pretty too, but no one around to show it off to, ha ha...oh well.
Took an ibruprophen before bed, and one at 9'ish this morning and feeling pretty darn good too! Happy happy. Tummy still hurts though (rough week on it with antibiotics and heavy pain meds, poor tummy.)

Hugs and happy thoughts to everyone! xo

This bra is nicer on my boobies, less purple lines and indents (-: No underwire, so I will call the office tomorrow/Fri to see if I have to alternate or if this one's going to be good enough. HUGS

I hope it's not related to my BA but this morning I started getting small (needle head) sized water blisters on the palms of my hands, and tonight I have red itchy bumps (different from normal hives) spread over my legs. Hope it's all good...

Boob comfort wise, pretty good.(-: At night I'm more sore, just from the day and moving around. Waking in the morning I feel much older than 28! Strange pains come and go. The normal stuff most post-ops go through. Hot showers loosen the muscles and such. Still have steri-strips on incisions.

Hugs and happy healing girls xo

Thank you for the support!
Hugs

I'm doing pretty good so far. (-: Much better than I thought it would be. I am able to use my arms and muscles, just can't lift the arms up too high yet.

I saw my family doctor (after hours) who knows I had this done, and she asked how I've been doing (so sweet!) and told her I'm able to move around really well, and get quite a bit done throughout the day. She said 'just because you CAN do it, doesn't mean you SHOULD do it...the 4-6 weeks rest time is so that you don't do any kind of damage, and it'll be too late, so don't do too much!' I giggled and confessed how hard it is to 'just heal' and not clean up and such. That was so kind of her to care while 'off duty.' (-:

Shoulders are really tight, esp the left side and still have a sore left boob (nipple doesn't hurt) and the right is fine (but nipple hurts) ... to massage them without too much discomfort, it's like memorizing a 'combination code.' LOL

Husband has been very helpful around the house and such, which I've never seen from him before, so that's so wonderful, big burden off!

Still sleeping upright with pillows all around, but sleeping fine because I have been taking half a sleeping pill.

Got my period the night before my BA (Dec 16th) finished it about 4 days ago, and then started it again last night! What the heck?! (was so sore all over and had 'mad cow syndrome' and couldn't figure out why, then this morning...crap, again?!)

I have a ton of questions for the Doc/nurses since last week this time, but they are out of the office for holidays still, and no questions are serious enough (well, hope not anyway) to disturb their holidays, so on Thurs when they open, I will be first one to call, I'm sure!

I haven't taken off my steri-strips...they're still stuck on pretty good. I hope that's okay, and that they look fine and are all healthy under there!

Posted a 2 week since BA pic.

HUGS xo (-:

Went out to a small party (very low key) and wore a tank top with cami type top over and jeans...I felt 'proportionate'...I went into the bathroom to check myself out, and was pretty happy how the clothes look on the 'new me.' (-: Yay!
(naked: wish I was bigger, but I seriously don't think my skin could have stretched anymore anyways! My husband says the same thing...and he seems to get all goofy when helping me put on/take off my bra, so they can't look that bad!)

The office is finally open again and I had all my questions answered by the nurse in the office/clinic:

-The instructions to wear the underwire bra 24/7 for 3-4 months only applies to those who have had a breast lift and saline implants. (I didn't have any breast to lift and I have silicone) YAY!
-So...I wear a supportive bra during the day (my lulu pictured about is a gooder) and don't have to wear anything to bed! YAY!
-I have been massaging my girls the right way thus far, so once again... YAY! (she mentioned too that the movements of the arms during the day somewhat massages the implants and moves them around too, so that's a bonus!)
-Also, she said I can pull off my steri-strips now, they should be fine. (Will do it later today after my shower-and will post pics)
(-:
Yesterday I drove for the first time since Dec 15th, and all was well...no pain or anything as I kept my hands on the bottom half of the wheel. I also did some scrapbooking of last years pictures.
At the end of yesterday though, I must admit I was kinda sore, esp in the leftie, but it's all good.

I'm going to fill out my implant warranty paperwork and fax it off today probably.

Have a good day everyone, and so happy to have you girls to share this process with! HUGS xo

Well, after speaking with the nurse this morning, she said to take em off...so this afternoon after my shower I did. (Started to pull an edge of my left one, but it really hurt, so I stopped and showered longer)

Once out, I pulled the right one off...no problem at all, held it up for my hubby to see (he was in the living room) Then as I was pulling the left one off Hubby is like, "Well, I guess that puts you back to normal, you can do whatever you used to again!" Before I said, ummm don't think that's how it works hun...I pulled the left one off. It sorta hurt a bit coming off, but now once it was off it stung and didn't feel so great and I felt all hot and panicky, wishing I had waited a few more days...about 3 1/2 hrs later (now)...it has stopped stinging as bad, but now I'm all nervous of putting my bra back on...and if I put gauze between me and the bra, what if it sticks to the incision? I noticed that the reason why it kinda hurt in the shower was because there was a tiny scab that came off with the steri-strip. I also noticed the wound was sorta tiny tiny open, and there's a small white-head pimple type thing above it. I panicked and called the nurse again, and she said both will heal just fine, but to keep the sites clean...meaning tomorrow in the shower gently was it with a bit of soap. It doesn't feel the best...sorta wish I had waited a bit longer, esp for the leftie who always seems to be 'needy.' (-;
Anyways, just as long as it stays healthy and happy, I will chill out.

(Sorry if the pics are too close up...don't faint!) lol
Hugs

but don't know where to fax it! It's such an obvious piece of paper, where should I take it? Lol...I will figure out the least conspicuous place.

My incision site is pretty swollen since I took the strips off last night, they look irritated, but have calmed down pain wise, now I just have to keep them clean and healthy.

Hugs

The area around the nipples is 'numb' but OH MY GOODNESS, both nipples are crazy sensitive. The left nipple was burning sooooo bad yesterday, I was close to tears for several hours, and took a few pain killers...then put a cotton pad (removes make-up/nail polish) right between me and the bra, and awww, way better! Still have left boob achy and tightness, but a hot shower really feels good and then loosens up enough to do a bit of massage. Well, that's all the excitement for the past 24 hrs. (boob wise anyways) (-;
Hugs

It was pretty lame, just at Wal-Mart...but I found a nice bra that I can swap the lulu back and forth with.
It is a 34C, no underwire/some seam support, has the flower nipple pads in the lining, and is only $16! (My post-surgical bras I bought b4 the BA were both$60+, one of them I wore for only the 1st week.) See the pics (-: Hugs

BTW - anyone else out there have a sleepless night last night? Oh...I just couldn't get comfy, I felt horrible...3am to the couch, still no good, cried out of frustration, achy, exhaustion...back to bed...no good, then finally at about 5am, on the couch I slept til 8 then had to get up and get ready...sucked. Hope tonight will be better!

Today, all day my boobs felt really good, then tonight I had stabbing zingers in my leftie for a min or so, and my shoulders/upper back are soooo tight.

Well, that's it! Hugs all you girlies. (-:

I bought a few things online...when I get the items in 10-14 days (lol) I will post some pics...I hear they are great, I shall see for myself soon!

Well, the boobies have been feeling better since Sunday, and last night I tried on all my old tiny bras - hilarious now...makes me realize how much bigger I am now, even though I am still a conservative size. I also tried on my old bikini tops, one or two may still work. I tried on my 'wish bra' that I bought about this time last year, and daa, duuh, daaa...I fill it in now!! (-: Happy Happy

I am quite 'broke' right now, but am looking forward to buying a nice bikini in the spring to celebrate my boobies. (I have some butt tightening to do, so my goal is to have the bottom half ready by spring for bikini shopping...very excited!)

I did a whole bunch of organizing and cleaning around the house today, which was great. My chest/breasts are tight and the shoulders/upper back are achy, but so far so good. I still don't feel ready for a visit to the gym, but will try the elliptical that's in my house tomorrow and see how that goes.

I wish I had left my steri-strips on a bit longer. (I know I sound like a broken record) I feel they are really 'raised.' (and no...I haven't started massaging my scars yet, nor am I putting anything on them...I'm going to wait until I see my Doc next week for my post-op...)

Happy thoughts to all of you, happy healing, and HUGS!

(-:

I figured that RealSelf has to do with feeling good about yourself, and doing what you can to improve 'you'...and to 'be there' for others...so I'm sharing these sweet pics today.

HUGS, and remember to be patient with yourself and with others. (-:

I may be a bit 'behind' others in getting comfy the old/normal way that I did b4 BA, but I thought I would share some pics of my mountain of pillows, and how I set them up for optimal comfort in bed. (Or maybe this will just be good for a laugh...take what you want from it, lol) (-:
Happy healing, HUGS!

Tomorrow will be four weeks since my BA.

Today (long day 3 hrs driving there and back…) was my 1st post-op. The nurse saw me first, asked questions etc. Then my Dr.Peterson came in. He shook my hand and asked how I am, and I smiled and said, “I lived! I’m alive!” He opened my chart and said, “well I’d better write that down, as there have been a lot of casualties lately!” Hahahaa! (He’s got a good sense of humor!) He asked some questions, answered some. As soon as I took my gown off for him to see my boobies, he kind of gasped and made a hmm sound…I just about passed out, thinking something was wrong, but he said other than being a tad too high and tight still, I am looking and healing great! Yahoo! He ‘squished’ them too (hubby didn’t beat him up, lol) and said they are soft’ish, but need more attention. He said I can wear ANY bra I want now (!) or even no bra at all. He said I can do whatever I would normally do. He said to act more like they are part of me and to not be afraid of them, and to start relaxing (I’ve been so uptight hoping I heal properly and trying not to do any damage) and to start having some fun. I have the clear to sleep however I can get comfy, I can swim/hot tub, etc. He said my scars are looking fine, and although they are still ‘obvious’ he didn’t recommend any scar treatment! He said to just let them heal, and they will look fine. (Right now he said they show a lot because I haven’t ‘dropped’ or whatever word he used, so they are low on my ribs and my breasts are still high, but that everything will be fine. I asked about massaging them, to release the puckering, he said no need to, it doesn’t make any difference. (I see that the opinion of Doc’s regarding bras, massage, scars etc differ soooo much, but he said do what feels right and to not worry so much.) He did ‘squish’ my breasts quite a bit harder than I have ever, and when he did the leftie, my breath sorta was short/taken away, but it didn’t really hurt. I told him about ‘vacant hole’ type things I occasionally feel around the side of my leftie and the various pains I have in the breasts, shoulders, back, arms…he said it’s all normal. The muscles and nerves and such still have a couple months of healing, and getting over the ‘trauma’ of the surgery, and that time and some massage will help it all and it will turn out great! Overall, it was a very positive visit, he is such a kind and funny Doc, and makes you feel confident in him and yourself. He said he would like to see me again in April. I hope my boobies d&f soon and heal and turn out happy and healthy quickly and long term!

I also had my first real bra shopping experience (went to La Senza). The last time I bought a nice bra from a mall (walmart granny bras don’t count!) was about 4 and half years ago! I just kept telling myself, ‘don’t waste $...wait until you get boobies, then buy bras.’ I walked into the store, totally lost and feeling like a lost child…the girl working there asked me what size I’m looking for, I almost cried and said I don’t know but the current bra band is 34 and feels too snug, then she said, well you’re probably a C or a D cup, and then let’s try 36C. (!) That made me smile! I searched for a couple bras, still feeling nervous/frusterated, even swore under my breath, and then got to the change room, and…I reverted back to my ‘old’ talking myself down ‘self.’ I have always been such a downer regarding my own body and body image, I was literally in tears in the change room telling myself I was stupid to spend so much $ on boobs, etc… Then I tried on my first real, NO PADDING nice sized and pretty/sexy bra, and … WOW, I FELT AWESOME. (I have tears again typing this.)

TO ALL YOU GIRLS OUT THERE with really low self-esteem and body image: I really really know, deep dark down inside how bad it can be to ‘hate’ your body, even though you know it’s really not that aweful, but still being in a bad habit of self-loathing, and no matter what, not being able to crawl out of this horrible place. I love my new boobies, and I know I can work on tightening my bum, but I really have to work on my ‘inner voice’ and PRACTISE feeling good when I look at myself, and LEARN how to be happy with me. If you feel the same, please join me in fighting these negative crappy words we tell ourselves…lets practice and learn to be kinder to ourselves and talk nicer to ourselves! (-:

I have been waiting all day to share today with you girls, and I thank you for sharing this journey with me, and sharing your story too. (and thank you for letting me spout off about whatever, whenever!)
I will post some pics of my pretty (bigger with no padding bras!) tomorrow when I have energy! (-:
HAPPY thought and happy healing and big HUGS, xo

I asked if it's normal to have an awful time trying to shave my armpits...the pec muscle connecting my boob to my arm is so exaggerated and tight, he said it's normal and gets better with time. He seemed to have heard this complaint from many before me! (-; Here's to not being afraid of a razor again! (soon soon)
Hugs

So today is January the 17th… My BA was on Dec 17th… It’s been an official month!
Things have been going pretty good, I have been working really hard, some long days, plus been packing as we are moving.
From day one, my leftie has been an issue...pains: electric, sharp, stabbing, shooting, burning, stinging, odd sensations. And the past couple of days, when I bend to get something, it feels like the muscle and implant fall forward and want to come out of the nipple. Needless to say, it doesn’t feel the best. Last night I noticed there was a horizontal cord under my left boob, not like Mondor’s…sideways and not visible to the eyes, then today I noticed a couple small nodules- one under my nipple and one just above it. Also the breast is feeling tighter, and my shoulder/wing area is even tighter. I spoke with the nurse, she asked the Doc and she got back to me saying it is probably just part of the healing process and is normal. I hope I’m healing good! The right incision is smoothing out, left still bumpy/puckering. They both are still waiting to d&f (-;
I wore a sexy leopard print underwire bra for about 4 hours tonight…no problem and looked great! (-:
I love my boobies and will be tickled pink if they heal quickly and happy and healthy! I hope the same for all you ladies out there! Hugs to ya’ll!

Well, It’s been 6 weeks now since my BA.
Things are going well, they seemed to have dropped quite a bit, as now my breast sits on the incision line, instead of an inch above it, and they are easier to move around and are squishier. My left breast and arm are still tighter than the right side, but have improved a lot since about 5 days ago. I wear a coobie bra pretty much all day, as I have been working hard every day, and need the support to not be thinking of the girls every second. (It still feels like the implant may come out of my left nipple when I bend forward without a bra on…) I also wear a coobie bra to sleep as it’s more comfortable and easier to fall asleep with it on. (Otherwise, when laying on my back, I feel like the boobs are too far apart in the middle and my breast bone feels taught/stretched) I can occasionally sleep on either side, but then my neck or the boob zingers make me go back to laying on my back. I wear my lulu tatatamer to the gym, and that seems to do just fine. I am able to lift pretty much anything now I guess (been packing and moving, and so far so good) although the pulling motion (trying to take the wrapping off of my new furniture) was a no go, not because of pain, but just don’t have strength there yet. My left still feels bruised to the touch…deep inside, with the odd sensations here and there. Shaving has become less terrifying and awkward, it’s at about 70% of the way there for being easy again, lol…who’da known?! I’ve worn bandeaus, coobies, sports bras, and underwire. The bandeau is the least comfortable!
That’s the ‘technical’ side of things!
Main thing here – I feel way way more confident being in my own skin: casually, informally, at the gym, in a bathing suit…I LOVE MY BOOBIES! (-: I feel happier in general just knowing they are there! I think my surgeon did an amazing job. As of yet, there haven’t been any happenings that would have pointed to being ‘the surgeons fault’ kind of thing. From the start the swelling was minimal and I firmly believe the little bit of bruising I had from the getgo/temporarily was from that awful underwire bra being too tight and too nasty for my sore boobies. I am still nervous to say, and may always be, that ‘everything is great’ because in the past whenever I’ve said that about anything (literally) something almost immediately goes wrong. Lol. (pessimist or just nervous?!) (-; But, yes…I love my breasts! Yahoo.
So far no one has said anything or looked at me ‘sideways/wondering’…in clothing they look the same as my stuffed bra did, only a little lower/nicer shaped. But in a bathing suit/bra/naked…quite a noticeable difference! Yay!
I hope all of you girls out there are doing great! Happy healing, happy moving on, happy thoughts to all of us! HUGS