One Month out , Loving my New Breast. La Mesa, CA

Hello ladies, so this isn’t the “traditional“ daily/weekly entry type of review/ journey. I’ve written this in that sense to get a feel for the whole process, but wanted a “complete view” before going live. Hope my insight helps someone else. Every one heals different and every ones “timing” will differ but I hope to give an overall somewhat generalized experience of my Breast Augmentation/Mastopexy.
At this moment I’m currently one month post op.The time has gone by rather quick and is almost unbelievable that I finally got my BA Mastopexy. Something I've been wanting for 11 years. Yes, eleven! Since I was 13 and starting to develop I knew my breast were'nt quote on quote normal to the standards of society and what pretty breast were.
To a 13 year old there is no understanding of bodies & uniqueness, we are growing to expect nice perky even breast and wanting to be the same as our friends. As a 13 year old with asymmetric tuberous breast life was tragic shopping for clothes or visiting the beach. I’d always be a little bit bigger never carrying it in my chest. Id began to gain weight. It wasnt much at first, but my breast still uneven, did grow slightly and I was able to conceal and disguise them better. I disliked my chest and was beginning to dislike my body for all the weight I'd gained. For years I researched tuberous breast, learned how to slim down, studied the type of implants I want and for what reasons, I researched surgeons and reviews. Years I compared what I thought my chest could look like to photos of breast I thought looked appealing. Years i battled my insecurities and years its taken to get this far. I am ready to heal & fully be the confident woman I truly am & I am so thankful for this journey.
I started in june of 2014, I set my consultation up for july 7th. Finally timing and finances seemed to line up. I started planning setting weekly budgets going over finances and expenses with a fine tooth comb, now Im not a huge spender to begin with so this was simple for me. I knew roughly what I would be quoted, how much money I actually had in bank and what I could be expecting in the checks for the following work weeks, my pay is fairly predictable. I calculated, estimated room rates as I planned on staying fairly close to my Dr. for a few days. I bought the things i thought i needed to stock up on, and general need to buy items. I mention being frugal due to the amount of time I’m taking off of work, so far i have missed 5 days leading up to surgery ( 1 I saw a Breast cancer specialist to rule out lumps or cancer, i am too young to get a mammogram, 1 for consultation and 3 for personal health check ups by md/obgyn which was not required but my Dr thought was a good idea i had planned ahead.) and have been off work an additional week and a half this far planning to return the 18th of august. (But may take an additional few) I planned for all my bills and payments for the months of June July and August assuring I had the money to cover responsibilities until returning to work.
By the time July came around its like a life time had passed, so much waiting and searching for the right Dr. My excitement out weighed my nerves as i head down to meet Dr. Tom Pousti for the first time. I live in north LA County which is about three hours from San Diego. Yes there are other surgeons closer, I'm sure they are fine, But from the moment i stumbled on to his web page I'd been confident He could and would fix me. Dr. Pousti has one of the most informative pages I've seen. I love how in depth he is, giving visual examples of the procedures, yes you should have a strong stomach to view some, but it gives insight to what he does for you. Im also a huge fan of his realself profile here and how active he is in the community taking extra time to give advice to women he may never even see! Without even having to see his vitals.com score, which is top notch i might add, I knew i would feel completely comfortable seeing him. And didn’t hesitate to call for my first consultation. Calling was simple and informative, the girls made setting the appointment a breeze.
As I enter the waiting room to check in I'm greeted politely and handed a few forms to sign and fill out, standard, a basket of waters & granola bars sit for those waiting and you're free to browse the before and after albums. Clearly welcoming you and your guests. Not long when Cindi a very nice patient coordinator calls me back to discuss and go over a few things like saline vs. silicone and such. She was helpful and courteous towards my mother and I, making us both feel at ease until we saw Dr. Pousti. She gave me a gown and sports bra to try on with some "sizzers" allowing me to play around with them and get an idea of what i may like, Cindi wrote down some cc's as reference close to what I may want. Some time passed and Cindi asked if we'd like to talk to a patient, she was just about 4 months post op in for a follow up. I thought that was wonderful being able to talk to someone who just went through it. She was very happy with the results and that she chose Dr. Pousti. Back to my consultation room, in comes the Dr. Warm friendly demeanor and completely professional. Dr. Pousti gave me a background history on himself before even beginning the consult, explaining his training, how he loves what he does and keeps himself focused. (Dr. Pousti is such a busy hard working man, and admire/appreciate his work all that more.) He then asked of my questions and concerns and then began to do an "exam", measuring and noting the placement of my nipples in my folder. He explained what he thought my options were, telling me he believes in a nice out come and giving me all the time i needed to think it over. Needless to say about 2+ hours in the office was enough to confirm, Dr. Pousti was the choice for me. By the end of the visit i’d spoken with two ladies (the second being 7 weeks out, beautiful results and very happy) & was making my additional deposit and scheduling my operation date.
Over the next couple weeks Cindi and the girls kept in contact with me making sure all my questions were answered, i even paid the rest of the total via email which went smooth and hassle free. I've kept extensive records & notes to stay organized and on track through the whole process.
August 5, “pre-op” office appointment, Daisy such a sweet girl in the office met with me to go over and confirm all my paper work and also asked me to take a simple pregnancy test which understandably I took to confirm I’d not gotten pregnant the weeks before. *THIS IS A HUGE NO NO, be smart ladies. Again Daisy asked of any and all questions, re-covering everything previously discussed , went over and noted things on my inspiration board and even saw a digital preview of my possible results, remember ladies nothings guaranteed and all results vary on body. I had an open mind and had trust in my Dr. to do what was best for me. My board was designed with careful thought, i knew the sizes may be un- realistic (not that i was hoping for huge)but the overall hope/goal would be the shape, placement, & “look”. From the first meeting Dr. Pousti assured he’d keep them guessing. Exactly what i want. So again he reviewed my photos and explained he’d do his best but “safety is more important than size” of course i know that but to hear your Dr. say that is reassurance he’s going to take care of you, and has your health in mind. We concluded the visit reviewing do’s and don’ts of the night no water or food after midnight standard information, got my prescriptions and said good night to the ladies and Dr.
August 6 day of surgery. Arrived at the surgery center, check in went smooth and only waited a few minutes before heading back to a private “pre-op “ room(yes you may have your care-giver sit with you until time) Sierra was courteous & thorough in explaining what was/ would be happening before leaving me to undress. I was given an electric “Bair Paw” heating gown to wear along with compression knee highstockings and a pair of “grippy” socks to keep my toes warm. I have really long natural hair,(Yes they ask if you have extensions which must be removed prior((I think they mean those clip in type but not 100% sure so ask))) so I pulled my hair in to a SIDE braid to prevent tension and allow “flat” surface for laying down, which was then tucked in to a hair net. I was allowed to keep my panties on. After all done I let Sierra know I was ready, she came back in & marked my tummy for silicone, as that is my choice of implant. Then had me sit back and propped my legs to begin “pre-op”. She dressed my calves with a massaging air wrap to be used in the operation room, took my blood pressure, oxygen & temperature before meeting Suzie who went over and confirmed questions. She then hooked my I.V drip, placing it on the side of my wrist, which wasn’t terribly uncomfortable but did feel odd and was relieved it was gone after recovery ha ha. After a while we met with another nurse, yes ladies you meet lots of different girls but I promise they are incredibly nice. I can not remember her name, she is rather tall and blonde with glasses, a really beautiful person. She was the one to discuss my goals before Dr. Pousti came to mark me. She brought in my inspiration board with a smile and opened it to review my likes and dislikes, taking notes on my thoughts, I wasn’t sure of the cc’s I gave an estimate of roughly 545 leaving it in Pousti’s hands. She informed me of all the possibilities with my circumstances, being only implanted on my left and having a lift plus implant on the right. I fully understood my condition and the risks and options. I understood he would do what he could for me, and that I could always have another operation to go larger if my limit was not what I wanted to achieve long term. I understood I’d be leaving with one drain because of the amount of work towards the one breast. I understood healing would be slightly different for each as they were essentially two different surgeries. She was genuinely interested in what I hoped for and things I had to say.
Finally(not long, and on time) Dr. Pousti enters greeting me and my mom as nice as ever, helping me out of the chair and placing my I.V. on a hook near a mirror so that I could see as he worked. Gently lowering my gown, adjusting my posture and marking my breast/chest. He explained everything as he did it, re-measuring for accuracy, I knew I was in good hands and he promised my mother he’d/they’d take care of me as he finished his marks and exited the room for a quick orange juice boost before surgery. The nice blonde guided me back to the operating room, keeping my mind at ease asking me things about my self. For the brief minute I witnessed the O.R it was very nice, organized, a good sized room, and even glimpsed my board. I was helped on to the table, which is warmed and felt really comfortable for the whole 7 seconds I recall laying there. Before dozing off I remember seeing Dr. Pousti, him telling me I will do well replying back that I know and so will he as the blonde asked of my favorite vacation spot, barely getting out San Diego while “peddling” my feet to sleep. Everyone (both at the surgery center and the La Mesa Office) make you feel comfortable and secure leaving little reason to worry or be nervous.
Entering recovery seemed a breeze, I woke up a bit groggy and trying to readjust, oddly my first instinct wasn’t to rip the covers off to see haha. I was reminded I’d just had surgery and that I can not use my arms, she lowered my bed to help me reposition to a more comfortable spot before raising the bed back up right. She was very attentive and quickly gave me an extra I.V pain drip when she noticed my discomfort, asking me to rate it 1-10 being worst pain ever. I was surprised it wasn’t unbearable and couldn’t really explain the feeling, I estimated it at about 8-9. Which dropped almost immediately after the I.V. I was waking up fairly quickly and the nurse even asked if I was forcing it to get out, there is a minimum of ONE HOUR recovery, so she wanted to make sure I got my rest. I assured her I was doing okay and that I really was alert, she offered and even fed me some ice chips for my sore throat, about 10 minutes after the first rating she asked again, it had dropped from high 8 to medium 7 which I actually think is good, she then gave me a pain pill explaining it would take a little longer but if I had an extra I.V I’d be in recovery longer than the hour, I was doing well so I opted for the pill and water. Continuing her other duties she kept tabs on me , having conversations as she began to I guess “de-op” me haha she checked my vitals a couple times before disconnecting and calling my mother back to help dress me. By this time my pain rating had dropped to 6 or less and I was ready to go, my mom came back smiling telling me she’d spoken with Dr. Pousti and things went better than even he hoped. I was expecting a “lollipop” Mastopexy lift, but fortunately and to great surprise he was able to do a minimal benelli lift so ill have very little scarring. Before I knew it I was dressed and eased in to a wheel chair and on my way out. The whole experience at the surgery center was more than I expected and am completely pleased with the center and staff.
Back to my room , the drive was not horrible but I did end up taking some more pain medication. First as I mentioned I was given the pain pill in recovery, was told one hour after I could take the relaxer, DO NOT MIX. So in the car on the way to my room I took the relaxer, Daisy from Pousti’s office called as I was heading “home” to check on me so I asked if I could take another pain pill after an additional hour and she said yes. So after settling into the room I was able to take another pill( 3:25 pain in recovery, 4:25 relaxer in car, 5:25 pain in hotel) You need to create a schedule & write your times/ pills down. And you need to ask before you take more, don’t just follow my example) I bought a pill organizer for $0.80 and made alarms in my phone for my scheduled medication. Yes you’re gonna be up at different hours but try not to miss, keeping your alarm, pills and a bottle of water right next to you as you sleep helps, although I did find myself having to potty most of the times I woke up any way. TAKE YOUR CONSTIPATION PREVENTION MEDICATION!!! I cant stress that enough, I thought I was taking enough, ( don’t take more than recommended , definitely talk with your Dr. or nurse for recommendations and dosing.) and I learned the hard way, literally one complete week of constipation, the worst part was the biggest affected day was my birthday. I was terribly uncomfortable, irritable and emotional from the bloat and pain in my lower parts. Luckily I’m getting back on track now. I was eating small and relatively healthy for being in a hotel for 4 days. And drinking water, powerade and muscle milk for the protein, and over all doing really well as far as pain and discomfort was going. Id even gotten out and walked around a park at the marina(slow and steady).
Friday the 8th was my first follow up ( two days after) I hadn’t met this lady before but she was still nice like Cindi and Daisy, she opened my surgical bra and gave me my first peak. Things were looking good and I was happy so far, there are/were subtle differences but as I said I knew they would be unique in a more appealing way and time will make them more beautiful. Patience ladies, I know its hard, im dying to see the end result but don’t rush! Dr. Pousti came in to discuss my operation and give me a little more description of what he told my mother. I have 595cc silicone implant on my left breast, and 545 cc silicone implant on my right with the benelli lift. The visit wasn’t long, and my drain was still dripping too much to be removed. So I was able to go home for a few days and asked to be seen again on Tuesday. The drive was pretty good and was there before I knew it, honestly don’t have much to report for the weekend, I slept more during the day and over all still felt good. I kept my self busy coloring in books, writing this off and on( its a novel I know but I want to be informative.)just taking it easy trying not to get too bored. I will admit my bum is getting REALLY tired of sitting and ive gotten some other muscle pains though. My chest is fairly comfortable, I haven’t experienced “morning boob” what ever that may be, I don’t really feel heavy or too much tightness the swelling is not bothersome either, though there is significant swelling that is expected. I suggest thermacare heat wraps for neck or back ache. I have been told not to lift my arms which is standard, but especially not the right, that is my dominate arm so things are a bit more difficult but I manage to wash my face, brush my teeth and wipe “ down there” just fine with my left. I do however have slight difficulties pulling or lowering my bottoms depending on elastic band. Baby wipes are your friend, but its just not the same. And hair washing is minimal for now, keeping it combed and pinned up loosely.

So my second post op appointment was on my birthday, and as I mentioned previously it was my worst day after surgery. Im not highly active but I do strive to walk at least 4 miles 5 days a week, so with the constipation, lack of activity and over all emotional up and downs that come with surgery(as I found out by daisy its normal, especially with the amount of work done for me) I just had a terrible day. It was supposed to be the best day of my life, really I just felt like crying. Daisy was incredibly caring wishing me a better afternoon and happier birthday. She called Dr. Pousti to ask if my drain could be removed, he determined my drip was still a little too much, and suggested leaving it. Daisy explained what he had said over the phone and I agreed to leave it in for an additional few days, I guess its not uncommon for it to stay up to a couple weeks. I don’t want to risk complications and trust in his word, after all he is the “expert” as I am not. (and I only do quotes around expert because Dr. Pousti does not have an inflated ego, and is rather modest.) Daisy allowed me to get another, my second real look at them, I’d already started seeing a little difference. With a fuller view I could take in all the work, theres still some ways to go but such an improvement in my chest already. Good news is I can start massaging my left in to its new pocket. Daisy showed me how to start the process so im excited about that, if only I could use my right arm( opposites massage properly) She also took a few photos for me before closing me back up and scheduling another drain removal appointment. By the time I got back home I was finally starting the bowel process, TMI I suppose but it was a huge relief, pun not intended lol but the last two days were rough.
Today being the 14th, ive gotten to feeling good again, of course still sore ESPECIALLY my tush!!! (from sitting) Ive got a day and a half before seeing Daisy again(if my drain has slowed enough)so im excited to take care of that and hopefully get some more pictures too.

So its been about four days since my last “entry”, originally I intended to have the drain removed 2 days ago but the night before my appointment I called to speak about the amount still draining and we decided an additional two days would be best. So over the weekend I just continued to take it easy, I was even able to shave my legs.(everyday feels more normal) ((BUT STILL TAKE IT SLOW, Its only been 12 days since surgery)) Today August 18th I was able to keep my scheduled appointment this morning, I called down to the office when the girls got in. I was about half the way there and had an early appointment so I wanted to confirm the levels were suitable for removal. Luckily Daisy assured it’d come out today. Got in to the office which was rather full at first but everyone got seen quickly. I was a bit early so the wait wasn’t bad. Dr. Pousti was very sweet welcoming my mother and I in the waiting room, and explained the wait time himself apologizing and offering us waters. Shortly it was my turn Cindi called me back to do an initial check of the drain, asking how I was feeling and all. Daisy ended up confirming and Dr. Pousti came in to see and speak with me explaining that Daisy would be gentle in removing it, first numbing to help relieve discomfort. He checked his work kindly saying he knows they may not look as pretty now, but still believes in a beautiful outcome. Its been a bit rough, I haven’t gotten to clear of a look until now. All the bandages had covered my views , but I could still tell they were a bit “wonky” at least my left. My right well that’s near perfect to goal, and that one I was expecting a lot of scars. Its beautiful, Great job Dr. Pousti! My left well that’s the one that needs to settle in more I knew it would be different but it doesn’t make it easier coming from my situation. But today Dr. gave me the full go to massage it in to place, I can definitely see how and where its going to hopefully end up and I’m excited I’m able to work & enjoy them now. Ive snapped a few photo’s for now. And scheduled a “one month” appointment for two weeks. ………
Its been just over a week since my last update, and im really please with how they are looking and coming along, better than I thought, there’s still some time needed to drop but im loving them completely so far. Ive been able to shower as normal( still easy to lift arms and careful not to slip and fall or jar my body/chest) Using water proof bandages, not the easiest to cover, size available to me were id say a “medium”, but I used quiet a few on just my right and a few more on my left just to cover the surgical tape/stitching completely.
Since my last time writing I have continued with the “taking it easy” Still no heavy exercise , lifting or strenuous activity, but Im able to get going and back on track with walking daily and was able to start shaving my underarms again,(not lifting to fast or high , I was about 3.5 weeks out). Started back at work on the 21st so only a couple days past my “expected return date” unfortunately works been hectic since going back and has been a part of my putting this off. Plus I wanted to get a little more time to see my results before posting for the world. I’ve trusted Dr. Pousti’s work/ Skills and knowledge from the beginning and I couldn’t imagine better results from anyone else. (I didn’t want the first few photos to be the ones YOU judged his work on, because we know they looked a bit funky) I’m incredibly excited to see the “final” look in the next year. Today was my one month appointment, and I’m relieved to find out my massage should become a bit more intense. I worried myself the other night, it felt pretty vigorous and I was afraid I’d messed up some of the pocket. Id come on here (real self) for answers, happy to see MY Dr. reviewing and replying to these (also worried) women, concerned of double bubble and bottoming out, I read their “symptoms” and feelings and stories of what happened to cause alarm. This helped me relax as I read through the answers from various surgeons, (of course not completely reliable in this way) many of them including Dr. Pousti “agreeing” and offering insight. Feeling myself (and also knowing the unlikely chance of me harming it, but the small possibility, and understanding it was all my own doing and nothing Dr. Pousti had done during surgery, I realized my only option was to be easy and “wait it out” see how things feel and work in to place, my appointment is close and a revision would be a ways down the line in the eyes of time. )So hadn’t massaged quiet like I was told in a couple days, BUT today Daisy (always pleasant and sweet) explained the constriction on the left(which is the one I was working on, and became afraid of ha ha) needed to be released and the implant worked down before the new pocket heals, the tightness I felt should loosen & to push the silicone implant down firmer filling in the bottom of the pocket. I was also happy to hear I can start wearing non underwire bras, no more(well ,less anyway) surgical bra and strap, I still need the support but not a tight hold “up”, we want to let them fall in to place now. So with all that good news I was also given the go for scar medication, bought some in the office, prescription type, so ill review that too I suppose. Dr. come in warm as ever and pleased to see how its coming along and asked Daisy to take a post op photo for the office. And asked if id mind coming back down in a month to check the remaining stitching tape, so before leaving I set that up.
Over all I couldn’t imagine a better experience and out-come, really more than I could of hoped for. And will definitely return to see Dr. Pousti for any and all cosmetic works in the future, possibly going larger but I’m really happy with the size now. Only time knows ? I can not thank Dr. Pousti and his staff enough!