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Mommy Makeover 4 Weeks Post-Op! - Orlando

Worth It
Spent: $13,000 in Orlando, FL

Comments (337)

Updated 26 Jul 2011

Posted 27 Oct 2010

I have recently looked into having a mommy makeover on myself. I have two boys and have tried to lose weight, get back into shape, etc... but I still have the saggy skin, stretch marks and floppy breast.

I am 30 yrs old, 5'10, usually weigh around 170lbs but trying to get to 160lbs. My weight prior to children was 155lbs. I gained about 60 lbs with my first born and 50lbs with my second born. After my first born, I was able to lose the weight and get back into my clothes within a year of his birth (literally- his 1st birthday). However, my second son I still have about 10lbs to get back to pre-preg. weight and their is the issue of stretch marks, sagginess, love handles, etc.. all that won't go away.

I have 4 consultations with highly rated plastic surgeons in a few weeks, and plan to actually have my surgery next summer (June 2011). I am researching everything from breast lifts/ augmentation, tummy tucks, etc...

I am also working out at the gym to get my muscles in shape for the recovery.

I am looking for advice regarding Drs, Questions, Procedures, Pre-Op To Do, Post-OP To Do, expectations, etc...

I hope to update as I progress to my date.

Updated on Nov 1, 2010:
Since I have joined RealSelf.com, I have been thinking more and more about my upcoming consultations in the next 3 weeks. Looking at the success stories is truly inspiring. I just pray it will be for me as well. One thing my husband asked me- was if I would be excited about shopping for clothes. Since I hate how certain tight shirts/blouses look on me (stomach and sides). Thinking about it is so exciting yet, nerve wrecking too. I can't wait for the next three weeks to pass for my consult. We decided to cancel one consult. The Dr. we are canceling is primarily a breast doctor and only does mini-tummy tucks (which I am not a candidate for). I'd like to find a 4th Dr. to replace that consult. However, it is so hard to pick a Dr. with a good reputation. I don't know anyone who has had PS. I wish there was an easier way to pick a DR.

Updated on 13 Nov 2010:
I have a dilemma and I am not sure if it is worth the worry. My husband and I had decided no more kids. He got snipped because it was cheaper and less evasive for him. My dilemma is what if the vas tubes reconnect and I get pregnant. I know it stupid-but I am not fixed so I can still get pregnant. That is something we don't want- we are happy with our two boys. I hate to put so much time and money into a surgery and have that happen. Has anyone else thought of this? Anyone else who isn't fixed but has had a tummy tuck?

Updated on 24 Nov 2010:
So yesterday and today were my consult days. I met with three PS yesterday and today was supposed to meet with the "one" that I was truly excited about meeting. I meet with the first, really enjoyed him, felt comfortable and confident in his recommendations. He recommended an extended tummy tuck, a breast lift with lollipop incision, and 325cc low profile implants under the muscle. I actually tried on a sports bra and the implants to see what I would look like.

The second PS within the first few minutes was wrong. I knew immediately that he was not the one and his recommendations were completely off. He recommended a mini tummy tuck, and breast lift with lollipop incision, and then waiting to get implants later. The entire examination was completely awkward.

My third consult was as nice as the first, he recommended a full tummy tuck, a breast lift with lollipop incision, and 275cc high profile implants under the muscle.

Both my husband and I were confused by the contradicting recommendations on the implant size and style. The first PS explained why low profile vs. the high profile would be better. I told both of the PS (first and third) that I wanted to be round, full, but not porn “style” The third PS I don’t think listened to my wants. After thinking about both PS (first and third appt), I felt that the first PS would give me what I truly desired and I felt confident that he would give me the right look, without having lumpiness, or other issues.

Another confusing factor was the major price difference. Our first PS quoted us $22,000. The second quoted $14,000. And the third quoted $16,000. It’s amazing the difference in price. My consult for today was canceled for an emergency (on the Doctor’s part). I was very disappointed in the cancelation. I have rescheduled for next Tuesday, but have to take some time off for work for the consult. I am frustrated about having to reschedule (third time this PS has rescheduled my consult). However, this is one of the PS that I have been interested in seeing. I want to hear what he has to say and what he recommends. I have seen so many positive comments about this PS and the before and after pictures are amazing.

So needless to say no decision to be made yet.

Updated on 6 Dec 2010:
Picked my PS out of 4 consults and decided to go with Dr. Soto. I scheduled my Pre-Op for may 24th as well as my Surgery for June 13th and my Post-Op for June 17th.

Updated on 9 Dec 2010:
I still have 6 months until my surgery. however, my husband and I are planners. I wanted to know the ins and outs of the mommy makeover and have plenty of time to determine my PS. While I wait out these next few months I am lifting weights at the gym, watching what I eat and making healthy decisions for me. I want to work for this makeover and I am determined to keep it looking good. I Don't want all that money to go to waste.

Updated on 19 Jan 2011:
Still working on losing weight. I've lost 10 pounds. Eating better and healthier foods. I honestly feel better now that I have eliminated junk foods. Working out with weights and doing zumba twice a week. Looking forward to my second appt with my PS. Feel like time is ticking slowly by.



Updated on 24 Mar 2011:
So the other day I was diagnosed with PCOS. Not surprised, I've always had very heavy periods. However, lately my periods (still heavy) have been very irregular. Also I have had horrible adult acne. The crazy thing is that if you watch your diet and exercise your hormones could re-balance. I have been doing that, watching my diet and exercising. I’ve improved my Triglycerides over 105 points, my bad cholesterol has improved several points too (wasn’t high to begin with). Since the weight loss has been difficult and my skin horrendous, I am contemplating taking BC again to help regulate the hormones. The side affects of PCOS are very unfeminine anyways. I rather not grow facial hair, nipple hair, belly and back hair, male pattern baldness... all that sounds horrible. None of this should have any affect on my upcoming mommy makeover, the only positive outcome, is the birth control is extra protection from getting pregnant.

Updated on 31 May 2011:
SO the last 6 months did fly by, faster than expected. I went for my pre-op appt today. MY hubby was with me so he could listen and learn all he has to do to help me. I filled out all the paper work. I am so ready for this and I can't wait. Dr. S. and I talked about my "breast" desires. I was still unsure until I realized that I honestly want to look similar to Scarlett Johansson. He agree that on my body frame, it would look natural and I agree. I am not sure how I am going to focus for the next 13 days. I also took my pre-op pics in office. I think I held a bit of it in :( it is hard to relax and let it all out. I've been holding that fat in for too long.

Updated on 18 Jun 2011:
5 days post-op, feeling great. Just tender in some areas. I'm itching quite a bit under the garments. ready for my right drain to come out in a few days.

Updated on 21 Jun 2011:
I am on Tylenol only now and just uncomfortable. Getting harder to sleep. I pray these drains come out so I can get into bed and sleep! A week in the recliner has done me in.
Last night during our evening binder check (put antibiotic ointment on blisters, etc..) We noticed a few stretch marks remain below my new belly button. A little disappointed. figured they would be so low that a bikini would hide them. :(

Updated on 21 Jun 2011:
8-Days Post-op.
Had my first Post-Op appt today. I met with Cassie (Dr.Soto's Nurse). She said I look great, but very swollen.
She took out my right drain only. Oh goodness that felt weird. Its one of those things you can describe except weird and yes it felt like a snake squirming around in my belly, running over my ribs!
Basically my blisters are from the tubs and compression binder. I just hope no more form. The office was soooo cold, I was shaking, she had to get me a warm blanket. She showed my husband and I how to do breast massages. WEIRD and a bit painful, but I don't want to ruin my new breast.
Also got to see my belly button for the first time. It looks pretty, actually I am lying, it has stiches. But I think it has the potential to be pretty.
I thought that my husband was putting on my binder tight, obvisouly it wasn't tight enough. Man, Cassie wrapped that binder so tight, I feel like barbie! The tighter is is the more the fluid will drain and I can get my left drain out a week from today. Oh I can't wait.

Updated on 25 Jun 2011:
Day 12 Post-op I know that I am going to have numbness. I definitely can't feel the section below my belly button, and I can't feel my right nipple and the area surrounding the right nipple. My left breast is fine (thank god). I just hope that sensation will come back to my right breast. I am happy to have great looking breast, but no sensation will suck.

Updated on 28 Jun 2011:
2 Week Post Op pictures

Updated on 7 Jul 2011:
24 Days Post-OP
I am going into Dr. Soto's office today for a quick check up. Last night when I was changing my incision tapes, my right breast was very red from where the tape was applied. I also had bleeding from my skin, not the incision. My left drain is not healing, or closing. There is yellow pus oozing from it and its swollen and red :(. Hoping they can figure it out.

Updated on 13 Jul 2011:
4 Weeks Post-Op Pictures and upclose of incisions. I sewed my binder another inch (maybe inch and half) closed again. It was getting too lose and felt it wasn't helping my swelling. I hope that was OK, it seems that my swelling isn't improving. I am feeling very lazy with not working out and sitting on my butt all day!

Updated on 13 Jul 2011:
Sorry the pictures are blurry. My husband didn't realize and didn't want to re-shoot them. :(

Updated on 15 Jul 2011:
Posting a Breast pic- get a good look. I will be taking it down in a few days.

Updated on 26 Jul 2011:

6 Weeks Post-Op. Went in for my 6 week check up. Cassie removed my sutures from my belly button and one more from my breast that she had missed. I don't have to wear the binder anymore! YEA, Thank goodness. I can start working out, slowly, but I can! I have to use silicon (Kelo-cote) on my incisions to help them heal. I feel like a new woman. I am going back on Thursday for cool-sculpting on my back (bra-fat).

This review is the subjective opinion of a RealSelf member and not of RealSelf, Inc.

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My Doctor: Armando Soto, MD

My rating:

I have heard excellent reviews about Dr. Soto and knew that I had to meet him. He didn't dissapoint me. He was very thorough in his explanations. I feel comfortable with him and felt that I would receive the best results with him.

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Comments (337)

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Angiemcc (Community Manager) 28 Oct 2010

Thanks so much for sharing your story and posting your photos! You look like an awesome candidate for a mommy makeover. You'll find tons of information on RealSelf. I would suggest reading through other women's reviews, checking out our forums and reading through some doctor questions and answers. Also feel free to post in these areas of the site.

Good luck and please keep us updated on your process!

ritrit 4 Nov 2010
Hi. You look like you are going to get a great result. Being in good physical shape really helps with the recovery.Im sure once you start going to consult appts you will get a good feeling for who you feel comfortable with. I live in the orlando area as well and visited with 3 doctors, I learned something different from each one. Make sure they spend plenty of time with you, answering your questions and offering advice on what procedure they think will suit you best.One doctor was so rushed, he spent under 10 minutes with me and when I started to ask questions he said we would discuss this at the pre-op appt. I couldnt get out of there fast enough! I was really lucky I found a great doctor on this website and almost 6 weeks after my tummy tuck Im sure I made the right choice. Good luck!
Orlando321 4 Nov 2010
Thanks for the support. I noticed that you used Dr. Soto. I have a consult with him in a few weeks. Also with 3 other drs. I wanted to know who were the other drs, and what did you think of them. When you went for the consults did all 3 doctors recommend the same or similar procedures? I would love to see your pictures if you have any.
I searched through a basic web search for drs. then I found a link from one of those searches for realself and saw another patient of Dr. Soto's with pre and post pictures. Those pictures pretty much secured him a spot on my calendar for a consult.
I am glad that you are happy with your results so far. I am excited and hope to find a dr that I feel safe with and know that the dr will do a great job.
ritrit 4 Nov 2010
Hi.Im sorry about not posting pictures, im a little on the conservative side. I can tell you that the only doctor that came close to Dr Soto was Dr Fiala. He was very nice and spent alot of time answering my questions and even offered another free follow up consultation. Not all doctors suggested the same procedure,one suggested a body lift because I have lost alot of weight. That seemed too extreme for me. I am so glad that I didnt choose that surgery. Dr Soto performed an extended t.t. with lipo of the flanks and that really took care of all my issues. I was so worried about loose skin and the pain I couldnt believe that it would turn out this well. He truly is a artist, I didnt even look this good in high school . I have already lost 5 inches from my waist! Sorry for such a long reply, but I know how difficult it is to find a P.S. you can trust. Best wishes.
Orlando321 6 Nov 2010
Wow, I am really excited about meeting Dr. Soto. I also have an appt with Dr. Fiala as well. Out of the 4 consults- those two seem to be the ones that I would lean toward. My concerns (and my husbands)when getting the recommendations- is that all 4 doctors will same something different in regards to what they would do in regards to my breast. Although we will be evaluating the Drs on how comfortable we feel with them, how we are treated, etc... but if you get 4 different or even 3 different recommendations- how do you know who to believe in regards of what is best for you. Did you have this problem?
I don't mind your long reply- I enjoy reading about everyone's thoughts and feelings- it a big decision- that needs a ton of contemplation.
ritrit 6 Nov 2010
Hi.I know what you mean about each doctor having different opinions. I think it all comes down to comfort and trust. I think when it comes to your t.t. , you will probably get similar opinions. As for the breast lift, keep an open mind and listen to all of their suggestions. In the end, you and your husband will make the decision that your comfortable with. To be honest, I had one consult for a breast lift and the doctor suggested a lift and an implant. I really didnt want an implant and he felt the lift alone wouldnt satisfy me. I was also worried about decreased sensitivity,so my husband and I decided to do nothing. Im in pretty bad shape in that area but a good bra can almost work miracles (lol). I didnt even talk to Dr. Soto about it. Im sure you have already seen his pictures here but he also will show you more in the office. Your pictures look good in that area, are you sure you need a lift? Let us know how your consultations go. I wasnt planning to have my t.t. until Thanksgiving or Winter break but the doctor got me so excited about having a flat tummy, I booked it earlier. It might be difficult for you to wait until June once you find the right doctor. Im sure all your research will pay off and you will be very happy.
Orlando321 7 Nov 2010
I understand about the excitement and not wanting to wait longer until next summer. However, we are using this time to get me into the best physical shape. I know that the better shape my muscles are the better recovery. I also can't take that much time off from work- but by June will have enough time saved up. Also money, we want to save up as much as possible.I would love to do it this winter (During my time off then)- but I want to have as much time off to heal properly. My youngest son will be a bit older, and hopefully more manageable. I know my breast aren't as bad as some I have seen. I am grateful for that. However, I want to be able to wear certain tops and not have the droppiness. I really want the fullness back. I have a friend (considering the same procedures as me), and one day we were both talking about how we don't want the flat pancake breast anymore. I want the nice round blueberry in the pancake! I know weird analogy. But you are right I have nice Victoria's Secret bras that hold me up, but right now I am not happy with that.
ritrit 7 Nov 2010
Hello. You sound like you have it all together and your plans sound well thought out. I know cost shouldnt be a deciding factor in choosing your doctor but it is very important in todays economy. I think you will find that there is a big difference in prices for the same procedure from different doctors. If you compare education, comfort level, pictures and patient reviews for the same procedure after your consults you will know what I am talking about. The doctor we ended up choosing was actually very fair in price.One doctor wanted 2,300. more for the same procedure. It wasnt a deciding factor but it makes a difference.
Baby Blues 28 Oct 2010
Looks like you are doing your homework starting with 4 appointments. I went to three. The first and last were not for me and I ended up going back to the second one. I was happy that the second and third were really close in what they suggested it made me confident with my decision. You do look like a great candidate.
Tom at RealSelf (Community Manager) 1 Nov 2010

Here's a forum post about Tummy Tuck Consultation Questions to Ask

and another about Consultation Questions for Breast Implants

Hope this is helpful

 

lfrancis414 (unregistered guest) 14 Nov 2010
hi. I had a brazilian butt lift with dr soto in november of 2009 and love it! He is a fabuolous doctor. I am having a mommy makeover november 24th so I can tell you all about it. My husband also snipped "his babies" but i dont think about pregnancy. If I do, I will have more money when I sue the doctor (!!) but go see Dr. Soto, from experience he is fabulous; thats y i am going back to him...........
Orlando321 18 Nov 2010
Hi lfrancis,
I just realized that you are having your mommy makeover the same day I have my consult with Dr. Soto? Are you doing your mommy makeover with Dr. Soto? I am really excited to meet him and just get the basic info on what can done for this patheltic body! I can't wait to see your pictures!! Congrats and keep me updated.
Orlando321 18 Nov 2010
I recently told a friend that I was getting the mommy makeover done. I didn't get too much support from her. She had a friend do the same procedure and she said based on the level of pain and expense it wasn't worth it. That after a few years, weight gain. You couldn't tell she had anything done. I was somewhat upset about that. I watch what I eat, exercise every other day. I plan to continue that after my procedure as well. I wish people were more supportive. I am trying to work on losing the extra 20lbs. I want to try to cut out most carbs, try to eat lean protein, salads, veggies and fruit for a whole month and see if I drop any weight. :) Lets hope, come January 1st I will have dropped some lbs, I have 6 months to lose the weight.
momiemkovr 1 Sep 2011
Hi Orlando...you look really good! we are both 4 wks post op. Your friend must be a lazy piggy and was fat from the get go. This is not a way to loose weight. also would you consider an IUD? I like mine. Really stops heavy bleeding. Dont know if this an option for you. My skin is great due to the Retina. It's a process that last about 3 months or so to even out and not have troubled skin. I use it every night with a little cream. I always wear a hat now at 45. No sun can be on your face. I'm known as the lady in the hat and thats cook with me. Rentina is $200 a tube and last a long time. Those few months were a journey and I wanted to give up on it due to worse breakouts flaky ugly skin, when I all got straighten out I was so thrilled! One less thing to be worried about>
Christina Grand Rapids 18 Nov 2010
I have some people that don't support my decision either. Weight gain is something we can control so it sounds like your friend might be a bit angry with herself that she had all the work done, spent the money and then gained weight. Your decision is supported here :) The best advice I can give about losing those 20 pounds is eat smart :) Lots of fruits and vegetables, along with lean meats is a good plan! I gave up all fast food and I was the fast food queen LOL
Orlando321 18 Nov 2010
Thanks Christine- that is why I love this site- everyone is so encouraging and helpful.
Today was my last day of fast food. I plan to eat sensibly during the holidays and really set out a plan and menu so I can't make the excuse of "no time" to prepare anything. Do you eat smart all the time or do you occasionally have a treat? I love Ice Cream. I was always known as Ice Cream Queen growing up- I would eat one bite of dinner and than want ice cream. As long as it isn't in the house I am fine- but the minute its on my mind, I go crazy.
Baby Blues 19 Nov 2010
About the diet I had been on one that allowed fat free frozen yogurt. Like a 1/2 cup - great way to get some sweets without screwing everything up. I quit drinking soda completely about 5 years ago that is a way to drop a ton of calories out of your diet. Also, I have a friend and my sister that think I am crazy going for surgery but they don't have to live in my body and I don't tell them how to live their lives. Seems like a good trade off and they may be scared or jealous? I don't know how to change their minds but neither of them have a gross tummy like mine so they will learn to live with my decision. You are not asking them for the money or to help you recuperate so don't sweat it.
Christina Grand Rapids 19 Nov 2010
I do allow myself treats Orlando, you have to or when you do you are more likely to go way overboard! I have learned that you can eat the foods you love as long as you keep them in moderation. I love Chinese food but as you probably know, the majority of it is fried and not very good for you :) Once every couple of months or so I have some...but now I can't eat as much because of the grease.

Baby Blues - I have someone I work with you thinks it is ridiculous that I am doing this and my sister isn't all that enthused about it either but like you said, we don't tell them how to live their lives :) This is our decision! Can you believe we are just weeks away now?
Orlando321 19 Nov 2010
I agree about proportion, eating in moderation and an occasional treat. A lot of people say- I don't need to lose weight or, "You look fine"- But you are right- They don't have to live in this body. I hate undressing in front of my husband, I hate being completely naked for sex! Its horrible way to live. I am ready for a change. I wish more people realized this instead of hating their bodies. I am so excited for you too, please keep updating so I can follow your progress.
Orlando321 22 Nov 2010
I know that some of you are literally days away from your actual surgery. Tomorrow I actually go for my first consults. I have three lined up tomorrow (literally back to back) and one more on Wednesday. I am so excited and nervous. I am excited because we are actually taking the steps to make this a reality. Nervous because I don't want to be let down in my expectations that I already created in my head. I met a lady at the gym this evening. She had breast augmentation and she offered tons of advice. I wish I could honestly meet more women and get honest advice. She gave me her name and number and we are both in the same profession. Which makes me feel better.
I must get off- I have to print off my questions for my appts. tomorrow. :)
Christina Grand Rapids 22 Nov 2010
17 but who's counting LOL I am super excited for Jen who is closer then any of us! Those first consults are very exciting. I was referred to my doctor by my sis in law who went to her for implants and she did a ton of research before her surgery; it made my choice very easy :) I remember how nervous I was at our first appointment but she was really nice and was funny; I liked that! When she saw my breasts she was like oh honey, we need to fix those LOL Let us know how everything goes. My last appointment before surgery is 11/29 and I am putting together a list of questions too!
Orlando321 30 Nov 2010
Alright, I finally saw Dr. Soto today. I am so thrilled that I waited out to finally get in with him. I was frustrated at first with the constant cancellations. However, 4th time was a charm. We met with Dr. Soto and everything I read about was true. He has a great manner about him. He explained everything far better than the other PS and he seemed to listen and respond to what I said, not what he wanted. On Monday I will call and schedule my next consult, pre-op and surgery date and pay my 20% deposit. Before my hubby and I met with the financial secretary I was sure he was the one to go with no matter is his cost were more or less than the other PS I liked. He is much cheaper than the first one I liked, but I know that with him I will be happy with my outcome. I have seen tons of positive comments and nothing negative about him. Now that we have the PS picked I am so STOKED about this. I can't wait for June to roll around. :)
ritrit 30 Nov 2010
Hi. Congratulations! Im sure you wont be disappointed. One of the fantastic things about Dr.Soto is that you can email him with any questions that you have, no matter how trivial you think they are. Sometimes I would forget or just be shy to ask in person and he always responded very quickly. Im excited for you. I just paid 20% down for my lipo of the back and arms today too. I would never let another doctor perform p.s. on me after my excellent experience with Dr. Soto and his staff. Hey, from one ice cream queen to another, have you tried Skinny Cow chocolate truffle bars? Only 100 calories and they are a great treat after a good workout.
Orlando321 1 Dec 2010
I am glad to hear that. I knew when I had read a few of his articles that he would be the PS to go with. I haven't tried Skinny Cow- seen them but never tried. I am actually going to try to stay away and only treat on occasion- Like If I lost weight. I have been doing great with salads and chicken on them this whole week. I might get tired of the salads but they are so delicious. I would love to see your pictures!
lfrancis414 (unregistered guest) 30 Nov 2010
hi. i actually had my butt done by dr soto last year and yes i know from first hand experience he is great! i called him a lot during my previous surgery b/c i got very sick from the anesthesia and he answered me each time; one call was at 2am!! I would NEVER spend my money anywhere else with any other doctor; i dont care if they did the service free.... thanks for the skinny cow tip....i love ice cream

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