This might be the only review I did for years but I couldn’t resist writing my great experiences for Dr. Ladak and his office staff. I consulted with many doctors, but Dr. Ladak was the best decision I had ever made. Office staff Teresa was very helpful and fast responding to get the ball rolling. Surgical office staff were patient and professional for the entire procedure and after cares. Doctor Ladak is associate professor within the division of Plastic Surgery at the U of A and the facility section head of plastic surgery at the U of A Hospital. That says a lot already but I was impressed with his patient satisfaction reviews and experience before and glad to be one of them now.
I cannot hype up Dr. Ladak enough!! He is such a kind surgeon and listened to exactly what I wanted! Almost 2 years ago I had a surgery done by a different surgeon in Calgary and hated the way the implants felt under the muscle. They were uncomfortable, had distortion with any upper body activity I did and didn’t look nice when doing anything that used my chest muscle. I told Dr. Ladak I NEEDED my new implants to be over the muscle this time and that was a must. I also convinced him to give me a five layer close instead of the standard three close for extra support, this costed me $1500 more than his original estimate, but it’s certainly not necessary to get, I was just being anal! He listened to me and my concerns, understood exactly what I wanted my outcome to be and gave me even better of a result than I could’ve ever asked for!! I had originally wanted to go as big as my body could fit, so the range he said I might be able to fit is between 485cc and 525cc. He ended up going with 500cc in surgery (Sub-fascial) and I could not be any happier with the results! Immediately after surgery I felt instant relief, felt like my chest muscle was not pushing on my implant anymore, they sat nicely, they are big and round and I have the middle cleavage I’ve always wanted. The recovery was so much quicker than my first time around, they looked perfect not even a week after surgery. I am so happy with the outcome!
I found the reviews and pictures on Real Self to be the most helpful so while I am recovering I will aim to post notes and pictures to help others. I had my procedure with Dr. Ladak who is just a very nice, soft spoken Doc with an excellent resume. My primary goal was to repair my separated abdomen, which I have already done a ton of physio for. I also really disliked my loose skin from the 60 lbs I lost and gained three times. I requested a letter from Dr. Ladak indicating this repair as medically indicated as I have low back pain, incontenence & do not have core strength due to my Diastasis Rectus. This will allow me to write this portion off on taxes and perhaps run through my health spending account. For me the Breast Augmentation was more optional and I went for a “refill” to restore the natural shape. I did not want a lift so I ended up with 400 cc High Profile Silicon implants under the muscle in order to fill my loose skin up without requiring a lift and to have a more natural bust. Teresa is Dr Ladak’s assistant and she is excellent. Booking a consult comes first and then you go for a sizing. Interestingly the sizing was quite straightforward. I wanted a smaller look as I am athletic so Dr. Ladak helped to pick a size that was proportionate 385 cc. I had a morning surgery arriving at 7 am and after meeting the nurse & Dr. Ladak for Sharpie drawings (landmarking) I was right to the OR. I quickly went to sleep and don’t remember a thing. During the surgery he actually placed a 400 cc implant as that was what looked the best. Under the muscle will settle and look about 50 cc smaller than over the muscle. I had 980 grams of excess skin removed and 120 cc of liposuction on the flanks to even out my abdomen. I was very weak after as my BP was low from the medications. You basically cannot use your arms or core muscles so be prepared! You cannot stand up straight and you will have a drain to manage. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND renting, buying or borrowing a lift chair so you can sleep in it and stand yourself up. I rented a lift chair from Healthcare Solutions for $100/week with another $100 for delivery & pick up. I also got a big reading pillow. I picked up a few button up PJ tops, slip on slippers and hospital underwear (basically shorts undies that you can tuck your drain in). I also had my heating pad, cozy robes & scrunchies. I was very Fortunate to be away from my kids and home and stayed at my sisters. She did everything for me. I couldn’t even open child locked pill bottles, do my hair or position pillows. This got better over time but the weakness was surprising. It hurt to pump soap from the bottle! The pain was manageable with medications, I had many people tell me not to fall behind on my pain meds so I stuck to a schedule. I also took Restorilax, drank tons of fluid and ate fruit, bran muffins, fibre one bars to prevent constipation. I drank chocolate milk, ate nuts, yogurt and precooked hard boiled eggs (high protein) and took vitamin C, Multivitamin & Probiotics to help with healing. I’ll post some photos as I go and hopefully you find them helpful. Updated on 27 Jan 2022: Had to leave the house today. Walking hunched over I made it in to the check up. Unfortunately my blood pressure dropped and I had a Vaso Vagal nerve reaction and felt quite Sick. I had to just lay in the chair, drink juice and wait to feel better before I was allowed to walk. My incisions apparently look great although I think they are atrocious. The swelling is yucky I try not to look much I can’t wait for it to look more natural. I’m pretty sore today as I’m on regular Tylenol now & Advil. I can really feel the soreness all over and my back kills when I walk. Heating pad is a must. Updated on 2 Feb 2022: Ok day 4 & 5 sucked. I had no more Percocets and the Tramacet made me so tired I only took it at night as I was too uncomfortable to sleep well. Advil & Tylenol were not as strong odviosly. It didn’t help that my lift chair was broken (was stuck in recline) and they brought me a new one that was not as comfy. GET THE GOLDEN BOY lift chair rental from Health Care Solutions in Edmonton, trust me on this. It wasn’t pain in my incision but my back killed if I got up to move around as I’m bent over & have no core to hold me up. The swelling & healing is itchy & tight. I keep eating protein all day long, using Restorilax daily and having fibre foods daily (bran muffins, Muslix cereal). It is hard to eat much with the swelling & binder on! I’m regaining my arms back with full range of motion though! I can shower sitting on a high step stool (with great effort) which is great. Definitely depressed day 4&5 with lack of sleep, so uncomfy & missing my family. I figured out to take 2 Tramacet & use tons of comfy pillows (like 6) all around me and I got my sleep back! I went home day 6, yay! I was shocked at how little I could do. I cannot lift the milk, I have to sit at a chair to make toast & I can only put a few dishes in the dishwasher. I have three demanding kids that I’m used to doing everything for. My husband had them for one week and kept the house looking great but he looks like he is fully burnt out. I still cannot sleep laying down, it makes my heart pound. Anyway I have read upright sleeping is best for healing & reducing scars so I sleep on our sectional chaise lounge with pillows all around. Day 7 my sister drives me to the surgical centre at meadowlark mall for my follow up. My steri strip tape comes off & my drain is removed - yay! The nurse said my incision is almost healed and my breasts are starting to soften. My belly button will take time to heal but looks just fine. Dr Ladak said I had a large gap (diastasis) that he repaired all the way from my breastbone to my pubic bone. I also had a hernia behind my belly button that required a lot of work. So no wonder I am sore! Teresa is sending me a note for my abdominal repair so I can send it through my health spending account & im also planning to write it off for taxes. I am so excited to have my core back together! I have spent a lot of time & money on physio to fix it and on massage etc. to treat my back pain! I also have my fingers crossed it may help my bladder lift up in my abdominal cavity to stop my stress incontenance. Based on my research it helps many women & it would help me avoid another surgery for a hysterectomy & bladder lift…. My sister helps me at home carrying things to & fro and I have a housekeeper coming this week. I have my kids doing all kinds of things for me, I guess it’s about time they learn… Updated on 4 Feb 2022: Ugh so I did to much around the house yesterday… sweeping, dishes, folding laundry and wiping down some sinks as my housekeeper bailed. I basically wiped myself out and got really swollen at my incision so no more of that! Here’s some more photos of the excellent work by Dr. Ladak :) Updated on 18 Feb 2022: Day 18. I’m still so tired every day, cannot shoulder check and driving makes me so sore. Boobs still swell & feel engorged. Can do a bit more around the house like loading & unloading the dishwasher. Still wearing compression around the clock. Updated on 2 Mar 2022: Ok so the last little bit has been lame. I saw Dr Ladak at almost 5 weeks and the incision looked great he said. He told me to do displacement exercises now ten times a day on my implants. I have a bit more energy but still so tired by the afternoon. I’m taking iron, materna Vitamin, vitamin C, Omega and a high protein diet still. I have a lady that cleans my house every 10 days thank god. My three kids do not let me rest much and my husband works all the time. My stomach is super sore and swollen at the end of the day & itchy! I still take Advil. My Boobs are still riding high and will drop around 12 weeks-ish. They feel sore and itchy. I can only wear LuLu leggings or sweats as my abdomen is so tender. I wear the binder as much as I can but it’s getting old. I still sleep sitting up slightly so I don’t roll as that will kill my tummy and is bad for the boobs until they settle. Soooo I’m impatient and it seems it will take more like 8 weeks instead of six to be ready to start to be normal. Everyone is different my PS says! I used paper tape for week 1&2, Aeromas Scar Sheet week 3 Embrace Scar Sheets week 4 & 5. The Embrace is Very Expensive but based on my research is worth it. My scars are worse on the hips so I am really wanting to help them heal well. The first treatment seemed great & I’ll post after the second week/10 days that I wear this set… it’s hard to wear something for 10-14 days without seeing what’s going on!!!! Updated on 7 Mar 2022: Ok so here’s a picture at 6 weeks! I used two weeks of Embrace Scar Therapy and it appears to have really helped. Taping will continue for another 6 weeks or more as needed :) I definitely feel better to do things around the house. Vacuuming, lifting, reaching are a no go. No Advil anymore. Able to sleep on my side with pillows. Updated on 14 Apr 2022: Literally just able to grocery shop, walk etc with difficulty. So annoying the recovery is so slow. Looking good though! I’m using silicone tape on my scars. Unfortunately I got covid at 8 weeks po and have not been able to increase my activity. I also pulled my intercostal muscle (ribs) by trying to lift my hot tub cover :( be careful as your muscles will be soooo weak! Updated on 28 Jul 2022: Here are some pictures! Both Breasts sit perfectly, I go without a bra and just use Nippies in the summer. I wear a two piece in the back yard only and hide my belly button scar from the sun. My abdominal scar is still lightening… I still put scar cream on it! My implant incisions are almost gone. My boobs look and feel fantastic and my figure is just how I wanted it. I’m so happy with my results. I’m able to be fully active again but lost major fitness over my recovery but oh well… I’ll get it back! Updated on 28 Jul 2022: Not sure why but I have to post my pictures again :) I really haven’t gone to the gym hardly at all so I can’t wait to see my abs once I get going! If you are looking for an excellent surgeon in Edmonton call Dr Ladak!
Hey everyone, I used this site to review BA. I’ve decided to go through with the surgery and have chosen a surgeon I trust as I have had another procedure (left ulnar nerve repair) done with him in April 2021. I’m booked for Aug 9th 2021 to have right ulnar nerve repair and BA with 485 or 520g natrelle silicone implants. I am currently a 32 A so I’m excited to see the outcome. I’m supper nervous of my recovery as I am having two different procedures done at once. I will keep updating as my recovery goes. Dr Ladak has been nothing but amazing this far. He’s an excellent surgeon and he makes you feel very comfortable. He takes all the time you need to answer questions even if you ask the same ones over and again. He’s very patient and kind. His coordinator Teresa is awesome to deal with, very friendly and fun. They make a superb team. I would highly recommend Dr Ladak. Updated on 9 Aug 2021: So today was the big day. I was very nervous for some strange reason going this morning and maybe because I was having breast surgery and elbow surgery at the same surgery. Everything went so smoothly. The staff at the surgical Center were so caring and friendly, the anaesthesiology team were so awesome. Made you feel totally safe and relaxed. Nursing staff met with me first to weight and go over instructions, Dr Ladak came in and chatted about the procedure, went back over sizes and post op questions I had. He then marked me up and than off I went. I woke up with terrible nausea which they had given me 2 maxeran medication to help prior to going in the OR. I always get sick from general Anastasia so I was expecting this. The recovery room nurse was so sweet and Kind. I believe her name was Allie but I was pretty out of it to be honest. I was given pain medications during my recovery as well as a Percocet on my way out to get me home pain free. I had very little breast and elbow pain until later in the evening. More pain in my back and tightness in my chest. So I am making sure to take my T3’s on exactly 4 hours to keep ahead of the pain. I am really keeping hydrating with lots of water as well. My breasts look awesome even though they are super swollen and boxy which is expected at day 1 post Op. I know I will be very pleased once I see the end result when all is settled and fluffed. I’ll keep updating as I go. We ended up going with 520cc in both breasts. Dr Ladak also fixed my one breast as I had a previous injury which caused my one nipple to be lower than the other. He’s honestly excellent at his work. My elbow feels pretty good as well. Updated on 11 Aug 2021: So day 2 was pretty rough pain wise. I was so sore I could hardly move but I think some is due to my elbow surgery and not being able to really use my arms and the swelling and bruising. I didn’t get much sleep day 1 evening and nothing last night. Constipated due to the T3’s as well so taking senekot and restorelax for that. I did take half a flexeril (muscle relaxer) last night at bed to see if I could maybe get some sleep but everything is just so uncomfortable at the moment. Still taking T3’s one every 4 hours to stay on top of the pain. Got some fluid around the implants by my sternum and around implants and bruising but nothing major. I used some arnica gel today to see if it will help with the swelling. All in all not as sore as yesterday but still sore if that makes sense. Updated on 14 Aug 2021: Well I am feeling a hell of a lot better than day 2-4. Arnica helped so much with the bruising I had and off pain meds now all together. They feel a bit softer and like they are not as swollen. They still look boxy and all that but they do feel better for sure. I still can not get much sleep but I really do think it’s because I am a side sleeper and I can’t sleep on my back but have to try. Elbow also looks good. Dr Ladak did an all around awesome job Updated on 19 Aug 2021: Hello beauties, just wanted to give an update at day 10. Everything is looking good and feeling good. My breast have moved from out of my armpits and are dropping a tiny bit. They don’t look so square up on the upper pole but still boxy. I have no pain at all. My incisions are healing beautifully as well. I did get a weird tiny bumpy rash on the tops of my breast not sure why but it’s going away now. Here’s to another week of smooth sailing I hope. Here is some photos from this morning. Sleeping is still a real pain as I just wanna side sleep and I can’t yet. It pulls too much on my stitches and breast. Still wearing a surgical bra (it’s comfy as hell) compliments of Amazon. My arm is healing nicely too. Updated on 23 Aug 2021: So far not much has changed since my last update other than my nipples feel super stretched at the moment and I have these sore spots under my breast which at first I thought were super tight stitches but apparently they are Called mondors chords. They hurt when I put my arm up or stretch my upper body in any way. Healing seems to be coming along. I left the tapes off today and have been applying aloe Vera plant on them. None of my shirts fit the way they did before so that part is a bit annoying as I don’t want to go shopping until my breasts are settled completely. Updated on 3 Sep 2021: Here is my week 4 post op update. My left breast is more round and tight and my right breast is a bit more relaxed. They seem to be doing what they are supposed to do as far as changing. Everything feels good. I massage them a lot especially first thing in the morning as they feel tightest when I wake up. It’s starting to get cold here now where I live and I can tell you when your nips get a chill it feels very strange at first haha but other than that everything is good. The mondors chords still hurt a little bit but they are healing slowly. Updated on 7 Dec 2021: So it’s been a while since I last posted but everything is settling nicely. My implants are much softer and squishy and I love them. They have fluffed a lot more and settled down lower. I’m wearing a 32E bra and 32 DDD VS sports bra’s Updated on 4 Jan 2022: Everything has dropped and looking and feeling great. I’m impressed with my outcome and have zero regrets. Sleeping comfortably as well. I never thought I would say this but I can’t find bras in my size. It’s the same as when I had no boobs, hard to find a proper bra that fits. I feel like now they have settled the VS sports bras 32DDD squish my boobies bad and they do get sore wearing underwire for too long. Updated on 1 Feb 2023: Everything is way different than even 6 months ago. My breast look so good and are soft. They have dropped into place. I have had no issues and I love them. I get constant compliments from other woman that have theirs done also. Dr Ladak did such an awesome job
I was a bit nervous about going through with Lipo of my abdomen and flanks. I’ve seen some bad results and have heard horror stories. From my first consult with Dr. Ladak I knew I was in good hands. He’s a confident doctor who is very knowledgeable and thorough with explanations. He didn’t give me any unrealistic outcomes. His assistant is very quick to respond to any emails or phone calls. I highly recommend seeking out Dr. Ladak if you value quality work and honesty.
Dr Ladak was referred to me by my breast surgeon in 2015 he is an amazing ,intelligent Dr who knows exactly what he is doing .He did my breast reconstruction for me and my results was excellent. So after this was done I decided to take care of me and had a consultation for a tummy tuck. He explains everything to you like he is reading out of text book.So on may 02/18 I had my tt done by him I have to say job well done I feel complete and confident again, my results are like the work of art if only I can give him more stars thank you again Dr. Ladak had the best experience and results would recommend anyone out there who is considering plastic surgery he is number one. And thanks to his amazing coordinator Teresa who always email ,call and answers all my questions. I guess you will be seeing more of me sorry you can’t get rid of me so easily.
I had my consultation with dr ladak and felt very comfortable and confident in his skilled I canceled my other consultation and decided to go with him I wanted implants but he told me I needed a lift to achieve the look I wanted. I had my fitting and we decided on 605g and booked my surgery I was having a mini freak out about the size so I went for another fitting and we decided on 560g with a anchor lift! Surgery day came and all went great I am now 1 week post op and absolutely loving my results so far! Updated on 2 May 2018: Took the tape off my nipples they look so small and kind of strangely shaped.. I’m assuming this will look different once healed.. the left breast is taking it’s time dropping and healing it seems to hurt everyday and night but the right seems fine I’m kind of missing the swelling ???? I’m kinda having second thoughts about the size maybe I will rethink it once the drop and fluff... Updated on 11 May 2018: Left breast is still very high. But I’m loving the results I was worried about the way my nipples looked but as time goes on they look better everyday! I thought the scars would bother me but my surgeon did such a good job they look awesome! I was having a reaction to the paper tape on my skin so he suggested to not put it on again.. Updated on 22 May 2018: Finally the left has dropped!!
Just over 10 years ago I decided that enough was enough and went from a tight 18 to an 8. While I'm still an 8 or 10 I still feel like I'm that fat girl. I can run 10k and eat really healthy but when I look in the mirror I still get discouraged and wonder why I bother. This year I turn 40 and I'm ready to complete the journey that I started 10 years ago. I'm so happy that my husband is on board with this, although if I changed my mind he'd be fine with that too. I'm just ready to look the same way my head feels. My tummy tuck with muscle repair is scheduled for first thing tomorrow morning and now I'm getting a little nervous. Excited as well because I just want to be on the other side and start recovery! Updated on 7 May 2017: Can't believe that I am on the other side already! Operation went really well and recovery is coming along nicely. Did not anticipate being so nauseous after surgery and thank goodness for gravol! Pain is not too bad...more like discomfort than pain. Still on some meds as it feels like a burning on my incision but no redness and it loots good. Drains are not too bad and the output is less and less each day. I'm moving around pretty good and almost standing straight at times. Just not used to not doing anything and I can see being bored in my future. It feels like I have a spot on my left part of my stomach that has tape stuck to my skin and/or hair that is pulling that gives me a sharp pain but when I check there is nothing there and it's not were MR was done. Very weird. Plus every now and then I get weird tingling along my incision. Updated on 23 May 2017: Just getting around to posting my update. My surgery went really well, the only hiccup was being so nauseous after surgery that I could barely keep anything down. Yay for gravol! My husband has been amazing throughout this whole thing. I had 3lbs of skin removed and extensive muscle repair. My Doctor said that my muscles were 4 inches apart. Crazy! My recovery has been amazing with hardly any pain, juat discomfort. I only took my pain meds for 4 days and then Advil for 1 more. I had a bit of a scare that sent me to the emergency room...I was thinking that I had a blood clot because I was having a hard time breathing but everything checked out fine which was a huge relief! My drains were taken out on day 7 and I was thrilled with that, walking has been getting easier and easier although I still get tired easily. I'm standing straight and even though I still can't eat much and am staying away from salt the swelling is crazy. Still can't believe that I'm on the other side...it feels like all the fat and skin is still under the binder and when it's gone I'll go back to looking like I used to. Updated on 23 May 2017: Swelling in the evening is crazy! Tomorrow I will be exactly 3 weeks since surgery. Updated on 2 Aug 2017: Just doing a quick photo update. I'm 3 months post op now and still swelling. Really hoping that this is going to start calming down soon I do not enjoy rocking the 5 month pg look at night. I've been slowly getting back into running due to a foot injury so I'm frustrated that I can't go full tilt into getting back into shape. Heading to see the physio therapist today to hopefully get some help so I can get back on track. This is a long process, both mentally and physically but some days I can't believe that I'm this far on the other side of it. Seems like I should still be waiting for my surgery date to come. Even with all the swelling and the long process I have no regrets and would do this in a heart beat! I will need to have a bit of a revision done on my right hip as I'm pretty sure that I have the dreaded dog ear but I'm fine with that. Updated on 7 Oct 2017: I ended up having a weird thing happen with a very localized swelling on the lower part of my stomach...it was hot and red and after a couple of days of being too tender to wear pants I put a gauze pad over it to give me some protection from clothing. Well the darn thing started leaking fluid and I ended up having a small hole form on my incision. After contacting my surgeon he wanted me to go for an U/S where they found that I had pockets of fluid that shouldn't be there. So back to the doctor I went and basically I had to go back in to have the fluid drained. I was hoping for a local and just get it done there but my doctor recommended that I be put out with a general anesthetic so that, in his words, "be as aggressive as needed to clean this out" Lovely. So about a week later I went back in for a "procedure" (surgery?) was put out again and got things taken care of. I was happy that he used my same incision and the recovery this time was way easier, partly because I was only under for an hour, and there wasn't as much cutting into muscle as before. I will be honest I slept like crazy for the next 4 days. Although the antibiotics that I was on after were super hard on my system. At my last visit the doctor explained to me that most likely what happened is that one or more the sutures didn't dissolve and my body just created a pocket of fluid around it, thankfully there was no infection and things are healing really well now. Being almost 3 weeks post warranty work surgery (lol!) I'm really starting to feel like myself again. I didn't realize how exhausted I was all the time before, probably because my body was working harder to figure out how to get that fluid out or keep infection at bay? Who knows. But I do know that I have way more energy now and I'm not swelling as much, I'm starting to really feel amazing and see the results of this surgery!
Dr. Ladak has been awesome during my breast reconstruction. I was referred to him by my breast surgeon; I trust her and I trust him. Teresa, in his office is equally awesome! He's available when I need to see him and I don't wait long. My questions are carefully and correctly anwered, in a timely manner. Plastic surgery is so personal, I feel he really listens to my concerns and tries to understand my needs- he seems to want me to be satisfied with the end result! Breast reconstruction following breast cancer and mastectomy is giving me an opportunity to feel whole again...Dr Ladak is a critical member of my team. Thanks!
I am finally scheduled for breast reduction surgery on May 16, 2016 in Edmonton, Alberta with Dr. Ladak. I first saw Dr. Ladak in spring 2014 and was approved for the procedure. But I wanted to lose weight first. I am currently 5'6 and 176 lbs. But I didn't lose the weight. Then I had surgery scheduled for October 2015, but I couldn't quit smoking, so cancelled. I was finally able to quit smoking December 1, 2015 and scheduled my surgery for May last month (February). I have a small boned frame and my goal is to lose about 45 lbs. So I have started eating clean and getting more active. Doing push ups and back exercises and cardio. My weight loss journey will continue with a clean diet after surgery and eventually return to working out after recovery. My breasts have made me feel much bigger than I am, having to shop in plus size stores for my bras and tops for the past 4 Years. I'm hoping to go down to a size C and I'm afraid I'll look pregnant after surgery if my tummy doesn't go down a bit. I know this will be a process, but it will be so much easier to work out after surgery and recovery. I'm encouraged by seeing the 5 star reviews on Dr. Ladak on this site and feeling even more motivated to get as healthy as possible before surgery. Getting very, very excited!! Updated on 31 Mar 2016: I've been busy moving this week, packing, cleaning, painting...hopefully I've lost some weight with all the sweat!! I'm quite concerned about the size of my tummy post-op in proportion to my post-op breast size. I don't want to look pregnant!! I now see all these "mommy makeovers" on here and wish a tummy tuck was free with health care!! Can't complain tho. Guess I'll just have to start a tummy tuck savings account!! I'm getting really excited for the surgery. I've waited 2 years...because I wanted to lose weight first (which didn't happen) and then I had to quit smoking, which I did successfully in Niv 2015!! I'm kind of obsessed with looking at post op bras online...wondering if there's one out there that is comfortable and helps with healing. Another member kindly posted the post-op bra my doctor uses for the first couple of weeks. But I'm looking at other front closure ones that are kind of cute since I'll be going into warm weather and probably wearing tank tops. Any suggestions on your favorite post op bra/sports bra for reduction? Updated on 11 Apr 2016: I quit smoking in Novembet 2015 so that I could proceed with reduction surgery. I've been trying to eat well, but have slowly ballooned to 180 lbs. this is THE MOST I've ever weighed when not pregnant. I didn't realize smoking cessation changes metabolism. I thought people gained weight after quitting smoking because they replaced it with eating. So I have been extremely discouraged this past week, trying to decide if I should post-pone the surgery AGAIN. I'm afraid I will look pregnant with smaller boobs and big belly and people will ask me "oh how far along are you??" AAACK. So I've finally decided to meet with s personal trainer who I had connected with over a month ago. I'm meeting her tomorrow for a consult and to get her evaluation. I'm 5 weeks to surgery so I'll decide what's going to be best. I did ask my PS about my physique and he said exercise was the only thing to make my upper tummy go down (I could have a tummy tuck for lower abdomen, but that's not in the budget now). I was crying today. Just SO frustrated. The PLAN was to lose weight before surgery and my body has done the total opposite. I've also been moving this entire past month (from condo to new duplex rental) after divorce last year. 3 kids, 2 dogs, painting new place, now unpacking. My boyfriend is super supportive and is planning to help with post surgical care (he used to be an EMT and is really good with medical stuff). So I guess I will talk to my new trainer tomorrow and decide what the best course of action will be. I've been waiting since 2014 for the right time for surgery, wanting to lose weight first and then quitting smoking. Feeling defeated. Updated on 27 Apr 2016: May 16 is quickly approaching. Î considered delaying the surgery because of my concern about lack of weight loss in tummy area. As long as I stay away from gluten I don't get the super bloat that makes me look pregnant. The first person who asks me "oh how far along are you" is going to get a black eye. Okay maybe not. I saw my wonderful GP yesterday and I discussed my concerns with her and she said that she thinks I should go ahead with the reduction as it will improve my self-image and make me want to exercise to get rid of my tummy (after recovery) which will help my mental health. So it's all systems go. 18 Days away. The hospital called today to confirm my personal details so they can have the file ready. Other than that, I want to go to the second hand store to get some front opening blouses (I have none...usually hate them, but don't want to be lifting my arms at first). Also go to Walmart to get some Fruit of the Loom Front opening bras in a couple different sizes. AND hopefully get some freezer meals made ahead of time. I'm wondering how recovery will go, as it seems everyone has a unique journey. I'm going to continue with my stomach and core exercises to strengthen those muscles to help with movement post-surgery. Updated on 29 Apr 2016: I was looking online for post-op bras after reduction and came across www.hospitalbra.com. They have some AMAZING lists and info to download under FAQ for pre-op prep and post-op care, including a grocery list and setting up your recovery oasis. Their bra is also made of bamboo, which I was looking for because it's super soft! They are based out of the U.K. and sent me a personalized message about my order and I was able to confirm my size choice with them. See pic below. I also checked out the Intuition Recovery Bra at www.postopbra.com. They are out of some of their stock so they sent me an email suggesting a site called www.curediva.com (which is directed towards cancer patients but has a wide variety of post op bras). I ordered the bamboo bra from www.hospitalbra.com because it looks really comfy and I ordered it BIG to consider swelling. Updated on 30 Apr 2016: I'm getting impatient, but also have lots to get done in the next 16 days before surgery. I've been eating as well as possible (not perfect) and the gluten bloat has definitely gone down. I sent my doctor's secretary a list of questions yesterday and asked if I should come in for a pre-op consult again. She answered all my questions (like will I be sent home with prescriptions day of surgery...yes. My bf will run out and get them). She also suggested I could email him any photos of what I was hoping for...so I sent him MY current photo and some pics of women who are close to my age, weight and current breast size showing their "after" results. I'm very particular about things and I know that as everyone's breasts look different, so do the end results. I just hope I've chosen the right Doctor...I'm not starting over with a wait list with a different doc!! He did answer all my questions when I last saw him before booking my surgery, but he seems kind of nonchalant...like he has done hundreds of these and I'm an "easy" case. I think I just need to relax and do my best to feel prepared as possible for my recovery. Thanks for reading ???? Anything you WISH you would have done BEFORE surgery? I'll be with my boyfriend the first week and he is an amazing caregiver (used to be an EMT) but will have to get the kids off to school the week following. My ex-husband is also great- we are still very good friends, and my sister is busy but around, so I think I'll have enough people to support me afterwards. Updated on 2 May 2016: I'm usually a last minute procrastinator but I want things done early. I've ordered post-op bras, some supplies from Amazon and hit the jackpot today at Value Village!! Everything was 50% off! So I got 3 button up blouses, one which I might actually wear after from The Gap, 2 short sleep zipper hoodies, 1 long sleeve zipper hoodie and 2 Pajama sets that are spaghetti strap to pull up from bottom and comfy. I had a job interview today that is for distance education so I would primarily work from home...dream job as a teacher. But they want to start in office training in June. That gives me about 20 days to recover if I get the job. It seems like ladies are posting they are turning a corner around day 10. Whatever is meant to be will be. My sister said "postpone the surgery" but I just want to get this done for ME. I'm really discouraged by my body weight...saw myself in a family photo from yesterday. I've never been this heavy. That's another reason to question timing of surgery...but also I think the surgery will be a turning point for complete change and dedication to doing what it takes to feel good about my body image. Updated on 11 May 2016: I got the job position that allows me the most flexibility to work from home...so I no longer concerned about having to go into an office too soon after surgery for training purposes. I had some kind of bug the last 2 days..,but feeling well today. I've got EVERYTHING on my shopping list for pre and post surgery. Just going to continue resting and trying to eat well this week. I am soooooo excited. I had ordered the Post Op Bra shown below and it was very expensive in Canadian dollars and was way too tight around my ribcage even before surgery so I contacted them and am able to return it. It is really nice though!! I ordered one off of Amazon that I saw quite a few people wearing and made sure to order EXTRA big band width. So that's it for now. Wishing I would have been working out hard core these past 3 months, but with moving it just didn't happen. That's okay...the surgery will be my fresh start. I'm not going to ask the doc for a cup size. Just what is proportionate and will look good. ???? Updated on 13 May 2016: Called hospital for my surgery time this afternoon and I am to arrive at 10:45 am. Took a few more "before" shots to compare to after surgery. Is it possible I could actually go braless in a tank top or maybe not have under boob sweat all year round?? Oh the thrill of the thought!! Updated on 16 May 2016: Off to the hospital in 3 hours!! Updated on 17 May 2016: Seriously..,Finally!! My doctors was running FOUR HOURS late. Got to hospital at 10:45 am. Rolled into surgery after markings aroun 3:40 pm. Good thing was I was his last patient of the day and he felt bad for me I think, so he was the most relaxed and funny I've ever seen him...that rapport goes a LONG way toward making me feel super confident in his hands. I was completely relaxed going into the OR room. He did the markings before rolling me into OR and I asked him to take pics. I think he was pretty happy about that!! Me asking. I will have his secretary email me the pics tomorrow. I have am appointment for dressing change and into post op bra this morning at 8:30. He gave me tramadol for a painkiller, because I didn't think T3 would work for me as well, since I've had to take it 3 times this past year. However, I don't think this tramadol is working very well at all, so will ask for T3 rx in the morning. All I can say is THANK GOD for my boomerang pillow (someone had posted about on this website. Try Amazon) and Lansinoh 3 in 1 Thetapearl Breast Therapy cooling gel packs. I've just placed them below my gauze near my ribcage and they feel AMAZING. I was extremely itchy after surgery (even though no morphine because of severe itching reaction). From the Anasthesia. I had also purchased this "dry brush" from Amazin THANK GOD and took it to hospitals. So much better than scratching myself raw with finger nail Polisg. I can't believe I can look down and can see my toes!!!' Updated on 17 May 2016: Dressing change this morning and Dr. ladak's assistant brought 3 post op bras for me to try on. Feels so good to have the support! 20.00 each so I got 2. My Black Cizalus one arrived today as well. I really like it but should have ordered XL not XXL. I may swell more though? And I sew, so I will just tailor it and take it in as needed. I'm a happy girl. I can't believe this is my body. I've got my station set up in bed and just rest, rest, rest. Especially after travelling back and forth to dr office this morning. He didn't use drains on me, so I went in today for fresh steri-strips and nurse check. She said very minimal bruising. Looks great. I will post a pic later. Updated on 17 May 2016: Post Op Recovery Items. Most of these were listed on this website. Some where my own ideas. So glad I had these things on hand!! Also look under www.breasthealthinline.com. Suggested to drink lots of water with lemon. Hope these ideas help someone else heal well and be comfortable after surgery. Updated on 17 May 2016: Nurse said everything looked wonderful. Minimal bruising. Updated on 17 May 2016: Bruising coming out. Healing!! Resting. Still in disbelief. Feel like a new woman :) Updated on 18 May 2016: So I told the hospital staff I had crazy itching reaction last year after my hysterectomy from morphine. My GP said to make sure to tell them I'm allergic. However, I still got extreme itchy from the Anasthesia. Used my dry brush all over my extremities in the hospital. They sent me home with a painkiller called Tramadol the first night and I had zero pain relief except from the Motrin I was allowed to add in. Yesterday morning at my appointment, I told them no pain relief and awake all Monday night, so they switched me to Tylenol 3. That STILL didn't work. Finally at about 2 pm u called the PS office in tears saying my pain level was still at a 7/10 with maybe a one hour window of relief, followed by SEVERE itching from the codeine. So they switched me to Percocet and I was FINALLY able to sleep last night, but woke up with massive itching again at 2 am. Just had to used the dry brush all over my back, arms and legs, took 2 benedryl and Aloe Vera is the only lotion that brings relief to the itching. I get to shower today and I think that will feel delightful :). I'm really surprised my stitches are itching so much on day 3. I guess it's a good sign of healing. Itchy, itchy and trying not to be bitchy. Have a great day all!! Updated on 18 May 2016: Thank God doc said I could shower today. It calmed the itching and I was finally able to sleep from 10 am- 3pm. I have a headache, but just sticking to Tylenol extra strength or Advil. I like seeing the bruises develop. My honey (former firefighter/EMT) says the bruising shows healing. I just like looking at my new boobs!! Updated on 19 May 2016: Started to feel human last night. I think the Anasthesia was making me itchy (the nurse said another patient from the same day had the same complaint of major itchiness which the secretary had never seen before...so something wonky with the mix maybe?). Anyway, I've been drinking lots and lots of lemon water and I think my system is clearing. I slept really well last night and feel alive today. I can see how this could get boring by about week 3. Lots of bruising coming out. I like taking pics of my journey. Pain is low. It looks so much worse than it feels. I got my bamboo hospital bra from the UK yesterday. www.hospitalbra.com. Love it. So soft and naturally antibiotic/breathable. Slight padding on nipples feels good. I'm happy with the sizes of bras I have to go from what I thought would be too big (the XXL CzSalus from Italy through Amazon is my bigger comfy go to bra in black) and the hospital bra in L is a smaller fit. Then I have the two provided by my doctor's office that are for night or anytime. They are not as much "compression" so good when it just want some light support. The Lansinoh Breast Therapy Pearl Gel Pads kept in the fridge feel really good on the bruising for about 10-20 minutes. Not too cold. I'm wondering about my future journey...of getting into shape once no can start exercising (walking to start with in a few weeks). Updated on 21 May 2016: I've decided my breasts look like the globe found in classrooms. All the colors...blue, brown, yellow, purple, green. (Thank God no longer of global proportions!!). Today I was very, very tired and had to have two 3 hour naps. Today was also the first day I looked at my silhouette from the side and was like "wow...I'm going to look skinny again!" Getting the bowels going yesterday helped and I could see that I no longer look plus size and will only be here holy motivated to work towards my healthy eating and fitness goals. Updated on 22 May 2016: May 23/16 so it's almost 1 week since I've had surgery. I have been absolutely knocked flat on my ass tired the last 3 days. Just sleeping, and sleeping and sleeping some more. I'm just listening to my body and it says SLEEP. I've been having a hard time eating as healthy as I was the first part of the week cause I'm asleep more than I'm awake and I have very little appetite. But I mixed up a whole can of Tuna with some Mayo today to get that protein in. My bruises have all turned yellow now and I can't believe how quickly that happened. Usually if I bruise my leg it's blue for a week and takes a long time to go away. So I'm thinking the supplements I've been taking are actually working. Omega 3, Bromelain and homeopathy Arnica Tablets. I'm REALLY sore and uncomfortable in my under breast incisions. They are itchy and if I move the wrong way give a good ouch. I'm wondering if anyone else experienced this at close to the 1 week mark? I desperately want to take the steri strips off and put fresh ones on, but I was instructed to leave them on until they fall off. I see nut doctor in Tuesday (2 days) and he'll probably change them. I know there was a "forum" on here for people of similar surgery dates to post but I can't find it??? Any ideas how I search for it? And again....anyone else have itchy, sore, tender under breast incisions at week 1 point (worse than at beginning of week). Thanks all. I'm slowly getting used to my new physique and can definitely see why ladies are itching (excuse my pun) to get back to working out. I've lost 10 lbs, but have a long way to go towards my goal. I finally have the motivation to work out and now have to wait. What?! Anyway, I'm going to focus on my diet this week. Updated on 25 May 2016: So if you've been following my story you know that I have struggled with severe itching off an on this whole first week. First 3 days because of anaesthetic, then where my incisions are, esp under boobs. I saw my dr yesterday and I was feeling fine and he said everything looked good. But I don't know why he didn't change the Steristrips and they weren't bothering me at the time, so I just asked if I could take them off cause they were bugging me. I came home, had a shower and put new Steristrips on last night. I almost gagged from doing this myself. I've never had incisions before and seeing them without the Steristrips was a little rattling. I couldn't sleep all night and after the kids left for school, I jumped in the shower to remove the new steri strips from last night. Underneath my skin was bright ref and irritated. Sent pics to my doc. He said leave strips off and wait for Benedryl to kick in. I slept all day cause of the benedryl and feel totally groggy gross. The incisions seemed "raw" and unsupported without the Steristrips, so I put on micropore tape. Allergic reaction within 20 minutes!! Took that stuff off...thank God I'm still pretty numb. It didn't hurt to get it off. So now I'm back to bare boobs under my bra. And waiting for the benedryl tablet to kick in. I'm just wondering how my incisions will heal WITHOUT Steristrips or tape? I'm worried they won't heal as flat or nicely. Did anyone else remove their Steristrips/tape in the first week or two?? Sincerely, still itchy and bitchy. Updated on 27 May 2016: So I've been healing from my allergic reaction to steri strips and tape over the past 3 days. But still dealing with a lot of itching, burning and feeling like my boobs were going to fall apart at the stitches (I'm a worry wart). I could only wear my CyZalus bra...any other rubbed in my incisions. My new friend that I met on here recommended the silicone breast "strips" from Rejuvenesse. I think they are only available in Canada (which is where I am) They are 99.00 for set of 2 on Amazkn.ca. I paid for the two day shipping and all I can say is HEAVEN. I feel supported, the itching, burning, tearing sensation in my under breast incisions went away almost immediately after putting them on. Much less pain...first night not using a cool gel pack for 20 min. You can check them out here: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00A7CD9FO/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?qid=1464415779&sr=8-7?=AC_SX118_SY170_QL70&keywords=ReJuveness&dpPl=1&dpID=018Ph0k6ECL&ref=plSrch My energy seems to be improving, although I still need to rest when my body tells me to. I have been doing the "relaxation" colouring thing while watching tv. Usually I can't sit down long enough to watch tv. I'm really liking it. I'm an art quilter and one of my friends on Facebook suggested I have my colored pics transferred to fabric and make a "colored" quilt. Otherwise, not really sure what to do with the finished product. So things are perking up over here...especially my boobs!! Updated on 6 Jun 2016: I haven't posted for awhile. I don't want to sound like I just keep on complaining! I'm very glad I had the surgery...but it is a MAJOR surgery and not everyone "gets it". My neighbor said to me one week after surgery "are you coming to the soccer game?..,your boobs are fine. Anyway I am still resting a lot and if I go out more (like on the weekends) then I am absolutely exhausted afterward. As my nerves start to heal there has been more "aching" and swelling. Pain continues but is tolerable. I went to the specialty bra store and got a new post op bra that offers much more support than the one I was using (I was only able to use one out of 4 because my ribcage measurement wrnt from 36 to 42. So I wear the new one during the day for way more support. I thought maybe I had an infection, so I sent my doc the pic below yesterday. It is NOT an infection, but bruising that continues to emerge. However, he wants to see me first thing Tuesday. I'm tired of worrying about my boobs and have decided to give up on the worry. They're not going to fall off. I just realized that I had ZERO itching on the lower incisions today so that's a huge improvement in comfort level. Updated on 6 Jun 2016: Forgot to say I am a C cup when I went to get a new post op bra and was measured. I seriously can't believe it!! I need my sister to go shopping with me...I feel like I don't know my own body and feel kind of shy or unsure of what looks good on me. I'm so used to trying to hide the girls that it is really strange to wear a "normal" shirt that might show my new shape. I also haven't really seen anyone who would really notice a difference (like people from work, etc..). I'm really struggling to adapt to this new body image, as I was not at my weight loss or fitness goals before the surgery. I'm starting my clean eating diet this week...bye bye carbs!! And looking forward to working out to reach my total body goal "look" Updated on 6 Jun 2016: It's funny- you read and read on here about what to expect at what point in time along the recovery period. BUT THEN when it happens to you it's like "what the heck is happening NOW with these boobs???" My nipple nerve sensation is definitely healing. Let's just say that. Updated on 26 Jun 2016: I have a question... I have resumed a lot of my normal activities just within the last week. Energy is finally better and I did 3 half days of substitute teaching last Wed-Friday. On Friday I carried a box of final exams quite a distance. It probably weighed about 15 pounds. Then I came home and had a nap. I fell asleep on my right side (have still been sleeping on my back) for about 2 hours. When I woke up on Friday I had a sharp stabbing pain like a needle jabbing into my breast. All that shows is a small red area beside the nipple. But it's probably the sharpest pain I have experienced in a very specific area in all the time post op. ANY IDEAS?? I'm taking Motrin and Tylenol and it helps stop it for awhile, otherwise the pain is constant. Cold pack helps. I don't have a fever and energy is good. I see my doctor Wednesday for 6 week check up. But I work the next 2 days and I'm a bit concerned about what this might be. Updated on 26 Jun 2016: Updated on 4 Oct 2016: I am so happy with my results at the 5 almost 6 month mark. I feel so much more confident...I don't have to shop at plus size stores anymore. And I don't have constant "boob sweat" and rashes. I am a happy girl working on trying to get in shape and get rid of that tummy!! I love being able to wear my shirts without feeling self-conscious. I cried at my 6 week check up when I told Dr. Ladak what a difference the procedure had made in my level of body confidence. I am so impressed with the way my scars are healing and I had no feeling in my left nipple for the first 5 months, but the feeling has come back now. The scars are healing nicely and fading so that they are almost impossible to see around the nipple area. He is a talented physician!!
Thank you for your question. Like many things in plastic surgery, there are different ways to achieve a good result. The abdominoplasty procedure has been done without progressive tension sutures for many years with excellent results. The premise of using progressive tension sutures are 2 fold: first it functions to decrease dead space into which a fluid collection (either hematoma or seroma) can collect; Second, it serves to decrease the amount of tension on the final skin closure by distributing the tension along the full length of the abdomen. Thus, progressive tension sutures, in theory, allow for the elimination of drains and for decreased tension on closure, which does result in improved healing and scaring at the skin. I use progressive tension sutures and have been happy with the results. I would recommend discussing your concerns with your potential surgeons and going with your gut feeling. In the end, you need to be comfortable with the proposed procedure and your surgeon.
Thank you for your question. Implants can take up to 3-4 months to drop. When that happens, your implant will be more centred over your nipple and your scar should be more hidden. Larger implants are subject to greater gravitational forces, however, smaller implants should drop without issue. I would suggest giving it some more time and follow up with your PS. Implant displacement manoeuvres may help. If they don't drop, then a small repeat procedure may be required to release in inferior part of the implant pocket if that is the issue. If you have true breast ptosis, then a breast lift procedure may be required to correct the situation.
In general, it is safe to shower 48-72 hours after the procedure. Avoid using soap around the incision site. Do not take baths or keep the surgical incision submerged in still water as this will increase the likelihood of infection. Depending on your surgeon, you may have steri-strips covering your incision and these should be left for 2 weeks. You can get them wet in the shower and then just pat them dry.As for the belly button, this can be effectively cleaned gently with a Q-tip. Be sure to check with your surgeon as different closure techniques might necessitate different post-operative incision care.Abdominal tightness is normal after this procedure and can persist for a few weeks. With healing and resolution of swelling, this will improve.Kind Regards,Adil
