I had an incredible experience with Dr. Bulan. He is very hands on and answers every and any question that you may have regarding the procedure, healing time, and results. My own results were amazing - he is a very talented and excellent doctor.
I am 6 weeks P/O Tummy Tuck and I have had many surgeries in my life. The tummy tuck for me by far was the easiest. Dr. Bulan is the most caring, up on the latest technology and trends I have ever met. Do to his methods I was only uncomfortable for one day. I only needed pain meds for 1 day. I have read a ton of reviews of hard this was going to be and because of Dr. Bulan it was a piece of cake. His staff is the most friendly and professional staff I have ever dealt with. I feel after this experience they are more like family to me. I would give them all 10 stars if I could!
First of all, Dr Bulan probably had his most challenging case with me and my severely deflated breasts. He was recommended to me by my friend who is an OR nurse and has seen him in action as well as the results of his meticulous work. She was absolutely right! He did for me what no other Doctor could have, I'm convinced of this! He was kind and really listened to my concerns...I wanted to look as natural as possible and that was no easy request! He definitely achieved this and no one is happier than my 12 year old daughter that I don't look artificial! Dr Bulan is a true artist, add to that compassion, professionalism and an incredible amount of experience and I feel truly blessed to have found him (especially since he doesn't advertise!). I also need to mention that his staff and nurse, Linda, have helped make this a wonderful experience. I will forever be grateful. This has been life changing for me and I can't recommend Dr Bulan enough!
I love the look and feel of Restylane Silk. I already had semi-full lips, but wanted to go a little fuller (esp on my top) without looking fake. I got one syringe with some more injected into my top lip than in my bottom lip, and they look fuller/plumper but still very natural. No one can tell that I've gotten lip injections, and that is important as a model.
Hi Everyone! I finally found the doctor, thru a friend referral, to get BA with and took the plunge on 12/29/15. After so much back and forth between sizes, I finally decided (literally the morning of surgery) to go with 345HP natrelle inspira silicone cohesive gel implants. 2.5 weeks post op and the results have been beautiful so far and I'm looking forward to them dropping, getting softer, and feeling like they're a part of me. Updated on 18 Jan 2016: Just adding some photos taken Saturday 1/16. I started with asymmetry so from the front it's noticeable. I also think my right boob is dropping faster than my left. Hope things will even out after a month post op! Updated on 21 Jan 2016: Just got back from another follow-up and literally broke down in tears when I started talking about recovery. I told my PS that I've been on the realself site (and left him a review of course) and how I feel like my recovery has been tougher than a lot of other women that have undergone BA in December. Tougher in the sense that the tightness I feel is unbearable at times and I still need some muscle relaxer meds to get me through the day (especially when I'm at work). Not taking any pain meds though. He was super reassuring that everything with my recovery is going great and my new girls are healing as they should be. He says the tightness is more muscle tightness, especially on top, and taking NSAIDs or a muscle relaxer will help alleviate the tightness I feel. He also showed me the massages I should be doing now, and that I should be doing them as often as I deem tolerable. With the snow storm coming up on the east coast, he says NO SHOVELING! haha! I'm leaving that up to the bf to handle. Another positive note is that I can do some light cardio, no running, and I should practice slow stretching for the upper body since the muscles are tight and need to get stretched out. So slowly straightening arms to the side and back and putting my hands behind my head and pulling elbows back as far as I can without pain, a few times a day. I felt really great leaving the appointment today, and again feel so great about picking the right PS! Next follow-up is in 2 weeks. I'll post pics probably tomorrow or this weekend! Thank you all for the support thus far! xoxo Updated on 26 Jan 2016: Today is my 4 week anniversary since my BA and I love my girls! I still find myself needing to take (1) 5mg valium/diazepam once a day. It really helps the tightness go away so I can focus on work and not feel the heaviness that's associated with the tightness. If I'm sleeping flat on my back (which I do at my bf's place) then I usually need it in the morning, but when I sleep more upright and propped up with pillows, I usually don't take it until mid-day when the tightness is evident from lots of walking around. I also find myself rolling to my side when I sleep which maybe means my body is starting to get used to my girls and sleeping on my side isn't uncomfortable. I'm still trying to keep sleeping on my back though because I fear things happening in the process of healing such as lopsidedness and displacement! **CRINGE!** I've also been massaging my girls A LOT. Up, down, side to side and they've definitely gotten softer and squishier on the outsides and top, but still working on getting them looser/softer on the bottom and towards the medial line. Really hope that I start to get cleavage!! Really worried to have that gap in the middle, but trying to be patient and not stressing too much about it. I have another follow up on Feb 4th so the cleavage topic will definitely be discussed. I'm starting to get those "wish I went bigger" thoughts but not really at the same time since I know once I get myself back to yoga, those tight yoga tops are not going to be as forgiving to my now larger breasts. And I did want to keep my look natural to my frame which this size is really perfectly fulfilling. (But I'm looking forward to finally filling out those tops!) Speaking of which, I'm adding "after" photos in the same bikini top I wore in my before photos! Still got a ways to go with dropping and fluffing, but wowwy what a difference! Since I started posting on RS later in my BA journey than a lot of other women, I may post later some Pre-Op BA tips, for those who are still in the process of going through pre-op consults and decisions, and hopefully can help women in preparing for their surgeries, etc. Thanks for reading!! xoxo Updated on 9 Feb 2016: Late 1 month post to celebrate 1 month with the new girls! Was cleared at last week's post op appointment to wear regular bras! Decided to go back to VS to get sized again, and bought a bra in 32DD! I have this other VS bra that is wireless, not adjustable (has to go over your hea)d, and it's a 34C. This style in this size is super comfy and one of my fave bras, but everything else I tried in a 34C didn't fit. (images of this bra are with this post) After getting fitted my current size is narrowed down to 32D or 32DD. Tried tons of styles in both sizes, and size 32DD (with lining and without any padding) was the winner! My PS also gave me samples of these gel patches that help with scar managment. The brand is NewGel+. I looked them up online and they're around $45-65 so I'm glad I have these samples to try these out before I can commit to them. The samples should last like 3 weeks and then I'll probably invest in buying more if I can deal with the maintenance of putting them on, cleaning them and putting them away at night. Is anyone else using anything to help to help them reduce scars and if so, what are you using? I'd love to get some advice on patches, creams, gels, etc. Thanks! xoxo Updated on 24 Feb 2016: In one of my yoga tops Updated on 5 May 2016: Almost 14 weeks!
Wanted to share my great experience with Dr Erwin Bulan of Millburn NJ. He was my surgeon for my BR which reduced my breast by about 6 pounds - from about a g/h to c/d. He is a patient and talented surgeon. I had never had cosmetic surgery before and was very nervous about the procedure. Dr B was thorough and clear in setting my expectations - what to expect in recovery, putting me at ease about this very personal decision, what my outcome could look like, etc.. I am only sorry I didn't do the BR sooner. It has dramatically improved the quality of life. I feel more confident and less tired. I have been able to drop about 45 pounds since this surgery because I can actually move and exercise comfortably. Hurray! Updated on 10 Jan 2014: Updated on 10 Jan 2014: more photos Updated on 10 Jan 2014: one month post Updated on 10 Jan 2014: So, for context: My BR was done in May 2012 and photos are labeled to show pre- and post-timing. I have since had a TT which was done in Dec 2013.
Hi all…. large baby girl and years of being overweight have left me with a belly that just can't be dieted or exercised away. I've lost 65 pounds over last two years, but the belly and skin apron needs surgical attention. I'm having surgery on Dec 27th. I had a BR about 18 months ago which really propelled my weigh loss and overall commitment to fitness. I work out 5 days a week and stay active with my nearly 6 year old daughter (ice skating, roller skating, etc.) The belly is one of the last pieces of my transformation. I feel great and look forward to getting the surgery done. I am using the same surgeon who did my BR. I am 46 years old. Updated on 28 Dec 2013: So far okay. Pain has been manageable. Stayed in hospital overnight. Well worth the cost. Home now. Updated on 29 Dec 2013: Feeling remarkably good. Pain mostly when getting out of recliner. And at the drain sites. Slept in recliner last night. Drinking tons of water so in the bathroom every 2 hours. No poops yet but some gas. A staying on top of meds to keep pain at bay. No big complaints. Even washed my hair over the sink. Updated on 31 Dec 2013: Drains are out and I feel quite good. Some soreness, but nothing unmanageable. And poops arrived which is an important milestone. I even got to take a shower. I think this recovery is easier than the BR. I suspect my solid level of fitness has helped with my easy recovery so far. My muscles are able to support the sore ones which is great. The surgery removed a little more than 4 pounds. I was able to see my belly without the dressing on today and while still swollen I can see how much better it will look. Very excited with the result so far. Updated on 4 Jan 2014: Feeling great…. and very pleased with the results even though the swelling continues. I can see the other side. I am posting two photos which show the results of both surgeries I've had. I mentioned previously I had a BR in 2012 with the same doctor. And just had a TT at the end of December. The before photo is not really focusing on my belly issue -- more the boob issue, but it gives you a sense of the total change. Since the before photo I have lost 47 pounds -- since I was finally physically able to exercise without knocking myself out with the big H cup boobs! LOL. During the weight loss, my apron of belly flesh just got worse. In fact, my personal trainer would sometimes say "what's that noise? your knees?"…. I'd glare and say "no, my flab --let's move on." So in summary: my boobs were H and now D (full C) and my hips were 54 now 41… and waist was 44 now 37. And my cholesterol when from 300 to 153…. and my BP which was always pretty good is now 115/73. My weight was 245 at my high…. and now even with swelling I am 178 (was 180 at surgery time. TT took about 4 pounds of flesh off. Recovery secrets -- i have none really except I assume my strong core muscles have made this whole recovery easier than i could have ever guessed. The BR was much harder in my opinion. Questions anyone? Updated on 4 Jan 2014: Updated on 7 Jan 2014: Doing well..... Had belly button stitches removed yesterday. It's looking good. Dressing changed too upon incision site too. Some moisture had collected under the clear tape (Saran type stuff). The skin was very irritated and sore. It smelled like an old sock too. Blech! Doc said the air needed to dry it out. I had to take some Tylenol for the pain. Much better today. Updated on 8 Jan 2014: Not bad overall. Feels like a bad sunburn in a couple spot. Seeing doctor tomorrow. Hoping to remove stitches and get the silicone marble to keep my belly button shape on track. I will get silicone strips for incision too. I used these with success on my breasts post BR. Word to wise: order high quality strips the drugstore variety don't last. Also I should had ordered a few tunic length tshirts. 100% cotton. Those feel better under compression binders. Updated on 10 Jan 2014: Feeling great -- swelling is reducing. Updated on 12 Jan 2014: Wish me luck. Taking it slow. Bringing pain pills just in case. I use public transit. :) Updated on 17 Jan 2014: All bandages off. Just covering with silicone strips now -- Feeling more normal overall. Incision lines are basically doing okay -- a little flaky skin, but not bad. I think I will have one bad little keloid-ish spot, but hoping the silicone will help. Dr. B had me do laser after on a couple of keloid spots after the BR which helped a great deal. Updated on 17 Jan 2014:
I'm 61 as of May 5th. I've never had a flat belly, even at my thinest. I had a face lift done 2 years ago, and really liked my ps. Ever since then, I've been dreaming of having a TT (with lipo). I've been working a 2nd job and saving, and I finally have enough $$, and my husband's blessing to proceed. I'm so nervous ! I work in a school setting, and I'm scheduled for 6/26. I'm taking the summer off to recuperate, and have told no one but my 29 year old daughter that I'm doing this...Updated on 21 May 2012:I'm a month away and I'm excited and nervous. What are people doing about comfortable clothing post op? I'm a jeans kinda person, and I can't imagine that being comfortable. Do I need to buy a whole new temporary wardrobe? Would stretchy yoga or leggings do the trick? I want to be prepared. What kinds of clothing is best ? I guess I sound a little strange worrying about such a trivial thing... I know and trust my ps, so I'm not too worried about the surgery (yet)... Anyone else fretting about post op clothing ?Updated on 5 Jun 2012:Is it true that you need to be on a liquid diet before surgery? My doc just told me to "eat lite " the several days before surgery... I'm getting so nervous about what to do and when to do it...! Wish I had a list of exactly what to eat and when. Three more weeks exactly to go! Tuesday the 26th is my big day.. Yikes!Updated on 13 Jun 2012:I'm getting very excited and of course nervous. I just bought a really soft nightgown at Macy's (on sale), that could double as a sun dress. Maybe I can wear it home from the hospital. Hey, all you post op's what kinds of foods do you recommend right before/ and after surgery ? Yogurt, smoothies? Chicken, meat, what should I have in the house?Updated on 25 Jun 2012:All right, my day is TOMORROW morning ! Have to be at the hospital by 10:00 am ! Yikes, I'm excited and nervous all rolled into one. I think I'm ready. This site has been so helpful with all kinds of advice. Got my little overnite bag packed. Got all my Rx's ready, just have to make it through today, and then I'll be (as everyone says) "on the flat side"... Decided to wear some light weight sweat pants home with a tee shirt. that should be comfortable, I hope. To all my good friends who are going in the next few days... good luck, G_d speed, and talk to you soon !Updated on 6 Jul 2012:Ok, I think I'm day 10 p.o. (June 26 was my surgery). I'm doing pretty well. My drains came out last Monday, day 6 p.o. I consider that pretty lucky because from what I read, a lot of folks have to deal with them for much longer. Getting them out wasn't bad. The one on the left was more uncomfortable than the one on the right. Now those spots are scabbed over and a little itchy. Went to my p.s. yesterday and he removed most of my belly button stitches, just told me to put a little triple antibiotic ointment on it, and that's it. He also told me my cg wasn't tight enough !!! I'll try harder. I'm off the narcotic pain killers since Tuesday, which means I used them for one week. Last night I did take an oxy before bed, as I was hurting. The discomfort definitely is the worst in the evening. After dinner (no matter what I eat) I feel bloated. My tummy looks flat and that is amazing to me! I am so thankful for this web site. People are so supportive and caring and share so much information that helps me cope.Updated on 9 Jul 2012:Today is day 13 post op. I finally figured out how to put a photo on my profile (I think)... It's not great, I took it with my iPad, and had a hard time figuring out . Let me know someone if you can see it. Still kinda swollen. I'm feeling better, but I still get tired easily, and I'm not doing a whole lot...reading, watching TV, quick trips to the grocery store, napping, resting, and more resting.Updated on 12 Jul 2012:Went for a Dr. visit today 16 days p.o. Everything looks good. Dr. took my last couple of stitches out of my bb. Didn't feel a thing. No gauze, no more antibiotic cream, nothing. He put some new steri-strips strips on my incision (which I think looks really good) and said when they fall off, that's it. At 1 month p.o. we'll start with the silicone strips, which he said are reusable ????? Anyone know anything about that? I asked if I could go in the pool (my daughter is visiting tomorrow) and got the green light to get wet, but he said to rinse off in a shower when I get out to get the chlorine off. So far so good... Forgot to ask about these daily headaches. Maybe I'll call. Next appt. is in 2 weeks.Updated on 15 Jul 2012:It's 20 days p.o. today. Things are coming a long nicely. My tummy is looking good, still a little swollen, but not too bad. Had an emergency with my 94 year old mother yesterday, and today I'm wiped out ! I'll be taking a nap today, for sure. Discomfort is minimal, and of course still wearing my binder 24/7.Updated on 23 Jul 2012:Today was my (almost) 4 week p.o. check up. Everything is coming along well. Of course there is some swelling. I've posted some before and 4 wk. p.o. pictures... I guess for 61 it's not too bad. The Dr. told me to try to reduce my salt intake. I love salty things, but I will try.
In this day and age, GA is safe when applied in an appropriate setting under properly qualified individuals. However, with any elective procedure, preoperative medical evaluation should be your first step and is crucial in order to minimize the chance of complications. Considering your fears, this should be your most important step. Good luck and best regards, EJB
An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) will allow for the tightening of the skin as well as tightening of the abdominal wall to create significant changes in your waist size. Liposuction, in addition to abdominoplasty, will further refine the flanks to achieve a much improved waist contour.
