Dr Jacobs exceeded our expectations! He was very professional, answered all of our questions before, during, and after. Everyone in the office treated us with dignity and respect! We have no regrets with the decision that we made.
I was a skinny girl with big breast growing up. I had my first son at 18 and my second son at 30. I breast feed. I will never regret that but it caused my breast to be different sizes plus large. I was a size F... I had emergency C-section with first son and was forced to have another dye to my scar being vertical on my stomach ... I finally tried Mt insurance for breast reduction and my husband paid for tummy tuck. I was blessed again with a beautiful body. Finally after 18 years of ugly and humiliating ... Updated on 4 Apr 2016: Getting out of Hospital after that 1 day of surgery was Ruff!!! I had this binder (which was a Girdle from $%@#) and a wrap around my breast..... *** that is a mess to have to wear for 10 days after my bulbs are taken out. I'm still waiting for those ten days cuz I got my bulbs out on March 31... But today I'm cheating an going without anything on my breast for awhile.. I'll give it an hour an I'll get paranoid and pit it back on... I'm still waiting for pain in my dissolvable stitches to dissolve already an pain to go away!!! I'm still walking lime a zombie too and it's been since March 21 from surgery but I can happily say everyday I seem to get somewhat better... Still taking meds.. But scared to run out cuz I don't want to be stuck with no pain meds.. Idk looking forward to Future real fast so I can enjoy my New Body!!! Updated on 4 Apr 2016: This is my Pix I wanted to show you right after I got out of Hospital.. Before my Free Bird! Lol!!! I was in much pain in this pic day after surgery.. Updated on 5 Apr 2016: My dissolvable stitches are starting to come off... I just can't wait for them to all be off!!!!! Updated on 7 Apr 2016: I called Dr Jacobs today and talk to all his wonderful nurses all 3 I always talk to... Anyways I had a few questions since its Thursday and they'll be leaving at 12 on Friday. I got a few answers onez I didn't like.... Questions 1. How long do I have to wear my binder?.... Answer... I need it 24/7 for 3 weeks then 12 hr for next 3 weeks.. 6weeks in total .. " I'm like I see some girls on here that don't wear a annoying binder at all, not even after 1st day of surgery.... 2. My Ace bandage on my breast, how long?.... 3 weeks and 3 days I can buy a soft supporting no underwire button in front bra. 3. SEX???? ... I mentioned I had a moment with my husband 2 weeks after surgery ... THEY got to laughing at me and very worried at the same time .. They were like I'll have to put that in your records to show Dr Jacobs when you come back to spp. Im like today is April 7th and I don't have to see him until May 19th... In the meantime I am still in pain from my stitches falling off. My scar scared me every time I look at it BUT most of all I freakin LoVe my results!!!! Oh my Husband does toooo!!!! Updated on 7 Apr 2016: Ladies can anyone tell me how long are these dissolvable stitches stay on an when do they fall off??????? Updated on 10 Apr 2016: The way I've been sleeping I hope it didn't stretch my scar :-/ Updated on 12 Apr 2016: My boobs are still in the Ace Bandage! I got my other Binder today at Doctor Office! Updated on 13 Apr 2016: I called my doctor today to ask about my bra situation since my appointment not until May 19... And also about that bloody strip around my scars. When will it go away??? I feel like Frankenstein... Plus my nipples are highly hurting an stinging if something comes near the an touches.. Why is that? Updated on 15 Apr 2016: Wearing clothes finally out of the PJ's!!! Not wearing blue jeans yey as I'm still in my binder for 3 more weeks!!! Updated on 15 Apr 2016: I had went to see my Dr yesterday cuz I was having this dried up skin around my scars, which looked bad like I was Frankenstein.. Blaaa.. Anyways I went to see to ask what I could do to get rid of it.. He just grabbed a pair of tweezers an started pulling it off!! So now I'm clear of black stuff any scars look great!!! Lovey new Body so much! Ty Dr. Jacobs and he's nurse staff!!! The Best! Updated on 16 Apr 2016: Wow! Speaking of hourglass look at that shape!! I'm almost 4 weeks post opt! Looking and feeling better! Updated on 24 Apr 2016: I used to be a huge size in clothes but after my breast reduction I am a size 36D!!! I used to be a 38F.... Big difference a breast reduction can do!! Alot of my pain has gone away not taking meds now for pain and not having the struggles of wearing correct clothing and most of all spending outrageous prices on bras!!!! I feel free!!! Updated on 24 Apr 2016: This was my 38F an this is my 36D Updated on 25 Apr 2016: I am 5 weeks post opted today!!! Very excited! My pain has gone away except for my stomach muscles hurt sometimes if I move to quickly... I am wearing a bra with underwire it's comfy enough.. It's not a harsh one. It came from Dillard's in the mall.. I'm also wearing a shapewear from Wal-Mart!!! It keeps my tummy tight an feels secure.. At most times I wear my binder also like on top of my shapewear because my PS hasn't released me from my binder yet.. I won't see him until May 19.... Can't wait to go back to get free from the binder... But to tell you the truth I will always prolly have some kind of price on my stomach at least for another 6 months to a year!!! Updated on 11 May 2016: I am 7 weeks post opt and looking at my boobies now I have noticed they are real settled... I was hoping my boobs to be a little more perky like they were when I was 1 week post opt.. They were perfect then but iI'm happy the way they arenow.. I was thinking about getting small implants in but not sure yet... Updated on 16 May 2016: Hi everyone!!! I am 8 weeks post opted today! I am so proud of my surgery! I feel alot better no pain an boobies have set in place! And I really like! I love my tummy tuck as well but I need a little more lipo on my hips.... because of a car wreck I had back in September 14, 1998 I had fractured my pelvis so my hips are a little crooked and if any weight on those hips it shows... I am looking forward to going back to my PS Gary Jacobs of Longview Texas! I am ready to go back an get lipo on hips and my double chin.. Lol I look great everywhere else but my fat cheeks an neck. That's my only problem... Other than that doing great I hear that within 8 months to a year my fat on my tummy were my scar is will go away .. FLAT!! Can't wait!!! Updated on 21 May 2016: I am 9 weeks post opted on Monday the 23rd!!! I feel good an look alot better in clothes as I was before my surgery! I am not embarrassed anymore to swim in my swimming pool!!! I'm still wearing my binder as little as maybe a few hours at a time. I wear it if my muscles feel like they're tighting in my stomach. I don't wear it if my muscles don't hurt. U did 25 crunches and I hurt for 2 days... Guess my muscles aren't ready for that. I live to do sit-ups and crunches!!! I can't wait!
I am 28 years old. I have 2 boys that are 7 & 15 months. I have always had a huge stomach. I have struggled with my weight my whole life! I have always been on a diet!! I decided my life change after the birth of my last son. I weighed 240 when I got pregnant & maintained the same weight throughout my pregnancy. Morning sickness helped but, I complained the whole time. Pregnancy was never fun for me! I got down to 195 after i had my son. So I decided have a mommy make over this past July. I had my first appoint & knew this was for me! No more stomach rolls or Spanx!!! Sign me up!! My son was only 7 months old & knew I had to wait until the spring of the following year! So here I am! I have also gained back 10lbs :\ Stupid Holidays!! I know this will give me the motivation i need! I am scheduling my tt & lipo for March 2013. I am so nervous & have mixed emotions!! I know its going to hurt & i hate being put under! My husband of course says I'm hot but, really I'm sure its to save our money! I'm just ready to get it over with! I want to wear a bikini this summer really bad! I will still be a thicker girl & I am ok with that. Just ready to lose these rolls!! I will upload pics soon. Its not letting for some reason. Updated on 1 Mar 2013: Ahhh! So excited!! Called today & scheduled!!! I have so many emotions! I am so blessed & happy to be able to do this! All the women in my family have the sagging midsection. I have been told all my life.. "your so pretty for a big girl!" It's alway played in the back of my mind. I just want a new me & to be happy to be the size I am! So what all are the must haves for this surgery? I need to make a list.. Updated on 8 Mar 2013: My pre op is this Monday! I have so many mixed emotions! I had nightmare last night! I woke up happy that it was only a dream.. I just want it all over with. My mind has so many questions & what ifs. Well after Monday I will let u know how it all goes :) Updated on 15 Mar 2013: Today was my post op! I paid it all in cash! No turning back now. I am so excited but very nervous for the surgery. I am just putting it all in God's hands. In5 days I will be flat! Ekk! Updated on 17 Mar 2013: This weekend I spent it with my husband & kids. We wnt to the zoo & had family day We cleaned the house & did yard work too. Washing up all my comfy gowns & setting them where i am able to reach them & putting things in easy places for me to grab. I got my list for walmart for tomorrow! I am just so over whelmed. I don't know what or how to feel. I'm excited, worried, calm, & nervous all in one!! I am ready to get it over with! Tomorrow my grandma is coming from west Texas to stay with us for a month. I am very blessed & think God daily! I feel like I ready but I keep looking at my house & thinking what else should I need or do! Just 3 more days! Updated on 21 Mar 2013: Well my surgery was yesterday at 8 am. I will give y'all a little run down. I did sleep at all the night before. I was so nervous & felt like I needed to vomit. My alarm sounded I laid in my comfy bed one last time. I knew the recliner is where I would be for a bit. I took a shower & my husband made me drive to keep my mind occupied from thinking. It did help. Once I arrived at the hospital I stretched my whole body bc I knew it would be my last for awhile. I signed in at 6am & waited for my mom & dad. They. Alled me back & the surgern came in to talk & marked me all over my belly & mons pubis. Then the nurse got me on I've which she put in the worse spot! My right arm which I use between the fold and my wrist. Right where it's soft skin. Anyways. I was so nervous & though even about leaving lol. I just said no I came this far and I know I can do it. They rolled me back introduced me to the staff that would be helping & have me my cocktail. I don't even remember going tosleep. I woke up to nurses & them telling me it all went great & he took off 7.25 pounds of fat & skin. 1.25 from just my moms pubis area!! That was a shocker. I remember I was in pain & my stomach was burning. She told me if I took anymore pain meds I'd have to wait 20 more mins to go to my room. She then got me a pain pump and I was in my room. The rest of the day sucked bc I was nausea, loopy, in & out, couldn't keep anything down until about 11pm that night. The nurse was great & she even French braided my hair. I slept on & off last night. I have not stood up yet but I can tell my stomach is extra soar. I also still have a foley in so I haven't used the bathroom yet. I haven't seen my stomach yet either. My parents & husband said they can tell inches are gone. So I am happy the surgery is behind me & now it's recovery. Good luck everyone. I will be posting again soon Updated on 28 Mar 2013: Today I am 8dpo. I feel so much better & moving around pretty well! I even gave my own self a shower.I got one of my drains removed on 6dpo. It did not hurt. Just felt werid because they put 18inches of tube & when they pull it out you feel a suction. I am almost able to stand up straight but when I do I feel pulling & tightness. It freaks me out that I will not be able to stand up straight. I have been taking it easy. Only walking to recliner to bathroom for the first 5 days. Now I have been walking more around the house. I hope the pulling sensation goes away soon. I also hope it's normal. I start thinking maybe the ps didn't flex my stomach enough when he did my stomach muscles. Just has me worried. I will keep trying today to stand straight. Good luck everyone! Updated on 10 Apr 2013: Today is my 3 week op!!! Yaaaa! I feel so so much better! Very happy I did this! I did this for me & I feel so much better. I still need to workout & tone but I look better than I did. My husband tells me all the time.. Your so FLAT! I have never been flat & when I get compliments I often say what? No I don't! I'm just not use to the attention on my body at all. It feels great & girls don't hesitate to do it! Just do it! :) Updated on 28 Feb 2014: so its almost have been a year since my tt! i love it! i was finally able to sllep on my stomach about 4 months post op. i still from time to time get soar if i slept on my side at night. So now i am having my breast lift and lipo on my flanks and inner thights. i am a nursing student and have gained 8lbs since march. i am trying to diet but i am like a yoyo due to stress with schooland holiday eatting. but it still looks good and flat. my lovehandles i can tell. so thats why im doing the lipo in that areas. i will be posting pics soon! Updated on 30 May 2014: So I had my Tt last year. It was the best thing EVER! May 7th I had a breast lift and lipo on flanks, inner and outer thighs! I am amazed at the inches off my love handles! Dr Gary Jacobs in Longview Tx is the best! My breast look and feel firm. Updated on 30 May 2014: Updated on 25 Sep 2014: Well I have lost lots of inches & my my Surgeon says I am still swollen. Also, on my right upper thigh due to the lipo & so much I now have sagging skin :( I am so upset about this but there isn't much I can do for it. He did tell me with the lipo & so much he took out that there could be a chance. So I been trying to wear compression shorts but it's not helping! So looks like after the holidays I will be scheduling me another surgery :/ but here are some recents pictures. I have came along way & I need not to get discouraged. Updated on 26 Sep 2014: I've had a Tt and lipo on my mons pubis in March 2013. May 7th 2014 I had breast lift & lipo on inner/outer thighs, lipo on flanks (love handles) back area , & under the arm pit. I will now have to have a thigh lift die to the sagging skin from the lipo :( but I have still came a long way!! Trying not to get disappointed!
My Tummy Tuck is coming up on August 27 and my preop appointment is on the 23rd. I am very excited to finally get some help with my tummy. I am ready to lose most the stretchmarks, and able to accept the scar in place of a new tighter tummy. But I am feeling more nervous the closer I get and worried something might go wrong after reading bad reviews. Hopefully it will all work out beautifully though. I am at 163lbs right now and although I am close to a normal BMI and weight range for my heigth of 5'5" I am getting lipo on my "back fat" top (bra fat) and bottom (love handles). I actually heard about this site from another woman in my surgeons office. I was there on my consultation app and she was making a payment and said there was a site with lots of information and real people talking about their own procedures and giving advice. So I thought I'd check it out and here I am.
So far I have had minimal pain. Getting to sitting position is the worst. I can walk very well. I can lift my feet. Do not have to scoot my feet. I walk every 10 minutes The incision looks very good. I had Tummy Tuck and Lopo. Fat from tummy tuck was 3.5 lbs and from lipid was 1.5 lbs. I am 65 yrs old. The nurse commented that I have very strong legs. I have been going to the gym for one year. I am so glad I had this done. Will post pictures later
I'm 51 years old and had gastric bypass 17 years ago, losing about 80 lbs. I gained back about 20 over the years but have been stable. I currently weigh 156 (I'm 5'5"). The weight loss left me with loose skin & apron that I've just lived with over the years. I've also always had significant asymmetry in my breasts. They've never fluctuated much with my weight gain/loss, though. I've had consultations with 3 surgeons (2 in Tyler, Tx and 1 in Longview, Tx). The first doctor (in Tyler) I never felt comfortable with from the very first interaction. In fact, I went home crying & decided this just wasn't for me. But then I realized that the problem wasn't ME, I just needed to give another doctor a try and see if it was a more positive experience. SO glad I did! Loved the next two surgeons. So, word of advice - DON'T GIVE UP UNTIL YOU FIND A SURGEON YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH! At this point, I'm 99% sure I'm going to go with Dr. Gary Jacobs in Longview. With all other factors being fairly equal, the primary reason for this choice is location (he's an hour closer to my home). I've already decided on silicone implants. Wavering on size. My goal was never really to have large breasts, just pretty, symmetrical ones. I've learned this - the clothes you wear when trying on the implants makes ALL the difference. My first visit, I wore a button down shirt and we tried a 350cc (on my smaller breast). I turned sideways to look in mirror & immediately decided it was WAY too large! I looked like a square from my chest down! Next visit, I wore a fitted tank top (not on purpose, just what I happened to be wearing). We started with a 450cc on the smaller breast & my profile/silhouette was beautiful! That's when I realized that my wardrobe was going to have to change. SO KEEP THAT IN MIND when you're choosing your implant size & final desired look! Dr. Jacobs discussed a fleur-di-lis incision for my tummy tuck. This is a decision we'll make together, so I'm waiting until my scheduled pre-op visit (one week prior to surgery) to finalize that and the implant size decision. I'm hoping to schedule the procedure for early April. Will add photos soon. Doing this because the other posts on RealSelf have been SO helpful, and I hope my experience can help others and answer questions as well! Updated on 12 Mar 2016: I know how much before-and-after photos help, so I'm posting all my 'before' shots now. Updated on 14 Mar 2016: Dr. Jacobs' office asked another patient if they would reschedule so I could have that date - it's the best one for my kids to be with me when I have surgery. So excited they called to inform me I could have the date & they'd get back with me to confirm time & pre-op consult one week prior. After reading up on it, I've decided to go with the fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty. Seems I'm a perfect candidate: it will remove the excess skin above my navel, it will help to contour my waist more, and I already have the vertical scar from my gastric bypass. Will make final decision on implant size at that pre-op consult as well. Last I was there, we were discussing 400-450cc on right and proportionately smaller in left (I can't remember how much smaller). Told my kids (21-yr son, 25-yr son & wife) this weekend about the surgery. It's not easy for boys to hear their mom is getting brewst implants, but I assured them I wasn't doing this for size as much as for lift & symmetry (without going into details), and they're all very supportive. Will schedule time off from work this week. Can't wait! Updated on 18 Mar 2016: Confirmed my surgery date again for Apr 6. I'll have a pre-op visit on March 31 to discuss TT incision and make final decision on implant size. As of now, I'm thinking of 450cc on R side & whatever surgeon feels would be necessary to create symmetry on L. Still looking at dozens of pictures to try and decide, but it's hard when you don't know the height/build of the person. I know implant size doesn't correlate to bra size, but when bra size is the only measurement you've gone with for years it's hard to think any other way! I'd like to be a full D, maybe DD, but no more. On the 31st I'll also make my payments and have lab work done. I'm assuming any pre-op instructions for the week prior will be given to me at that time as well. Vitamins? Diet? I'm wondering what would be the best vehicle for the drive home the day after the surgery. I live about an hour away, and I have a high truck that's easy to get out of, and a low car that's easy to get into. If anyone has suggestions, I'd appreciate it! Just found out this week I'll be a grandmother for the first time in November, so the timing couldn't be any better as far as my recovery goes!! Updated on 21 Mar 2016: Thought I'd add this info just so those of you shopping can compare. Everyone knows cost shouldn't necessarily be the determining factor when it comes to your health and safety, but if you have some ballpark figures, you know if what you're paying is in line with those around you. The total quote for my abdominoplasty, breast lift w/silicone implants, hospital, anesthesia and an overnight stay was $15,625. This broke down like this: Surgeon's fee - $11,100 Hospital fee - $3,000 Anesthesia - $1,075 Overnight stay - $450 This is for silicone breast implants, and although my doctor said there's a 50/50 chance I'd stay overnight in the hospital, I'm most likely going to request to stay. I figure if you're spending $15K, $450 is a small price to pay for the extra medical oversight and pain management I can get. But that's something that could change after surgery. Dr. Jacobs offered a 10% discount off his fee only if paying with a credit card, bringing his portion down to $9,990 and total surgery to $14,515. If paying cash, he's offered a 15% discount on his fee bringing his portion to $9,435 and total surgery to $13,960. I was contemplating using CareCredit to pay for the procedures, but have decided to go the cash route - both to save money and to not have a monthly payment to worry with. I'll pay all of it on the 31st at my pre-op visit. I should note that the quote states this special is only good through April 30, 2016, so I don't know if it will be the same after that time. I'm still THOROUGHLY confused on implant size to go with. I thought I was good with 400cc to 450cc, but then read tons of reviews last night that said to increase this by anywhere from 10-30% to make up for some of the volume lost by placing the implant under the muscle. Going to by rice today to try the rice/pantyhose test to see if that helps me any. Also, don't know about the whole low/moderate/high profile option. I have to ask my doctor what that means. I've read it simply means how the breast will project from the side, but I don't know if that means when I turn sideways how far the breast will stick out from my chest or when I face forward how far the breast will stand out from the width of my chest. SO confusing!! i also read on another website that you should know your BWD (?) as a starting point because it determines the suggested starting point of the implant size. Gonna have to add that to my list of questions to ask Dr. Jacobs next week! Wouldn't it just be SO SIMPLE to give them a picture and say "give me THOSE"!! Hahaha. I wish!! Updated on 25 Mar 2016: I took more "before" pics today - this time in clothes so I can compare in the same clothes "after". I'm currently wearing a size 8 in pants, small to medium in tops. Bra size 36C. Hope to be a D-DD. I'll post the additional pics after surgery. The more I read about the recoveries here on RS, the more I worry. I'm not married, not in a relationship & live alone. My grown boys will be able to be around, stay the night (some)...but when I hear about all the PERSONAL assistance required post-op - no way they're handling those issues! My daughter-in-law will be available most of day 3 & 4, but that's about it. I'm taking a full 19 days off work, with the option to work from home another week or two after that, so I can take my time but I live 20 minutes from the closest person I can call if I need help! Just wondering if anyone else went this road mostly alone? What are the absolute necessities if I'm alone and what can I do in advance? Fortunately, I don't have to worry about cooking meals or doing anything else to prepare household members for my convalescence, but this does come with its own set of problems! Updated on 26 Mar 2016: To be honest, I didn't see the point of putting "wish pics" on your profile....until I began seeing people compare those wish pics with their "after" pics. Soooooo....I'm putting some out there. Honestly, I've looked at SO MANY pictures of breasts and tummies, they've all begun to look the same! Lots of these may be different sizes, but I think the overall look (at least to my unprofessional eye) is the same. I still am not clear on the difference LP, MP and HP will make...I just know how I want to look! Updated on 29 Mar 2016: Went to bank today to draw full surgery fee out of savings. That was heavy stuff! I'm paying cash to get the 15% discount & also just so I don't create debt. Didn't wipe me out, but still, it took a LONG TIME to build up that nest egg! I see Dr. Jacobs, get lab work done, make final implant decision & pay everything day after tomorrow. I'll wait until this weekend to buy whatever it is I'm going to need. Mon & Tues of next week will be super busy getting everything caught up & in place at work, then Wed is the big day! Praying I can clearly convey to dr what I'm wanting the outcome of the BL/BA to be, since it will be his discretion, ultimately, that determines the look. Taking extra tops with me to the appt for when I try the sizers for the last time. Updated on 30 Mar 2016: I'm like a kid in a candy store...but you can understand when you see what I've been working with all these years!! Updated on 1 Apr 2016: Saw Dr. Jacobs for my final pre-op visit yesterday. Surgery is in 5 days! I had lots of questions in this visit, mostly because my other visit was to determine if Dr. Jacobs was the surgeon I wanted to use. Today was all about the surgery itself. We discussed TT incision placement and expected results, and confirmed that we're also going with the Fleur-de-Lis as well as the abdominoplasty so I can anticipate tightening of the skin between my navel and breasts as well as the apron below the navel. This should also help tighten my waistline, since it pulls in from the sides. Since most of my questions were regarding the implants...here's just a quick rundown of what we covered. Should I increase implant cc's to accommodate for loss of volume due to under-the-muscle placement? (Yes, slightly). What measures could be taken to keep implant from sliding under my arm...especially when laying on my back? (Implant size and existing breast tissue can contribute to that, but he felt a good bra while implants are "settling" would be my best guard against it.) Should I consider textured implants? (In his experience, textured implants didn't 'move' as naturally as untextured, but he had no reason not to recommend them if that's what I preferred...I didn't.) Other general questions...When would my first post-op visit be? (One week after dismissal from hospital.) How long will the drains stay in? (Hopefully one will come out after one week and the 2nd after 2 weeks.) When would I be able to drive? (Preferably not for two weeks, although physically I could drive before then.) Was there anything I needed to do now to avoid post-op constipation? (Begin daily stool softener now, Milk of Magnesia after surgery, and if nothing happening with 3-4 days, then add a laxative). I then spent probably a good 45 minutes doing nothing but trying different implant sizes with the nurse. Susan was the nurse today, and she was UNBELIEVABLY helpful in my problem with this decision! She was finally able to help me understand the whole relation between my breast width (14.5, which indicated to Dr. Jacobs that I wouldn't need to start with an implant any smaller than 450cc), implant size and implant profile. She also kept reminding me that what I was seeing in the mirror wouldn't be quite accurate, since the implant would be going under the muscle and therefore wouldn't be as prominent. (After all these years of looking at small breasts, looking down and seeing that kind of profile is pretty overwhelming...hope I don't freak out after surgery when they're high and swollen!) Susan listened to everything I said, and I felt like she really understood what I was going for. After MUCH trial and error, multiple sizers, multiple profiles, shirt changes and chart consulting, we decided on.....Nutrelle Moderate Plus 575cc (right) and either 457cc or 492cc (left). They also told me, that due to my asymmetry, Dr. Jacobs would be using sizers during my surgery. I wasn't sure what that meant...so in case any of you aren't clear either, it's pretty simple: with saline implants, they can insert the implant and increase or decrease the volume at will to see the desired results; silicone are pre-sized, so they can't do that. What he's going to do is actually put in a saline implant, fill it to see which volume (the 457 or 497) is best, then go with that size in the silicone. I felt much better after hearing that! I realize they're not going to be perfectly symmetrical, but Dr. Jacobs explained that during surgery, they would sit me up, he'd take a sort of "consensus" of opinions from those in the OR as to how similar they looked...but then HE would make the final determination. I trust him. I have to!! So I paid my fee in full, went to the anesthesiologist's office and paid them, then went to the pre-admissions for the hospital to pay them and get my lab work done. Since I don't smoke or have any heart or diabetes trouble, they only had to do basic blood work and no EKG. My original estimate from Dr. Jacob's office didn't include a pain pump for my hospital stay, so I had them add that on for an additional $150, bringing my total surgery cost to $14,930. I only have one day between now and my surgery to gather supplies and really get ready, which will be tomorrow. The other 3 days are full of travel and work...so I'm making my final list tonight. Planning on getting a mani/pedi tomorrow too since it may be a while before I feel like it again (yes, I'm vain!). I have to be at the hospital at 5:30 am for my scheduled 7:00 am surgery...so let the countdown begin!! Updated on 4 Apr 2016: Updated on 5 Apr 2016: Since I live alone, my prep today was easy! Put my iPad & warm socks in a bag. Wearing loose fitting hoodie & swears to hospital in the morning & wearing same ones home. Showered with alibi lens tonight & washed my hair. My kids came home & we played games all evening. Youngest is spending the night & riding to hospital with me, since it's about 45 minutes away. Others will meet me there at 5:30 for 7:30 surgery! This time tomorrow I'll have it behind me & begin my road to recovery. No nerves...just excited! Updated on 7 Apr 2016: Surgery went well - at least it think it did! I haven't seen Dr. Jacobs yet this morning. My kids told me it was a 7-hr surgery & something about putting an implant in upside down? They were probably kidding but I was in a fog so I'll have to ask. I've been sleeping pretty hard since about 3 yesterday. Got out of bed once & sat in chair with help from nurse. But I was light-headed & it made me nauseous. She gave me a cream to rub on my wrists for that & it helped. There was a good-sized clot in my drain last night. Gotta ask dr about that too. All-in-all I'm doing ok but that's because I haven't had to move! I can't imagine you women go home straight after this procedure! I haven't even looked at all the wrapping under my hosp gown. But I can say this, used to see flat (boobs), then round (tummy) when looking straight down. Now it's swapped! I'll update again after I talk with dr & get home today. Can't tell you what it meant to see all the warm wishes & positive thoughts from you ladies! Thank you all so much! Updated on 9 Apr 2016: I've been home a day and a half and can honestly say I see improvements every day. My daughter-in-law has been staying with me and I couldn't have done it without her. The hospital nurse told us the drains had to be emptied every 3 hours, so she set her alarm and we were up every 3 hrs on the dot to measure. Fortunately, I called Dr. Jacobd's office the next day and was told we only have to empty the twice a day! I've taken my pain med every 4-6 hrs even if I didn't need it too badly, because I don't want to get behind the pain. But I can honestly say that I think today I'm going to see how it goes & possibly try Tylenol. I'm not against pain medications at all, just want to gauge how good or bad it really is. I'm staying in my recliner with a pillow under my knees. After 24 hrs home, I was able to stand up, walk to bathroom, use toilet, and get back in my chair without assistance. I've only unwrapped everything once, last night when my daughter-in-law helped me shower. They actually told me I could shower on day 1 before I left the hospital, but I just didn't have the energy to tackle that. So I used a shower chair and it went without a hitch. My boobs look great. I'll try to get some pics, but can tell you they're high, tight and kind of square right now. Fortunately, I've seen enough reviews on here to know not to worry, so I'm happy. I only had the BL on my left breast, and implants in both so the incisions aren't the same. When I stand, more than anything, it's gravity pulling on my breasts that hurts. My left boob looks like the implant is upside down, but Dr. Jacobs said that is on purpose because I had so much extra skin below that breast, and that once the implant settles in, it'll have better shape. I really expected my boobs to be up to my chin when I first looked down, but it wasn't so bad. My TT looks good. The horizontal decision looks really low and straight, and the vertical one looks good as well. My navel is taped, so I can't see it. He said they were able to take out a lot - from the top of my pubic area to above the belly button. He said they removed right at 4 lbs. There's swelling at my tummy, which I expected, and since I can't stand up straight I can't really get a great look at things, but I gotta say what little I saw I'm completely pleased with! Wondering about switching from the ace bandage to a sports bra now. The bandage gives me great support, but the instructions also say that wrapping too tightly can affect the healing. How quickly did y'all make that move? This morning is my first time in the house alone. I made some oatmeal, walked around a bit. I'm in no hurry, so this is easy. My drainage is minimal...its been at over 12 hrs and there's very very little in each bulb. I can see that as a good thing, that it's almost done...or a bad thing in that I'm not draining as I should. Anxious to post some pics so if nothing else I can get a good look at what I'm working with! Updated on 9 Apr 2016: Updated on 13 Apr 2016: I've been doing great and am very happy with results and constant improvement. Still monitoring two drains, hoping to have one removed tomorrow. Sleeping in recliner, walking more every day but still taking it very easy. Not going to do anything to hamper my recovery! The only place I had tape was around my belly button and that came off at 3rd shower. Right now, I shower, dry, and reapply compression garment and sports bra I owned prior to surgery (since I'm so much bigger now, it's more snug and gives light support). Taking antibiotic, no problems with constipation. No feeling in my left nipple (the only breast that received a lift), but all is well in the other. Uploaded pics. I'm really happy with TT incision and how low, straight and clean it is. Looks like my left implant is lowering a little more than the right, but Dr. Jacobs explained that the bigger the implant/smaller existing breast tissue, the slower the drop. Since my right breast had little tissue and received the larger implant, I expected this. He said this give the muscles and breast tissue time to adapt and therefore creates a more natural finished look. And of course, that's what I'm hoping for! First week follow-up visit tomorrow...hoping he's as please with the progress as I am! Updated on 15 Apr 2016: Saw Dr. Jacobs yesterday and got a good report. Had right drain removed, and he advised me to keep antibiotic ointment on the wound when showering. I told him the sensation of an internal stitch popping keeps happening...several times a day, typically when I'm sitting up straight and not moving, and always right in the same place (at the top of my vertical tummy incision). He said it could be a stitch that is poking and will likely stop as the tissue around it surrounds it...or it could be the drain. I think now it was the drain, because it hasn't happened again since I left his office. I'll continue to wear the compression garment around the clock. However, he told me I could cut about 2 inches off the width of it and that has made all the difference! It was just too wide for my short waist. He gave me a strap to wear across the top of my breasts around the clock as well, to help them drop. The nurse instructed me on breast massage but advised I put off massaging the left breast another 4-5 days, since it has more incisions due to the lift. Still no L nipple sensation. Dr. said no lifting over 10 lbs due to my tummy, and as for my arms, just listen to my body and if it hurts, don't do it. No driving for another week, but I can increase my walking so long as I don't do anything involving resistance. He said the intersection of my two tummy incisions looks good - this was the highest risk area in doing the fleur-de-lis TT - and my belly button is good as well. He explained the likely order of the swelling areas of my tummy that would go down, with the lower portion around the incision to be last...up to a year. I feel great and am super happy with the results so far! Back to Dr. Jacobs in a week, most likely will have other drain removed!! Updated on 11 May 2016: Got behind in uploading, but here are more pics from day 5 Updated on 11 May 2016: Everything is progressing nicely. Breast scars look great, but there is still some slight tenderness on left side (where the lift was done). Vertical tummy scar is SO thin, loving it. Horizontal tummy scar is kind of thick and rope-like. Belly button looks great. All scars are still numb, as is my left nipple (again, the only one that got a lift). I'm in a 36-DD bra, but mostly still wearing sports bras. My jeans size has gone down from 8 to 6. I'm supposed to be massaging 3 times a day, but honestly I forget. Right implant is still dropping slower than left, but progress is being made and I'm patient. My left aureola is larger than the right - but I'm not complaining when you see what I started with!! I don't have any trouble sleeping on back or sides (haven't tried tummy) and really don't have any issues at all. I do, however, feel as though the skin above my belly button is not as tight as it was a few weeks ago. Not sure if it's because of something I'm doing, but will discuss with Dr. Jacobs at my next visit. Still lots of swelling all above the horizontal tummy incision - Dr. says that will be the last to go and could take up to a year. Frankly, I'm just so glad the skin hanging over is gone that I wouldn't dare complain about a little swelling!
I had a hysterectomy at 30 and before my eyes I went from 180-300. I wasn’t able to budge my weight, no matter how hard I tried, so I had gastric surgery and lost 120 pounds and that has been 13 years ago. I have kept it off over the years have seen a couple of plastic surgeons but never could afford them. Then a friend of mine said what about a panni removal your insurance should pay. I called BCBS and they said yes its covered and I found Dr Jacobs, and so here I am so excited to get this flab that I have tucked in and tried so hard to cover over the years, but yet so afraid of the pain unlike child birth I still remember the recovery from gastric. But here I go and to the final count down
Cleavage is usually dependent on anatomy and surgical technique. Your anatomy suggests that cleavage is potentially achievable. Part of the limitations are because of where your muscle insertion is on the sternum which can't be seen on the photo and partially it is dependent on the surgical technique and how the surgeon treats the muscles. The caution in trying to hard to get cleavage is the risk of developing symmastia. You can look up symmastia on this site. Good luck
Post operative results are difficult at 1 month. Your results are also dependent on your starting point. I would suggest resubmitting this question with pre-operative photos.
First make sure your surgeons is aware of how concerned you are about the problem, even insist that he look at it, if he hasn't Patient's usually don't like hearing "just give it time it will get better", even when it is true. 2 months is fairly early but there are treatments that may help. Some treatments include therapy with ultra sound, deep massage and a home program of heat and massage. Be sure and keep your surgeon informed of what you are doing.
Physicians will usually explain why they have instructed a patient to do something, if the patient asks. A call to his nurse to get the inquiry started would be best. Most surgeons give postop instructions that have worked for them and their patients, but they should answer questions when they arise. Good luck
The more recent recommendation for weight affects on surgical risks are based on a patient's BMI or body mass index. Your BMI, 5' 2" and 220 pounds, is 40. A BMI of 30 or below would give a patient a near normal surgical risk. A BMI of 35 doubles nearly all a patient's risks, and a BMI of 40 give a patient 4 times the normal surgical risk of a BMI of 30. To get your BMI down to 35 you would need to lose 30 pounds, down to 190; and, you would need to lose down to 160 to get a near normal surgical risk. The older recommendation which did not take into account risks would state you need to be within 10-15% of a achievable and maintainable weight. Thank you for your question.
