Dr Simeon Wall Jr at the Wall Center in Shreveport, LA is top-notch. I had full tummy tuck with Safe-lipo. Basically, he sculpted my trunk. Yes, he is VERY PRICEY $17,500. But, my results have been awesome so far. 8 weeks post-op, I went to Dr Ken Odinet in Lafayette, LA for breast lift/augmentation ($8,800). Dr Wall Jr wanted an additional $11,000 for breasts (that's with a discount). I'll write separate review about Dr Odinet who is phenomenal at breast work, btw. Updated on 27 Feb 2016: Photo update 6 weeks post op breasts and 14 weeks tummy tuck Updated on 9 Jun 2017: It's been over a year and definitely look better and feel better! I recommend both surgeons I used. Dr Simeon Wall Jr in Shreveport, LA and Dr Kenneth Odinet in Lafayette, LA (breasts)
I'm 33 years old, 5'4" and 110 lbs. I had always been flat chested (34A before kids), but it didn't bother me until after breastfeeding both of my sons for 13 months, I ended up a completely flat 34AA. This started hurting my confidence and I became self-conscious of my chest in front of my husband, who I have been with for almost 16 years. This is when I decided to look into BA. My husband doesn't care if I get the surgery or not, but I know that this will help with my self-esteem and be so good for me. I want to look as natural as possible, so my PS recommended Sientra 310cc anatomicals under the muscle. I will be scheduling my surgery for either June 19 or June 26. Updated on 19 May 2015: Does anyone else feel like time is going by SO SLOW?!? My BA is scheduled for one month from today on June 19 and it can't come soon enough! My pre-op appointment is June 3. It seems like all I do is get on here and read reviews, look at pictures, and keep a running list of ways I need to be prepared for surgery. I'll be on vacation from June 10-16 in Colorado for my brother's wedding, so hopefully that will make the time go by faster. Then I'm home for two days and then surgery! The flip side of all of my excitement is the anxiety of having surgery and accepting the inherent risks of having surgery and a boob job. My kids and my husband are my world and I am fearful that my choice will affect them negatively somehow. I'm a worrier so I have run over every possibility in my head of something wrong happening. I know this is probably very normal but it's still hard to make a selfish choice and do something just for me when I'm so used to putting everyone else first. I just pray that all goes well and my result is just what I want. Updated on 26 May 2015: Got my blood drawn by my PCP to send to my PS for my pre-op appointment next week. My husband thought it was completely awkward discussing the surgery with my doctor, who is also our neighbor down the road. I didn't feel weird at all, and he actually provided me with some insight as his wife had the procedure done as well. My husband says that he is really surprised at the ease at which I talk about this procedure to other people. He says that it is so unlike me (and he's right), but I explained to him after all the research I've done and pictures I've looked at, I'm completely comfortable and content with my choice. He was really proud of me for this, and then it really made me laugh that I've been desensitized to boobs. You see, breasts have always been a weird thing for me to talk about because I am so self-conscious about my lack of. But after looking at this site and pictures daily for the past several months, breasts are no longer a source of anxiety or awkwardness, but now are a source of anticipation and excitement for me. I guess I really didn't notice how my attitude has changed since deciding to go through with BA and it makes me even more excited now! Who would have known that an attitude change could happen BEFORE the procedure?!? I hope it continues to after as well! Updated on 3 Jun 2015: Hubby and I went to my pre-op appointment today. This is the first time he has been to any PS appointment with me. I wanted him there to get his final opinion about the size since I have been thinking of going bigger. I also requested to see the vectra with a round base anatomical instead of the classic base that we previously discussed. Long story short, the classic base looked much better on me, so I stuck with it but did decide to go up to 350cc instead of 310. My PS originally recommended Sientra 350cc textured anatomical implants but I thought they were too big. Since then, I've been all over this site looking at photos, reading reviews, etc., and was so afraid of only being a B with the 310s. My husband wanted the 350s over the 310s (heck, he wants more than 350 but that's too big in my opinion), so I decided to make the jump to 350cc. I've attached the vectra for the 350cc as well as a couple of photos with sizers. We also paid in full today which was pretty crazy! I'm pretty excited and my husband is really starting to get that way as well. All day he has talked about buying me new lingerie, etc., which really makes me happy! I also got my meds (except the Norco because the pharmacy was out) filled today and we discussed post-op. They really emphasized the ease of recovery and the importance of staying active and stretching after surgery. I'm really excited now and don't want to wait 2 weeks until surgery time! We go on vacation next week for a week so that should help pass the time! :) Updated on 15 Jun 2015: This past week has been insane! We came to Colorado for my brother's wedding and my entire family got the stomach bug. Luckily for me, it passed within a couple of days. However, last night I went to the ER because my left eye was swelling shut with major discharge. So 5 days before my surgery, I've been diagnosed with bacterial conjunctivitis. I've had viral pink eye before but that doesn't hold a candle to this. The doctor told me the topical antibiotic that I have to take four times a day should clear it up in several days. I'm going to give it 2 days to see if it improves before calling my PS. My hope is that it will have cleared up by Friday, which is my surgery day. Updated on 17 Jun 2015: Here are some before pictures for comparison after my surgery. They're horrible quality and lighting (I never take selfies) but it's better than nothing! Updated on 20 Jun 2015: Well, I made it through the surgery with flying colors! It truly was an easy process and I had very little anxiety beforehand. They had some great music playing in my room so I was just hanging out and singing until it was time. They gave me the anesthesia and the next thing I remember was being in recovery. I got to the surgery center at 8:45 am and we were headed back home by 12:30. Here's where the bad part came in. Apparently on the drive home I slept in an awkward position on my back and created a knot on my right shoulder blade. It caused me WAY more pain than my breasts did. The only relief I got was my husband vigorously massaging it. I had severe back pain for 3-4 hours. Once I got comfortable, the only discomfort I had was the soreness in my chest. Icing has helped tremendously, as well as the stretches they recommended to do every hour. I slept pretty good last night too! This morning, day 2, I woke up, took all my meds, and made eggs, bacon, and cinnamon rolls for my Family. After cleaning up and doing the dishes, I'm pretty tired and headed back to bed to rest. The nurse call this morning to check on me and to go over removing my dressings tomorrow and getting into a sports bra. So far though, today has been a breeze compared to yesterday. I have nearly full range of motion with my stretching exercises and minimal discomfort. I would so no paid at all either! Updated on 21 Jun 2015: I was finally able to take the tape and dressing off, which hurt like hell, and took my first shower since surgery. The shower was wonderful! My left breast and incision is definitely more sensitive than the right, which I barely notice any discomfort. They look exactly what I expected them to look like 3 days after surgery, and the bloating is just ridiculous. My husband's first words were, "Wow, they're really big." And he's the one who wanted me to go even bigger lol. Lots of swelling still, but happy at this point! Updated on 23 Jun 2015: All is still well here. I spoke to the nurse yesterday and asked a few questions and it seems that all of my pains are normal which, I guess, is good news. The main discomfort I have is a burning feeling around my incision on my left breast, so I'm putting a piece a gauze in between my bra and the steristrip to help with the rubbing. Icing really helps with this problem area also. Minus some random soreness, I rarely even notice my right breast at all. I do have quite a bit of swelling on top and on my sternum, so I'm trying to ice as much as possible, especially at night. The nurse told me my chest was very tight during surgery and they really had to squeeze to get the implant in. With that being said, I'm guessing I'm going to be swollen for quite a while, so I'm having to come to terms with that. I'm ready for them to go down to their actual size already. I work at home and went back to doing my desk job yesterday. It was definitely the hardest day I've had since the surgery, but I did try to take a few breaks to ice and lay down. Today has been better even though I've been busier. I also drove for the first time today which was harder than I expected. I tend to use my right arm for everything since that's the side that isn't so sore. I am also doing my stretches when I think about it and take Tylenol when I need it. My appetite is still down, but the bloating is finally seeming to calm down. Today is the first day I've been able to fit into jeans! Little by little, everyday, I'm trying to get back to normal, and I feel pretty good for the most part. I'm sure I'll hit tonight and be absolutely exhausted! Updated on 26 Jun 2015: Not too many changes at this point. Still high and tight! :) I still get a burning sensation on my left incision, but that's about it as far as pain goes. I have bruising around my incisions as well as on my sternum. Today was the first time I took a long shower and felt comfortable; before, the weight of the implants were just too much and I would take a very quick shower so I could get back in a sports bra as soon as possible. It was nice to finally shave my legs again lol. Otherwise, I'm careful throughout the day with my lifting. I have had to life my 17 month old a time or two, but I've tried to mainly use my arms and not my chest. It hasn't been perfect every time, but it is what it is. At night, I still like to ice the girls because it makes them feel wonderful, especially at the incisions. I still have quite a bit of swelling, but I'm becoming more comfortable with the size. I'm hoping they'll shrink up some as the swelling subsides because they are still larger than I expected. I'm trying to be patient, but as you all know, it's hard. I've also started going out in public more (I work from home, so I don't have to get out unless I really want to or have to), but I'm struggling to find shirts that look good with my sports bras. I'm kinda tired of wearing t-shirts all of the time and I don't want to wear tank tops just yet because I'm trying to be somewhat discreet and it's very obvious that I got a boob job. What kind of shirts are ya'll wearing that look good with sports bras? It still cracks me up that my husband finds it so weird that I have boobs now. He definitely hasn't adjusted yet, but has already hinted many times that he's ready to get back in the bedroom. I'm nervous since I do get sore towards the end of the day; I mean, good gosh, I had surgery 7 days ago! Maybe I'm being a wimp, and sex would probably cause no harm, but I'm still anxious about it. Other than that, all is well! The girls still look the same so I probably won't update too much until one month PO unless I see major changes before then. Updated on 2 Jul 2015: Tomorrow is the two week mark and I couldn't be more happy about my BA. Frankly, they look amazing! The size is exactly what I wanted and everyone tells me they look so natural. I still have some tightness and swelling, but I know things will only get better. Pain is virtually nonexistent minus the normal flashes of pain or burning I get on my left breast. My first post op visit went great; the nurse said everything looks perfect. I go back at the one month mark next. Hopefully by then my incisions will be completely healed on the outside and I can start the scar treatment. Again, I can't express how happy I am, and my husband loves them too! Happy Fouth of July! Updated on 10 Jul 2015: Just a few pictures in a different type of bra (sorry, kinda weirded out by putting nude photos on here so bra and bathing suit photos will have to work). My left is sitting a tad higher than the right, which has settled some. They are still pretty hard, and I don't expect them to become super squishy because I had no breast tissue to start with. Still incredibly pleased with the results and my easy recovery. I go back to the doctor on Wednesday for my one month appointment. Updated on 23 Aug 2015: Just a quick update with a few photos. The pictures are of my favorite swimsuit top, my favorite no wire bra, and a bra top cami to show that the girls finally evened out. So my left finally decided to settle and is pretty even with the right. I did have some asymmetry that the surgery didn't address so I think they're where they should be now. I go back to the doctor in a couple of weeks and I fully expect him to release me then. I do have some rippling and I can feel the implants because I am so slim and had no original breast tissue. It isn't noticeable much, you have to be up close to notice it. This doesn't bother me at all and expected this to be the case. I am also patiently waiting for them to soften up still. My PS said it could take as long as four months for them to soften. I am definitely ready to for them to not feel so fake. I think once they are a bit softer they'll probably feel more like mine. I can't say enough how happy I am with my choice to do the surgery and the size I went with. They look great and I love that I can dress them up with a skimpy top or hide them under a tshirt. My confidence is through the roof and my husband is pretty happy too! ;) Updated on 11 Sep 2015: I went to see my PS for the last time today and I was released! Woohoo! I won't go back until 1 year post op. Everything settled out nice and even and we are both very pleased with my results. He mentioned that my scars are still very red and to continue with the Biocorneum. The rippling that I can feel will more than likely always be there because of my minimal breast tissue and that I have no fat on my chest. When I have gained weight in the past (even 15-20 pounds at one point), my boobs didn't grow not one bit! It all goes to my legs and butt. But I am completely fine because, really, I'm the only one who notices the rippling. He also told me that they will continue to change and soften for the next year. Just a side note, I didn't tell anyone outside of my family and best friends that I was getting a BA. My husband didn't want to tell his family about it so they still don't know. And I haven't had anyone ask me about it or question if I've done anything to my body (and my sister-in-law would SO call me out on it!). I'm saying this because, the size I got is natural looking and can be hidden well. Before I got the surgery, I thought a C cup was huge, but now after having boobs, I realize that going for a C is really not that big at all. So my recommendation for anyone that is questioning going up an implant size, go with the bigger implant. I really feel like if I had gone with the 310cc implant that I thought I wanted, I probably would have been disappointed with the size and wish I had gone bigger. With that being said, I'm so happy!!!!!
I will be having a full tummy tuck with muscle repair (my Dr. says it will probably be more like an extended tummy because of the length of the incision) and SAFElipo all the way around my midsection/lovehandles and including my back. Well, my surgery is tomorrow and I am slightly freaked out. I feel like I am nesting before having babies, trying to get everything in order and chores out of the way before I am down for awhile. I am however, very excited to get to the other side and see the results. Just nervous about the first few weeks of recovery. This is something I have wanted to do for a long time. After my third child (who is now 8), I lost the weight pretty easily, but I knew all the diet and exercise wasn't going to get rid of the excess skin and my muscles would never firm up the same again. Somewhere along the way I put the weight back on and then some to get to my heaviest (heavier than any of my pregnancies) of 230 pounds. I've spent the last 18 months losing the weight the right way. I've lost 85 pounds and now weigh 145 which gives me a healthy BMI on my 5'4" frame. Everyone compliments me on my weightloss and tells me how skinny I am, but they don't know what I see in the mirror everyday when my clothes aren't on. I will post before pictures soon... and update after the surgery. I am encouraged by looking at other people's stories and photos and I want to do the same. Updated on 26 Jun 2014: I wasn't as nervous when I got to the surgical facility as I thought I would be. The Dr.'s surgical suites are in the same building as his Dr.'s office. I got checked in, did some paperwork and was taken back to a room to prep for surgery. I got changed, gave a urine sample and they started my I.V. My husband got to come back with me and the Dr. came in and talked to us, then marked me up for surgery. The anastesiologist gave me some medicine to make me sleepy and I don't remember anything until I woke up in recovery. In recovery I remember asking for some pain meds and she gave me a shot. I had experell injected during the surgery and it makes my stomach and backside numb. But I was having some pain in my rib cage just below my breasts. My husband got to come back and see me. After an hour or so they moved me to an overnight suite. I settled in to a recliner and there was a queen size bed for my husband. We didn't sleep much that night. I had to get up and walk the hallway at least twice per Dr.'s orders and pee at least twice or they would have to put a catheter back in. The next morning the nurse came in to check on me and pull my foam away from skin so I wouldn't blister. Later the Dr. came in and checked on the incision and my drains. I had one drain that wasn't really doing anything. He said that was okay and it should pick up in the next twelve hours. We left for our hour and a half drive home. Getting in the car was not easy. I felt something pull in my stomach and started crying, which made it way way worse!!! Then I had a hard time calming down and every time I took a deep breath when I cried it hurt even worse. I finally calmed down and dozed most of the way home. After getting home I got settled on the recliner end of our couch. Overall I would say it is at least as bad as I thought it would be. The Dr. said it would suck for a few days and he wasn't lying. The rest of the night wasn't too bad. I took a pain pill about 5:30 and then the rest of my regular night time meds around 8:00. I was dozing off and on, but I took my sleeping pill around 10 because I did not sleep well the first night and I wanted to get some rest. Today is Thursday and I'm 2 days post op. Overall it wasn't too bad of a day. My worst complaint is my tail bone and bottom getting sore from lack of different ways to sit. My husband still has to help me get in and out of the recliner, but we borrowed a walker and I'm able to use that to walk to the restroom. I took a shower for the first time. My husband tried to help me lay sideways on the bed in the fetal position, but I used my stomach muscles on accident and that hurt sooooo bad!!! So, after sitting hunched over on the side of the bed for a little while we decided to take the girdle and the foam off after I was sitting on a stool in the shower. That worked fine. The shower felt so good and it feels good to be clean. I took a pain pill after the whole ordeal (my first one since last night). Now I'm resting in the recliner again. Updated on 27 Jun 2014: Much better day today. I had to go to the doctor's office to have my drains looked at. I have one drain that had collected less than 25 cc's since my surgery on Tuesday. They said it was working fine, just slowly. I didn't look like I had any pockets of fluid and everything else looked great for 3 days post-op. Going to attempt another shower later. Updated on 28 Jun 2014: Hanging out and watching movies today. I'm walking further everytime I get up. It actually feels good to walk around. Took my second shower last night. Showers are good, but a two hour ordeal. Thinking about giving my stage 2 garment a try today. I'm still in a giant piece of elastic wrapped around my waist. They sent me home with another garment that will actually go around my legs and up to my chest. It had hooks/eyes and zippers on each side. They said I could start wearing it whenever I was ready. Updated on 29 Jun 2014: Wow... The PS gave me an entire handout about the emotional roller coaster to expect after surgery, but it's still hard to prepare for all of these emotions. I cried a lot yesterday evening. Between things on T.V. And just how crummy I felt. Overall it was a good day. But, my husband discovered that every time I got up yesterday my foam was moving around under my cg. So we undid it, resituated the foam and put it back together. After doing that three times and taking a shower I felt awful. It felt worse because I just wanted my husband to hold me, but that would just hurt worse. Not to mention crying doesn't feel good either. During my shower some of the tape came a little loose at the end of my incision and I have a small blister and my skin is a little bunched. :( I go back for my first scheduled post-op tomorrow. So far, feeling better today... Here's hoping it stays that way. :) Updated on 30 Jun 2014: A good wow today... I felt so much better most of the day yesterday. I wasn't near as emotional and walked a little bit more than I had been. I discovered that I could sit down and stand up without help from certain chairs. The best thing was last night though, I slept in my own bed. Now, I have an adjustable bed (like a craftmatic or hospital bed) so that made it a lot easier. I could raise the head and my legs. It felt so much better than the recliner!! Today was my scheduled post-op appointment and the Dr. said everything looked great!!! He said it may not look good to me yet (it doesn't) but that everything was perfectly normal for 6 days post-op. I have a little bunching at one end of my incision, but that can be corrected later if it doesn't work itself out. I got one of my drains out... wooohooo!!! And it didn't hurt a bit. He said it is because they use more expensive drains that most PS's. He also explained why there are some indentions in my stomach, they are from sutures inside that won't dissolve for 3 more weeks. They will give my stomach some contour (kinda like abs). I got into my 2nd cg while I was there... the one that goes from your thighs to your chest and put on a dress that just slips over my head. The hubby and I stopped at Panda Express on the way home and I actually went in and sat down to eat. I am still walking hunched over, but I sat at the first chair I saw when we walked in the door. It felt great just to be out and not eating take out from my recliner. I am home now and have figured out how to get up and down out of the recliner on my own so I'm a little more mobile. I know I will be worn out tonight, but right now I'm enjoying some more independence! Beginning to think this might have been worth it. :) Now that I am actually using my laptop instead of my ipad I might finally get around to posting pictures tomorrow. Updated on 1 Jul 2014: These are some before photos. I will start taking some after photos tonight. Updated on 2 Jul 2014: Lots of little issues going on right now... The worst one being that I have developed a very itchy and annoying rash. It started on the back of my thighs and bottom, but now its on my back, shoulders and I noticed some patches on my hand. At first I thoughy it was irritation from still having to sit on a giant pad (whole other issue). But know that it's my hand too I am clueless. Taking Benadryl right now and it helps some. Next issue... My surgeon leaves the liposuction sites open to drain. Usually they should all have closed up by now and I have one that is still draining. They are putting me on an antibiotic just as a prevention for infection. But since I'm still oozing fluid from that site on my right hip I have to on an absorbant pad so I don't ruin furniture. I know I'm sounding negative today... But third issue... My husband tried helping me get into my new cg that goes from my thighs to my chest last night and when he was fastening the last side I got stabbing pains and he quit. When I called the PS office this morning they said that was normal and I really need to wear it. They said the pain is because im getting sensation back in some of my nerve endings. Hubby is coming home at lunch to help me put it on again. On a positive note, overall I'm more mobile and don't feel completely crummy besides itching. My three kids are home today... They were on vacation with my in laws when I had the surgery. So far they are being helpful and keeping me company. They are 8, 10, and 12... So big enough to do most things themselves. My oldest even fixed lunch today. :) Updated on 3 Jul 2014: What a difference a day makes indeed... Rash is greatly improved today and the last liposuction site closed and quit oozing!!! Now, just one more drain to get rid of. Since I live an hour and a half from my PS they told my hubby he could remove my 2nd drain when it's collecting less than 25cc's in 24 hours. I'm hoping this weekend!! Now trying to figure out how to dress so my cg with all of the foam pads isn't so noticeable. Updated on 4 Jul 2014: Today I feel halfway normal. I'm getting up and sitting down a lot better and I don't have any pain. I'm not even that uncomfortable. The only complaint I have today is that the one drain I have left isn't quite ready to come out and its very sore at the entry point. Some fluid even leaked out at the entry site last night. I called my PS office this morning and got the answering service. My PS called back right away and said that it was okay and everything that was going on was fine. He also asked a lot of other questions about how I was doing. I was very impressed since its the 4th of July. Great day!! Updated on 4 Jul 2014: Yes I know... I've seen all the warnings about the scale. But, I got on it today and I was back to my pre-op weight. At 10 days post-op and still a lot of swelling, I was excited!!! Updated on 5 Jul 2014: My last drain was less than 25 cc's so I was able to pull it out tonight with hubby's help!! So glad my Dr. allowed that instead of waiting until Monday. Feels so good to be drain free! I took some pictures in cute panties and made me feel so much better. :) Updated on 6 Jul 2014: Drain free shower felt amazing and I finally shaved. Tried on pre TT shorts and was able to get my size 8's on and buttoned. They were snug on my hips and butt from the swelling but not too snug around the waist. I'm still pretty swollen around my waist, but I also had liposuction, so I guess that and the swelling are balancing each other right now. I'm starting to see my new shape and I love it!! Now just a waiting game with the swelling and scar. :) Updated on 8 Jul 2014: Great day today. This morning my mom and I went to Office Depot. I am a teacher and the back to school sales have started. Shopping isn't too bad if I walk with a shopping cart and use it to lean on. I read that tip on someone else's post. I don't know whether it was shopping or not sleeping well but I crashed when I got home and napped on the recliner. I got up around noon and my mom and I took two of my kids to lunch at Chick-fil-A and bowling (I just sat and watched). Then on the way home we stopped at Target so I could look at shapewear for when I get out of compression garment the PS has me in. I bought an Assets brand tank top (loved how it felt and it was long enough to go below where my scar is) and a mid thigh to high waist Assets brand shapewear. I have a Dr. appointment next Monday at almost 3 weeks and I'm hoping to get out of the regular cg. I would also like to go to church Sunday and I can't in my regular cg. I figure a couple hours in some regular shapewear won't hurt. I'm home now after being out for about 5 hours and I still feel okay, hoping I'm not dying later. :) Updated on 10 Jul 2014: I was going to wait until my 3 week to update... but as I sit here I can just feel my belly growing. I noticed last night and again tonight. I have had swelling since my surgery that just hasn't gone away yet and I know that it takes a long time for all the swelling to finally go away. But last night and tonight is the first time I have really experienced such a big change from earlier in the day. Even with my cg on I can just feel my belly expanding. I think part of it may be that my cg isn't fitting as tight as it did in the beginning because the overall swelling from the surgery itself does get a little better everyday. But now, maybe there is more room in the cg so my belly just grows to fill it. This may or may not be what is happening, but it makes sense to me. I'm considering wearing the original elastic binder that I wore the first week over my cg tomorrow beginning in the morning and see what happens. Updated on 14 Jul 2014: I had my 3 week post-op visit today and everything was great!! My doctor had a family emergency but his nurse saw me. She said everything looked great and I was looking great. She snipped the stitches at the ends of each incision and my belly button. My belly button isn't completely healed, but I'm already loving it!! I can start using the scar cream on left and right sides of my incision. I still have some scabbing in the center that needs to fall off and then I can start using the scar cream there too. I get to start wearing spanx next week when I am 4 weeks post-op. I can take a bath or swim when all of the scabs have come off and are healed. I have one small area above my incision in the center that is a little red and irritated and my doctor's partner (who happens to be his wife) looked at it and put me on an antibiotic just to be safe. I was very pleased with my visit today and I don't go back for 4 weeks. I'm still in swell hell... but other than that no complaints. I feel like I'm on the downhill side of this now. I went to church yesterday and have been back to most normal activity besides exercise. But, I can start walking some now. I will take pictures tomorrow morning. :) Updated on 15 Jul 2014: Added some progressions I have done to really compare. I am not loving the view from the front at 3 weeks, I feel like I look more swollen than at 11 days. But oh well. I think my incision is starting to look much better. I asked the nurse yesterday for a better explanation about why it is so bunched and puffy in the center and she said the Dr. does that on purpose. There are a lot of stitches and staples inside keeping it that way because that way to keep tension off of the actual incision. The stitches and staples will come loose and disolve on their own around 4 months. That is how he is able to get his scars so thin. So, I'm cool with that... :) Ohhh... and I got my Miss Jeans on this morning. They were actually a little loose before the surgery, but I don't care. No muffin top!! Wouldn't be able to last in them all day with the swelling that increases as the day goes on though. Updated on 17 Jul 2014: The red area that has been irritated hasn't gotten any better since being on the antibiotic. In fact the redness has spread a little and the area under my incision where the redness is has become swollen and hard (the top of my pubic area). I e-mailed the nurse at my Dr.'s office today because I knew my Dr. was out of town, but they wanted to know if it wasn't getting better. He is switching me to a stronger antibiotic and told me to start taking Acidophilus. I have a follow up with him next Wednesday to make sure it is getting better. I am again impressed with my surgeon's office. After the nurse got my e-mail she talked to my Dr. while he was out of town and he gave all of the orders. Updated on 23 Jul 2014: This week I am back into my regular schedule full swing. We have VBS in the mornings and then my kids have had play dates after most days. Last night we had some friends over for dinner on top of it. I am a little tired, but not more than I normally would be with such a crazy busy week. I have a follow up Dr. appointment tomorrow to check on the area that had developed some kind of infection. The stronger antibiotic that I was switched to is working slowly, but it is definitely improving. I took a bath Sunday night for the first time and it felt great! I have clearance to swim next week on our vacation in Destin and I bought a new swimsuit!! :) Still dealing with the swelling as most people at 4 weeks are, but overall I can't complain. Updated on 26 Jul 2014: I saw my doctor on Thursday, 30 days post-op. He said everything looked great. The area that was looking infected is not completely gone, but looking much much better. If it continues to improve I don't have to do back to the Dr. for another month!! I'm wearing my Spanx and most of the time I am wearing my elastic binder over it. More to help control the swelling. The day that I did not wear the binder my swelling was awful by the evening. Leaving to go on vacation tomorrow!! Beach, here I come! Updated on 5 Aug 2014: It is exactly six weeks since my surgery... I am already really pleased with my results. The swelling has improved over the past couple days and I managed to wear jeans all day that were a size bigger than I wore pre-surgery and they still had at least an inch of room in the waist at the end of the day. After work I changed into some shorts that were the size I wore pre-surgery and they had some room as well. I know the swelling can still be a problem for a long time so I'm trying not to get too excited. I don't want to get disappointed if I have a set back. I went bowling with my family tonight and felt fine. :) I can start exercising again and can't wait to try out my bike!! Updated on 3 Oct 2014: It has been awhile since I posted... I am now 14 weeks post-op and I feel amazing. I still have minor swelling, especially in the evenings, but nothing too bad. I am not in any pain and my scar is healing nicely. I have been back at work teaching since the end of August and I feel amazing!!! Love, love, love my new tummy! :) Updated on 3 Oct 2014:
So I just had my procedure done on the 25th of September. It is so hard to decide if this is worth it. I cried for the first time today just because this seems to be a lonely time. You have someone taking care of you but feel guilty and selfish. And your irritated for not being able to do stuff. I just don't know what to think anymore. I felt great early today and was walking around fine. But then I don't know just watching others and feeling guilty finally hit me. This is a roller coaster and I'm not sure I like it. It takes a lot for me to admit I cried too since I am a 23 year old dude. It's not something I usually broadcast but seems like it only helps with others who experienced it. Y'all are the only reason I have made it so far, I thought I was going crazy and was just being a wuss for a long time. I hope it's worth it in the end. I lost over 50 lbs and have busted my but to not be able to feel comfy on the beach and hopefully this will put me In the right direction. But it's so hard to not be able to do things for myself. And be stuck in a room in a recliner all day minus the bathroom. I'm starting to be able to walk more but the incision is becoming more sensitive. I hope I'm not messing it up. I see the doctor Monday. I'm so afraid he is going say that...I hope these fluid pumps come out too. I do not like them at all. And leaking everywhere is not ideal. I have puppy pads and sitting in a depends diaper cause its the only thing that doesn't Hurt the grenade looking things. I'm trying to think positive and keep my spirits up but I'm slowly breaking down. My doctor said I should be able to stand up straight by day 10 and back to Normal after 2 weeks. I pray that's the case. I can't do this much longer. Updated on 30 Sep 2012: Today has been a lot better. The draining is slowing down. I get to go to my first post op appointment tomorrow. Hopefully I will here good news. I'm starting to be able to move around a lot more easily. The only pain seems to be in the morning when I first wake up and I think it's just because my muscles are tense from sleeping in this recliner and have to get used to being up right. I can't wait to get up right again. The doctor said 10 days and I should be great. I really hope so. My legs r tired of me being bent over. Lol. Sneezing and coughing is a pain. Lord have mercy. But I tried to avoid those as much as possible. Ill be glad when I can walk and go back to normal. All this relaxing and sitting is hurting my butt. I don't see how people enjoy this. Lol. Updated on 1 Oct 2012: Went to the doctor today. Got great news. And one of the drains removed. It's funny he made me stand up more and I could. I think I was scared to break stitches but he reassured me I should be standing up straight in the next 4 days and in the next 6-8 days I will be back to normal. He is excited. Said it all looks amazing. And that im going be surprised when I Stan straight up and my stomach is flat. Can't wait. I'm walking around like crazy. I think once a drain comes out, you get a 2nd wind. Updated on 9 Oct 2012: So today makes 2 weeks post op and I'm moving around like crazy. It took me about 12 days to fully get back to being straight up and down again. Mainly because I was scared to screw something up so I was cautious. I took pics last night and I'm very pleased with the outcome even if I am swollen like a [RS bleep]. I still have a ways to go but it has definitely been worth it for me. Updated on 13 Oct 2012: So since my last post I have seen my doctor again. He is freaking thrilled. He told me everything looked amazing. That my sides and back were swollen but my sides will go back down about 2-3 more inches, which is great because its already down about 5-6 from him Lipo-ing the heck out of it. Then he told me something that I never even expected from doing this surgery. He says you do realize that when you swelling goes down your ab muscles are going to be poking out and you will have a six pack right? I almost fainted right there. My face totally lit up. I was high on life at that very moment. See. My goal Is to one day have one and this surgery was the start toward that. However I didn't expect it to happen right after surgery. But I will so take it. I was pretty swollen on my back so I still have go wear the annoying pads. They do not look good in clothes. You see only a few ppl know I had this surgery, so I'm having to pull this secret thing off, because I just don't want to hear people talk crap. But anyways the great news was in 11 days right before I head to New Orleans for Halloween, I get to ditch both the pads and garmet. Thank you god. Cause I can not stand this garmet. It was ok at first. Now I dispise it's existence. Today. I'm heading to the LSU vs South Carolina game. Cause I'm a huge Tiger fan, and have season tickets. And no way I'm missing this game. So I bought this smaller garmet to walk in. I tried it out yesterday in a trip to town. It should do for now. Still can tell a little but eh I got a large shirt when I wear a med so that should help too. Lol. Ill update on how climbing stairs went. Lord I'm nervous. Lol. Oh and my doctor was so right u will nit pick the hell out of yourself in week 2. Lol. I have to post this paper he gave me. It's crazy scary how its so true so far. Lol. Updated on 14 Oct 2012: So it's 1:11 am on monday, so it's pretty much day 20 lol. I went to the LSU vs South Carolina game, had to walk about 10 miles i think, but it was so worth it..best game in a long time and my team won of course lol..it was so exciting, and the walking, gave me a great feeling since i could actually do it. I wasn't too sore after either, which I was happy about. I bought this waist trimmer belt thing, not to lose weight, but to support me when i was in public, since it isn't as noticeable under clothes, it works wonders and i felt tight. And feeling normal and being around about 100,000 people, is a giant step forward seeing that I have been surrounded by my mama, sister, and dad for weeks now and that is it. Oh and my aunt went, she has no clue i had it done, and she totally never knew, I told her i hurt my back, and she believed it...that is great seeing that i actually look normal enough so people don't know. :) So I got this comment from this amazing lady, who I totally read her blog all the time...if you truly want to know what a tummy tuck is like go read rockinmom's blog..anyways..she said to post pre weight lose pictures, which is a great idea, so i had to go back and look through my facebook, because frankly, i got rid of all the horrible pictures when i was big...and when you see these pictures you will understand. But these are pictures before my 50 lb weight lose. I have to get the actually pre surgery pictures from my doctor, since my phone went nuts and deleted my others. but I'm trying to see if it somehow can be restored..i'll post when i get them..but these are before i started working out hardcore and lost the 50 on my own...so here u go.. and don't judge my whiteness, I don't think i knew what a tanning bed was before this..lol Updated on 15 Oct 2012: So I just took a pic after I showered. And yes I see abs. I have never been able to say that before. And now I totally do. It's week 3 starting tomorrow morning. And yes I held my breathe and sucked in. But who cares. It's outlines of abs. So now imma be walking around barely breathing at Halloween. Lol. I'm freaking excited now. It's still swollen pretty good. But getting better... Updated on 27 Apr 2013: 6 Months post op, and I can honestly say that this is the best thing I have ever done. I had my times when I questioned my sanity for doing this, but I would so do it all over again. I have taking and posted my first ever shirtless pics on facebook, went to the beach and things with no shirt on for the first time since I was a little kid and felt comfy. I'm doing crossfit, and killing it. I am seeing ab and other muscles. Can't wait to see what else happens. I still have a little swelling, but otherwise best thing ever. Updated on 27 Apr 2013: 6 Months post op, and I can honestly say that this is the best thing I have ever done. I had my times when I questioned my sanity for doing this, but I would so do it all over again. I have taking and posted my first ever shirtless pics on facebook, went to the beach and things with no shirt on for the first time since I was a little kid and felt comfy. I'm doing crossfit, and killing it. I am seeing ab and other muscles. Can't wait to see what else happens. I still have a little swelling, but otherwise best thing ever. Updated on 6 May 2013: Scar after 6-7 months. Someone asked so here it is. It really doesn't bother me and is just dark in one area. Doctor said it would fade more. But swimsuits and underwear cover it up just fine. Updated on 6 May 2013: And here are some more pictures. I did advocare 24 day challenge and here's my results. It is starting to get even better. Love it. Hears one in a swimming trunk too so you can see how the scar is covered up. Updated on 15 Jun 2013: So After 8 months, I have to say this is the best thing i have ever done. I know eat Paleo and do Crossfit 3 days a week for an hour. After 36 sessions, I am now down 5% body fat from 18 to 13. I'm pretty pumped about that. My clothes fit perfect. It's great that people are noticing, and one friend even asked if i was wearing something cause my stomach was flat, literally had to lift my shirt up to prove i wasn't and that it was my stomach. I feel great about myself now, and even my surgeon, told my parents that he could just see the confidence go up in me from day one to now. I can't wait to take my 1 year pics in October. My health is great, and doing this really did change my life in not only a physical way, but mentally as well. It's a great thing, that i would recommend if you really think you need it. People even ask why i always have my shirt lifted in pictures now, and i just say i have 24 years to make up. lol.
I have never expected that I would be getting breast implants. I was always told that I had pretty breast. My breast were always my most favorite thing on my body. Well, after I had my baby, I lost alot of volume in the upper pole of my breast. It has made my confidence level go down to 0. What once use to be the best body part on my body, is now the one part of me that makes me self conscious. My new post op baby breast never bothered my husband. He was always happy with my appearance. But I am unhappy with them, so I decided that I was going to go for a consult. I went in for a consult. Everyone there was very nice. The cordinator came in and talked to me about prices and let me try on sizers and we discussed incisions. Afterwards, I met with the Dr. and he took measurements of my breast and discussed my wishes of what I would like. He was very kind. He asked me what sizes I was comfortable with during the sizing and I thought I was most comfortable with 350cc's. He asked me if I would consider 400cc's and I told him that I thought the 400cc's looked too big on me. (I don't know if I was just not use to having large breast or what not, but I felt like the 400cc's made me feel like Dolly Parton. lol ) Anyways, he said, "what about 375cc's, in the middle? Would you consider that?" And I agreed bc after all, he is the doctor. He knows more based on my measurements I'm assuming. I decided to go with 375cc's of Mentor Memory Gel implants and my incision will be under the breast fold. My surgery is set to take place in two weeks. I am excited, but at the same time, nervous. I have never had a surgery before.I don't know how much pain I am going to experiance (even though they told me that they do a rapid recovery technique that should have me back moving around by the next day) but they also sent me Rx's in the mail, so that being said, pain has to be involved. I hope its not too bad bc I am a baby. I cried when my breast dried up from breast feeding. I am dreading the pain from the surgery... Other than that, I don't really know what to expect (as far as my results go) Even though I thought he explained himself clearly, I still kind of feel nervous bc I don't know how they are going to look afterwards. I pretty much have gathered that your appearence depends on both the Dr.s experience and the shape/amount of your breast. I'm not worried about the Dr. part bc I done alot of research before choosing this Dr. and I know that he is highly trained and one of the best, but I just can't help but wonder what the outcome is going to look like. I guess that since the surgery is getting closer and closer, it has me questioning myself. Asking myself if I made the right decision on size, is it going to be too small, should I have went bigger, am I going to have high profile or moderate implants ( i am going to give them a call about that) Is it going to give me enough cleavage? Ect.....I hope all turns out ok. Updated on 2 Apr 2012: April 2, 2012 - 11 days til my surgery. I am starting to get worried. I am wondering how long the pain is going to last for. My husband is only going to be with me for a week before he will have to go back to work. I hope I am ok when he is gone, being that we have a one year old. I hope I can care for him by myself by then. And I'm starting to freak out by looking at all of the post op photos after surgery. The swelling looks so high. How long does that last for? I'm just worried because when I dried up from breast feeding. I thought it was the worst pain I have ever experienced..I just have all of these questions. Hoping that I am prepared. My dr. says that he does a rapid recovery thing that makes most patients be able to get back to normal activity by the next day, but I'm having my doubts about that because of all of the prescriptions for meds I got in the mail from the dr. office. One for sleep, pain, swelling, and constipation....hmmm, will have to see for myself I guess.. Updated on 3 Apr 2012: April 3rd - 10 days til surgery Still kind of freaking myself out. I really need to stay off of the internet! I am concerning myself with the way the middle of my chest looks pre op, wondering if it will mess things up post of. My dr. told me that one of my breast was hanging a little lower than the other, and that it won't be a problem because he will just lower the implant on that breast a little to even them out. My Dr. seemed really excited to work on me. Kept saying that the size, shape, nipple position on me was perfect and when I pointed out the flaw in the middle of my chest he said that he is suprised that I even noticed that. I can't wait to just get the surgery over with. My thoughts are killing me... Updated on 4 Apr 2012: April 4, 2012 9 days until surgery If you all can best describe the pain, how would you describe it? Last night I dreamed that I had the surgery and when I moved around, my chest muscles felt like I had done a really really extreme workout. I hope that is how it feels or no worse.. Updated on 6 Apr 2012: April 6, 2012 Exactly one week until surgery! Well, the nurse called me yesterday and eased my mind on somethings. She told me a bit more about after the surgery and the procedures. She said that they will rap me up in surgical tape afterwards when I had asked her if they were going to be putting me in a bra. She said that I can wear sports bras that doesnt have cup shells or underwires and said that they sell cheap ones at wal-mart. She also told me that I should start watching eachtime I use my petorial muscles so that I can get use to the movements I make that use the muscles the most to better prepare me for what not to do after surgery. No pushing, pulling, and heavy lifting. We discussed a little about size, which it kind of worried me if I chose the right size, but it should be enough for me. Alot of people say that they regretted not getting bigger than they got, but I have to avoid the dream world of it. I want to stay who I am for modesty. I don't like alot of attention on myself. But other than all of that, the nurse was really nice. I am glad that she called me. She took alot of the jitters out of me, but I am sure they will return as soon as the surgery is knocking on my door... Updated on 9 Apr 2012: April 9, 2012..4 days until the surgery! wow! Been up since 3:30am. I'm starting to think about the surgery more and more each day that goes by. I'm very excited but scared at the same time. Like I said before this is my first surgery. I'm getting even more nervous as the days pass by. I should be expecting a phone call from a nurse or the Dr. if he is able to call me. I don't live that close to my PS so hopefully he can call me and maybe talk to me a little bit more about my size. I think I worry too much and the stuff online don't really make things easier. I think I am just over analysing everything like I always do :) Its really hard to tell what you are going to end up as far as size when trying to compare yourself to others pictures because everyone is shaped diferently. Hopefully someone gives me a call soon and makes me feel better about this. I feel sorry for them for having me call them all the time with questions. I hope Im not the only one lol Updated on 9 Apr 2012: April 9, 2012 still four days til surgery. Read my comment from today to see what I am talking about. Sorry I screwed my update up. I don't feel like retyping it. But I will post a picture later to let ya'll see what I would like. Updated on 11 Apr 2012: April 11, 2012...2 more days! I'm starting to get excited! I can't wait. Tomorrow is my birthday and we will be staying the night in Shreveport for my birthday and then in the morning I'm assuming (won't be finding out the time of surgery until the day before) I will have my surgery! I have to arrive 45 minutes before my set surgery time and I will meet with my PS again and that is when he will draw on me and go over any last minute things. I spoke to the Patient Coordinator yesterday and she really put my mind at ease about the size. She also told me that I will be getting the Mentor Moderate profile. I knew it was Mentor but didn't know the profile that I was getting. I told her that I like the high profile and she explained to me that the width of my breast and profile is why he picked moderate and if I was to go with high profile implants it would look like a couple of oranges on my chest because of how my skin, profile ect is. I told her that what ever the dr. chooses, I trust him. He is the professional after all...Anyways, we also went back over the size. I told her that I just wanted to make sure that I was going big enough and choosing the right size because the Dr. suggested me have 400cc and we ended up settling on 375cc. She asked me what sizer I felt comfortable with and I told her 350cc. She said then that is why he suggested 400cc because once placed behind the muscle, it does take away from the size a bit and they usually add no more than 50cc's to make it look the same size as the sizer that I liked. I asked her if I should go with the 400cc like he mentioned before then and she said that she thinks that I should stay where I am because he didn't write any notes about how he would have liked me to go a bigger and explained that that usually indicates that he is happy with the size we agreed on. So I went ahead and stayed where I was. I may mention it to him directly the day of surgery just to make sure that is completely correct, but I am sure his Patient Coordinator knows what she is talking about. She is really nice and has answered all my questions so far. And other than that, I'd also like to ask him what he thinks the ending result of the center of my chest would look like. Kind of have some concerns about that since I can't see much of the lines right there. Just want to get an ok that everything is going to come out as best as proportional as he can make it with my before boobies. :) Which at this point all I can go is forward now. No turning back, so I hope everything will be ok... Updated on 11 Apr 2012: Already got the sports bra's and meds filled. Going to finish laundry and dishes and any last minute house chores tonight. I'm going to set up a table by my bed with my meds, creams ect. Going to bring a trashcan with me just in case I get sick in the car and some pillows for the long bumpy ride home. Comfy clothes..check. Anything else I should know ladies? Trying to get things better prepared so that it will be alot easier on me when I get home. Updated on 12 Apr 2012: April 12, 2012 - The day before the surgery. Well tomorrow is the day. We will be going stay the night in Shreveport tonight so that we can spend a little time together for my birthday without the kids and we will be not too far from the PS office. I hadn't got a call from the nurse yet, but I got a confirmation text in that said my surgery is set for 8:30am. I'm so nervous. Last night my husband told me, "i can't believe I am letting someone cut on you" I hope all goes well. I got to thinking if something happened to me, started thinking about my little boy. I wouldn't know what to do without them. But i know that I am in good hands. :) Can not wait til tomorrow. I hope everything goes well. I will update you all tomorrow if I can. Wish me luck.. Updated on 13 Apr 2012: April 13, 2012 Post Operation Day First off want to tell you all that I am doing really good. I feel great! I'm not experiencing any pain at all. Its more of a heavy feeling in the middle of my chest and if any pain, my back was hurting a little on the ride home, but the nurse said that it was probably from the compression of the surgical tape. She said that I can remove the tape on Sunday and if I see that I am getting any blisters before then from it, that I can remove it and wear my sports bra. The surgery went great. Everything was on time. The nurses and anes. tech was awesome. They made me feel so comfortable. I don't even remember passing out. I pretty much passed out and woke up in the recovery room, that is how fast things went. When I woke up, I felt so good, I sat up and even was able to help the nurse put my clothes back on. I can lift my arms up easily. I was told to do my rapid recovery technique as much as I want to and that it will make me feel better and recover faster. At first I wasn't convinced with that technique wondering if it was going to work as good as they said it would, but from a scale to 1 to 10, the rapid recovery is great! I don't think without it, I would be feeling this good. I have been taking my meds today too though, but I remember when I was drying up from my milk, I experienced worse pain than this and I was taking meds. Did not expect it to feel this good. Anyways, my cleavage looks really awesome! I hope that it atleast looks this good after the swelling goes down or when it is in final position in a bra. I will be really pleased! Any feedback ya'll want to add about that? I can't really tell how big they are going to be because of the compression of the tape and swelling. Dr said that I should look close to normal a four to five weeks to now because of my shape of breast and he thinks that I will see fast result because of that too. I can not wait to see them Sunday. Even though he said that they will look regtangler looking and crazy at first, I don't care, I want to see them. lol I kind of pulled back my tape and looked down and I can tell that my nipples is kind of pointing to the side from swelling. They are looking a little angry right now so far. :) Also, have been able to move around a lot today. Just having been lifting or doing nothing to straining. My husband is being really helpful with our little boy. I am so greatfull to have him. All in all, when I first arrived, I was really nervous to the point where I was shaking, then when I went back, I got really excited, then I got a little nervous again when they brought me back to the operating room and I had to tell my husband goodbye. But It is totally worth it all so far! Updated on 13 Apr 2012: Will post some pics soon of what I got so far. Updated on 14 Apr 2012: April 14, 2012 one day post op This morning I woke up a little more sore than I was yesterday but not too bad. The nurse called and checked on me today. She said that my Dr said its ok for me to sleep on my stomach because it'll help stretch the muscles. Tried it last night but getting from that position was a challenge. One more day and ill get to see them :-) Updated on 15 Apr 2012: April 15, 2012 PO day 3 (sorry I messed up, yesterday should be 2 days post op) I woke up excited this morning. I was allowed to take off my bandages today and all I can say was OMG! They are looking awesome! They still need a lot of dropping and still kind of looking regtangle in the side view. But from the front, they are amazing. i can't wait to see the final result. I will post some pics later. Updated on 15 Apr 2012: April 15, 2012 3 days post op I feel a little bad today. Feeling really bloated. I took laxetive yesterday so i know that I am not constipated. Still pretty swollen up top. Been hearing the bubbling noises too. Started the displacement excercises this morning. Left boobies is hurting a little on side of insistion. Insisions look good though. It's kind of like a burning sensation. This bloated feeling is bothering me the most. Hope everything.that is happening is normal.. Updated on 16 Apr 2012: April 16, 2012 four days post op Well last night I was able to sleep on my stomach again. That was nice :-) my Dr says to try and sleep on my belly because it helps stretch out the chest muscles. I talked to the nurse today. Everything that is going on with me is normal. The little pain on the side of my breast actually feels a little worse today. The nurse said that is just my nerves healing. The soreness is going away though. Now its just a waiting game for the swelling and settling of the.implants to take place... Updated on 17 Apr 2012: April 17, 2012 Five days post op This may be a little dirty, but I have to say...I had sex this morning and it was amazing! My new boobies give me so much confidence that I have been missing for way too long. Before I got them, I remember when we were together, I would look at them and it would turn me off. I was missing the fullness I use to have. This morning was great! I never thought I would love myself again :) Definally gives the sex life a boost! Updated on 24 Apr 2012: April 24, 2012 one week and five days post op Well tomorrow is my post op check up. I still have my stitches and surgical bandages covering the insistions. I am hoping that maybe he will remove them tomorrow or atleast take the tape off so that I can see how the healing is going in that area. I believe they dissolve though. I had a few moments of feeling like I popped my stitches, but I think all is ok. I believe I may have just felt myself straining too hard in that area. Its hard to take things easy when you have a child to take care of on your own. I think things will feel alot better once the stitches is out and my skin won't feel like it is tearing everytime I do something too rough. Other than that, I feel fine. Its kind of weird at first to get use to these things. I am a stomach sleeper and at first it felt like I was sleeping on top of rubber balls :) But that is slowly going away. I'm starting to feel again and I have feeling in both nipples already which is really good....Well I will let all of you know how tomorrow goes and I'll try and most some pics of me at two weeks. Updated on 27 Apr 2012: April 27, 2012 (2 weeks and one day since my surgery) I went to my post op appt wednesday and my dr removed my stitches. So yay! no more stitches. Starting to feel better already. The insistions look really good. I took some more pics, just need time to upload them. He gave me the ok to start wearing underwire bra's. I went to Wal-Mart to do a quick bra buying session and I am thinking that I am wearing either a 36-38 D bra. He asked me to wear an underwear to keep the girls in place and to help store the quility of them so that they would last a long time because after all, one day they will drop just like normal breast bc we can't stop gravity..Hope they stay looking good for a long time. Put my bra on and I love it! Looks really good. I'm liking the way I feel my bra's out now. It use to be so empty up top. Not it is filled again :) I been using antibiotic ointment on my scars along with mederma. He asked for me to come back one month from now. He hadn't took after pics of me yet. I'm assuming that they are still dropping. I think that one of my breast is dropping before the other though bc I notice that I have less cleavage on one than the other, but its not noticable. Updated on 19 May 2012: May 19, 2012 (One month and a week post op and maybe a few days :) Well I just uploaded some update pics. Tell me what ya'll think. Do you think I dropped yet? I can see that alot of the swelling went away. Don't know if that means that I dropped yet. Everything is going good so far other than these little pains that I get on my left breast when I am lying down. Going to ask the dr. about it though because I don't have that same sensation in my right breast. I'm sure everything is probably normal though :) Updated on 13 Aug 2012: Four months post up and still thinking that it was worth it. Was very flattered today when I had a comment from another user on here that she used my pics as a example to show her doctor. Thank you. That was very nice to hear :) Made my day lol here is an update on how they are today.... Updated on 18 Aug 2012: . Updated on 2 May 2013: May 1, 2013 - 1 year and two weeks later... Well today I went in for my one year check up. I was greeted my Dr. Holly Wall. She was very nice. She said that Dr. Wall was running late so she was going to take his place for the time being. I told her my concerns and we talked about things, but I'm here back at home feeling the same way as I did before I went there today, frustrated. Last time I updated you all things seemed to be doing good. As you can see in my four month post op photos, my breast look great. As time is going by though, and when I say time i mean (really fast cause its only been nine months later, I feel like the left breast is dropping dramatically. I can feel the bottom of the implant and it is really bothering me. I can feel little round bumps on the underside. When I lay down, thats an even different story. My breast move all the way to my armpits (which I know that is normal) but it leaves the left breast with a very deep hole in the middle/side of the breast. Its very upsetting to me. I feel self like I'm back at day one (the self conscious feeling that I had before I even had my surgery) I wish I can express the same excitement that Dr. Wall and Dr. Holly Wall expresses over my breast. I have tried explaining my concerns and all i got was, come back in six months and we will go from there. I really appreciate Dr. Holly talking to me, but imagine my frustration when I walked out the room and saw Dr. Wall standing there and he just asks me so hows things going? I told him, "Ok I guess" and he says, "Ok, are you hurting?" I said, sometimes it does. Then we go on to talking about how I spoke to his wife and thinking that since he was my doctor, he would say, "oh come back in the room and let me have a look", he didn't. Just said, Ok, come back in six months. Have all of you know that I drive four hours there and four hours back to see him. I went to him because I thought that he was one of the best, but he seems to not care too much about his patients. I don't think that I will be going back there again. I will post pics another day so you all can see the difference. Its not much of a difference looking at them while I'm in the standing position, but if I lean back or lay down or show a side profile of myself, you will see the dents that I am concerned about...sorry for my ranting, I'm just so disappointing. I thought that they would care a little more than that.
I have three small children. My muscles are shot! I had spent so much time being pregnant, I really neglected my workout. So that being said, I really need this. I will be having a TT, lipo to flanks and thighs and a breast lift with small implant. SO EXCITED! Updated on 12 Dec 2011: Oh my goodness. Only 3 weeks away from my TT and masto/aug. I’m so excited. My plans are already made for all of my childcare and dinners for my family during my post op period are made and in the freezer. I’ll post a pre op picture before I go. Then some post op pictures during my recover. YEAH!!! Updated on 2 Jan 2012: I'm sitting here in my PS office about to my pre op markings done. Wow, it really feels close now! I'm excitedly nervous and nervously excited! Updated on 4 Jan 2012: Post op day 1. I made it through surgery fine. I tinkled two hours after my catheter was pulled. I drank 2 12oz gatorades. Felt good. Coughing is horrible. Feels like hell. Went ahead and took a pain pill, sleeping pill and sinecch at bedtime. Slept well. My husband is the best nurse. I got up and tinkled about every 2 1/2 hours. I have 2 drains and an On-Q pain pump. The drains drain about 75 cc every 8 hours right now. I also have the leg sleeves that compress. They feel nice. Well, I'm about to be let go from the surgery center. I'll update again later. Updated on 6 Jan 2012: Post op day #1. Not too bad I have 2drains and a pain pump. Got discharged from the surgery center at 1030. Updated on 15 Jan 2012: I posted these pictures for post op day 12. I got up and got into “normal” bra and spanx for a grocery store trip. These are the pics when I got home.My breasts are starting to settle down into their right place. The incision is so low, and the BB is so natural and small. It looks like my pre BB. I am really so pleased how all is looking right now. the best part is that I am not as hunched over as I was 4 days ago.
I feel so much better about myself.
After losing 70lbs,I couldn't lose the "apron of fat" despite exercise. I am very active, lifting weights and hours of cardio - and stubborn fat and skin wouldn't dissapear.The scar is very low and now four years post op - nearly invisible. At the same time I had lipo in the abdomen, inner thighs and flanks. The lipo left me firm, smooth and my muscularity has much greater definition! I love it!!
He’s not as “perfect“ as he thinks he is!! He can’t admit when the results are not as “great” as expected!!! He will down play a patient‘s concerns and disappointments, even insult you, then talk incessantly about how great he is, it’s nauseating and pathetic!!
DR.WALL did a great job of my breast lift and implants 8 years ago I recently went back for a consult of bigger implants and a tummy tuck , he seemed to rush me through questions would not allow my husband ask questions, I'm 37 athletic body and he compared my body to a 60 obese female he had performed a mommy makeover on which made me feel ashamed terrible bed side manner . To top it off he wanted 40k for the mommy makeover. I went and had a second opinion in Dallas and was quoted 14k for same procedure and could not be happier with the results
You have a gorgeous face with very nice features. Your nose has an overall beautiful appearance from what I can see, so if you seek out a change to it, I would proceed cautiously and make sure you find a highly experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who can give you an honest opinion of what he/she can do to help. Subtle changes like the ones you would want require an expert touch. Make sure you are on the same page with what the surgeon can accomplish. Vectra 3D imaging is really helpful for all of our rhinoplasty patients in this regard, and it would be highly recommended for you to see simulations beforehand and discuss them with your surgeon. Good luck!
After literally decades of potions, gimmicks, and other disappointments, patients finally have something for cellulite to be excited about.This is very new and is only being released to 4 plastic surgery practices (at first) for post approval study, but we finally have something for cellulite that works.Cellfina is an FDA approved minimally-invasive, in-office, one-time treatment for cellulite of the buttocks and thighs.The practices that have Cellfina right now are Jeff Kenkel in Dallas, Haideh Himmand in New York, Julius Few in Chicago, and us in Shreveport.There are a few dermatology practices with Cellfina as well.Cellfina has a 94% satisfaction rate at 1 year, and 96% satisfaction rate at 2 years (data from the Cellfina pivotal study), which has us very excited.The first few patients we've done have been coming back in and they look fantastic so far.You can learn more about Cellfina by doing a search for it above, in the RealSelf search bar.Thanks for your question!
Hi. It sounds like you may be a great candidate for liposuction. If you’ve had children and your skin or muscles are a little loose, you may be a better candidate for more than just liposuction, and would need to be evaluated for an abdominoplasty as well. If not, and you’re healthy and fit, and at a stable weight, your young skin should "snap back" well after lipo. You're also right to be concerned about some of the more common problems that can arise after liposuction. The problems you've mentioned can happen when too much or not enough fat is removed or the fat is removed unevenly. Heat generating forms of liposuction can kill blood vessels and other tissues, and cause internal and external scarring and dermal adhesions. Some patients simply heal poorly due to skin quality or other factors. It's essential that you find a highly qualified liposuction surgeon, and that he or she chooses the best liposuction technique for you. I use a body contouring process called SAFELipo that takes extra steps to ensure a smooth, even, dramatic result. Step 1 utilizes a specialized cannula or probe to gently separate the fat from surrounding tissues and partially dissolve & liquefy it. This allows the fat to be more easily removed during the next step, aspiration. I use gentle suction and a smaller, less aggressive cannula to remove the emulsified fat. There is little to no bleeding and minimal trauma to the skin, blood vessels, or support structures in the area. Lastly, the fat equalization step sculpts the remaining fat to create a smooth, even, thin layer below the skin, without the visible indentations or lumpiness that you're worried about. Although it involves a little more work and finesse on the surgeon's part, the SAFELipo process allows for the removal of a maximum amount of fat without the contour irregularities that can occur with liposuction.Whatever method you choose, I wish you the best of luck!
You may be tempted to try one of the laser, ultrasound, or radiofrequency-assisted liposuction platforms based on the promise of improved skin tightening. However, there is no evidence that thermal liposuction creates better results. In fact, in my experience, the heat from these devices can actually cause problems like scarring, dermal adhesions, and burns. I do not recommend thermal liposuction for the chin or anywhere else on the body. Traditional liposuction has proven quite effective on the neck and chin area, although the surgeon must be very careful not to treat the area maximally for fear of creating a contour deformity, otherwise known as a divot, wavy area, or rippled skin. A different option is SAFELipo, which is great for delicate areas like the chin. It uses a 3-step process that is extremely precise, allowing for maximal fat removal while causing minimal bruising, bleeding and swelling. In the first step, the special cannula or probe gently breaks apart fat and separates it from the surrounding tissues without disrupting the blood vessels. This creates mechanically emulsified fat that is now ready to be removed easily. The second step is the aspiration or suctioning of the ‘liquefied’ fat. Since the fat has already been separated and emulsified, the surgeon can use a much smaller, gentler cannula to remove it. The third and final step is the fat equalization step, which smooths out the remaining thin layer of fat by creating ‘local’ fat grafts that prevent the skin from scarring down unevenly. This creates a very smooth, firm result with excellent skin retraction. I've performed thousands of SAFELipo procedures, and I've found that patients experience fewer adverse effects, a shorter, more comfortable recovery, and superior results. Consult with a board-certified surgeon and make sure that you're very comfortable with his or her credentials, their actual before and afters, and their recommendations. Good luck!
Good question. Different surgeons will have different opinions as to the best liposuction technique, but as others here have said, the most important factor is the skill of the surgeon. That said, I advise against thermal liposuction techniques – laser, radiofrequency, ultrasound – because I think they pose more risks of complications. While the heat energy does liquefy fat cells, it also damages and destroys other important cells around them. I've performed countless revision liposuction procedures on people who had previously undergone thermal liposuction which produced dermal adhesions, scarring, and an uneven, indented surface appearance. My preferred method is SAFELipo, which is ideal for your situation. The 3 steps in SAFELipo – separation, aspiration, and fat equalization – allow for maximum fat removal from the abdomen while creating firm, smooth results. Because the procedure is unique, allowing for removal of mechanically emulsified fat without killing the fat cells with heat, the harvested fat has the best chance of survival for use in your fat transfer to the butt and thighs. As far as the areas NOT treated with liposuction, it's a myth that you'll gain weight there after having liposuction, unless you’re actually gaining weight. First of all, your surgeon will advise you to maintain a healthy weight so that you can preserve your results. However, should you gain weight, it will be distributed among all the fat cells in your body, not concentrated in one spot like your chin. You will still have fat cells in your abdomen, just not as many. Good luck!
