Levant Cosmetic Surgery - Gold Coast

I couldn't put the correct date of my procedure in here because it was Sep 2018 but thought hey better late than never. I had vaser lipo on my stomach and flanks. I’m a generally active guy who has struggled to lose fat in those areas without success.

In a nutshell, I was in for a lot bigger commitment and experience than I had anticipated but the end result made it so worth it!

I did a little research and had my consultation before I locked in my appointment but I definitely was not prepared for the journey ahead. And it's not the fault of the doctor or the clinic, it was really just my "yeah yeah, it'll be fine" in one ear and out the other attitude. I did commit to and actively do everything I was told to do fir the first 4 months like clockwork. I think to get the best results you have to do what they say – keep massaging that scar tissue!



The Journey

Surgery Day

Was a bit hazy, I don't remember a lot during the surgery but I remember waking up several times feeling the heat of the vaser rod. The nurse would tell me to breathe the gas and then everything was better, guess I kept messing with the gas mask during the procedure or something. The day itself wasn’t too bad and my wife was there to look after.

First Few Days After Surgery

I can't remember how long I had to wait to take the compression garment off for the first time, but when I did I almost passed out. They said this could happen but it was still an unpleasant feeling and hard to prepare for. The massage process was very uncomfortable and I was scared doing it myself but got through it all ok. Sleep was very difficult and I was probably only getting about 4 hours a night for a while. While I was told it wouldn't be hard to go back to work the day after my procedure, there was no way I could do it the first few days. I was too sore, wasn't sleeping and not feeling confident enough to be driving and on ladders. Call me soft or whatever but I needed 3 days to recover.

First 3-6 Weeks

My job at the time involved being in a car every day and driving around to houses doing smoke alarm services. The corset was a massive pain in the *RS Bleep* to keep on right, every time I got in and out of the car I had to adjust it. I ended up with a permanent line about 8 inches long from where the corset kept getting folded. It’s not hugely visible but it’s there.

Sleep was always difficult and the itchiness was the single most horrible thing I had to deal with. I found the best relief to be from an antihistamine and cold packs but it was always the worst at night.

2-4 months

I kept going to the clinic where they continued to massage the scar tissue with a vacuum type machine. It not the enjoyable kind of massage but it was important to be consistent to break up the scar tissue and get as smooth a shape as possible. I think I stopped going to the clinic after 3 or 4 months and stuck to self-massaging after that.

First 2 years

I continued to massage the scar tissue and could actually still see changes during the first 2 years. I could feel scar tissue in different areas and I’d massage it out using my hands or even a hard ball that I would roll on. It wasn’t everyday or anything, I might do it once a week for a short time.



Conclusion

My end results as you can see from the photos were fantastic. There’s no way I could have achieved my goal without undergoing this treatment and I have no regrets. I did find that my flanks and belly button area still had fat around there and I really didn’t like how my fatty flanks were still sticking out. To fix this, I ended up getting a couple CoolTech treatments and it’s corrected the flanks quite nicely.



Updated on 17 Nov 2021:
I wrote this long review about the procedure and the process but realised I didn't give credit Cosmos Clinic, Dr Mitchell Kim and the nursing staff! 5 star rating for sure in all aspects and would highly recommend them to anyone.

Everyone there was always extremely helpful, informative, patient and guided me through the entire journey. I felt safe and secure in their hands :)

I booked in for my surgery with Dr Mitchell Kim. I had done loads of research and after receiving serveral quotes I decided to go with Cosmos. On the day after my lipo and all things considered I was not feeling too bad. I have no hesitation in recommending Mitchell Kim and his team.

Hi
So I have been diagnosed last year with PCOS and well i think I have tried every diet under the sun to help it. Finally I am working with an amazing PT and he has helped me lose 8 kg in total. Prior to PCOS I was a very lean person actually too lean and maybe on the unhealthy scale.
Earlier this year after lots of consideration about my confidence and unhappiness towards my legs I decided to seek out Vaser. I spoke to Dr Kim Mitchell at Cosmos Clinic and was very happy to proceed.
Last week Friday was the big day yah and I watched excitedly the fat being removed from my problem areas. I remembered staring at my lean legs think these look amazing after the surgery. The caring staff looked after me so well post op. Next few days were touch and go so painful, not going to lie I was very sick Saturday and didn't keep much food or water down even after been given nausea tablets.
Monday I was more actively walking around and eating better. By Wednesday I was back at work and it was struggle street, but I had my first massage with the clinic and felt amazing after, highly recommend them. My legs are still painful and rather black/blue from bruising.
Will update you on week two soon :)

Updated on 1 May 2017:


Updated on 1 May 2017:


Updated on 2 May 2017:
Well legs are coming along really well started walking around my block slowly and I mean slowly. Bruising is looking better each day thanks to arnica tablets and cream plus following my protein diet. Also pumping in the iron tablets. Had my third massage yesterday and nurse said I'm coming along well no scar tissue and legs are feeling great. Still swollen but seeing some small changes in glutes area already. Pays to massage each day 3 times plus have the Lipo massages.

Updated on 4 May 2017:
Less bruising thanks to arnica and starting to look great...

Updated on 11 May 2017:
Was rather sore almost felt like a stretching feeling when initially walking around after sitting down. Legs have no bruising and no scar tissue feeling very lovely but still swollen. But noticing all my once tight pants are now not tight ????????????. Started settling back into a walking routine and doing my home lymphatic exercises daily plus still having massages at Cosmos Clinic. So excited to see the end result. Tomorrow I get to start wearing the compressing for 12hrs a day ????

Updated on 17 May 2017:
Hit the four week mark.....
slowly started infiltrating the gym by enjoying a slow walk on the treadmill for 30mins each day. Legs are feeling amazing and I'm noticing a difference in my clothes each week. Today was the first day since 2015 I have felt my confidence slowly return. I'm blessed I was able to have the surgery and with such a great surgeon! Will update pics today ????

Updated on 25 May 2017:
Week 5 is done I now have jeans that are baggy and lose on me. People are commenting on how lean my legs look. My confidence is lifting substantially and I feel great. Still have a while to go before we see optimal results. On the other hand I'm walking 5 days a week on the treadmill obviously not at my old pass. I've been following a easy diet plan to help maintain my goals overall so far very happy.

Updated on 31 May 2017:


Updated on 10 Jun 2017:


Updated on 5 Jul 2017:

I waited years to take the plunge. Talk about time wasted. I ended booking my procedure with Dr Mitchell Kim from the Cosmos Clinic Gold Coast. I have never looked back. From start to finish, Dr Kim keeps you at ease. The whole staff have a friendly and nothing is ever a problem type attitude. Always polite and always helpful. As my moobs was so big, there were some internal lumps and scar tissue which is common after this procedure. Dr Kim went back in and cleaned it up at no extra charge a few weeks later. How often do you come across that. It shows the true integrity off Dr Kim and the cosmos Clinic Gold Coast. I will keep an update as time goes on as it is only early days. I will attach a current photo of before and after. Even this photo does not do it justice as it improves everyday. Thank you Cosmos Clinic GC

I had Vaser lip on the inner and back of my thighs yesterday at the Cosmos Clinic Gold Coast. I arrived at 9am, went straight in to see Dr Kim and talk through and sign any documents. He gave me a relaxing tablet to take the edge off the nerves and then i tried on my suit. The suit comes just below the knees and right up to below your chest with zips and clips down the sides. It has a hole underneath to allow you to go to the toilet without taking it off.

After trying this on, he drew on my legs with a marker pen the areas to be treated. Then i was taken into the theatre room and had an IV put in and had a mix of sedation solution injected into it. Dr Kim talked me through the process and said he would advise me at every step what he was doing. After the IV he numbed the area for the incision and then injected the local anaesthetic throughout the area of each thigh to be treated- front and back.

I was given Gas to take as and when i wanted. Once the area was numb he started with the vaser part where he melts the fat- I literally just felt a prodding but no pain. At one point i felt a little heat, but i was able to tell him and he sorted it quickly. This process was really comfortable. After the melting he said he was going to start the sucking machine. I could hear the machine, but i was in such a comfortable state i really didn't care what was happening lol. I remember feeling really happy that my annoying fat that never went was being sucked away for good! I could see the fat moving up into the container through the tube- fascinating really! At this point i remembered thinking how vaser is quite different to normal lipo as it really does remove the fat and limited other areas - tissues etc and blood. You can see the pure fat being suctioned.



After doing my front i was asked to stand and he marked up any further areas that needed treating- as gravity of course affects how our bodies look. Then i was asked to turn to do the back. The process was repeated, and again, there really was no discomfort that i recall, and at any point when i felt more pressure i just sucked the happy gas. :-)



All in all i think it took approx 45mins... then the nurses put on my compression garment and i walked into the recovery room where they gave me time to snooze and some tea and biscuits. I was feeling fine. I think overall i was at the clinic 3 hours and went home wrapped in 2 blues to soak up all the leakage as they leave the incisions open to all for the excess fluid to be naturally removed. I still couldn't really feel any discomfort, just a tightness. I went home and into bed for a few hours. When i got up my bluey wraps were soaked in fluid. I was fully aware of this happening so i was prepared mentally, so make sure you prepare yourself otherwise it can be a shock to see that amount! There are no pads underneath the garment as it can affect the compression of the suit, therefore the leaking does go over the suit and then onto the bog bluies... which is a little uncomfortable but you et use to it.



I am on day 1 today, and i didn't sleep well i have to say... You are given anti sickness tablets, antibiotics and panadene forte to take when required and i felt fine until bed time last night then it felt sore and a slight burning sensation. I took panadene forte and it was fine. Its hard getting comfortable when you usually sleep on your side or front and this was a little uncomfortable. This morning i feel ok, just tight legs that feel like i have run a 20-50k marathon lol! But i can already see the nice curve he has created instead of the horrible bulge i had, so that exciting to see.



Apparently i had 375ml of fat- the same as a can of coke removed from each inner/back thigh area! Very exciting to know that horrible bulge is gone. I always had problems with trousers fitting me in this area and could never loose weight there- every where else but never there!



I will post my before pictures when i am able to get them off the doctor, as i stupidly didn't take any! so sorry... i will post some progress ones over the next few days though. I want to make sure i am informing anyone who is thinking of this as i was so reassured my members of the community on real self, and it really is great to have the real reviews.



Updated on 28 Jul 2016:
Ok, it has been a while since any updates as i had my surgery on July 1st. I am now almost 4 weeks post op. I have to be honest, i didn't want to post anything earlier of my step by step journey because i didn't really know what was happening to my body, and by me broadcasting the day by day journey i felt it may increase my anxiety, and possibly give you a bad impression of lipo. However, i must say i am still alive and absolutely fine! I :-)

On reflection its a funny thing because as i was reading the pre op contract thingy i signed, it stated ' You may become depressed...' i remember thinking, how on earth can getting skinnier make someone depressed! lol ... now i am able to reflect on the process of 4 weeks in recovery, i can honestly say i think that first and second week was pretty hard for me mentally. I just wasn't prepared for the weirdness that having lipo presented. The strange jelly/ swollen/ hard/lumpy/stiff/sensations that were all part of the recovery process. Even though you are told about them, i just really wasn't prepared...Each day presented different elements, ups and downs for me and some people may feel hardly any, and be able to go back to work asap however i found each change incredibly unusual- especially when i had a massive wedge like pouch under one of my thighs! This truly freaked me out. I was informed that post op massage was a crucial part of the recovery and i went into overdrive with my wedge pocket thats for sure! ...So here are my pointers i have learned thus far:

Week One= Traumatic, weirdness! ... Hobbled around, longed to sit on my butt, of which i most certainly could NOT do under any circumstances. It felt like i had a rope of tight, sore, swolleness wrapped around. Transitioning from lying to standing was painful, i remember describing it to the doctor as a skin ripping sensation ( i can be dramatic) however i was still in one piece lol! So week one, plan on doing nothing and howling around the house! You may need an emotional support person too to cry to every now and then!

Week 2= Back to work week! Eeeew, How was i going to go back to school and sit down and pretend to be fine?.. luckily i stand most of the day, but i planned many instances to avoid those sitting/meeting situations or in fact any social situation where people would question me. Even on the first day someone commented on my walk and asked if i was ok, i had to say yes I'm fine just pulled a muscle! lol Thinking it was only one person that noticed, then the next day another and another commented! Again, pulled muscle excuse, except one person was in fact a pe teacher who then continued to inform me of stretches and thing i could do to loosen and help my leg! By this time i was waiting for him to expect me to start doing them! and it was then i realised, nope! home it is for another few days.

Week 3= Normal!! Starting to feel human again. I can sit down, move around without any weird pain or ripping sensation. And even starting to walk normal! thank goodness, i really didn't think i could pull off the pulled muscle routine for a second week. I have been having 3 plus massages a week- 3 machine ones and massaging myself daily for a good half an hour. The bruising is still quite apparent, and the hardness is really coming to the surface with a few lumps and bumps too. I started to get some weird tugging sensations from the hardness swell, but by now i am mentally prepared for any weirdness so I'm used to it. I can also start to see a slight change, so I'm starting to feel more positive in the outcome. Whereas before my legs felt like aliens attached to me that i couldn't get rid of.

Week 4= NORMAL!!! Oh the relief. How you take simple things for granted is my week four lesson. Im now almost running around, transitions from any form of chair comfortably and having the occasionally weird twang and nerve pain from all the sensations coming back. Oh the nerve pain is very weird, but a good weird! the aliens are going, and your own legs are returning.. or should i say better legs.

A few extra things i have learned too:

1- Hand Lymphatic Drainage massage is great!
2- Machine one supplied by the clinic and the wonderful nurse Elle- Fantastic, she has truly supported my anxiety and weirdness the last few weeks!
3- Im living in my suits! fully, I'm wearing full time for 6 weeks and then i may contemplate 12 hours a day, but currently cannot imagine yet, as i am a bit of a perfectionist and want all my lumps and bumps to be fully evened out. Oh i have two, which means i am watching daily....
4- Arnica cream! helped no end with week 3/4 bruising.. almost completely gone, and when i post pictures soon you will see my incredible bruising! lol
5- Started using scar cream for the minuscule incisions... again, I'm being a perfectionist.
6-Epsom Baths! a whole 375gm per bath, soak in for 30-40mins twice a week and rub/soak the area.. this helps aid with the swelling.
7- Have it done in WINTER!!! not summer, I'm surviving, but would never be able to wear this suit in summer.
8- BUY Nappy rash cream!! you will figure out why...
9-... hmmmm I'm sure il thin of more soon, :-)
Updated on 5 Jun 2019:
Always had pockets of fat on inner thighs, had this removed. Nothing fitted properly and since.. I love seeing skinny jeans and feel comfortable in my own skin! Well worth it. There was a lot of healing time but worth it



Updated on 18 Jun 2019:
Apologies for the lack of update! I have had a few messaged regarding the process and how I am now three years on. I want to start with the fact that it was the best decision I ever made! and my legs are perfect now... no lumps, bumps or anything!! Dr Kim works magic. Some points I would highly recommend to ensure this is to massage the area twice daily and follow the instructions of the surgeon. It hurst but you have to! It dissolves all the fat and helps to eliminate the lumps and smooth it out.
I have attached some of my recovery photos to help others understand the possible effects.. everyone reacts and recovers in different ways, I seemed to bruise an incredible amount even though I took herbal anti bruising tablets lol.. but ah well. And I should add that moving is a must as well... gently though, but for me it felt like my skin was ripping off each time I moved lol... however, in saying all of this, I would do it again over and over, because I am so pleased with the results ,... flawless!

So I finally decided after years of hating my thighs to have lipo. I am 5"10 and weigh about 80 kilos. I have always hated my body, but it wasn't until after I had my son, that I looked back on my pics and was like - wow, I did look pretty good.
I'm very social, so while I can be good during week, it all turns to crap at the weekend. I also have had most of my right lung removed so I get out of breath really easy, so find it hard to exercise. Doesn't help also that I really hate it.
I have a lot of self confidence generally, but the minute I take off my clothes I hate the way I look. The pics I have attached are not done in a good light and several friends have said "you really don't look like that" but hey, bad pics can only mean the after ones look better right. You can see from my "fully dressed" pic that I look pretty ok with clothes on and have no shortage of self confidence. Clothes hide a multitude of sins as they say!
I originally wanted to go with Ashbury Clinic but was turned down for normal lipo due to my medical condition. Even though I had been cleared by my oncologist, they still said no. The appt was free with medicare and the doc was pretty good (even if he was running about 40 mins late). I left feeling happy enough. My mother wasn't too sure about the procedure given that it's twilight and he was administering it and observing me and doing the procedure but I was happy enough to go ahead - but was then told no...

So the hunt began for another doctor. I started looking at pics and after looking at pics from girls who had been to the Cosmos Clinic on the Gold Coast, to see Dr Mitchell Kim, I was pretty impressed by their pics so started making enquiries. I was up front about my medical condition and provided a letter from my oncologist. I sent pics to the doctor and before I knew it, I was "approved" and good to go. I was happy with the price and the details they provided to me. I hadn't met the Doctor in person but apparently this isn't such a big deal anyway. I have just had a Skype consult with the Doctor and feel so much more at ease. He has had this procedure himself which I thought was a really good advertisement for it. He had his procedure on the Friday and was back at work on the Monday. He ran through a whole lot of information and was very informative. He also answered my questions and really put my mind at ease. I'm really looking forward to the procedure now and can't wait for my "after" pics.

I am having my inner and outer thighs, my flanks, and lower and upper stomach done. I didn't really want to spend as much as it is costing (12,500 AUD) but I might as well do it properly, rather than regret it and have to go back and do the further areas.

I will update with pics etc once I have had the surgery!

Updated on 30 Aug 2015:
I'm pretty nervous now I must say. I can't imagine having the body I've always wanted. I know there will be a bit of recovery ahead but I'm still pretty excited about the results. I have had a friend show my bf how to do lymphatic massage on me, and I am ready with everything else I need.

I just want it over and done with. The Dr told me he would be standing me up to do the thighs which make me nervous... I can handle any of the yuckiness, just don't want to feel major pain!

Watch this space!

Updated on 2 Sep 2015:
So... yesterday was finally the big day. I slept ok the night before and we made our way down to the clinic for 8.30. Dr Kim was at reception when we got there and we went straight in. He got me to sign all the necessary documents before I stripped down so he could take pics and measurements. I also tried on my garment to made sure it fit, and had a lorazepam to chill me out a bit. From there my bf had to leave and I had to put my blue gown on and I was straight in. I had some oxygen and also some happy gas. I was pretty nervous and dreading the local but it wasn't that bad.
He then started numbing the areas. I feel like I remember the whole thing, but I was in there from 9 till 1, and it only felt like around 20 minutes. There were times I said ouch, but nothing I couldn't handle. That was my main fear, that it would be really painful, and it really wasn't. It was quite interesting to see stuff leaking out of me, and I could see the fat canisters filling up so that was cool. I think they took over 3 ltrs from me so that was good. I remember standing up while he did my thighs which was pretty cool.
Afterwards I went into recovery... but on sitting up I felt really sick (I always do with anaesthetic) so had to wait and see if I was going to spew. Thankfully I didn't and I made it to the recovery bed quite easily.
I chilled out in recovery for a few hours. My bf came in then and just sat with me. They gave me water and lemonade and biscuits and crackers which was nice. I didn't want to eat but made myself. They even gave my bf the same thing which I thought was nice. The nurses were lovely, making sure I was feeling ok, giving me some more meds through my cannula etc - I was v. impressed with how caring they were.
5pm it came and I realised I should probably go home. It was hard getting to the car as I felt sick, but once in the car we made it home fine. My bf helped me into bed. I remember my friend being there, telling me I looked pale, but all I wanted to do was sleep. My son kept asking what I had had done at the doctors but I was quite out of it and didn't really say much.
I slept till about 2am before I got up and had a wee and had a panadeine forte. I actually am not in much pain at all to be honest. Just feels like strong muscle ache. I slept really well considering I hate sleeping on my back.
I am wearing my garment plus a bluey from the clinic, plus my grey pjs, so I haven't even bothered to look at myself yet, and won't until I shower tomorrow before going back to see the doc. My friend and bf said I look slimmer so that's a good start.
Pics to come tomorrow when I have my first shower.
Overall, I feel much better than I thought I would at this point.

Updated on 4 Sep 2015:
So today is Friday. I had the procedure on Wednesday. I'm actually feeling really good. I had my first shower today which was wonderful. I washed out my garment in the shower which was gross lol and then spun it in the washing machine before drying it with a hairdryer - easy. I then went to the clinic and met with the nurse and had my first lymphatic drainage massage - it was pretty quick but she said it was just to get used to it. I picked up my second set of garments also - that way I don't have to keep washing and drying my other one with great haste.
I am really happy with how my stomach and flanks look so far but my thighs still look pretty big - but, and this is where I am at least sensible... I can see all the swelling in my legs - there is huge amounts - so I'm not freaking out by any means. I was told today they took 3.5 litres out which I'm happy about. I also remember the Doc putting some fat back in and mentioned this to the nurse today who said "that's why we stand you up, to make sure it's even" which I really actually quite like. It means the Doc is a perfectionist and makes sure everything looks right.
After the clinic visit I went to the mall and had sushi, then wandered round for a bit before picking my son up from school. Basically I was out from 9.30 till 3.30pm and I feel absolutely fine.
My partner did a bit more light massage on me when we got home and now I'm about to do dinner.
I'm no longer on the panadene forte, only pandadol, and to be honest I don't know if I even need that now. I actually feel pretty ok (surprisingly).
More photos to come in the next few days.

Updated on 4 Sep 2015:


Updated on 13 Sep 2015:
Sorry it's taken me a while to update... I kept meaning to do it then kept getting distracted.

So on Wednesday it will be two weeks. The pain has been fine. I stopped taking any form of pain killers on the Friday post op so on the pain front I'm all good.

I'm still really swollen. I can't work out how to do side by side comparison pics but I've attached what I hope is each pic next to each other of my latest pics and before. There is a HUGE difference in my stomach and flanks and I'm super happy with that. But my thighs are either still really swollen, or he didn't take enough out. They look bigger than before to me. I know they are still swollen but my thighs are the one thing I really wanted to get done (the rest was just a bonus) and I really wish I had the HUGE difference with my thighs before I had the difference with my stomach (if that makes sense).

I don't know what you guys see - but if you see something different, I'd love to hear it!

The people at the clinic told me they took out 3.4 litres. This broke down to 2 .2 litres off my stomach (upper and lower) and flanks. That means it was only 300ml outer and 300ml inner of each thigh, totalling 1.2 litres. I'm not sure if this was enough? I'm just not sure - maybe I'm just getting disheartened - which I told myself I wouldn't do... arrrrgghhhh - it's really annoying having to wait forever for results. I'm sure most of you are in the same position as me.

I feel a bit hard and a bit numb still in my stomach and flanks. They are the most sensitive as others have said and this is true. Sometimes I get a few stingy bits and I go "ouch" but mainly it's ok.

I had my first endermologie massage last week. I wore this super sexy white suit which made me laugh. It was really sore on my flanks but otherwise I didn't really feel a thing. Hopefully this week it will be better. I have some hard bits which we work on every night (my poor bf) and hopefully that will help.

Otherwise I'm all good. The binder is a pain in my ass, but when I'm in the car and I don't have it on, I feel quite vulnerable - good reason to wear it I guess. I don't mind the garment so much, it gives me nice lines lol.

That's about it for now I think :)

Updated on 13 Sep 2015:
I asked about the tape when I was having it removed last week (and boy did that hurt like a mother). They said they give it for extra support - not everyone has it - and that I was lucky to get it. I was like "oh, I'll be grateful then". I think it did help... maybe I had lots of extra saggy baggy skin to hold in lol. Anyway, it's gone now...

Updated on 14 Sep 2015:
I have just had some more pics taken and was feeling pretty positive. I can see the swelling has gone down a bit more and I'm a bit happier tonight. Well I was... until someone who hasn't posted anything before on my review felt the need to be nice and negative. So that's put me back into a bad shitty mood about it all.
Honestly, if people want to be negative, this is not the site for it.
I hope others can see the difference (which I'm finally starting to see).

Updated on 16 Sep 2015:
I think I'm finally starting to see some difference in my thighs. I have attached some more pics. Looking pretty good so far, hopefully there will be more results to come.
I feel fine, a little slow at times but generally back to normal. I still feel hard and lumpy in parts, but having a massage every day so that is helping.

Updated on 23 Sep 2015:
So it's been exactly 3 weeks since my surgery. And it feels every few days or so I get my ever so patient bf to take pics, then I screen shot them to get the previous one side by side and then scrutinise.

I'm happy to say that today I see a good difference - so it's a "good day".

My pain is nil now which is fantastic - I'm a little tender naturally if I get hit or bump into something but not in pain to move or sleep or anything like that. I must say the Doc wasn't lying when he said the recovery was not a big deal. it really has been way better than I thought.

I am quite hard and lumpy in places and am having massages everyday courtesy of my bf and I will be seeing the nurse tomorrow for my endermologie massage which I have weekly. I now get to wear the compression only part-time so that's great. I'm not sure exactly which "part" to wear it, so for now will continue to wear it constantly until I get clarified (tomorrow). I'm used to it now - but my binder has began to fold a bit, so rather over that.

Anyway, hope the pictures inspire!

Updated on 14 Oct 2015:
So it's been six weeks today since I had the procedure. I am currently in the Maldives so will do some more pics when I get back. I didn't wear my garment at nearly 5 weeks for one day... boy did I pay the price. The next day my leg was mega sore and mega swollen, with hard scar tissue. When I spoke to the clinic, they knew I was off on holiday and asked me to send pics whereby the Doc said it wasn't a major issue but to come in for a massage before I go, which I did... he also popped in to see me which was reassuring. The swelling has gone down but the hardness remains. I have however been having massages every day while I've been away and today the lady started to shift some of the scar tissue which is great.

I am feeling good, my flanks are still somewhat numb and my stomach is still somewhat tender, but apart from that, I'm fine.

I have noticed a bit of lumpiness in my stomach, not sure what that's about, but will show the Dr on my next visit. I am still wearing my garment every other night as it's super hot here!

Updated on 28 Oct 2015:
Just took a sneaky pic. Feeling pretty good right now about myself! A little concerned at lumpy stomach but won't stress too much. Loving my thigh gap, and back exercising which will help even further!

Updated on 20 Jan 2016:
So it's been ages since my last update and I thought I better post a couple of pictures.
I have been really happy with my results bar a couple of things. My stomach is a bit uneven and I don't like the way it looks. It's made me being too critical but hey, it's my body and I paid a lot of money for this! And secondly, I can not really see much difference in my thighs. The whole reason I wanted lipo was because of my thighs - I've hated them since I was 18. The size difference is 4cm, whereas my waist is 15cms.
I can also not attribute everything to the surgery... after the 6 week mark, I have worked my butt off at the gym, and have eaten really healthy, so I know that has a lot to do with the results.
Anyway, have a look and let me know what you think!

Updated on 21 Aug 2016:
So today was my touch up. I was very nervous because of feeling so sick afterwards last time... however, the Doc kindly kept the fentanyl away from me and I was given pethedene and gas instead. I always hate the cannulation, and it took 4 goes because of my terrible veins, but we got there in the end. It was nowhere near as bad as I thought it would be so I'm pleased about that. And going into recovery I felt fine - no nausea or anything. I had a few biscuits and cheese and was looked after by the nurses nicely and then sent on my way. Entire thing was about 3.5 hours from woe to go.
Really impressed - he took another 500ml of fat out of my stomach and put some back into my thighs where there was a bit of a dent. Fingers crossed it will all look fantastic.
See pics attached!

Updated on 26 Aug 2016:
I'm feeling good. There's a little line on my tummy which I presume is from the garment, but apart from that, it's looking great. No real pain to be honest, just feels like i've done a heap of sit ups. I have a check up Monday - prob to remove stitches which I could no doubt do myself. Looking forward to final results!

Updated on 31 Aug 2016:
Attached is a pic of my post touch up lipo. I have a dent from the garment I think but other than that, it's coming along nicely.
I have a massive lump in my leg where some as put back in as I had a dent and it's hard as anything but I'm having more anti biotics and massaging it every day - so hopefully it will go soon.

I am 32 7'9 79kg with genetic fat areas which cause me to be an apple shape with big fat chunky arms, lovely breasts and nice butt, Just the arms and mid section I was not at all impressed with! I grew up being the tall slim athletic one and now, 2 kids and lots of junk food later, my genetics have finally shown their true colours! I am loving my new curves just not keen on the spare tire or the tuck shop lady arms! Ew is all I have to say! So about 18 months ago, in my spare time I would look at countless websites, youtube vidoes, before and after pictures, reviews etc etc... could not shake the desire to fix this new found problem of mine! So after all this research and website/review stalking I finally worked up the courage to go through with Vaser on my Upper lower abs, flanks and upper arms. I went with Dr Kim Mitchell at Cosmos Clinic on the Gold Coast and I am so super happy I did! He is a true artist and really listens to what you want :)

Updated on 2 Aug 2015:
ok well the night before I didn't really do anything different to any other night... besides not sleeping!!! Thank goodness Dr gave me 1mg Lorazepam for the night before so I managed some sleep (3hrs) woke up sleepy from lorazepam....
I live an hr drive away from where I was having surgery so I got my mum to drive me there... Doctors instructions. Surgery was at 8:30am so we left early.

Got to the doctors office, we sat and Dr gave me some more pills, one lorazepam the other i am not sure what it was but within a few minutes I was feeling buzzy and calm.. hehe... Doctor took some very lovely (ew) before photos and then I went in and got dressed into my undies and a surgery cloak, which was then removed 1 minute later as I went into the surgery room and lay down on that wonderful hard stainless steel operating table!!!! I remember the doctor putting something into my arm and then me sucking on the happy gas and then I think I went to sleep for little bit..... And then I woke up to lots of vibrating and pulling and stuff and remember the nurse was holding my hand above my head "it's nice to have someone hold my hand while I am awake for this" I say to the nurse. Her reply was "I am mainly holding your hand because you keep touching the area and trying to sit up to have a look at what he is doing" oops my bad! I started to suck on the happy gas again and went back to sleep.... Then OMG I FELT MY NERVES BEING PULLED from beneath my skin!!! I start to cry from the fright more than the actual pain and the nurse gives me some more pain killers and I fall back to sleep..... then I wake up laughing because the doctor is doing my ribs and it really did tickle! He is getting me to go onto my sides to do my love chunks (flanks) then gets me to move my arms around in different positions for my arm suctioning.... He tells me he is done and the nurses take me to a bed to rest and I fall asleep for a few hours. Then they dress me into my sexy compression garments and wrap me up tight in a binder and send me home..... I do not remember much about the ride home or that night. All I remember was being wrapped up i those puppy training type pads and going to sleep.
Woke up the next morning felling pretty good... blood stained drainage everywhere!!!! I was happy to leak because that meant it was not staying under my skin. Stomach felt ok, felt like really really bad sunburn but thats about it. Really hurt getting up and down but besides that it seemed pretty good.

Updated on 2 Aug 2015:
I have uploaded a picture of compression garments and binder... I am meant to still be wearing my arm compression but it is too uncomfortable and causes massive swelling that is painful on my forearms so I do not wear it all the time... the binder is cool cause it has 4 separate elastic/velcro straps that you can adjust individually to suit the contour of your body. I personally have mine tighter around my hips and lower stomach.

Updated on 6 Aug 2015:
I'm not gonna lie, I am feeling very sorry for myself.....Not feeling any pain really, it's all gross swollen and lumpy, like so much scar tissue under my skin the majority of it is extremely hard, like massaging a brick wall and i am not talking about my abs, I am talki about the stupid amounts of scar tissue forming on my stomach and sides.... Dr has been great he has ordered endermologie twice a week now to break up the scar tissue and today I went for an MLD massage which felt amazing and helped the area to soften up quite a lot. Even tonight as I massage my stomach I can feel the scar tissue start to break up. The lovely Chinese lady who did my massage is worth her weight in gold! Going to be seeing her twice a week as well as getting the endermologie twice a week at the clinic so fingers crossed this approach will get rid of this horrible hardness and quickly! Photos uploaded are from today... looking pretty gross and lumpy and bumpy and super swollen right side after endermologie treatment.

Updated on 13 Aug 2015:
ok so the last week or so have been pretty good for me, i have found an amazing Lymphatic drainage massage lady who has worked wonders for my swelling and lumpiness..... have been exercising every couple of days and everything seems to be going ok, though I do notice more swelling after doing strenuous sorts of exercise. Saw Dr Kim on Tuesday. I thought I was just going in for routine endermologie session but instead, discovered i was getting PRP injections into the hard areas which are scar tissue forming, which I have been told is from me not wearing my garment 24/7 like I am supposed to.... Well let me tell you getting platelet rich plasma injected into newly formed scar tissue under the skin does not tickle!! Omg was uber painful and scary but I am so thankful for my Dr getting straight onto the issues so they go away as soon as possible and I get to heal nicely. Apparently it will take 6 weeks for the full effects of the PRP. I took some photos of myself after my massage and with the least amount of swelling... Still have that donut around my belly button which sticks out and is really weird.... that will go as it has been injected with the PRP

Updated on 13 Aug 2015:
Lets hope these will be able to be uploaded :)

Updated on 29 Aug 2015:
well things are starting to feel normal now, I can feel my skin on my stomach again and underneath where the injections were is nice and soft now.... Decided to ditch the horrible polyester compression suit that starts just above the knees and finishes at the elbows and replace it with a latex waist trainer. Well it is 5x more comfortable and nowhere near as bulky.... Though I dos wear it all day and I was on my feet running around and it has left some pretty large indents on my stomach which I am guessing is from swelling - which is what happens when you run around all day! Next week I have my 6 week checkup and maybe getting some more injections.... Most likely will be taking a lot of painkillers and maybe some Valium in preparation for this time since I know what I am in for!!! Yikes!

I'm very close to finally taking the plunge! I'm 65 cm and approx. 69 kg. I've always had a flat stomach, smaller frame and shapely curves. However, over the past 3 years I have noticed the stomach fat accumulating and not going away! I think its here to stay...so time to finally do something about it.

I've done a ton of research on vaser lipo in Thailand, US and Australia and since I am currently living in Brisbane, decided to take the next step locally. I found Dr. Kim on realself and just went in for my consult last Wednesday.

In the consult he recommended lip for upper & lower abdomen as well as love handles. It's pricier in Aus than it would be in the US or (of course) Thailand, but one thing I love about Cosmos Clinic is that they include the post-surgery massages in the price. So its basically all-inclusive. I feel a lot better getting everything done in one place so they can keep track and ensure I am on track for the ideal results.

Dr. Kim answered my biggest question, which was around the liklihood of the fat returning in an abnormal area. I had read other reviewers state this happens, but Dr. Kim explained that fat won't come back in odd areas (such as armpits), people may just be more likely to notice the fat in other areas now that they are no longer concerned with their stomach (for example). I was happy with this response and it put my mind at ease.

The only thing I don't love is the $190 for each compression garment set- knowing I will need at least 2 sets! That almost $400 extra- I wish we could just borrow them for the 6 weeks. lol

Anyways, I have emailed the clinic back just to clarify what happens if I get abnormal results, such as lumpiness or a weird shape...hopefully a revision surgery wouldn't be full price again. Once I get that answer, I will decide for certain whether to proceed with the surgery next month or not.

Just wanted to share my experience with Dr. Kim & Cosmos Clinic Gold Coast to date. Will update with photos soon!

Updated on 24 Mar 2018:
Wanted to update with my starting photos- hoping to see a big decrease in the roundness of my stomach- especially from the front view

Updated on 11 Apr 2018:
Ok, so first I had a Bali vacation and then I came home and thought I should do my due diligence and go in for a consult with another local surgeon. I had my consult with Dr. Chen at Ashbury a little over a week ago. It was shocking how different his feedback was. He said vaser or laser was not required for me as I do not have loose skin and I could save some money by going the traditional route. He also said he would prescribe me an appetite suppressant so I could lose about 4 kg prior to the surgery.

I must admit it was tempting to save a few thousand dollars on the surgery, and I agonized over the decision for another week, but ultimately decided that I feel more comfortable with Dr. Kim and his clinic. They are always so responsive and the support staff are so genuinely helpful as well. They weren't overly friendly at Ashbury and I had trouble getting direct answers to any of my questions- so that just didn't sit well with me. Plus, cosmetic surgery isn't really something that you want to choose the cheapest surgeon for!

So, booked 30 April as the big day. So nervous & excited at the same time!

Updated on 30 Apr 2018:
I had my surgery yesterday so does that make this Day 1 or Day 2?

Anyways, as others have stated, I went in at 0700, took my pills, got my pictures taken, Dr. Kim drew on my stomach and then into the operating room I go! I received my IV and then it seemed like he started in immediately. I did feel semi-conscious as I recall some of the discussions they were having and I recall moving my head around a bit. I also remember feeling so slight pain and tugging, but nothing that caused me to call our or ask them to stop. All in all, surgery was pretty easy.

After the surgery though...!! I went straight into recovery but was wide awake so mostly just sat there & played on my phone. The pain started in almost immediately, so they had to bring me some meds even before my husband returned with my prescription. I didn't feel hungry and didn't really want to eat the cheese & crackers or biscuits, but I did drink a tea & a little water. It took them 3 tries to get my clothes on, every time I stood up I got nauseous and dizzy, almost to the point of passing out. I then was having hot and cold sweats- trying to stand up was very traumatic for me. And this continued throughout the day. Every time my husband tried to help me stand up, I got sick or almost passed out- but I was so tired of laying on my back that I wanted to move around so bad!

I won't drag on & on about it, but basically, yesterday was very hard and I could never have done it without my husband there to basically do everything for me. Luckily, today is worlds better. I still need help getting up or down, but I can walk around now with no problems.

I did screen shot my before/ after surgery pictures from Dr. Kim's Instagram page to share with you all. :) I'll take a picture of my actual stomach tomorrow when I am able to shower. Right now this garment is so disgusting and covered with drainage/blood. I cannot wait to wash it.

He took out 2.5 L. I really have no idea if that is a lot or a little. I'm going to try and do some searching to see what amount of fat other people typically have removed. If anyone would like to share- much appreciated!

Updated on 4 May 2018:
Hi all. Just wanted to post my Day 4 photos. So far I am really happy with the progress. Minimal bruising but major swelling! The swelling is definitely tracking down so my lower abdomen (front), hips, thighs & even knees are huge! But that was expected & I can live with that.

As you can see with my side photo, they pinched my side when they put the garment on post-surgery so for 2 days my skin was folded up. The fold does seem to be getting smaller now that I have fixed my garment and smoothed it out- but it was so scary to see at first!

I've found it easy to be up & around during the day, pain is minimal, but the nights are an entirely different story. I find it so uncomfortable to sleep on my back and so painful. Even with the pain pills, I haven't slept more than 4 hours since the surgery. That's by far the biggest negative for me so far.

I had my first instructional massage today. I didn't realise I would have to do home massages 2x a day! Everyone in the clinic today was very firm that this is the most important step in achieving desired results so I will certainly be doing it...its just such a hassle to get in & out of these garments, I wasn't anticipating having to do it 2x daily.

Updated on 10 May 2018:
Apologies, I've been really bad at updating! Wanted to get my photos uploaded from Day 8 and I'll post a status update later.

Updated on 11 May 2018:
I haven't posted much on what I consider to be the hardest part of the "surgery" so I'll try to summarise the past week.
I continue to be very happy with Dr. Kim's work and the responsiveness of everyone at Cosmos Clinic. I have had to email them a few times and they always get back to me within the day. Most recently I emailed to inquire about the garment indentions on my flanks. They are always there, so I wasn't sure if that was going to cause any lasting damage or if my garment was the wrong size. The office manager checked with Dr. Kim and he confirmed this is normal and the indentions will go away once I stop wearing the garment.
I found the first week to be a lot harder than I expected it to be. I have no idea how people say they go back to work in 1-2 days! I was supposed to go in to work on day 3 and I had to call in sick because I was way too tired and uncomfortable to go sit in an office, even just for a few hours. The pain was never that bad, the garment- specifically the binder- is just so uncomfortable! I literally hate this thing. I continue to wear it tight on most days, but I will admit sometimes I cheat for a few hours and loosen it a bit. It just makes me very cranky and irritable most of the time, even on day 11. Plus, re work...what are people wearing?? The garment comes down to the knees and has straps across the chest so it is very hard to cover. For the first week I was too swollen to fit into my pants also, so I just don't know how others have done it- if I ever have surgery again, I will make sure to plan for at least the first week out of work.
I am amazed at how small my waist is already...Dr. Kim really did a fabulous job. I am just so impatient for the swelling in my lower abdomen & hips to go down so I can see the full result. It has subsided somewhat, but it certainly hasn't flattened out yet.
I've been doing my massages 2x a day, even though it is incredibly tedious & time consuming. I can tell its been making a difference. I also had my first massage with the machine in clinic on Wednesday (day 9). It was a nice experience, but the nurse said that was because I was doing my home massages. She said its very obvious the people who aren't doing their massages because they are much tighter and find the machine less comfortable. I'm going to try really hard to make it in for the machine massages 2x a week going forward- at least for the next few weeks. They said it really makes a major difference in the results so I don't want to take any chances after all this.
Ok, well, I don't want to make this too long. I think this covers off the key points of the past week. So far, 100% worth it, even though its been more difficult recovery than I was expecting.
I know there isn't much information on Australia, or specifically Queensland doctors- so please let me know if you have any questions!

Updated on 18 May 2018:
Updated with my recent photos since I am almost at the 3 week mark!
Things look about the same in the photos- the garment lines are still there on my stomach and my hips and now under my breasts. There is also still a fair amount of swelling throughout my lower abdomen and hips. Some bruising as well from the continued swelling. I notice my belly button seems to take on a new shape daily. Hopefully it will end up with some semblance of roundness.
To keep it honest, its been a rough week for me. This recovery process is really down played. The constant changes to my body really mess with my head. I was expecting to see small improvements as the weeks went by but instead I am experiencing the opposite. The lumps and hardness have really set in and its scary to feel new scar tissue every day. I did find myself getting very upset mid-week but then I spent some time on this site looking for other updates around 2-3 weeks and found that others had felt similar. It has been so helpful to read that others were still struggling several weeks after the surgery.
I also went in for my 3rd machine massage at Cosmos yesterday and the nurse assured me that all this is very normal. She said most people start developing the scar tissue at 2 weeks, which is exactly what is happening with me. However- I did notice that by the end of the week one of my huge lumps had decreased- so that made my day! It restored my faith that these lumps will eventually go away & are not permanent.
I remain very happy with the treatment from Cosmos clinic, even if the massage is incredibly painful, its so nice to have these sessions included free of charge. And talking to the nurses and hearing how many other people have felt exactly the same as me is very comforting. I don't know anyone else who has gone through this, so it can feel like a very lonely journey at times.
Anyways, just wanted to mention the 2-3 week struggles I experienced in case it can help the next person who goes through this. I can't wait until I can look back on this post and laugh about how needlessly worried I was. :)

Updated on 28 May 2018:
Wanted to post my pictures for Week 4. Not much of an update from Week 3. You can see the very visible lumps and indentions as well as redness in the skin and tissue. I'm still having some swelling through the lower abdomen as well, just not every day.
The clinic advises this is completely normal for 4 weeks and to just continue with my massages.
They also advised me to continue wearing both the garment and binder for as close to 24 hours a day as possible. I'm currently wearing it for about 20 hours a day, I've been spending a couple hours without it just to try to work on the de-sensitizing. Feels weird to be without it, but also so nice. I cannot wait for 6 weeks when I can be free of my binder!!!

Updated on 14 Jun 2018:
I'm currently at about 6 1/2 weeks. This "healing" process is no joke, I feel like I'm getting worse every week. Lots of new lumps developing and all the original lumps are still there as well. I'm having extreme tightness where it's painful to stretch and a lot of hardness as well.
I'm still doing my massages 2x a day. The clinic advised me to pinch the lumps and use as much pressure as I can bear so I am always sore & bruised, but so far hasn't helped remove the lumps or prevent them from continuing to form.
But, on a positive note, I'm out of my garment & binder and that feels fabulous! I weighed myself today & I'm down 2 kg. Certainly nothing amazing for 6 weeks- but better than nothing.
I'll continue to stay positive and hope that one of these weeks my abdomen will start looking human again. :)

Updated on 9 Jul 2018:
Hello. Not a ton has changed in the past few weeks, but wanted to at least check in and let you all see the current progress.

I had PRP about 2.5 weeks ago which caused a lot of swelling but seems to have started to break down some of my scar tissue a bit. As you can see from the pictures, I still have quite a few lumps on my sides and around my sternum area. I saw Mitchell last week for my check-up and he has scheduled me for another round of PRP in 5 weeks.

All in all, I feel good. Still some tenderness where the scar tissue is, but nothing major. I'm hoping that the swelling is still due to the PRP because I'm feeling more soft & squishy these past few weeks than I have in the past. I think you can see in the pictures that my lower abdomen is rounder than it was previously. I'm still happy with the inches I have lost, but very anxious to see if my abdomen will start looking more toned. They also said skin tightening starts around 3 months- so very anxious to see if that helps with the appearance.

Let me know if you have any questions! I'll probably just start posting monthly now that the changes are minimal from week to week.

Updated on 31 Aug 2018:
As promised, here are my four month photos. Personally, I don't notice much difference from my 10 week photos and I haven't noticed any change in my daily appearance. I had my second PRP session a few weeks ago to try and reduce some of the scar tissue. It's causing a lot of lumps in my sides and abdomen still. I still feel puffy throughout my abdomen so I'm hoping that is just because of the scar tissue causing lumpiness. There is still some tightness on my sides where the bands of scar tissue run.
I am also still having all the skin discoloration, some of which you can see in the photos.
Incision sites are fading a bit, but still very visible, especially in the front.
All in all, I'm just trying to not focus on my surgery results much & wait for my 6 months. I had hoped that the healing process would go quicker/ smoother...but nothing to be done about that.

Updated on 17 Jan 2019:
I haven't posted in a bit as I have been working out of the US and its very hard to take accurate pictures of yourself! (or at least it is for me) I also haven't been able to get in to see Mitchell for my 6 month follow-up and I really wanted to talk with him before posting anything. However, a few people have been messaging me for an update and I guess to keep an accurate record of the journey, I need to keep post accurate status updates.
I'm not going to say too much right now though because I'd like to talk to Mitchell in the first instance. I have maintained the same weight since my surgery, but I have noticed things changing quite a bit in the last few months. I feel like I was happier with my results at 3 months than I am now so I don't really understand what is happening.
I'll update after my 9 month follow-up! Sorry the pictures aren't better.

Updated on 10 Mar 2019:
Hello! Just wanted to provide a current status of everything. I went in about a month ago for my "6 month" follow-up. Mitchell did suggest that I needed a revision to address some lumps around my belly button, excess fat under my bra line, the large indent/ crease between my upper abdomen and my lower abdomen and the large band of scar tissue that runs up my right side.
I really did not want to do another surgery and have spent the past month going back & forth on pros/ cons. Ultimately, I had another discussion today with Mitchell and he is confident that I will see good resolution to my issues with another surgery, so I'm going to go for it! I've come this far, right? It doesn't sound like there is anything that can be done about the discolouration/ red splotches that is still there 10 months post surgery. He said that's just what happens with some people. :( I really pray it won't be here forever because it looks like I have a skin disease.
I'm going to look to schedule the revision for as quickly as possible though because I just really want to get this all over with! I'm tired of thinking about it every day and being anxious at what my end result is going to be. I'm so nervous that I will end up looking lumpier or misshapen or have more scar tissue. But, I guess that is the risk that one takes with any surgery. Also, Cosmos has switched to a stomach board instead of a binder for post surgery- so I think that is going to be even more unbearable than the binder was...just another reason I'm dreading it.
On a positive note, I have lost 4 kg's and in clothes, my mid-section looks fabulous! It's just without the clothes or in swimsuits that is the problem. Mitchell has been really great in making himself available to discuss, it's times like these that I really feel bad for people who have a surgeon who isn't reachable post procedure.

Updated on 27 Jul 2019:
Hello. Just wanted to do one final post and picture as promised before I put this all behind me and move on. I was in a bathroom the other day that had really good lighting so I figured it was the perfect opportunity to get a "real" picture instead of one that is all washed out due to soft lighting.

For me, I don't understand why I have this lumpy and uneven look and why my skin is still so splotchy and discoloured. Mitchell did offer me a revision but after trying to book in 3x over 6 months and never being able to get an appointment, I figured it was the universe intervening and recommending that I NOT go in for another surgery. I may look to have some form of revision done in the US at some point, but for now, I am just going to accept that this is my stomach now.

The positives...I have lost 8 kg throughout this journey and have identified the foods that were causing me serious bloat- as you will see from my first pictures. I now think that if I would have focussed on cleaning up my diet more, then I would not have needed the surgery. But, live & learn.

If I could go back in time, I wouldn't do the surgery again. As I've said previously, my stomach is fine in clothes as it is now flat because I have cut out all sugar & white flour from my diet. But I am embarrassed of how it looks in a bikini. I feel like it looks like something is wrong with my stomach.

But again, it's time for me to put this journey behind me and accept my body as is, flaws and all. The only purpose of documenting my surgery was to have an open and unbiased discussions of the pros & cons. Too much I feel like people will only post the positive and won't post at all if it is negative.

Always happy to answer any questions or continue to chat via PM.

I have booked in with Dr Mitchell Kim at the Cosmos Clinic on the Gold Coast. I'm getting vaser liposuction on my upper and lower stomach, love handles and inner thighs. I am hoping to be one of those amazing before and after examples! Sick of feeling uncomfortable and covering up my fat belly at the beach!

Updated on 26 Nov 2015:
Had my surgery yesterday. Not going to lie, I did find it quite painful! I thought I'd be more out of it, but can remember most of the surgery.
The nurse named Karen was so lovely, as was Dr Mitchell. I felt very nauseous for about an hour or so after surgery. It was very hard to get comfortable last night. When I woke up I was really nauseous, so had some pain killers and went back to sleep for a few hours. I decided to stay in a hotel for a few nights so I didn't have to deal with my kids. Great decision, as I have lay around watching movies as day. There was a lot of seepage. I didn't know it would be so much. I slept on some large pads and they were covered in blood. Its been about 24 hours and it seems to have stopped. I shall have a shower and change my compression garments tomorrow, so I'll take some photos then. Just walked to the chemist...about 20 minutes return walk and my ankles are so swollen.

Updated on 26 Nov 2015:
Bit gross, but this is the front of the pad last night. So much blood and gunk. Apparently there is about 5 litres of fluid that should drain out!

Updated on 27 Nov 2015:
Finally had a shower and changed my compression gear. I had a pretty good sleep last night and am feeling really good today. Still in a bit of pain, but not much! Very happy with my results so far. I'm fairly swollen and bruised, but the results are noticeable, which is what I wanted. :)

Updated on 18 Dec 2015:
Feeling a bit blah with my results today. Thought I'd go down to the beach for an hour, as I am allowed to take my compression suit off occasionally now. My stomach is really lumpy and has some weird fat deposits. I really hope this improves!

Updated on 23 Dec 2015:
I have been doing at least an hour a day massage for the last few days and my lumpiness is starting to get smaller. Thanks goodness!

Updated on 26 Apr 2016:
I was unhappy with some lumpiness around my belly button and explained this to Dr Kim and he is doing revision sugery in 2 weeks at no extra charge. Obviously there is a great improvement, but it isn't perfect. Lucky Dr Kim is a perfectionist :)

Updated on 20 Jul 2016:
It's been a few a few months since my revision surgery. I am really happy with the results. There are a few soft lumpy bits, but nothing to complain about. Well worth the money! :)

My story so far:
28yo female, no kids, lots of good food and too little of a commitment to exercise and here I am.
My weight currently is about 70-73 kilos, I am 165cm tall and have a natural 10GG bust, but no booty to match (thanks Mum!). I am booked in to have vaser lipo on my upper and lower abs, love handles, inner thighs and knees. My surgeon is Dr. Mitchel Kim from Cosmos Clinic on the Gold Coast.
I had researched and gotten quotes from international doctors and other cosmetic places in Australia and it wasn't cheaper at all to go overseas for the procedure, so I have kept it local, which honestly, I'm sure would suit everyone better. This will be my first procedure and I am glad that I can do it at home without the added concern of international travel and complications.

Communication:
I think I found the Cosmos team online just by google searching, I filled in an online query and sent my photos away, in a few days I had a reply with a recommendation and a quote along with some generic details outlined what vaser was all about. I really appreciated that I didn't have to front up and strip down before having an idea as to what money I would need to fork out. That was the first tick of approval for me. The quote I received at this time was $4400 for the first area and then $1800 for additional areas and based off my photo I had sent along was about $8000.
There were still questions that I had and I emailed them away, something like, how many areas can be completed at once? Are garments included? etc etc. And a few days later received from the receptionist a very standard 'thanks for your inquiry, it would be best to have all of your questions answered during a consultation, call us to make an appointment'. Was I thrilled about the sales push? No. So I did some more searching and found a review on here from a lady who had just recently had ab and arm vaser from the same surgeon in the same place. Her results were good and she was very happy so I said eff it, lets make a booking.

The Consult:
I was a bit nervous, I had asked my Bf to come with me, he was running late, I went in anyway. Filled in the basic patient form and the doctor came out dead on time to greet me. The receptionist told him that boyfee was late and Doc said to come in and he can join us when he gets here.
Dr Kim is really genuine and I was instantly calm when speaking to him. He has a good handshake and speaks really well. He looks young which I was aware of before I had met him, and was slightly worried that he might not have enough experience, but I have seen the after results from his patients and they are really really good. He gets started pretty much straight away by asking me what I was interested in and then gets me to strip off. He drew some lines and then showed me in the mirror what he plans on doing. Then clothes go back on and he explains everything, and I mean everything. Its at this time that Bf comes in and the Dr continues. He has some info sheets that he talking through, but covers the dot points in more detail. He explained that the leaking is the anesthetic dripping out and that it looks like watermelon juice, he explained the difference between standard lipo and vaser, he spoke about what was going to happen on the day of the surgery. Everything was covered. Then he asked if I had any questions, or if Bf had any questions. We didn't, he then offered info and said that most Bf/husbands ask when they will be able to have sex again. We laughed, made a few jokes and obviously the answer is whenever the patient is ready to have sex. I am very lucky and have a super supportive Bf so this was never an issue for me. I got a pack with all the info that was covered and the Dr told me what dates he would be available and I said I would check my work schedule and get back to him to make the appointment. There was no hard sell, there was no adding anything onto the price, I did ask for my knees and upper abs to be done, which I didn't in my initial communication, this is why my price is $11000 instead of $8000. This also includes the after care garments, after care appointments and follow-up consultations which include massage from the nurses and an 8 week and 6 week Dr consultation.
The after pain was described by the doctor to be like as if I had just done 7 straight gruelling hours of just ab exercise, I would have major muscle soreness and be struggling with that. I have experienced the after effects of hard exercise and lived through it, so I am feeling at ease about what to expect.

I will update on the procedure and the after procedure when it has happened and will answer any and all questions to the best of my ability. I got a lot of info from the site and am only happy to pay it forward.

Updated on 13 Oct 2015:
My procedure was yesterday. I was anxious the night before, but I took the lorazepam before bed and I had a really good sleep. The hardest thing was to not drink water in the morning!
I went straight in to see the doctor @ 8:30, stripped down, tried the compression garments on, then did some crunches and leg lifts so that he could draw exactly around my actual abs.
The doctor took some photos, which I'm hoping I can grab off him. And then I was in. Laying on the table with 2 lovely lovely nurses assisting. I was given a blue gas tube to inhale and the IV drip was inserted, blood pressure taken. Then it was on. A few things went into the IV. I don't think the gas was doing anything except making my head fuzzy. I felt everything. The cuts, the anaesthetic being pumped in, the headed suction rod. My thighs were done first. I had to turn over and then stand up. My knees were done second...it was about now that I was over it and willing to call a stop to the whole thing.
If you have ever had a tattoo and you have had to sit for a while, that's what this was like, I was over it. When it came to my stomach, I was feeling so much more of the heated rod, like it was burning. I just kept inhaling the gas, but it just made me emotional. I started to cry. I'm not sure why? It wasn't super painful, it was uncomfortable and I was just bothered. The doctor asked what was wrong and if it was hurting and I said I don't know, I think I am in shock. I couldn't really make a full sentence. He then told me that I hadn't had pain killers and if it was hurting I could have some. The nurse gave me something thru the IV. I thought I could wait and it would set in and I wouldn't be as bothered. Then I got turned onto my side to have my flanks done. This is when things got really bad. It felt like stabbing and sharp pulling all at the same time. I was saying ouch and tears started again. I asked to have a break for a minute cos I didn't know why I was crying (it's really not a reaction I have) so we paused for a bit. Checked my blood pressure again. I couldn't really communicate what I felt like cos I guess the gas had muddled me up. He told me that it was normal to have an emotional reaction while on the gas. He started again and again it was painful. That's when the doctor swapped out the blue gas for the green whistle and had something else in my IV. After 3 puffs I have no recollection of the rest of the procedure. In all honesty, I wish I could have had the green guy from the start. I did like seeing how much fat was coming out of the tubes though. That was cool.
In total I had 3.6L removed.

I woke up in the recovery bed, I had no idea that it had finished or how I got there, but I was relaxed and not too sore, just more stiff. There were crackers, biscuits, Apple juice and water on a table next to me. The nurse made
Me drink the water every time she came in. But I kept snoozing. When it was time to go, she said that my boyfriend was here to get me and I need to get dressed. So she put on my socks, trackies and top. I already had the garment on. but I don't remember that happening. I went home with a few plastic pads wrapped around me as I was leaking a lot.

When I got home I was pretty much straight in bed. I was pretty dopey. Slept on and off for the night, had to pee quite often.
The pain isn't so bad now. It feels like really sore muscular pain, and as if I had terrible sunburn and someone has scratched me. But it's certainly manageable.

I fell like I need to have another sleep now. The panadiene forte makes me pretty sleepy. So I walk laps of the house and then sleep.

Updated on 13 Oct 2015:
Here are the 2 pads that were wrapped in my like a skirt coming home yesterday. I didn't take them off to sleep with last night. Just this morning when I woke up.

I have a couple of stitches under each breast. These are annoying and spikey & just above my butt, along my lower back is super itchy. I don't know if I have any incisions there so I'm not touching it. Cos I don't want to agrevage anything. I'm using all my will power!

Also, I stink. Of dried blood, sweat, and pee. It's great that the compression garment has an opening, but it's small and being so clumsy and stiff, you don't pee like normal, so the area around the opening gets a little wet.
It's not glamorous. And I haven't read anyone mentioning this at all, so either it's just me, or no one is talking about it.
If you can get your hands on a she-wee do it. Cos that would be a lot easier and less messy.

Updated on 14 Oct 2015:
So yesterday I had quite a few naps. I found that I became really tired straight after taking the antibiotic and the pain killer. I listened to my body and went to sleep. Only for an hour each time, but that was enough to refresh me.
I am walking laps of the house, each time I do I feel like I am getting more of my normal walking stance back and getting faster each time. I'm not up to leaving the house yet, and there would be no way I could go back to work. I'm happy with the decision that I took a week off.
My feet and toes are swollen like crazy, but that's to be expected.
My head is fuzzy from the pain killers and I'm not retaining any new info.
I don't feel like eating too much, which is great, cos sometimes I just snack 24/7 when I was at home.
I drank about 6L of water yesterday, and I am still thirsty. Always thirsty, but it's washing out all the chemicals and helping to move the fluid, so I'm good with water.
I'm getting sleepy again now from my morning pills. Update with pics later

Updated on 15 Oct 2015:
General update:
So I stopped leaking fluid after the first day. I was given extra plastic/cotton medical pads, like the ones pictured, to take home and I had them on the bed and on the lounge. There was minimal markings on those, and it was probably just what came off my garment.
My feet are swollen. Like little round balls with round ball toes. I feel like a cartoon, that's how round they are. So just be aware that the swelling for me indeed did track down, and only thongs, maybe sneakers, will fit me right now.
My pain level is really quite good. I stopped taking painkillers yesterday as they were just messing with my head too much. My BF told me I looked like a corpse when he saw me yesterday. And that was hours after I had taken anything. I've come good now and my face actually looks fresh and rested (probably from all the sleep and water!) and I am feeling much more like myself.

Big news: I had a shower last night! I felt so fresh and revived afterwards, but it was a struggle to get there.
So the doc says be really slow in removing the garment as the pressure change can make you feel naseous and dizzy. That was a warning sign for me right there. I have pretty low blood pressure normally and before I knew this a few years ago, it was common for me to black out and shake uncontrollably. It was awful, and only after I fell and hit my head did I do anything about it. I know, I'm stupid. But now that I know, I can control it with diet, fluids etc.
So anyway, the shower. I took that garment off so damn slowly. I was good until I got to the hips. Once they were undone, it was instant nausea. Then as BF is looking for nausea tablet, my ears completely blocked as if I had gone too far under water, I started to get really hot and really dizzy. I sat down on the toilet and I was hating myself. Then BF came and got me, took me to a seat under a fan and went to get water. As he did that, I went completely black and started convulsing. So just the same as when my blood pressure dropped too low. Now don't think that this is going to happen to you, it's not something that came as a result of the surgery, it's pre-existing. But the nausea and ear pressure thing, that was all new and still in itself pretty gross to deal with. So after I woke up, I was out for no more then 45-60secs, I just sat on the chair, had the nausea tablet (that take ages to dissolve, but taste quite nice) drank some water and calmed down. Peeling the garment off my legs was quite easy, getting it over my fat feet was the hardest part.
I sat and watched BF wash the garment in a bucket of napisan - man that water was black straight up. It was so gross. All the dried fluid and blood and anaesthetic that was leaking out. Yuk. But I have only one garment, so he wringed it out, and then towel dried it with a shaky before giving it a quick blow dry. Came out mint. I was ok to stand now and was in the shower.
When I touched my skin it still felt numb, especially on my mid section. I didn't have any bruising there at all, but I looked red like I was sunburnt, and I guess that I was but from the inside. And I saw the cuts, only one was pretty gnarly, which is the one on my right flank. It's right where the clip/zip for the garment sits on me. And I have felt it pinch and rub a little bit on it. So I will ask today if it should be covered.
They actually looked bigger then what I was expecting them to be, but I'm also swollen and not healed, you won't see them when I'm back to normal. And if you do, I don't even care.
So my thighs were super black and bruised. And my knees were too. I still had the marker lines on my legs, I tried to gently scrub it off, but it didn't budge too much. Over all from what I could see looking down, it all looked pretty good.
I wanted to take photos, but after the whole drama I just forgot.
Putting the garment back on wasn't as bad as I was expecting it to be. It's just like putting on a pair of skins. Slowly being pulled up the leg, making sure the opening is straight, and then rotating each side to be done up, clip by clip.
The Velcro over garment I think is a bit of a waste. I can't do it tight enough without it being lopsided as its all one piece. I thought they were individual velcros, but mine is just one big one. And it came undone last night when I was sleeping.

Oh I also recommend that you sleep with a pillow under your feet. It helps to reduce the foot swelling. I have slept on my back mostly, and swapped to both sides in the morning. It takes a while to get into a comfy position, but I'm normally a side sleeper so it's good for me.

Today, I have my first check-up apt and massage. Ugh. Not looking forward to it.

Updated on 17 Oct 2015:
So the massage j had yesterday was pretty easy. More like a soft rub really. I quite enjoyed it.
The swelling in my feet and legs were a lot better afterwards, but has returned again today.
The area giving me the most grief is my left leg. Obviously with the varicose vein running directly through the area of work I had a feeling things would be hit and miss. I have 3 very red, very sore lumps along my vein. I have had blood clots previously, and this is exactly what they were like. Which other then being painful, are easily treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. The swelling and tension in my left leg around these is pretty bad, and the pain from them makes it difficult to massage. But otherwise I'm doing pretty good.
My incisions have all scanned over and look to be healing pretty well. The bruising on my abs is just yellowed, I didn't see it black/blue at all. My thighs are super bruised and I still walk like a cowboy cos they hurt if I bump them on each other.
Wearing the Velcro wrap around my waist restricts movement a lot and makes it really difficult to bend, sit, turn. It bunches a whole lot too. I wasn't able to get another one when I went in for my massage yesterday as this style was all they had. But I was told that I can cut off one panel to make it more friendly to use. It currently covers directly under my breast to well below my undie line. Since I'm a home body for a while I'm not too worried about it. But when j return to work I think I will need to cut it so that I avoid the bunching under my clothes.

Updated on 17 Oct 2015:


Updated on 20 Oct 2015:
So I don't know what the magic machine is called, but I had my first massage with it today. I got to the clinic, nurse came and got me, took me to the massage room and asked me to get nekkid, well to my undies anyway. And then I had to put on a white body stocking, and layed down on the bed. The machine isnt nearly as scary as I thought it might be. It's got a big paddle with 2 rollers in it. It sits gently on your skin and then has a 'tap' movement. I had the machine on the lowest setting today, it was very easily tolerated, and I would be comfortable to have a higher setting next time.

Updated on 22 Oct 2015:
So today was probably the best day I have had post op. I looked pretty sexy this morning if I do say so myself. I was nervous that I wouldn't be able to embrace my new shape and it would take time to appreciate it. But I'm honestly loving it.
I didn't post this previously, but on day 6 I think I was having a pretty emo day. I was feeling sorry for myself, I hadn't had a proper cuddle from my BF, I was scared to return to work cos I still didn't feel up to it, I hated not being able to do what I normally could, I felt helpless and stupid and swollen. It was depressing. But my BF told me after I had a little cry, that I am being that naive 20yo who thought they could have lipo and 3 weeks later party thier skinny self off at thier 21st. I'm being pre-jusgemental, I'm not letting the process happen. Which was all true. So I sucked it up and went to bed.
The mental turnaround to today though is incredible. I was so much less swollen this morning, I'm pretty much walking like a normal human again. I'm still cautious of moving slowly when I sit up and down, the garment is still restrictive after all. But man, I felt almost back to normal.
I went shopping for a while today and I really didn't have too much issue with swelling or heaviness in the legs at all.
Yesterday I went to work for a few hours and I was heavy in the legs, but I was also a lot slower walking and a lot stiffer too. My colleague told me I walked like I had a stick up my arse. So that's cute.
I did a really good massage yesterday, which is why I think I woke up feeling great today (and prob also why I had to go to the bathroom 4 times last night) and cleared a lot of the excess fluid.
I found that the tightness I was starting to feel around my flanks was the beginning of scar tissue, so I pressed I to it like you would a muscular knot and it felt like bad pins and needles. After a while of moderately hard massage of the lumpy areas, I softened up quite well. I could easily tell the difference from the right side to the massaged side.
I did the same massage again tonight, and the area wasn't nearly as stiff. I can still feel the scar tissue, but it's not as tight as it was previously.
I'm massaging every night straight after my shower before I put the garments back on. I googled DIY lymphatic massage and just followed the instructions. It's pretty easy.

Updated on 27 Oct 2015:
So there was a big song and dance with HR and having me return to work. Big companies just love paperwork and box ticking. So I ended up having 2 weeks off in total. Which I really don't mind at all. I needed to get a clearance from Dr Kim and he was great, had one ready a few hours after I emailed him. How's that for service!
I did a full day today which was pretty labor intensive and I didn't have more than 2 15 minute breaks (just how things go sometimes). My thighs are slightly swollen, more so then what's normal for them now. But with massage they come good. So I can deal with that.

I had my second endo massage yesterday. This time it wasn't the 'tap tap' motion, it actually had suction. And the nurse explained that it lifts the skin away from the tissue so that it helps break down the scaring and allows the skin to move more freely. I won't say that it felt painful, I would describe it more as being uncomfortable. Not like the procedure uncomfortable, much more mild then that. I was really hot over the areas after they had been done. And looked a bit red too. I'm guessing that's from the extra blood flow in the area. I was a bit more sore then normal after returning home, but it was just like a muscle ache after exercising, and it was gone by this morning.

I have started to notice however that there are more and more hard lumps appearing over me. Mostly in my flanks and what feel like one big solid line from my belly button up to my sternum.
I have been kneading/massaging the areas and they feel much better afterwards, but I find they are changing shape and moving around. So what was one solid lump is now thinner and more of an abstract shape. I feel quite tight through my core as well and when I stretch up I can see the lumps through the skin. They look like something out of an alien movie.
Am I worried about them? No - I am confident that they will break down and I'll return to feeling normal over time. But they are there and I want a great result, so I am doing what I can to help the process along.

On a positive note - the changes in my legs are becoming much more noticeable - my knee shape I am happy with too. I don't feel like I have a "fat side knee" anymore.
I don't feel like I have lost weight or anything, and lipo isn't about fat loss. It's about shape sculpting. I disn't grasp that concept until a week after the op. I was still in the mindset even after everything that I had read that it was a great way to get rid of unwanted fat. And in a sense it is, obviously you are having fat deposits sucked out of you. But I feel so confident with the new shape, not having the floaty ring around my hips and belly. Essentially I am still an hourglass shape, which I always have been. I'm just a better more refined version of that. And it's wonderful.
I truely can't wait to start training again. I am feeling really motivated to work out and keep improving my body, losing the soft bits around my arm and tightening the hamstrings and quads. It excites me because I know I look this good when I am at my heaviest.
And that's an amazing feeling.

Updated on 31 Oct 2015: