Had AbEx on 10/2/24 (3 mos ago) with Dr Caton and just had triscuplt on my arms 2 days ago on 1/10/25 with Dr Kang. Both amazing doctors and surgeons that truly love what they do! My consultant, Shab, has been amazing through all this including ago the office staff and nurses I've worked with through each step and process! Highly recommend... I lost 8 dress sizes as I healed internally emotionally, psychologically, spiritually, and physically. It was time to have the skin removed from my breaking journey! Get all have been amazing! I highly recommend them!!!
The Experience: From the first appointment to the third month after the surgery, the front office staff has been professional, efficient and easy to work with. This office is a well oiled machine and is hyper sensitive to their clients' needs. The Results: One word. Amazing. I chose to lipo my Abs, Waist and Inner Thighs Dr. Aric Aghayan (or Dr. A as I like to call him) was a miracle worker. He had a great partner in Yvette Guzman LPN. Together they worked magic. I cannot begin to tell you how transformed my body is. Funny, three months in, I haven't really lost that much weight, maybe 15 lbs but the inches I've lost are insane. Best way to describe is with pictures. I'm attaching them to this review. Really great work! I highly recommend. If you are on the fence, Do it! You will wish you did it sooner. Couple of things to note: 1. Invest in a compression garnment once the ones they give you are too loose. I ordered a smaller one from the same brand that Sono Bello provided. I wore that garnment for 2 and a half months before I just couldn't stand it anymore. 2. MOVE. You have to move as much as possible. The first two weeks I was logging 20,000 steps a day because my body was antsy. When I didn't move for a good amount of time, I noticed I was a lot more sore. 3. Take lots of pictures and your measurments. It's hard to get perspective otherwise. Weighing yourself will not give you the validation of just how much your body is changing. Good Luck Everyone! Wishing you all the best results!
So my story begins with menopause, I am 59 years old I watch what I eat and work out 4-5 days a week. I started to notice my mid section expanding no matter what I did diet or exercise. I went into the doctors for my physical and was told that once you hit age 55 this is what happens to your body and basically there was nothing I could do. This was unacceptable to me, my daughter had told me about Sonobello so I decided to book a consultation to explore my options. The reception staff was amazing, so professional and welcoming, I decided to go ahead with the Laser Liposuction. I met with Dr. Malin and he explained the procedure in detail and was very comforting I admit I was a little nervous, but Dr. Malin's put me at ease and I actually felt excited about getting my body back. The day of the surgery I met with my nurse Teresa loved her she knew I was still a little nervous and she put me at ease they let you pick your music to hear during the procedure I loved it. Dr. Malin came in right before the procedure and confirmed the areas of the surgery and gave me the sedatives. During the procedure I was awake and relaxed. After the procedure went home and slept the reminder of the day. The next morning I woke up and looked at body and could not believe how tiny I was, realizing that the swelling had not set in, but I knew from day one my results were going to amazing. What I really loved about Sonobello is there follow up from the phones call to the weekly emails you receive to let you know what it is going on with body (the best), including meeting with my after care Nurse Aleathic , she is the best I always felt I was her only patient, from her explanation of what the next steps were going to take place, to the suggestions for making me comfortable. Six months later, AMAZING RESULTS take that menopause. From the staff to the results I am so elated and would recommend this procedure and going to the Sonobello Office in Portland they are the best.
I am a 51-year-old man in Portland, Oregon. Since my early 20s, my buddy took on a pear shape in my midsection. I’ve developed a belly and love handles, complete with what people call birthing hips. I have always been height/weight proportionate, but for some inexplicable reason I had unwanted midsection wait and was unhappy with my appearance. I tried everything from diet and exercise to starving myself at times to try to get rid of this problem, and nothing worked. I just ended up looking like a very skinny person who was shaped like a pear. For my 50th birthday, I rewarded myself with a trip to sono Bello. My consultation was very pleasant, and everyone in the office was very kind, understanding, and helpful. I decided to have the procedure done on my upper mid section, my belly, and my love handles. I was astonished at the results! I mean, seriously astonished! I knew that they would improve me because I had spoken with so many people and done so much research on the company. All I can tell you now is that I went shirtless for the first time since 1994, and with confidence! It has now been over a year, and I still look fantastic. I cannot recommend sono Bello any higher than I do. My favorite staff member there is Candace, and the doctor who performed my procedure was Dr. Malin. What an amazing job he did! Trust your instincts on this one people, and to make yourself feel beautiful and happy. I most certainly do! Thank you, sono Bello, and all of your staff. I am a man who is beyond satisfied. Below is a picture of me at an elaborate Arabian Knights party as a glamorous Genie.
What a tentative skeptic I was. Wanted to keep a positive, open mind so I listened, looked at photos, did my research, and asked a TON of questions. My scenario: 2 C-section births (23+ years ago) and a serious skin/fat "dunlap" from a recent weight loss. Having been at this new low weight before, I knew no amount of exercise would get rid of my l'il friend, Dunlap. And WOW!!!! I'm 5 weeks post-op and HUGELY delighted!!! Yes, there was bruising. Yes, there was swelling. All expected and normal. But Holy Smokes!!! Fantastic result!!! Couldn't be more pleased and it gets better daily as the healing continues. I had the Tri-Sculpt E/X, highly effective procedure. Do your own research. Listen. Look at the photos. I've taken my own progressive photos and this is AMAZING! Thanks to the AWESOME team at Sonobello, Happy Camper over here!!! KPM, SE Portland
I had read a number of Yelp reviews and hesitated to book a consultation at Sono Bello because of some poorly rated ones. Yet, Sono Bello had a special whereby you could have one liposuction treatment area done for free when you paid for 3 other areas, so I decided to see for myself. I was completely "sold" after my consultation with Nicole Bradshaw, the practice leader. I didn't experience her as a salesperson however, I experienced her as someone who sincerely cared, and offered a solution to a problem, so to speak. I eat modestly, have no processed foods of any kind in my diet, work closely with a nutritionist and exercise most days of the a week. Yet, I had some areas of extra fat that I clearly could not have reduced or removed with diet and exercise alone; one of which was there since I was a child. I trusted Nicole intuitively and sensed that she would oversee my experience to ensure it was a positive one. My intuition has served me very well. Nicole has really extended herself to me and has spent a fair amount of time on the phone and in person at the clinic every step of the way. I am just shy of the 3 week mark post op and the recovery was easier than I feared. I wouldn't characterize it as easy, but definitely do-able. I didn't take any narcotics after the procedure, and after the first week, I started to feel much more comfortable. Since I am considerably less inflamed and swollen at this point, I can already see some results, and am quite pleased overall. There may be some areas that Dr. Malin "touches up" complimentary with an additional treatment in 6 months, which is one of the reasons I chose Sono Bello. They will ensure that the final results are as anticipated and hoped for, within reason, of course. I had feedback to offer Nicole about what I think could have improved my experience in a couple of ways and she was very receptive. I think every staff member sincerely cares, and I have felt well supported. I know that they've celebrated in my results so far as well. I am very excited to see where I will be at the 3 month mark post op and may add to my review at that point. I only wish I had done this sooner. I had considered it for years! My inclination was to keep this experience private, and not to write a public review, however I really wanted others who may hesitate due to some of the poor reviews, to read mine. I definitely would recommend that anyone who has an interest schedule a consultation and see for themselves before they are scared off by some of the 1 star reviews. Update - I also wanted to add, please keep in mind that poor reviews don't necessarily reveal the whole story, and Sono Bello can't offer a "rebuttal" or share their perspective because of their commitment to patient privacy. Also, there are a number of hidden reviews here on Yelp that helped me decide to have a consultation. Update - I wanted to write an update on my first review since I've now not only had liposuction twice, but experienced the Venus treatments and have had a Sono Bello Lift as well. I have transformed in ways that has left me so much more comfortable and confident in my own skin, and I am so deeply appreciative to all the staff and physicians at Sono Bello. As a repeat customer many times over now, I continue to be extremely pleased with my overall experience. There have been a few concerns that have come up for me, but Candace Loyd who now overseas the clinic has ensured that they were all addressed in a way I am satisfied with. In addition, she has taken the time to support my recovery every step of the way. I have really appreciated her sincere care about my experience, and her desire for me to have a positive one. I think both Dr. Malin who performed my liposuction and Dr. Campanelli who performed my Lift are very skilled, kind and supportive and I appreciate the care I've received from each of them. Ellisha Leal who administers the Venus treatments advocated for me to have it done on my stomach, as well as neck and arms, post liposuction, and I am so happy I added my stomach to the line up. We've seen very clear results, as my skin is much more toned and firm than the liposuction alone resulted in. I recommend her as a skilled and supportive practitioner as well. The staff at Sono Bello of Portland have really extended themselves to me in so many ways and I continue to recommend the clinic wholeheartedly. I really look forward to my visits as I truly love to connect with the very warm and friendly staff. The treatment options below didn't allow me to chose all of them: Liposuction, Liposuction Revision and Face Lift!
I was just like you, reviewing all I could on utube and reading reviews of anyone who had the procedures done that I was interested in. Three years ago, I had two back surgeries, my body was uneven and I felt really self conscious. My first procedure was my upper and lower abs, waist and hips. I was given a very thorough consultation with Dr. Saxon at Sonobello in Portland, Oregon. On the day of my procedure I felt nervous, but the medical staff was terrific, they walked me through (in advance) what to expect during the procedure and what to expect afterwards. The procedure was not very long and I went home the same day to recover. You will be given supportive garments to wear during your recovery time which can last for a couple of months (but it's not like you can't do things or move around) its more like you dont feel completely back to yourself. However, I saw results after the first week in a half on my upper and lower abs!! It was a wonderful feeling!!!! I aslo received emails following the recovery time which was so helpful because it outlined what I could expect to see in the different stages of recoveryl!! I also received a personal follow up call from my Surgeon, Dr. Saxon which made me feel like I was in good hands following the procedure. I returned about a month later and had my arms, back bra roll, and banana roll done. I am sooooooooooo Happy with the results and I am not even at my half way mark. They say that it will take about a year to see what your final shape will be. Its been two months and I can fit into a size 12, when I was a 14-16. I would do this all again hands down and to be honest after giving to my children and husband for so long, I was long over due to give this gift back to myself. I did notice that the inflamation in my lower back had decreased significantly, while I will always have back issues, the upper and lower abs, waist and hips procedure really reduced my chronic pain and has provided much needed relief to my back. I wasnt sure how much everything would cost, but at my consultation I was told about financing options, I chose to pay for everything out right and I felt a bit scared to do this at first. But, looking back at it now, there is no other way I would have rather used that money. I went in during my birthday month in February, it was a good thing because I tend to get hot very easily and during the winter I had my supportive garmets under my clothes and was bundled up on the outside. This has made the recovery process very easy. You are going to see your body bruised and swollen for a couple of weeks (I bruise easily) but after this, you will start seeing what everything else has been talking about, a new you slowly begins to emerge. I was sckeptical by the commercials and thought that I probably wont experience "their" results. But now, I can see that it is My body where I see these changes!!! This was a really good experinece and honestly I cant tell you enought how happy I did this!!! Hope this helps you and Good Luck on your Journey!!!!
OVERVIEW I want to start off by saying I'm not normally one to write reviews or blog about myself in anyway. I am doing this partly because I found it really helpful reading others experience and seeing their pictures. But mostly because I had an amazing surgeon which I was lucky enough to be referred too, but based on his online presence I wouldn't have chosen him in the first place and I want to spread the word! I had a hard time finding people similar to my body type, as lipo is mostly advertised to people "close to their ideal body weight", which I am not. And that made finding a surgeon who thought I was a good candidate and could give me a really good outcome a bit trickier. THE DETAILS I'm 24 years old 5'1 180 lbs and I carry a lot of weight in my abdomen. I have an appendectomy scar that is deeply indented. I paid for 7 areas of lipo which was split into 3 different surgeries. The additional surgeries came at no cost to me as I only had to pay one set of surgical fees. At my pre-op my doc told me I would have 2 possibly 3 surgeries, at my second surgery it was determined we would do a third one. This was determined due to only being able to use so much anesthesia for my height/weight and my surgeon wanting to give me the best outcome as possible. I have already had my first two rounds of lipo one week apart. First surgery on my upper/lower abdomen. Second surgery on my hips, waist, front bra roll, and back bra roll. I will have my third surgery scheduled for later this month on my arms. THE DOC I would highly recommend him to anyone considering any type of plastic surgery! He seems very knowledgeable in multiple areas. He was open and honest and answered any and all of my questions. All of the staff were very friendly and professional. He has done lots of research and created tools/procedures that are much better than what is currently the standard procedure for most surgeons. Specific to liposuction he created a tool with a much smaller cannula that requires no scalpel cuts and should make scars hardly visible if visible at all. I was informed by the nurse that it was a 16 gauge cannula (that's the size of a needle that is used when you donate blood!). He uses multiple techniques, I believe with me he used what would be considered tumescent liposuction where they infiltrate a bunch of fluid (epinepherine, anesthesia, etc.) and then power-assisted liposuction. He uses local anesthesia with some oral medications to help relax/sedate you. As far as pricing he uses prices similar to sonobello, but has better equipment. For anyone plus size or not near their ideal weight I would especially recommend him! He has experience taking on cases as such and believes that you can still be a good candidate and liposuction could make a huge positive impact on your life. SURGERY 1 (upper/lower abdomen) The surgery itself went great, I didn't feel any discomfort. The recovery was a little rough. I am currently 9 days post op. The first 1-4 days I was in a great amount of discomfort. It felt like I was beat with a baseball bat. There was a lot of swelling and still is. If I was just laying still or standing/walking around the pain wasn't bad, but anytime I stood/sat, bent over, twisted, etc. there was a lot of pain. My skin was very sensitive and kinda felt like it was burning. I stopped taking narcotics after 2 1/2 days but it wasn't until day 5/6 that I really started to feel better. This was all expected, my surgeon informed me that he would have to be very aggressive (I had a lot of fat in this area). The appearance of my appendectomy scar has improved greatly, when the swelling goes down I believe it will be mostly flat. Currently my skin is still sensitive/numb feeling and there's quite a bit of swelling with hard lumps. The doc/nurse both said I was healing great and this is all normal and will subside in the next month or so. SURGERY 2 (hips/waist/front bra roll/back bra roll) This surgery went great like the first one. I felt like I spent most of it asking my surgeon a bunch of questions and him graciously answering and fulfilling my curiosity. This one took a little longer than the first, I believe he was being very meticulous trying to give me the best result possible! The recovery has so far been MUCH better. I am day 2 post op and I feel like I did day 6 post op from my first surgery. I haven't noticed as much swelling as with my abdomen. I am extremely pleased with my results so far and am excited to continue to see improvements as I heal. SURGERY 3 (arms) This is scheduled for later this month
I am 52 and have been struggling with the dreaded menopausal jello tummy for a few years now. No matter how much I work out, everything looks great except for my tummy and waist. Sooooo, I decided to take the plunge and get micro laser assisted liposuction at Sonobello. Procedure is soon, and I'm SO excited to get started :). I will post on my progress :) Updated on 26 Jun 2016: Well, I'm Day 2, and everything is going fine so far :). I read the plethora of experiences out there regarding the surgery itself and pain levels, and they were all across the board, so I figured that mine will be what it's going to be and not worry too much about it :). The numbing part was really not a big deal at all (this was the part I was nervous about). It felt like getting shots at the dentist office. During the procedure, there were a few spots that were painful (7/10), but Dr Buzzas stopped and put more numbing agent in,, so it was completely tolerable, So much so, that I wouldn't hesitate to get it done on other areas. Tonight will be the first big test, in that I can take s shower. Wrestling with the compression gear should be interesting! haha I will post pictures soon :) Updated on 26 Jun 2016: Pain levels will definitely vary per person, but regardless....take your medication on a regular schedule, even if it is a smaller dose. I've had 3 times now since last night where I slept really hard and went 2-3 hours past the time I could have had meds , and WHOA MOMMA that was a mistake! I haven't had to take the full dose, but when I've taken on time, I've been able to do the walking that they recommend post surgery no problem. Just a thought for ya :) Updated on 27 Jun 2016: Slept really good last night, and able to go longer between pain meds. Showered last night, but taking the compression garment off and putting it back on was quite an undertaking, so I think that I might sponge bath it for a few more days :) Here are some pics that I took last night out of my brace :) Updated on 27 Jun 2016: Able to use only Advil for the bulk of the day, but the pain med is calling my name tonight! Haha :). Pleased that I could do this much activity today, though. The love/hate relationship with the compression garment continues....while it is definitely not comfortable, I can't imagine being upright without it, and it's really making a difference on my swelling. I plan on wearing this or a step down version for as long as needed. Will post again at my 1 week follow up on Friday :) Updated on 28 Jun 2016: I've been trying to be more active today and walking more- sweating like crazy in my compression garment, but the heat actually felt really good on my back! Thought that I would post day 4 pictures as things are really taking shape :) Friday is my post op for this stage, and Saturday, I'm finishing up with the final stage: my arms and armpit/upper bra rolls. So excited at the success of this transformation so far! Updated on 29 Jun 2016: Well...this week marked the first official family vacation for the summer, but I figured that I would be resting a lot, and so it shouldn't impact my progress over much.... Everyday has brought a little bit more energy and less pain, and my body pretty much told me when it was time to stop. But today, the packing things up to leave and the 3 hour drive home pushed me over the edge.. The drive itself was a little uncomfortable, but I had my compression garment on, so I felt supported. Trying to get out of the car when we arrived home, however,...ooooh, not good! Sharp, nerve like jabs on my left side, extra swollen all over, and I couldn't fully stand up for several minutes. Okay body, I'm listening! I can feel that certain areas are hardened, so I'm starting some light massage on them and am going to schedule lymphatic massage after my 1 week follow up. Sigh.... a bit of a set back, but I can still envision the outcome - just gotta exercise common sense, accept the help being offered, and be more patient! :) Updated on 30 Jun 2016: Day 6, now, with some doozy zingers and burning pain from my left waist. Oddly enough, this is the side that didn't bruise, and looks the most contoured. I have been doing some self massage with Arnica, but decided to have lymphatic massage today to get some of the swelling moving and hopefully get the pain down. Still sore, but I can move around with less sharp pain since the treatment, and my tummy doesn't look or feel as lumpy. I can just feel that this is really going to help get me through these next crucial weeks. If you are having a similar problem, get thee to lymphatic massage! Mind as well give your body every advantage when it's in the early stages of healing :) Updated on 1 Jul 2016: I had my one week post op recheck at the Portland, OR Sonobello office and I'm healing great! I still have a "lead apron" feel in my waist and abdomen, but the sharp zingers are much much less today! Down 5 lbs and 1 inch each on my waist and abdomen, and my second stage compression (without those pesky clasps and zippers!) got ordered today. I also had my pre op consult with Dr. Sobel, who will be contouring my upper arms and front/back armpit and outer shoulder blade area tomorrow. Time to get some sleep! Updated on 1 Jul 2016: Updated on 1 Jul 2016: Updated on 2 Jul 2016: At my one week appointment, I commented about how my most sore and swollen areas were where the garment rippled and the clasp part dug into my skin when I was either sitting or laying on my side. I was told that using some of the extra drainage pads to cushion those areas might help until my second stage garment arrived. I feel so stupid for not thinking of that, but WHAT A DIFFERENCE it made! I slept like a rock, no sharp side pains, and the swelling is down this am. For anyone reading this, if you are struggling with this, just pad up the brace in those tender spots- it makes a huge difference!!! Updated on 2 Jul 2016: Today is round 2/2: Time to contour the arms! I haven't worn sleeveless tops in years because of all of the extra "spreadage" of my arms when they are down at my sides. Here are some before pics- I will update daily on this journey as well :) Updated on 2 Jul 2016: So this morning was my arm, front bra and back bra roll procedure. I think that the fact I just went through this a week ago with my abdominals and flanks was a big plus, because I was pretty relaxed. Sara, my nurse, and Dr. Sobel at Portland Sonobello were awesome, and the procedure went really smoothly. It's now 5 hours from the procedure , and interestingly, I'm just sore in my armpits. Will post pictures and updates as the days progress ???? Updated on 3 Jul 2016: Just as is was after my first procedure (abdominals/waist), each day brings something different. Today, I was fully expecting my upper body to be so sore that I would be moving my arms like a T-Rex, but aside from some soreness in my armpits, I pretty much could use my arms overhead, and do my usual household things without any problem. What I wasn't expecting was increased swelling in my whole torso again... Ups and downs.. But knowing how dramatic one week of healing time can be, I'm optimistic that by this time next week, I'll be showing nice progress once again :). Getting into second stage garments should help too! Updated on 4 Jul 2016: These compression garments take some maneuvering, but my silly revelation last night was that it is way more comfortable to wear the upper back/ arm vest UNDER the abdominal bodysuit one with the shoulder straps! My swelling is down again this morning, yippee ???? Updated on 5 Jul 2016: Day 10 abdominal/waist and day 3 post arm and bra rolls :). The next big test was returning to work today ( I'm a physical therapist and on my feet most of the day). It also happened to be my long day (11 hours) Made it, but with some serious swelling in my abdominals where the garments met. I couldn't take anything stronger than Advil but I survived. Tonight, it's off my feet, change to the abdominal binder instead of the body one, and a pain pill to get things calmed down. I'm learning how important even compression is, because just laying down and switching to more even compression, the swelling already looks better. It was looking kind of scary, so I'm thankful! I can't wait for my second stage garment to arrive! It should be much more user friendly :) As for my arms, they are doing great - didn't hurt at all in spite of doing a lot of manual work today. Each day should get easier :) Updated on 7 Jul 2016: Thought that I would post some updated pictures- the swelling seems to be more of an issue these past few days because of my return to work, but I can feel that the garments are getting less vice like :). Updated on 7 Jul 2016: I've had a love/hate relationship with the compression garments, but know how necessary they are for a good outcome. Today, my battle with clasps and zippers is over, thanks to the arrival of my second stage garments :) No zippers, which from what I had read in other posts, means it's a little difficult to put on. Well.... were they ever right! It was a mother bear to get over my hips ( I was doing the kicking the legs out to the side while pulling up on the garment dance in the bathroom) but once it was on, it was, and still is, very comfy and it offers nice, even compression :). Between that and lymphatic massage, I should be looking and feeling less lumpy very soon ???? Updated on 8 Jul 2016: The second stage garment doing its job- no bad compression spots! Updated on 9 Jul 2016: Now 2 solid weeks post abdominals/flanks and 1 week post arms and feeling good enough to try working out. Kept it at about 50/60% of my normal and focused more on stretching, but it felt great. Had my own personal sauna going on with the compression garments! Haha Lymphatic massage tonight again to help that swelling move on outta there :) Updated on 10 Jul 2016: Well, made a decision today to bite the bullet and get an all in one compression garment (inclusive of built in bra and sleeves) mid thigh. For anyone doing both upper body/arms and abdominal/flanks, wrestling around with two separate garments is a royal pain in the buttocks. Padding helps, but I'm still getting indentations where the vest slips up/ cuts in. I also bought lipo foam to help give smoother compression to my abdominal region, and I'm signed up for lymphatic massage 2x week for the next three weeks. Seems like a lot, but I want to give my body every advantage to heal properly with the best result. From what I have read, the ultimate outcome would be the same at the 1 year mark, even if I didn't do anything extra, but adding all of these other things in will get me the results much sooner in my recovery. So, pulling out all the stops and we'll see if it proves to be true. I will update once I've had a chance to wear the new garment for a few days :) Updated on 12 Jul 2016: It's been an interesting journey so far, feeling all of the changes and stages of healing, the ups and downs... Today is day 9 post for my arms/bra roll procedure. It started out like a walk in the park- with only soreness in the armpits and very little bruising, and with full motion overhead. By day 7, I started to feel the tightness when I stretched overhead. Today, I felt more swollen and felt and saw "banding" of tissue in my armpit that has taken lots of rubbing tonight to feel remotely normal... It would be easy to get discouraged, but my PT self is reminding me that my body is just trying to deal with all of this early swelling. So for anyone reading this that started out feeling pretty great and but now is having days where everything suddenly feels tethered down, hang in there! The body is working overtime to set things straight ???? Updated on 14 Jul 2016: Just chronicling this for my own reflection later and to hopefully help someone else who is has had arm/ bra roll area liposuction. :). Starting at day 7 post op, I noticed that my overhead arm motion felt tight and restricted pulling off a shirt overhead, washing my hair, etc. I'd stretch in the shower and it would get better relatively quickly. At days 9 post op, a defined cord or band was forming in my armpit area (it looked and felt like a tendon) plus lumpy hard swelling in the armpit itself. My physical therapist mode kicked in and so I started self lymphatic massage at home 2x a day for about 10 minutes in addition to my 2x week ones at Massage Envy. I stretched by either laying down with the arm overhead, elbow bent or standing and sliding my arm up the door jam as far as I could go. No lies, it didn't feel pleasant, but within a minute or two, I could feel it gradually releasing. I know that scar tissue typically doesn't fill on lay down until 4-6 weeks post procedure, but this felt very scar tissue-ish, so I took no prisoners...lol. The mornings from post op day 7 were the worst, as my arms were down more at my sides when I was sleeping. This morning, post op day 12, the morning stiffness is less, but the area is achy. I've included a picture of what the banding looks like (it's actually better than yesterday) From all that I have read, it's par for the course, and it will go away. Again, I'm going for sooner than later so I'll let you know if all of the extra stuff is worth it :). Updated on 15 Jul 2016: Subtle changes happening as the swelling is going down. Banding still present, but arms don't feel as stiff today. Wearing my all in one compression garment (includes bra and arm sleeves with the full body, mid thigh) that just arrived yesterday. 20 (yes 20!) little hooks to clasp, which takes a little time, but it is surprisingly comfortable :). I feel like I have my superhero suit on - I'm Lipowoman! Lol Updated on 15 Jul 2016: Just wanted to give a two thumbs up to this garment. If you have had lipo in the arm/bra roll AND torso/ abdomen and are struggling with the two separate garments not playing nice with each other, this is a comfortable alternative. It is open crotch (more so than my original post op garment, which helps). True to size - my waist at my post op check was 31 inches and the recommended large sizing was spot on. A little squeezie on my arms, but I think that once the swelling goes down a bit more, it will be better :). Lipo foam is also a keeper! It's only as big as a sheet of paper, so keep that in mind if you are ordering for more than one area. Updated on 16 Jul 2016: Doing great - no pain in this area, and middle area by belly button is gradually getting less rock like. Can really start to see the contouring! Just had lymphatic massage, and my whole body feels lighter.....ahhhhhh... Can't say enough wonderful things about that! Down from 157 lb pre op weight (I'm 5 2 1/2) to 148.4 lb this morning :) Working to get down another 8 + lbs by my 3 month post op check. Updated on 22 Jul 2016: Here I am, 1 month post abdominals. I would say that swelling is about 65-70% down at this point. Went to the gym yesterday and did not wear my compression garment, with major unhappy swelling later that afternoon, so I've still got a ways to go. Happy with progress so far, though :) Updated on 3 Aug 2016: Arms have made a nice turn around this week, with decreased lumpiness and banding. Can still tell that there is tightness and swelling, but I can envision the finish line :) In Vegas this week for fun - wore my compression garment on the short plane ride (2hrs) but still had some swelling...ugh I am going to try to wear something compressive when I can, but it's hot, so it might just have to be a more swollen few days...Still happy with progress, though! Updated on 4 Aug 2016: In Vegas this week and bought some new smaller sized (8) shorts for the trip. Just put them on this morning, and I was thrilled to find that they are too big- whoohoo! Between losing my belly and waist with the surgery and working out, I'm down 2 sizes! I was a comfortable 10, really uncomfortable 8 in pants before the surgery, so doing the happy dance in Vegas today :). Updated on 8 Aug 2016: Just returned from Vegas and 106 degree temperatures! Gave it a good try, but opted not to wear anything compressive during the majority of my stay because of the heat. Between that and the flight, I feel like someone pumped up my body and I'm S W O L L E N - ugh! Looking forward to resuming lymphatic massage Thursday and getting back on track :). Never thought I would be saying this, but it felt pretty wonderful to put the compression garment back on! Even at 6 weeks, I can feel that my body still has some healing to do. Time for another dose of patience :) Updated on 22 Aug 2016: It's so strange how you kind of get used to having residual swelling, hard lumps, and leftover numbness and then, seemingly overnight, you notice that the numbness is almost gone, and the hard lumps and banding are fading into the woodwork.... The past few weeks, I have had definite signs that the next notch of healing is happening: itchiness, little random zingers in my abdomen and triceps, and swelling getting more localized to around my belly button. The banding and lumpiness in my armpits is gone, and the ropey banding under my ribs is almost gone- yippee! And it's all happening right around the three month mark, just like they said it would. The body and its capacity to heal is truly a wonderful thing! I will post pictures on Saturday, when I'm officially 3 months post op :) Updated on 26 Aug 2016: I obviously can't count :). Tomorrow, I will be 2 months post abdominals, not 3 :). But I'm coming right along! Just had a massage today, and we could both really tell that the unevenness is almost gone - really exciting! I will definitely take photos at the 3 month mark
I looked into Sono Bello and LipoLift. Went to Waldorf Center, and got the advice that I had more extra skin than fat on my abdomen, with lipo, I would probably end up with more skin. Suggested the non-invasive coolsculpt. The cost is less, and literally - I am 1 hour out and back at work typing this. I did my arms today, and will do abs on Friday, and thighs in 1 week. They took pictures, hopefully I will get and can post. I'll remember to do it myself for the other areas. They make 3 month appointment for after photos and you decide if you want more. Dr suggested 4 points on my abdomen, and 2 points (one each arm). She thought I would want to do arms twice because of fat pocket, but can evaluate in 3 months. Got in room, sat on chair - they put on one side to see if I wanted to do 2 arms at once, a lot of people don't as they want a hand free. I opted to power through. They set up both arms, put this kind of gel paper towel around arm (after marking area with pen), and then the tool suctions in and starts to cool. Probably 5 min in got numb. If you do upper arms, they say its common your pinky & 4th fingers go number (mine did). I listened to an audio book. It was nice as you could see the clock count down. I found it pretty easy, and went by fast. I was comfortable in the chair. After 60 minutes, they removed the device, and man, my arm was cold and FLABBY. Red. Little bit of pain as it warmed up but manageable. My last 2 fingers "un-numbed" in about 5 minutes. Now as I massage the area, it just feels like a mild bruise... but sitting, I don't feel anything. Its a little weird, as it doesn't really feel like I had anything done... This is hour post procedure... more to come! Updated on 16 Oct 2014: Day 2 - left arm feels like a bruise if you push on it, but no discoloration. Right arm actually still has some "numbness" - definitely less "feeling" in the surface skin. Minor bruising (see picture). Going in for abs tomorrow. I'm expected it to hurt much more as I don't have a ton of extra, but need more "sculpting". Updated on 17 Oct 2014: Did this in 2 hour sessions. Basically - you can't tell from the photo - I have this weird extra roll just below bra line, and then the "I've had 3 kids" extra pooch. This extra roll the doc said was actually more skin than fat and lipo could cause more skin... to try coolsculpt first since its less invasive and might give me enough improvement. Anyway - WAY more uncomfortable than arms... at first. The first 2 sections (right lower ab, left upper ab), I literally felt like I couldn't breathe deep (I could). It probably took 10 min to get "numb enough". I still felt it the full time, but got definitely bearable & better. I watched an episode of Scandal. Good distraction! Took suctions off, mildly uncomfortable while massaging - not bad on lower (Fatter there), Upper was shock cramp, muscles didn't like the cold! Felt fine after 2-3 minutes. Other side, pretty much same experience. After treatment, I put on a spanx thing that goes up to my bra line (I own, I brought as it seemed to make sense). No bruising yet, but abdominal feels bruised when you touch it. Nurse told me I might feel numb and tingling on Day 2... will let you know! Updated on 19 Oct 2014: First - my left arm is 100% back to normal. Feels same pre-treatment. Right arm still "slightly" numb - kind of like that feeling when you get numb at the dentist, but mild. And surface. Like the nerves near the skin. Other than that - feels fine. Abs are slightly sore to touch - if I poke myself - and same numbness. Feels slightly more dense. So far so good! Updated on 25 Oct 2014: Did thighs yesterday - that was the easiest of all 3 parts. Some people do both at the same time, I only could do one because I was nervous my hip would start to hurt. At the office I go to, if you go 15 minutes and have to stop, you lose the "point".... Anyway - there was very little pain, couldn't even tell I had something done. Little sore today, but really not a big deal at all! My arms are back to normal - no numbness. Minor numbness on abs still... now the waiting begins! They told me to make an appointment at 8-10 weeks from now. I have no idea why the photos are uploading sideways. Updated on 23 Nov 2014: nothing really crazy to report - every now and then I can itch my stomach and you can still feel remnants of numbness. There are some days where I feel like I can see a difference, but others where I can see no change at all. I've posted photos of all areas today. Updated on 21 Dec 2014: so, I would say after 2 months, I can definitely tell a change in abs. absolutely NOTHING in thighs, and jury is out on arms. these photos seem like nothing, but sometimes it looks a little smaller. I would HIGHLY recommend you do a measuring tape on arms to really tell shrinkage. I haven't lost a single pound, but am not really trying either. the lower abs is where I can see the most new definition... and yes, I think I could bare my stomach in public in a bikini. I sure wish there had been something in the inner thighs, but there might be too much to work with to make something really noticeable. Will give another update at month 3 - and then I'll determine if I do the arms again... leaning that way!