Facial Surgery in Costa Rica with Dr. Alberto Arguello

OK. Here we go! I've been thinking about this for a couple of years and after months of research decided on Costa Rica and Dr. Arguello. His impeccable qualifications and excellent reviews on RS paved the way.

I chose Verdeza for my recovery and traveled alone to CR. Traveling alone was no new to me. I have been all over the world and am somewhat comfortable in Spanish but I have to admit it was still a daunting decision.

Fortunately, the team of Arguello/Arce and the fantastic staff at Verdeza have taken such good care of me that I can HIGHLY and without hesitation recommend both if you are ready to take the leap.

I am 12 days post surgery and recovering very well and am very glad I planned 3 weeks post-surgical recovery as I actually need it. I am just starting to see the improvements.

I warned the doctors that I bruise and swell like a b**** and, brother, did I ever. Even today I look like I've gone a few rounds with Muhammad Ali but every day brings improvement. My photos are not for the faint of heart but please understand that I expected it and that there has been little to no pain, just a bit of discomfort and tightness. Totally manageable!

I had a hard time with nausea from the pain medications but started feeling better after stopping them and taking my own Advil and Tylenol with some Gravol for nausea. Again, expected for me due to my super-sensitive stomach. Not fun, though.

I'll find some before pictures and post them soon. OK steel yourself...remember very little discomfort. It just looks bad!

Face, neck, brow, and lip lifts, upper and lower bleph plus chemical peel down center of face. Dr Arguello's fees for all above were $7100. Clinica Unibe was $2950 (and well worth it. I was very comfortable and well cared for there and so much less expensive than Cima Hospital). I'll do a separate update on Verdeza recovery center.

We were going to add fat transfer because I had lost so much volume in my temples but Dr Arguello decided against it during surgery due to the effect he was able to get with the slight brow and eye lift. That was a good call!

I continue to improve. Bruising is falling and swelling retreating. The therapy at the spa is well worth it to me. They usually start this on day two to help prevent bruising and swelling but I was too nauseous and didn't start until a week later. It has truly accelerated my healing and is relaxing, if a bit odd feeling in the numb areas next to my ears.

Oh yes, almost all stitches between days 6-12. Crazy skin peeling off in sheets and gone by day 9.

No pain! Only odd tight feeling in places that now are tight! ????