POSTED UNDER Facelift Reviews
Took the plunge; excited/nervous
ORIGINAL POST
Took the Plunge ...... Excited/nervous.
Enthusiastic4465July 3, 2019
WORTH IT
After being impressed by Dominic’s website and reading lots of reviews on here, I phoned to make an appointment with Dominic. Darren, his PA, was very helpful and put me at my ease straight away. He asked me to send through some photos so Dominic could see roughly what would need doing and give me an idea of cost before I drove all the way to Tunbridge Wells. I booked a consultation for 3 weeks time.
The day dawned and, I’m not sure why, but I was apprehensive. The staff were all very welcoming and the clinic is beautiful. I met with Dominic and he was relaxed and professional. He talked me through everything. Showed me lots of before/after photos and some video of procedures taking place. I was able to voice all my concerns and came away feeling reassured.
I have now booked my procedure. My preferred date was taken by the time I called so I’m now booked in in 3 weeks time! I’m apprehensive and excited at the same time. I’ve wanted to do this for a long time and I can’t quite believe that I’m going ahead with it.
I intend to keep this page updated as I go through as I’ve read a few people’s reviews like that and i found it very helpful.
Fingers crossed.
The day dawned and, I’m not sure why, but I was apprehensive. The staff were all very welcoming and the clinic is beautiful. I met with Dominic and he was relaxed and professional. He talked me through everything. Showed me lots of before/after photos and some video of procedures taking place. I was able to voice all my concerns and came away feeling reassured.
I have now booked my procedure. My preferred date was taken by the time I called so I’m now booked in in 3 weeks time! I’m apprehensive and excited at the same time. I’ve wanted to do this for a long time and I can’t quite believe that I’m going ahead with it.
I intend to keep this page updated as I go through as I’ve read a few people’s reviews like that and i found it very helpful.
Fingers crossed.
Enthusiastic4465's provider
Replies (5)
July 5, 2019
Thank you for sharing! Sooner or later I should do something and I like so much Dr Brays' work. So natural, just what I want. But I am not yet in a hurry. Doesn't he operate anymore in London?
July 7, 2019
But he does consultations in London.
July 7, 2019
It’s closer to his home and he has a proper clinic there with overnight accommodation as well as a theatre. I don’t think overnight accommodation was possible in London.
July 7, 2019
Thank you Alexandra! I am living abroad.
July 11, 2019
This is exciting for you Enthusiastic. I had a consultation with Dominic about this time last year but I had to wait nearly 4 months for an appointment. Is his waiting list shorter now? I have to go and see him again because the quote only lasts for 6 months. I really want him to be my surgeon but its very expensive.
July 15, 2019
He is expensive but save up! You can’t take a chance with your face. He is absolutely fabulous and understands faces like non other. I haven’t seen a single face he’s operated on that doesn’t look natural and simply a younger version of the older model. He’s the best in my view. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
UPDATED FROM Enthusiastic4465
3 days post
Day 1 photos and review
Enthusiastic4465July 26, 2019
Thank you all for your comments and wishes.
I had the procedure done on Tuesday and we are now Friday, so day 3.
I had quite a lot of anxiety on the day but worked to keep myself calm. The team were all super friendly, welcoming and reassuring. Although they do this day in and day out, they still manage to make you feel as though you count and you are their only concern. Dominic’s enthusiasm is infectious.
Everything went very speedily and efficiently from arrival to surgery. Although I was only sedated and not under a general anaesthetic, my strongest memory of the procedure was Adele playing quite loudly - Skyfall, i think! It apparently took 4 hours but I must have slept as it didn’t seem that long at all.
I didn’t sleep hardly at all that night but sat up constantly icing my face and watching tv in my suite. Room is lovely by the way, with everything you need.
Wednesday morning, bandages were removed by Dominic and he took photos. Linda, the nurse rinsed my hair and I was ready to leave by 11.
Since then, the swelling has been fairly uncomfortable and sleep has been on and off. Eating is difficult beyond anything mushy or liquid. It’s just a matter of being patient, persevering with the ice and the paracetamol. The boost comes every time I look in the mirror at my lovely jawline (ignoring the swelling and black eyes!).
My experience so far with Dominic and his team has been nothing but positive. From my first enquiry, my consultation, pre surgery, surgery and post surgery. I still have a long way to go with my recovery but, even as it is now, I’m absolutely loving it and 100% think it is worth the money and discomfort. SHOW LESS
I had the procedure done on Tuesday and we are now Friday, so day 3.
I had quite a lot of anxiety on the day but worked to keep myself calm. The team were all super friendly, welcoming and reassuring. Although they do this day in and day out, they still manage to make you feel as though you count and you are their only concern. Dominic’s enthusiasm is infectious.
Everything went very speedily and efficiently from arrival to surgery. Although I was only sedated and not under a general anaesthetic, my strongest memory of the procedure was Adele playing quite loudly - Skyfall, i think! It apparently took 4 hours but I must have slept as it didn’t seem that long at all.
I didn’t sleep hardly at all that night but sat up constantly icing my face and watching tv in my suite. Room is lovely by the way, with everything you need.
Wednesday morning, bandages were removed by Dominic and he took photos. Linda, the nurse rinsed my hair and I was ready to leave by 11.
Since then, the swelling has been fairly uncomfortable and sleep has been on and off. Eating is difficult beyond anything mushy or liquid. It’s just a matter of being patient, persevering with the ice and the paracetamol. The boost comes every time I look in the mirror at my lovely jawline (ignoring the swelling and black eyes!).
My experience so far with Dominic and his team has been nothing but positive. From my first enquiry, my consultation, pre surgery, surgery and post surgery. I still have a long way to go with my recovery but, even as it is now, I’m absolutely loving it and 100% think it is worth the money and discomfort. SHOW LESS
Replies (5)
July 26, 2019
Well that sounds familiar but I think you are about to turn a corner at post 3 days. It’s pretty horrid isn’t it with little sleep but it won’t be long before you feel a lot better and the results are amazing. You really look fabulous already and that will keep you going. Once your stitches are out, you will feel much better still.
I had an email with part of a message on it about my visit but I can’t seem to find the whole message. Sorry about that as I can’t read it to reply. I’m probably being an idiot but that’s nothing new with social media. If you want to talk, if you’re feeling fed up, ask Darren and he will give you my email. It’s easier than on here - but I understand if you would prefer to keep it on here. You’re nearly there so hang on, you’ll soon be over the worst. Xx
I had an email with part of a message on it about my visit but I can’t seem to find the whole message. Sorry about that as I can’t read it to reply. I’m probably being an idiot but that’s nothing new with social media. If you want to talk, if you’re feeling fed up, ask Darren and he will give you my email. It’s easier than on here - but I understand if you would prefer to keep it on here. You’re nearly there so hang on, you’ll soon be over the worst. Xx
July 26, 2019
I get quite confused with these messages. They seem to pop up all over. I noticed today that I had missed some of yours! The message was just to thank you for your support and popping in to see me. It was so sweet of you. Your wedding photos are so beautiful. I definitely know what you mean about hiding from the camera. Can’t wait to get my stitches out, but one day at a time x
July 26, 2019
Did you have your eyes done as well as a facelift?
July 26, 2019
That is what I am planning for September, facelift and brow lift. I am reading every article that I can find to prepare myself. Your post really helps, thank you.
July 27, 2019
I’m so pleased. That’s what I did and I think it has really helped to be prepared and realistic. I wish you all the best with it.
July 29, 2019
But you have bruising on your neck and stitches in front of your ears so you surely must have had more surgery than just an eyebrow lift?
September 12, 2019
Oh wow!! Very exciting. Good for you. Any queries or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me. I’m happy to help in any way. You won’t regret it.
July 27, 2019
Why did you have an eyebrow lift, I can't see much difference tbh. is it part of the face lift or extra? Your neck looks really good though, you must be thrilled.
July 27, 2019
I had it done because my right eyelid had started to crease and I was finding it challenging to apply makeup. It wasn’t bad but I felt I may as well address it at the same time. Yes, I’m thrilled with my jaw line so far - even with the swelling.
July 29, 2019
ok, that makes sense, I wonder how much change there is when you are healed. I didn't know an eyebrow lift could do that.
July 29, 2019
How are doing now? Is the swelling getting down? What about bruising? Do you have tight sensation on neck/face? I hope you a very fast recovery and great result!
UPDATED FROM Enthusiastic4465
10 days post
1 week after photos
Enthusiastic4465August 2, 2019
Hi there everyone.
On Wednesday 31st July, I went for my one week review. My stitches were removed and Dominic lasered the bruises under my eyes in order to help with the healing process. The swelling is reducing nicely. Still quite an alien look to me but I think that is because there is still swelling at my temples. There is also still swelling at the sides of my neck and a little at the front. I think that is why my mouth looks a little ‘pulled’ but I’m hoping that will all settle down soon.
The first week has been tough but Dominic has been texting me throughout to check how I am. He asked for an update photo and has been supportive and encouraging all the way.
I’m starting to feel almost human again now. The tightness has reduced but it is still there. I’m still on Paracetamol every 4 hours. Eating is still not easy or very enjoyable, however it is a relief to be back to a normal diet. On the up side, I think I’ve lost a few pounds so that is always a bonus.
I haven’t ventured out of the house yet, apart from the visit to the clinic. That is mainly because of my black eyes. My husband is returning from an overseas trip today though, so I may get the concealer out and manage a glass of wine this evening. I’m going slightly stir crazy couped up in the house.
My next check up will be at 4 weeks, so I will post the updates then.
Many thanks for your comments and support.
On Wednesday 31st July, I went for my one week review. My stitches were removed and Dominic lasered the bruises under my eyes in order to help with the healing process. The swelling is reducing nicely. Still quite an alien look to me but I think that is because there is still swelling at my temples. There is also still swelling at the sides of my neck and a little at the front. I think that is why my mouth looks a little ‘pulled’ but I’m hoping that will all settle down soon.
The first week has been tough but Dominic has been texting me throughout to check how I am. He asked for an update photo and has been supportive and encouraging all the way.
I’m starting to feel almost human again now. The tightness has reduced but it is still there. I’m still on Paracetamol every 4 hours. Eating is still not easy or very enjoyable, however it is a relief to be back to a normal diet. On the up side, I think I’ve lost a few pounds so that is always a bonus.
I haven’t ventured out of the house yet, apart from the visit to the clinic. That is mainly because of my black eyes. My husband is returning from an overseas trip today though, so I may get the concealer out and manage a glass of wine this evening. I’m going slightly stir crazy couped up in the house.
My next check up will be at 4 weeks, so I will post the updates then.
Many thanks for your comments and support.
Replies (5)
August 2, 2019
Yes at 1week you are still swollen and pulled but at 1 month you will not believe the transformation. The tightness goes and you look normal. You will still be numb, I’m still numb after 6 months but you will look great I promise. At 1 week you look and feel like an alien but you will settle down rapidly now. First week was awful I remember but after that it gets much better. Xx
August 2, 2019
And by the way you look amazing! I was lopsided for a couple of weeks but not at a month I think.
August 7, 2019
I thought I’d replied to this but can’t see it here. To answer your question, I’m 53.
August 7, 2019
You look beautiful! Makeup for the black eye, and then go about your business. No one will know!
I’m very happy to talk you through it all if you wanted to contact me. Don’t be scared, there’s no need. X
I received my medication pack yesterday and my diet sheet!! Goodness, the list of what not to eat is quite daunting. How did you get on with the diet? Were you really rigid with it? I may struggle to give up my morning/ afternoon cup of tea
How did you feel during the first week? We’re you in a lot of pain and do you think it was more or less than you anticipated?
Many thanks