My life changed for the better - RHINOPLASTY + BREAST REDUCTION- my confidence is boosted

My review would only allow 2 photos so here are a few of the before and after rhinoplasty pics (: the tip is the most sensitive part. But I haven’t experienced any pain (only at the beginning when in process of removing the cast). I was insecure of pictures directly from the front or side, having my hair up, etc. as I felt my nose was too wide/long for my face. It was highlighted a lot especially when I lost weight (cheeks were not full). Now I confidently wear my hair up without any hair in my face (: I love that I feel a more confident step when dressing up, doing normal tasks, working out - knowing my breasts won’t be in the way! Thank you so much x a billion

I’m forever thankful I found Dr. Arenas on RealSelf. Fatima was the main point of contact since the beginning and even months after the procedure! She’s awesome and very comfortable to talk to. I appreciate her and Dr. Arenas’ caring nature very much My life changed for the better, my confidence is boosted! I flew in from the U.S. on (12/04/22) so I had a few days before the procedure to get the laboratory work done (required prior to operation). You can get the lab work done in your area but I chose to do it in Mexico. Despite the immense amount of nervousness Fatima & Dr. Arenas never failed to show me patience and kindness. The whole team had amazing bedside manners. And it’s safe to say, I’d go to Dr. Arenas again if I ever wanted to do another/different procedure.

Fatima helped so much, she even helped to program my lab appointments. The day prior to the surgery, I met Dr. Arenas. He was honest and didn’t pressure me into going through with any procedure, but rather expressed himself in a way I knew he was being genuine and had a passion for changing lives for the better. I was rightfully hopeful! I went to Mexico not sure if I’d continue with the rhinoplasty and only have the reduction. It’s safe to say, I am glad I chose to follow through having both procedures! I had previously consulted with other rhinoplasty doctors. The confidence boost is insane! At week 6, I slowly started going to the gym. I hadn’t been comfortable like this EVER. I used to be uncomfortable in my own body because my breasts were so big for me. The neck pain is gone! It was hard to dress myself. And once I returned home, people thought I had more done than just the rhinoplasty and reduction- that’s how much my breasts affected the way I carried myself & how it made me look bigger than I was. I took warm showers and let it run on my breasts. My left breast was more swollen than my right and it was normal as nothing will swell (or go down) at the same rate. The ultrasounds were SO worth it! Small amounts of spotting at the stitch areas was noted on my gauze only for about 4 nights. And having a *lightweight* water bottle with a straw was the best idea . Aside from necessary button down tops, I wore sweater dresses as well for the first ~5 days (it was easy to pull up and all instead of any sweatpants). I am very thankful my mom was with me to help when I needed it! I booked hotels in Guadalajara (close to the hospital) that had complimentary breakfasts. The hotel that stuck out the most was Staybridge because we had breakfast as well as a kitchen/w fridge in the room. It also had a laundry service room on one of the floors that we used to wash (especially the compression bras)!

The weeks following rhinoplasty:
I had some ultrasound therapy sessions for the breast area. Jenny and Marce were very caring and friendly.
I must say, I didn’t know I would have phlegms post-rhino (lasted only 2-3 nights). Since I woke up the night of the procedure I had a very dry throat. To avoid coughing from dryness, I took about 1-2 tablespoons of honey right before I laid to sleep only needed for the first ~5 nights. I used the nasal spray during the day (very helpful and necessary to keep your nose clean). If I couldn’t avert a cough or sneeze, I made sure I had my mouth open to lessen the pressure placed on the nose. I assume with some patients it’s normal to have the splint over the nose just for the first week. I had a lot of swelling and the replacement splint helped keep the majority of the swelling the 2nd week at bay. since I was about two hours away, I took note on how to take it off myself as instructed for *my case*. Always listen to ur doc . After a warm shower (loosens it), I used a warm wet rag, tweezers, scissors, neutral soap and alcohol. I tapped my nose for, I think, at least 6 weeks - 3 weeks 24/7 and 3 weeks only at night. *If* you’re instructed to do so, record it if you can. I recorded it in selfie mode so I could have peace that I was doing it right . Trust the process my nose was more swollen on one side versus the other side. I had to remind myself “uneven swelling is normal” take lots of progress pictures at different angles of breast and nose! It helps so much!

I’m so thankful for Dr. Arenas’ careful work. He’s an artist. He sculpted my breasts to look amazing and my nose complimenting my face naturally. He took out about 3 lbs of breast tissue and achieved a cup size safe for me (to protect the veins that naturally run in our breasts in case I wanted kids in the future). I went from at >48DDD to a ~40ish D. Fatima has always been one message away to answer any questions. I also appreciated the kindness from the anesthesiologist and guys who IV prepped me while conversing with me to take my mind off the surgery. Liz and Fatima make you feel like family. The Dr. Rafael Arenas team at hospital Innovare is unbeatable!