It's Been a Long Time Coming

Started looking at a BBL over 10 years ago. I found Dr. Rodriguez on RealSelf then, but couldn't afford it. Then decided to wait until after I had children. So here I am 14 years later and I finally did it. Although I had other consults Dr. Rodriguez lived up to all my expectations. He spent the most time with me. Not only did he review what I would like done, but he did not attempt to force any additional surgeries on me. He also spent the time to help me come up with a better plan to lose weight since I gained weight during COVID. I knew I would have the BEST results if I lost some weight although my BMI was ok for surgery. His ENTIRE staff is friendly & funny. Day of I didn't need Valium because I was relaxed knowing I had a great surgeon. I remember laying down, telling the anesthesiologist I was feeling relaxed. Then nothing else until I crawled up my stairs to my bed. Lol. I only crawled because I was stiff and probably high from the medications. The next few days I experienced extreme soreness. I was very nice to have someone around to help me get up because that's when I was most sore. The swelling was definitely insane. My favorite thing is that my surgeon did not have me removed my original post-op garment until I came to his office 7 days after the procedure. During that visit my staples were removed and I was helped into a new garment. I was also able to take my first shower that day and I must say it feels weird. I didn't experience the lightheadedness I've heard about, but your skin is numb and tender so you have to be very gentle about how you wash yourself. After one week I personally still needed the Percocet and began taking Valium to help with the insomnia I experienced from the steroids after surgery. By end of week two I felt almost normal & the swelling had decreased significantly. I also began my daily walks, although for shorter distances and at a slower pace. I am now week 3 and feel very much normal. There are still some numb places in my back and of course still swelling, but I can see my shape coming in very nicely and I'm excited to see what my final results will be in a year. Not just that, but no matter what I needed Dr Rodriguez and his staff were there to answer questions and help during my aftercare. You literally leave with three cell phone numbers for Dr.Rodriguez! I'll be going back in a year or two for my breasts. I'll also post further updates after my four months check up and my one year check in.

Pictures added in Jamaica at almost 3 months post op and some since then. I'll make a final update at 1 year. I love my progress but need to get into excercising more as the weather warms back up. Shape holding nicely!