36 Years Old, 1 Baby, Time for Me! TT, MR, Lipo - Marina Del Rey, CA

I'm not usually someone to write anything personal. But this site (which I have faithfully reviewed several times a week for months), and the amazing ladies that have shared their stories with me, not only motivated me, but also gave me courage. Maybe something about my journey can resonate with someone. A little about me. I am a single mom from the east coast. I work hard and had to save vacation days and money to do this. My ex-husband of 11 years of marriage, is the only person I really have to lean on where I live. And with a 2.5 year old and long work hours, well that is my whole inner circle. Anyhow, the decision to get this special thing done for me in California was a "no-brainer," since my family lives in California.

Then it was time to pick the right doctor for me. I looked high and low. Prices vary significantly in the Los Angeles area. The cost of what I needed/wanted was certainly a factor, but I've been saving for awhile and I didn't want that to be the main factor.

I finally decided that DR Grant Stevens from Marina Plastic Surgery would be the lucky doctor. Choosing a doctor was no easy task. I'm sure there are other great doctors in this area, it's Los Angeles after all, but there are also plenty on a different spectrum. Right off the bat, the communication from his staff was stellar. Mind you I'm coordinating from east coast time, work full time and come home to a very energetic and super attached 2.5 year old. The staff was organized, friendly, and personal. Once I set everything in motion, they made sure to make the process seamless.

So why Dr. Stevens? His office staff is super organized but feels cozy and personal. His before and afters are super. Hands down his work looks natural and I hope to also be like the other before and afters. And Dr Stevens is an expert at the no drain tummy tuck. After reading about the stress and anxiety caused by the drains to other RS dolls, I preferred not to have them. In addition to no drain, Dr Stevens is a champion of plastic surgery techniques, has no derogatory actions against him that I could find, and his practice has been around many years. Please research whatever doctor you use because in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, etc there were many doctors that had been penalized by major and minor infraction by the State and Medical boards. Anyhow Dr Stevens is certainly at the tip of the spear in plastic surgery.

When I finally met the Dr in person, I was even more comfortable with putting my trust in him. He has a vibrant charisma, has a great sense of humor, and is very welcoming.

Alrighty so my surgery day was yesterday. I can't wait to see the results!!! Through all the bindings, gauze, and padding I kinda feel the same as I feel around it all. :/. The new me will emerge soon though, I can hardly wait!!! Post op the Dr requires ( or strongly suggests) at least one night at Serenity recovery in Santa Monica. While I am here tonight my family is staying at Oakwood around the corner from the doctors office. I highly recommend both serenity and Oakwood. Oakwood is kinda perfect for us with the baby and has free parking, heated pool, jacuzzi, gym, and almost across the street from the beach, and some restaurants. There were a few snafus that happened with the wifi at first, and the office manager seemed grumpy and very not helpful or customer service-like, but the room, the location, and amenities were right on track. So far serenity has made my stay comfortable. This place is awesome. It's like a hotel room except with medical equipment and nurses. The food has all been stellar.

So far I have not had pain. I am hunched over, but can walk just fine otherwise. I do need help getting my legs in/out of bed. Well actually just after writing that I went to the bathroom and am starting to have a little pain.