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*Treatment results may vary

9 months post op

Unfortunately, my abdomen has unsightly indentations around the navel. Disappointed with the outcome, but looking at alternatives to remedy the issue. Menkes recommended the use of filler as a temporary solution. Will be getting second opinions before doing so.

Last year, I worked with a personal trainer to see...

Last year, I worked with a personal trainer to see if I could lose the extra fat around my lower abdomen and waist. I soon realized genetics played such a big factor in my fat distribution and the stubborn fat remained unfazed by my efforts. I was losing the weight but not where I wanted. I was already at my ideal weight so I decided that 2016 would be the year to enlist some extra help. Queue in Dr. Menkes.

Pre-Op: I was able to easily schedule my consult and was extremely satisfied with the overall patient experience. Karen, the patient coordinator, has partnered with Dr. Menkes for several years and truly has a unique gift of putting others at ease. She was very knowledgeable in answering all my questions (I had several!) and I was pretty much sold on the process after I met with Dr. Menkes.
I booked the surgery date right after my consult and had my pre-op appointment the following week. Karen once again completed a stellar job at preparing me for the upcoming surgery and I felt I was in good hands.

Surgery day: Overall, the day was a bit hazy as you are given sedation during the process. I was awake through the surgery and was easily able to follow the dr’s instructions when I needed to switch laying positions. In terms of pain, I would say 2-3 out of 10. Honestly, it was more uncomfortable than painful. The doctor was able to take out a substantial amount of fat and my incision sites were surprisingly small.

Post Op: After the surgery, I recall feeling pretty alert, but opted to sleep for the remainder of the day. No issues with drainage from my incision sites. I used the prescribed pain medication for the 2nd/3rd day at night, but soon switched to extra strength Tylenol as the pain was manageable. The pain is more so like muscle soreness after a lengthy ab workout. I was back at the gym by the 3rd day completing light exercises/yoga. My surgery was on a Thursday and I was able to return to work on Monday. I just had my follow up appointment with Dr. Menkes and I was very pleased and surprised that the swelling and bruising were very minor. I attribute that to the skill and experience Dr. Menkes has. As I read through the endless Real Self q/a’s about Smart Lipo, it was very apparent how important it is to have a doctor that excels in his/her craft. The Smart Lipo technology is just the cherry on top. I can’t wait to see the results after 1 month!

Provider Review

Dermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology
2490 Hospital Drive, Mountain View, California
Overall rating
Doctor's bedside manner
Answered my questions
After care follow-up
Time spent with me
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