POSTED UNDER Facelift REVIEWS
No More Turkey Face for Me. Northbrook, IL
ORIGINAL POST
I'm scheduled to have a full face/neck lift, upper...
I'm scheduled to have a full face/neck lift, upper and lower eyes, a browplexy and fat grafting around my mouth.
I'm getting more scared as the time gets closer. Reviewing all the posts on real self is very helpful and supportive, but so overwhelming. I saw six different PS before deciding to go with dr. Epstein. I hope I made the right decision.
I'm getting more scared as the time gets closer. Reviewing all the posts on real self is very helpful and supportive, but so overwhelming. I saw six different PS before deciding to go with dr. Epstein. I hope I made the right decision.
deb C's provider
UPDATED FROM deb C
15 days pre
Pictures I usually don't post
This picture clearly shows my drooping neck and jowls and tired eyes. I sure hope my PS understands my concerns that I want help with.
Replies (9)
January 7, 2015
Good luck to you. I am also in chicago and am investigating mini lift procedures. Please keep posting. Your beautiful now
January 7, 2015
Hi, you have actually just hit on (possibly inadvertently) one of the main reasons some people end up being disappointed in their results, which is patient and surgeon not being on the same page in terms of goals and expectations. The good news is that if you aren't 100% sure your surgeon knows exactly what you want to achieve, what bothers you the most, what you want to avoid, etc. there's still time to make triple sure you are both on the same wavelength. If you haven't already done so, it's your job to communicate precisely, thoroughly, and specifically what you are hoping to have "fixed," and make sure your surgeon understands your goals and feels confident he can meet them. Or if not, why not, etc. He should go over in detail what he plans to do, and what you can expect in terms of results. Forgive me if you've already gone over every little thing in great detail and are certain he will address precisely what you want addressed, and if so, fantastic! It's just that SO many problems in this process are due to poor or incomplete communication beforehand that I wanted to emphasize the importance now - since you seemed to hint of uncertainty in this area. Best of luck to you, I will look forward to following your progress in the days and weeks ahead!
January 9, 2015
Your right. I'm going to go see my PS again tomorrow to get a better understanding of what's being done.
January 7, 2015
I agree that you must believe and trust your surgeon. If you have any doubts no matter how small you may think they are contact your surgeon and discuss. You shouldn't "hope" that he understands you should be confident that he does understand what you are wanting. I think you need to contact him again and discuss fully what your exectations are. The surgeon should be there for you and you should not have any reservations about the two of you being on the same page. We must have complete confidence in our surgeon and if we don't then possibly you do not have the connection that is needed to make you feel completely at ease with your choice. Good luck
January 8, 2015
I understand your anxiety! I was freaking out too especially right after my pre-op.. I seemed to settle down the week before. I was so unhappy and i was committed to doing something about it. i think If you are comfortable with your doctor. Do it. I am almost 2 months post and cannot tell you how thrilled I am that I did it.
UPDATED FROM deb C
6 days pre
One week from surgery!
I've been very anxious but trying to take care of myself. I'm wondering about the most effective way to start using Bromelein and Arnaci before and after surgery. I've read so many conflicting info, some that depends on what type of facial surgery you are having.
Replies (10)
January 15, 2015
Hi Deb,
There is no question you chose a highly skilled PS. Epstein is featured as a top doc in Castle Connelly and numerous other sources. Insofar as bromelain., Quercetin and arnica these are supements that suppress bruising and inflammation. I cannot attest to the efficacy of arnica since arnica is a homeopathic preparation. Homeopathic preparations are not likely to harm you, but are not embraced by traditional medicine. I took these supplements post op along with collagen and had an excellent result. A word of caution though: some people are sensitive to supplements or experience GI distress if these are taken on an empty stomach. The doctor's packet has a lot of useful info: sleep with head elevated, no lifting and light activity only for three weeks, consistent use of the elasticized bandage and so on. Remember also to exclude aspirin, fish oil and any other elements that thin your blood prior to surgery. Erin, the doctor's nurse is wonderful and will help with any questions. Rest assured you have chosen well. I am one of the doctor's patients and I can tell you he and his staff will make certain you are pleased with your surgical outcome. Good luck to you.
Lautrec
January 15, 2015
Good luck to you! I am sure you will do fine and look great afterwards! Please keep us posted as Dr E would be my first choice when the time comes.
January 15, 2015
Hi Deb ,
did your doctor send you a list of what to do before and after your surgery ?....Mine did and I have a long list of what to do, to avoid and stop using before and after and he said I could start taking arnica the day before surgery but I am thinking of starting 2 days before ( just to be sure ) also will be using some arnica gel for the bruises and I intend to eat loads pf fresh pinneaple post -facelift ....Try to relax and look at all the positive . that really helps me
January 16, 2015
Yes, I had a list, but it said nothing about starting arnica or Bromelein. I ordered it all anyway! Talked to my PS nurse yesterday for surgery info and she said I can start taking both now. I have to figure out a med schedule with all the different meds I need to take post op. 6 days and counting.
January 16, 2015
Hurray !! Only 6 days and it will be behind you and you can start the healing process!!! 10 days for me and I am getting excited ...This lovely lady on RS gave a super info for us ladies who have grey hair , since we won' t be allowed to colour it for 4 to 6 weeks , the product is called COLOR WOW and covers grey hair very well and can be ordered on line or you can visit their site and it tells you where to get it , I think it is a must have ..Also I was warned about pain meds giving constipation...so make sure you have something for that ...we need to be as comfortable as we can !! Good luck to you and I am looking forward to reading your posts .
January 16, 2015
Thanks. I also asked my doctor to subscribe an anti nausea med and a steroid med-pack which helps reduce inflammation. I am also thinking of asking for an antibiotic my PS gives both of those in the IV, but I am looking to be as proactive as possible to prevent any complications.
January 15, 2015
I've had surgery before and took Arnica 30c 5 days before and 10 days after combined with using the Arnica gel. I have had wonderful experiences using Arnica. I tripped over my cat once and fell right on my knee, I thought I broke it. Limping over to bathroom I pulled out the Arnica gel and slathered it on my knee and started to take the tablets. I had absolutely no bruising. I think it is a wonderful product and when I'm close to my FL/NL date I'm going to start using it. Good luck
Replies (31)
It sounds like you're doing lots of research, which in my opinion is good! It's a lot easier to go into this blindly, but I honestly believe that statistically more people get results they are happy with when they do homework. That said, sorry you're feeling overwhelmed. What part of this process is making you feel most anxious?