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ritidectomia

Patient Stories

Rachel

  • Office Manager
  • 30
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation

I recently had breast augmentation surgery after considering it for a number of years. I found my surgeon through the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Web site.

I made an appointment and liked the surgeon instantly, he was very informative and professional. I expressed my desires to have a natural look after surgery with even symmetry in both breasts. My right breast was a whole cup size smaller than my left, which was the basis for my wanting the operation.We agreed on a size that would look natural, the incision site and all risks associated.

My surgery went wonderfully with the exception of getting sick upon waking up from anethesia. The staff at the surgery center was the best I have ever been around! My recovery time was without pain, only soreness and a bit of bruising. I am completely satisfied and would highly recommend my surgeon. My breast implants look more natural than I expected them to and I am extremely pleased!

Lysa

  • Realtor
  • 43
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation

I searched for months, perhaps years, on a doctor. I found my plastic surgeon on a web site and read about all his work and how he has really made a difference in many lives. He has given back to the people in many ways, going to Mexico and being part of a team of surgeons that perform reconstructive procedures at no cost. I found this to be of the highest integrity and that who I wanted to entrust in my surgery.

I was right, my surgery was great. I look great, they look great and I have recommended him to many friends, and all have had fantastic results. I have had them now for a year and wish I had done it sooner.

Lisa

  • Certified Nurse Assistant
  • 36
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation

My experience with breast augmentation was a really great descision. I always wanted to have the procedure done, but raising three children and being on a budget it was pretty hard to save for this surgery. My plastic surgeon takes her time and makes sure that you have made the right choice, you will go through a few appointments at first, but it's so worth it. I am very happy with my saline implants.

Melodie

  • Hooter Girl
  • 26
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation

I found my plastic surgeon one day while searching for someone to do my surgery. I called his office the next day and was immediately transferred to his nurse. She was very helpful and she definitely made me feel more comfortable about making this decision. I then made an appointment for my consultation.

About three weeks later I met my plastic surgeon and was very impressed. I must say he covered every detail, so much, I had no questions to ask him. I knew I'd found "the" doc. I scheduled my surgery feeling great confidence. He made the experience as easy on me as he could. The recovery was stressful but he was there when I needed him. I would recommend my plastic surgeon to anyone wanting breast augmentation. The results are amazing. I'm very happy!!!

Lenore

  • Housewife
  • 32
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation

I found my surgeon from this web site, I used to be 257 pounds and had a pretty good size chest (C cup) but when I lost my weight and got down to 137 pounds, they were the first to go. I was now a small (B cup).

So I went and did my consultation and had my surgery a month later. I had a pretty quick recovery, hardly no pain at all, just mild discomfort. I am now a full size (D cup). I had my incision under my arm. I love them, they are perfect. I have had my breast implants now for 6 weeks and loving them. I got the saline implants. I think my surgeon did a great, terrific, and wonderful job. I was very pleased.

Carissa

  • 31
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation and Liposuction

I actually had two procedures with the same surgeon done 9 months apart. My first procedure was bilateral mastopexy with augmentation performed in March 2004. The reason for choosing my plastic surgeon was"word of mouth" that he was very good. Having had worked at some local hospitals, I knew of this to be true. With my augmentation I had a vertical lift (lollipop) and 350 cc mentor round smooth saline implants placed submuscularly. The recovery was difficult initially and lasted about 3 weeks for me as I had never been pregnant so my skin had never been stretched.

Overall I am happy with my experience and aesthetically speaking my PS did a fantastic job. I am scheduled with him for a slight size increase (350 to 425cc) in June. I'm not looking for a noticeable size increase just a little more fullness. I did go on a consult with another surgeon but I think that I knew in the back of my mind that he was the only one I would be able to trust. I'm anxiously awaiting to have this done and know I will be satisfied with my results.

My second procedure done in Dec '04 was liposuction of my upper and lower abdomen, bilateral back, hips and flanks. The liposuction was done via Vaser technique and I have to say this was probably the best thing I could have done for myself. I'm 5'7 and weigh appx 139 lbs so I was normal weight for my height but I had large deposits of fat that were difficult to get rid of. When I lose weight I tend to lose the weight in my chest area and did not want to jeopardize my augmentation results.

I am about 4 months post op now and I'm loving this. I look at myself in the mirror and still can't believe that it's me that I'm looking at. I'm buying new clothes and fitting into size 4 pants. Size 6 for some. I have a very flattering figure. I did join a gym and I do alot of cycling and strength training equipment to maintain the figure I currently have.

Patricia

  • Nurse
  • 34
  • Female
  • Tummy Tuck and Breast Augmentation

I found my plastic surgeon from the local phone book, I looked for the certified logo on the ad, and I had the surgery done for back pain and a previous abdominal hysterectomy. The office was clean, the staff and doctor are polite. Recovery has been painful with both the breast augmentation and the tummy tuck. The pain lasted for months and walking, driving, sleeping, and preparing meals for myself was painful. Using my arms was painful, and I was without very much movement for weeks.

Recovery has been slow and I have undergone three surgeries for my breast and abdomen since June 2005 and expect a 4th fourth surgery in November 2005. It will be required to lift my left breast up to the level of my right breast, and remove the swelling in my upper abdomen. So recovery has been slow and painful. I am happy I made the decision, because I traded an ugly scar coming from my belly button down to my groin area in an up and down cut. Also my stomach has not been this flat since I was 26 years old, just before my third child. My breasts are now larger and firmer, but still need some work on the left side, but after its done correctly I'm sure I will be satisfied.

I have saline implants and after my third surgery they feel nice and soft . I would suggest that when you get both the breast implants and tummy tuck done at the same time you understand that it is painful, and its not all smiles, but the pain is worth the results. No amount of exercise can ever accomplish in six weeks what my doctor did in hours. You must know that pain medication (narcotics) will assist you in coping with the very uncomfortable pain and is needed for a few weeks after each surgery, but a non-narcotic can help for the lesser pain after a few weeks.

Andrea

  • Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • 33
  • Breast Augmentation

I had originally asked my OB/GYN for a referral to a cosmetic surgeon for a mini tummy tuck and/or breast augmentation following the birth of my 2nd child (I have some excess skin and stretch marks on my lower abdomen & had sagging breasts from breastfeeding both children). He proceeded to tell me how painful a tummy tuck is, but if I wanted it done anyway, he would refer me to the "best guy in town".

I rethought my decision on the tummy tuck & decided to just have the breast augmentation. I met with the Dr. referred to me by my OB/GYN & another cosmetic surgeon who performed my sister-in-law's augmentation. I was impressed with both Dr.'s; however, the Dr. I ultimately chose was more personable & had a fantastic staff. My consultation was very organized; info was mailed to me in advance, my appt began on time, and I was given the opportunity to watch a video upon my arrival that answered some questions I had, etc. I checked both surgeons’ credentials with ASPS & the American Board of Plastic Surgeons.

The surgery center was wonderful. The staff did a great job of calming me, & I actually have no recollection of entering the actual operating room (which is a good thing....seeing the room would have made me more nervous!). The anesthesiologist met with me in advance & answered my MANY questions. I had some nausea & very little discomfort following the surgery. The only time I actually got sick was in the car ride going home. I only took pain pills for 2 days (the day of surgery & the following day) & never experienced what I would consider pain. There was some mild discomfort (tightness & sore muscles), but very tolerable. I typically work out 5 days/week (weight lifting & cardio), & was back at the gym by week 3. I had to take it a little easier, especially with any kind of bouncing during cardio & upper body lifting for the chest, but otherwise I was definitely ready to go back. I had an absolutely wonderful experience & would do it again in a heartbeat!

Evelyn

  • Student
  • 24
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation

I was referred to my plastic surgeon by my best friend, who had the same procedure. I can’t even believe the art he performed on me. Not only are they beautiful but they are very natural looking. I never developed properly during puberty, and due to that I developed "cone" breasts, and since I lost 35lbs they were sagging. My plastic surgeon took all my hate towards them away, and now has created high self esteem towards my body and esteem which I have not felt for a very long time. I would 100% recommend him to anyone.

Bonnie

  • Realtor
  • 51
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation

I had my surgery in June, 2002. I found my plastic surgeon by a referral from a friend of mine. I wanted the surgery because I had always had small breasts, and as I aged, and after three babies, my small breasts were drooping, and I felt unattractive, especially in the "bedroom". The surgery went great. I only had a little discomfort, mostly with the right breast. I massaged the breasts regularly, as suggested by my doctor, to avoid scar tissue from forming around the implant. The operation, in my opinion, was a great success. My breasts are 300cc, saline implants. The shape is exactly what I wanted. I now have more confidence in myself. I don't know why this transformation should make me feel more confident, but it does, and I love it!

The only problem I have had is loss of sensation around the nipple area of the right breast, and also pain in the right breast if it is brushed against. It has been the right breast from the beginning that has given me a little trouble. Both breasts are soft to the touch, but the right breast does seem to get a little firmer from time to time, and I massage it aggressively, and then it is softer once again. I went back to my plastic surgeon about 6 months after surgery and he said I may never get the sensation back in that breast, or it may come back in time. It has been over two years, and the same problem exists. I can live without the sensation, but I think I should have another visit to the doctor about the pain. I am certainly not disappointed with the results of this surgery. I would do it again in a heartbeat!

My children, all in their thirties, were a little shocked. I didn't tell them I was having it done. The first time they noticed was a few months later when we were all at a wedding. Apparently, I was the talk of the table. Everyone was trying to figure out what I had done. My son finally asked me straight out. I said, “Would I ask you if you had your penis elongated?” We all had a good laugh. My husband loves the new me; he doesn't feel threatened because I look sexier out in public. He is beaming! He has always loved me. He supported my decision to have the surgery. However, it isn't the breasts, necessarily, that has put the extra "zing" into our lives. It is my new found confidence from this transformation that has enhanced both our lives. I know I am a very fortunate woman to have the warm and loving family that I have. I believe that makes all the difference, whether it is breast surgery you are having or any type of surgery. If your family is behind you, you have no worries.

Angela

  • Housewife
  • 31
  • Female
  • Rhinoplasty, Liposuction, Breast Augmentation

I am very satisfied with all of my procedures. The most painful was the breast augmentation. Rhinoplasty was very smooth, as well as liposuction, though I do have some unevenness in my thigh area, which will be fixed free of charge. I notice on the internet I don't hear a lot about this happening, but my doctor did let me know it was not abnormal. It has only been 1 month since my surgeries and I still have some swelling and soreness. I am very happy with my overall experience. My doctor was wonderful and I found him through word of mouth (very good success stories). I would recommend him to anyone.

Karen

  • Sales Representative
  • 47
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation **

I had silicone breast implants 20 years ago and couldn't be happier. I went from not even filling up a AA cup to a big B/small C cup which is perfect for me. Throughout the years, every time a physician has examined me, I have continually received compliments on what a wonderful job my surgeon did. During the height of the lawsuits against the manufacturers of silicone implants, I never even considered filing since I have never had any problems whatsoever. If I ever had to have them removed for any reason, I would definitely want the replacements to be silicone. They feel & look so natural. My only regret is that I didn't have the surgery 10 years before I did!

Jill 

  • Events Coordinator
  • 38
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation **

In 1990 I had breast augmentation with silicone gel-filled implants. It's been 15 years now and I've not had a single health problem related to either the surgery or the implants. Due to some natural aging and sagging as well as body proportions I would love to undergo a replacement breast augmentation. But because the FDA hasn't re-approved silicone gel-filled implants for use I haven't followed through. Not only have I seen for myself, but I've been told by friends and my surgeon that the saline implants have disappointing results.

If I'm going to spend an additional $5,000, then you better believe I want natural appearing and feeling breasts! Since every study has shown no solid evidence or proof that silicone gel-filled implants are unsafe, it seems unfair to continue disallowing their use. Let the physicians and patients make the informed decision on which type of implant to use! At this point, I would really like to have my breast implants replaced before I'm 40 years old, but because I want silicone, I may be forced to go out of the country for my augmentation. It's a scary thought to leave my long-time trusted surgeon behind, but I refuse to be forced into only having one choice. It is my sincere hope that the FDA will carefully review this matter and conclude their meeting in April with the re-approval of silicone implants.

Diana 

  • 46
  • Female
  • Breast Augmentation **

I had breast augmentation surgery in December, 02 with saline filled implants. Soon after surgery, it became apparent that I had rippling of the implants, which increased to the point that my boyfriend (affectionately) referred to them as "washboard" breasts. I also began experiencing capsular contracture. I had another surgery in December, 03 to replace the salines with high profile silicone implants. Even though the silicone implants were slightly larger than the salines I had previously had, the rippling was reduced to almost nothing at all, and they are remaining soft without any signs of capsular contracture. Although I had to go through two surgeries, the end result was very good and I'm really, really happy that I did it! Totally worth it!

 

**Since 1992, the only women able to have silicone gel-filled implants are breast reconstruction patients and patients undergoing breast revision surgery. In order to receive silicone, those women had to be enrolled in clinical trials.

An alternative to silicone is saline-filled implants. Saline implants also have a silicone outer shell (the shell used in silicone gel-filled implants) and contain salt water. Saline implants were officially approved by the FDA in 2000.