Hi everyone,
I am scheduled to have corrective forehead surgery, another rhinoplasty and a further upper lip lift with Facial Team in Spain.
The history of my FFS journey began in February 2004 and is detailed in my thread ' Thank God for the UK's National Health Service '
See: https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,180029.0.html
So another chapter has begun and on Monday my 2000 Euro deposit will be on it's way.
I am getting excited already ... :)
More to follow as events unfold.
Time for bed, it's been an exhausting day and I am NOT getting up too early .... ;)
After a good night's sleep and a relaxing day, going up to London at my age is quite tiring ... ;D ... I have booked my accommodation in Marbella and paid the deposit.
I am flying out on Thursday March 31st, chill out around the pool in the complex situated in Marbella's Golden Mile, hopefully meet up with Jenny Bowden from Hidden Woman and enjoy some restaurants with her and other FT patients who are staying at her villa. We did this last time back in May and it was great.
Also I will buy in my food at the supermarket situated very close by.
The following week is reserved for pre-op tests, surgery mid-week, one night in hospital and then return to the apartment.
The final week, I will continue to recover and fly back to the UK on Friday 15th April, 16 nights in total.
A friend of mine will be taking care of me for the first few days.
When I had my previous corrective forehead surgery in London back in October 2014, I stayed in hospital for two nights but could easily have gone home after one night as the bruising was minimal and this I have noticed with Facial Team's post-op forehead surgery patients that I have met over in Marbella.
I know that the worst part will be the corrective rhinoplasty as Dr Bellinga will be using cartilage from the rear of my two ears to improve the appearance. He said that the ears especially are going to be really sore ... :o
I have never really liked my nose as it was shortened too much and looks rather piggy. But I have learnt to live with it. I want the nose that I originally had hoped for.
Also beneath the right alars, I was left with a vertical raised ridge (sub-dermal lesion). This scar will go when the next upper lip lift is done as the original lift was too conservative and lengthened again by the two fat injections.
In addition, I still get constant nose bleeds which Dr Capitan will investigate when he performs the reconstruction of my forehead. It had never been properly reconstructed as it was burred down in February 2004.
The implants that were inserted in October 2014, he will remove as they do not look right as now all the swelling has gone down, they are very obvious and unnatural looking.
So this is a complex surgery and quite a challenge to both surgeons.
After my original FFS, some friends of mine were surprised that I had any facial surgery. They were always unaware of my transition, so they said 'Why'. I said that I needed forehead surgery due to an accident many years ago, which is true as I had an accident at birth!!
The forehead was definitely smoother and less male which was feminising but because my nose was not great, my face lost some character and it's original individuality. Also I continue to either being mistaken as a sister with my older friends who have the same nose and the mother of my younger friends with the same nose. A great compliment in many ways because we all look entirely female but also very annoying in other ways !!
Originally, I was lucky to only need forehead surgery and nose work as I inherited many of my late mother's features such as high cheek bones, a good jaw and chin etc.
With regards my visible direct brow lift scars from 1991 above the actual eyebrows, especially the left indented one, fat or fillers during surgery or at a later date will be inserted and once all this has settled in, I will have some hairs from my head grafted in to hide the scars and possibly some permanent make-up.
I will also be getting my eyebrows rehaped by actual hair and permanent make-up as they have never been good.
Yesterday at Facial Team's London consultations, two ladies from a firm called April's Touch were attending and telling us about the opening of a new branch in London next Spring. They already have a place in Holland.
http://www.aprilstouch.nl/ Their website is coming soon.
I will be sending them fotos of my eyebrows so they can photoshop them with a better shape.
So there we are, lots to look forward to next Spring and 16 days in Spain too which is very appealing as I understand that the weather is very nice then.
My FFS journey continues:
Hello ,
Congratulations for the surgery booking and thank you for sharing your story . It's no long until then and i hope all your wishes will be solved .
Thanks Claudia,
It sure has been a marathon.
26 years since my first procedure and counting ... ;)
Hugs
Paula xx
Morning all.
My check list:
1) 2000 Euro Deposit sent
2) Copy of Passport sent
3) Copy of letter from surgeon with my SRS/GRS date sent ( This to prove I am or have been provided with transgender- related healthcare) This is also to prevent Spanish tax ( around 20%) being added to surgery costs - an excellent tax relief over there.
4) Accommodation booked in Marbella and deposit sent. Details already sent to Facial Team
5) Blood Tests including parameters: Haemogram, Coagulation,HIV and Hepatitis(B and C) to be sent once they are done
6) Flight details to be sent once they are booked ( This to be done as soon as Facial Team confirm receipt of deposit and confirmed surgery schedule with me )
Just need to keep getting fitter than I am already as four months will fly by only too quickly.
Note to myself: Don't eat or drink too much over the festive season .. LOL ;D
and hey, despite being very excited, I am also nervous which is normal even after all the procedures that I have had since 1989 ... :o
I could not resist .... ;)
I am singing it all the time ... :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7aPp-4z-uw
Last May, I flew out to Spain with Monarch Airlines and was suitably impressed.
http://www.monarch.co.uk/
So flights booked with them again Tuesday afternoon - London Gatwick to Malaga - £200.98 return which includes the extra hold baggage of 26kg ( allowed only the single case which for 2 weeks is fine plus carry-on, of course ), larger seat up front ( bigger than Virgin Premium Economy ) and priority boarding at Malaga when I return ( gained from the experience last year at Malaga ) also because I will be recovering still from surgery and will want to get onboard as quickly as possible.
I thought about flying BA but the outward flight is in the evening whereas Monarch's flight is departing at 3.25pm to arrive in Spain at 7.15pm ( They are one hour ahead of the UK). This will give me plenty of time to be picked up by Facial Team's pre-arranged transport, be driven to my apartment in Malaga, dump my cases and walk the 10 odd minutes to the wonderful restaurant that Jenny Bowden of Jenny's Place http://www.thehiddenwoman.com/contact/ took me to in Old Town, Marbella last May ... :) Note to self - I had better make a reservation the week before.
The next day I will fully unpack and buy food for the first week. The apartment has a pool which I will use a lot before surgery cos I sure will not be using it afterwards ... :o
The studio apartment has aircon and free w-fi plus colour TV tuned into all the UK stations so I will not miss Eastenders when I am chilling out ... ;D
Cost for the 16 days I am there is £583.00 = £36.43 a night. It's so much cheaper to stay in Spain compared to "Rip Off UK".
I am really looking forward to the few days in Marbella before getting beaten up for the umpteenth time ... ;)
Now just need to find another suitable song to sing cos the other one is boring everyone including me.
Finally today I filled in all my personal details and medical information which I then sent to FT.
PS. The apartment is booked via http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/
who are part of Trip Advisor.
Very quick reply from the English owner of the apartment who lives in the complex and she will be able to provide an additional airbed and linen to go on the floor, if I have a second friend come over from the USA to be with me.
This is the restaurant that Jenny Bowman took me to last May in Old Town, Marbella with two other FT post-op patients, one from the USA and the other from France. I wonder how they are doing now.
http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g187439-d2214190-Reviews-El_Tanguito-Marbella_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html
Restaurant El Tanguito.
It is situated around the corner from the old Jenny's Nest.
Can't wait .... :) and will pre-book before I leave the UK so I have a restaurant that I already know to relax in after my day's travels.
Hi everyone,
The last 14 months since the relative failure of my revision surgery in London's Chelsea & Westminster has been a bit of a nightmare to say the very least.
I will now admit that there was one point in the early Spring when I was really down that I even thought of de-transitioning after all these years ( I transitioned in 1989 - 26 years back ) !!!!! :o God forbid.
That was how depressed I had become.
However my friends and brilliant local doctor (GP) were incredibly supportive and picked me off the floor.
Without them I might not have even been here to tell you this long running saga since February 2004.
Sleeping tablets had become very attractive !!!
When I travelled down to Spain this May to see the Facial Team and they told me that they can sort my problems out, my confidence slowly returned.
The team down there have also helped me come alive again.
I had become a virtual recluse up to that point which was doing me no good at all.
Some of these goddam surgeons have a lot to answer for ... :(
This Christmas I have gone all out to really enjoy the festive season with my friends, so my life is back on track now ... :)
14 weeks and one day, I will be on that plane to Malaga, Spain.
Merry Christmas one and all.
Paula
PS. Looking back on it, I can now see the funny side of becoming Paul again but at the time I was dead serious and as all my friends said " That would have made my situation even worse ".
Quote from: Paula1 on December 22, 2015, 04:01:00 PM
Quote from this thread: https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,201166.0.html
Sure there are risks with any surgery but it's vital to reduce those risks as much as possible by getting as much information from other people who have had surgery with various surgeons.
.
If you see my thread https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,180029.0.html
you will see that my journey has been far from easy.
And it's not finished yet.
See my latest threads: https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,199847.new.html#new
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,200643.0.html
Before I had my FFS in Feb 2004, I had Alexandra Hamer of Virtual FFS perform some virtuals for me which I showed to the surgeon beforehand but he ignored. I was looking younger back then but all the stress has aged me as well as the progression of time.
The befores were taken in Dec 2003 and the afters in May 2013 but before the October 2014 revisions in London
This is the left side virtual before the 2004 surgery: I think that the nose is just a little too big but it was based on my existing nose.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FzKdnpQE.jpg&hash=23fa21f141da40421936e69f25c6e0b8f315d358) (http://imgur.com/zKdnpQE)
After surgery - you can see that the nose and upper lip lift is very different to what I got with that stupid fat in the top lip that negated the upper lip lift performed. That darn fat looks like I have been in the boxing ring and lost ... >:( Also note the too high eyebrows!! Excuse my crappy hair but I had just got up after travelling 1500 miles from Chicago to Albuquerque, NM
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKfQKEnT.jpg&hash=32746338ab1439dd3dd46b84d02893766a4c85d2) (http://imgur.com/KfQKEnT)
Here is the 3/4 view from VFFS
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FU1l9YHE.jpg&hash=be63a20273d4a760d6b7f7c7067c70602c818cb9) (http://imgur.com/U1l9YHE)
and the same view after surgery. You can see the deformity over the left frontal sinus.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F8pvnBGK.jpg&hash=51d32f38f66228fefa286063bce96911ccbf5795) (http://imgur.com/8pvnBGK)
and finally the frontal view from VFFS
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgvOM3Kc.jpg&hash=99d63433111617f9e97b7b98da427089e76d2ccd) (http://imgur.com/gvOM3Kc)
and after FFS. Note the vertical ridge below the right alars and generally poor alarplasty performed.
Facial team will be performing a fresh upper lip lift which will also get rid of the vertical ridge (sub-dermal lesion) My present nose is way too short, piggy like and out of proportion to my face. I was given his standard cookie cutter nose.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSrNX3NX.jpg&hash=e35c68b51361cea74c09a6d3829c65de7c89e79b) (http://imgur.com/SrNX3NX)
Facial Team's Dr Bellinga has a very challenging revision rhinoplasty to perform as well as Dr Capitan's & Dr Simon's complex craniofacial reconstruction.
Then in a couple of year's time, I will be getting a full cervicofacial lifting which will also get rid of that turkey neck ... :o
Lots to look forward to ... :) but how I wish that I had never seen the Windy City that year ... >:( ( although the place itself is great ).
Since 2004 and together with the terrible direct brow lift that I had done in June 1991 ( which I used to hide with bangs ), my self confidence has never been good and when people who come to know me well and either ask me direct " Why all the scars? " or I simply volunteered how I came to get them because I knew they were closely studying my face and my self confidence is so poor, I will say " I had been in a serious accident many years ago ".
I never tell them my background but isn't it such a shame that I have even had to say this due to the poor surgery that I have received?
However, I am not telling these people an untruth because my accident did happen but when I was born, it's called being transgender !!!
PS. Just remembered, in 2006 two years after my FFS, I was sitting with a girlfriend in a local winebar and she introduced me to some other ladies who had just walked in. While we were chatting, one of them said " You have had a nosejob - I can tell ". I thought it was rather rude but it did upset me that my rhinoplasty was so obvious.Quote from: Paula1 on December 23, 2015, 04:40:59 PM
Hi everyone,
The last 14 months since the relative failure of my revision surgery in London's Chelsea & Westminster has been a bit of a nightmare to say the very least.
I will now admit that there was one point in the early Spring when I was really down that I even thought of de-transitioning after all these years ( I transitioned in 1989 - 26 years back ) !!!!! :o God forbid.
That was how depressed I had become.
However my friends and brilliant local doctor (GP) were incredibly supportive and picked me off the floor.
Without them I might not have even been here to tell you this long running saga since February 2004.
Sleeping tablets had become very attractive !!!
When I travelled down to Spain this May to see the Facial Team and they told me that they can sort my problems out, my confidence slowly returned.
The team down there have also helped me come alive again.
I had become a virtual recluse up to that point which was doing me no good at all.
Some of these goddam surgeons have a lot to answer for ... :(
This Christmas I have gone all out to really enjoy the festive season with my friends, so my life is back on track now ... :)
14 weeks and one day, I will be on that plane to Malaga, Spain.
Merry Christmas one and all.
Paula
PS. Looking back on it, I can now see the funny side of becoming Paul again but at the time I was dead serious and as all my friends said " That would have made my situation even worse ".
Happy Christmas everyone ... :)
Been working out how much I have spent crossing the Atlantic from here in the UK since 2004 up to 2013 when I had my last revision done.
Air Fares - £3800
Expenses at £250 a week x 2 weeks a stay - £3500 (in reality a lot more per week as I stayed on longer many times to visit friends )
Travel Insurance - £1400
Hotels - £1500 approx ( Lucky again because some of the times I stayed with friends )
So that's £10,200 approximately
That would have paid for a lot of surgery let alone the original FFS cost.
Frightening eh?
Also I have already spent and will spend more for my trips to Spain plus surgery costs.
Who said that transitioning is either easy or cheap !!!! LOL ;D
wishing you the best this coming spring :) i'll use your thread as reference if i decide to place my deposit for a spring surgery as well. i want to do mine around march otherwise after may..
Hiya,
Merry Christmas ... :)
Thank you for your good wishes <hugs>
If you decide on Facial Team, I tried to book my surgery during March but they were unable to accommodate me.
But that does not necessarily mean they cannot accommodate you, so best to get in touch with them.
Take care and also Happy New Year.
May all your FFS and other dreams come true.
Paula
Quote from: shoko on December 25, 2015, 10:54:13 AM
wishing you the best this coming spring :) i'll use your thread as reference if i decide to place my deposit for a spring surgery as well. i want to do mine around march otherwise after may..
Dear Paula,
I am still in the process of choosing an FFS surgeon. I can't choose between Dr. Bart vs Facial Team. If it's ok to ask, what made you choose them? I think both surgeons are impressive.
Hi Katrina,
No problem.
I chose Facial Team for the following reasons:
1) I have attended two of their London consultations this year and was very impressed with their post-op patients results.
2) Dr Capitan who I have seen both times has been totally upfront with my problems and no bull
>-bleeped-< either. Dr Bellinga was at the second consultation. and he explained very thoroughly my complex rhinoplasty.
3) When I visited them in Spain this May, I also met up with Dr Simon and Dr Bellinga and they both impressed me with their candour and professionalism.
4) Also when i was in Spain I went into HC Hospital, Marbella and it was very clean and professional.
5) I met up with FT's staff in Spain and they are excellent and very caring too.
6) Finally two post-op patients I met there looked very good so soon after surgery. One was French and was only 2 days post-op, the other was American and was 8 days post-op.
The surgeons and staff are simply lovely people, very honest and caring to members of our community.
Hope this helps .. :)
Hugs
Paula
PS. Forgot to mention but their results look natural and I want to get back some, if not all of my previous natural and feminine look before FFS in 2004.
PPS. All the post-op FT girls I spoke to were very happy with their results and loved the care and attention they received.
Quote from: katrina0411 on December 30, 2015, 11:24:09 AM
Dear Paula,
I am still in the process of choosing an FFS surgeon. I can't choose between Dr. Bart vs Facial Team. If it's ok to ask, what made you choose them? I think both surgeons are impressive.
This coming Saturday, I shall be away for a couple of weeks to simply chill out and get away from the four walls and computers .. LOL ... ;D
So forgive me if I cannot answer any questions while I am away but look forward to chatting to you when I return.
Happy New Year girls and I trust that all your dreams come true.
Hugs
Paula
Hi again Katrina,
Keep remembering things.
All three surgeons are relatively young and fit with loads of experience having carried out over 800 FFS procedures, I gather.
Happy New Year's Eve everyone ... :)
I had a lovely reply ( Post #31 ) from Dana in my thread here:
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,200643.msg1794871.html#msg1794871
that has made my day.
After my FFS in 2004, my late brother virtually disowned me after sending him a photograph. A friend of mine thinks she knows why because prior to the surgery he was fine with me and we socialised a lot, even going to Holland in 1996 with some of his work colleagues.
She feels that it's because my face was so drastically altered in such a negative way.
Anyway I am so looking forward to this coming April, getting more nervous by the day but also incredibly excited ... :)
Good morning members and may I wish you all a Happy New Year.
Just before I go away for a short break, here are images of my face.
I have now learnt that I will have computer access where I am going as I don't possess a laptop, so can reply if needs be.
Here is an X-Ray image (side view) taken in October 2012 which clearly shows the bony deformity over the left frontal sinus and adjacent to it towards the left centre of my forehead. The FFS was done in Feb 2004 as you know and this image was taken after two attempts of reburring in October 2010 and April 2012. There was a third and final attempt of reburring in April 2013 which also proved pointless.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fz1kEr3S.jpg&hash=3cecd1d1daa1bc71394de424d73b97902d04d741) (http://imgur.com/z1kEr3S)
Here's a front view
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FI7MAYxb.jpg&hash=d2bbb0bdb17737f85e939f63a47137d6bd1246b4) (http://imgur.com/I7MAYxb)
The report of these X-Rays. When Mr Eccles at the Chelsea & Westminster Hospital operated on me in October 2014, the first thing that happened after opening the forehead was a piece of bone paste dropping out of my forehead onto the OR floor !!! ... :o This bone paste was inserted after my Feb 2004 FFS by Dr Z during a revision attempt later in 2004, if I remember correctly. I have almost lost count of the number of revision attempts and when they were done. As you know my left frontal sinus was perforated during the FFS and a few days later when I blew my nose, the air bubbled up my skin and Dr Z had to release this air by piercing the bubble. The ivory osteoma was the bone paste.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F8ZEANJH.jpg&hash=56a6337ef841a32cf1286792bb47be62b598e579) (http://imgur.com/8ZEANJH)
Now here are images taken from the 3D CT Scan taken by the Chelsea & Westminster Hospital in November 2013 after the final April 2013 reburring and prior to the revision surgery done in October 2014.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FiDDbECs.jpg&hash=67add29ecc6d5f4a75cf6a877119ce827d5d703f) (http://imgur.com/iDDbECs)
Once again you can still see clearly the bony deformity
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fxrw9vZq.jpg&hash=c2129828d267216233fc63937d48933996330255) (http://imgur.com/xrw9vZq)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FqOF9foh.jpg&hash=06a281694614c8417a713a474fa2739774c65784) (http://imgur.com/qOF9foh)
The bony deformity is still more obvious on the 3D Model done for the C & W from these 3D CT Scans
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNcIQQX7.jpg&hash=860019fbda28c174a688d764a53c59fc806350fd) (http://imgur.com/NcIQQX7)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FyUrDAWl.jpg&hash=f2c155dd0d4f9a28d495315408d46c6e5b31c891) (http://imgur.com/yUrDAWl)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeIKVz0E.jpg&hash=5d64589ba959402c76e062b05849776b5d9993fc) (http://imgur.com/eIKVz0E)
And finally brutal fotos taken by Facial Team in May 2015. Sorry if the definition is not too hot but I had to take fotos of the printed out FT images. My hair looks thin on the sides but it's not. Just bounced flash effect. However I have lost some grafts in and around the coronal incision that Mr Eccles did in October 2014 which need to be replaced but not until after the surgery in April.
This front view shows the inappropriate PEEK implants ( these are being removed ) inserted at the C & W Hospital which raised my eyebrows even higher than before, my nose, the vertical raised ridge below the right alars ( as a result of the alarpalsty perfomed during the original FFS ) and the fat top lip due to excessive fat put in 2004 which requires another upper lip lift. Mr Eccles at the C & W did remove the bony deformity towards the left centre of the forehead but did not do anything with the left frontal sinus due to his obvious lack of expertise.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3jfDsJN.jpg&hash=381259d74c5acb54c04b0ceecfb3ab3c31f67fdf) (http://imgur.com/3jfDsJN)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FiUoB6Sq.jpg&hash=ef11478e2a7bc10d5a400f79a29723704e8c13fd) (http://imgur.com/iUoB6Sq)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFvu6Hvf.jpg&hash=e0a0f167d119928704de0398e73a738f81cd7785) (http://imgur.com/Fvu6Hvf)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fjq2cbeM.jpg&hash=bd8ac2c0e2817ef3ddf7133760d3ddf07f136816) (http://imgur.com/jq2cbeM)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FDIGzXxx.jpg&hash=1cc4bd8c996a046d5e5e0c42cd0b3ee6a335f190) (http://imgur.com/DIGzXxx)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeMePcBU.jpg&hash=ba018925fdfc7a305d71b5d45d96e93e45dadc90) (http://imgur.com/eMePcBU)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKt3UkZ4.jpg&hash=002b065282961a3deb85dadfb9ea2c4d9aa07688) (http://imgur.com/Kt3UkZ4)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQ7vJ9DS.jpg&hash=002f1f2fa413bfcb97bb742b08f9538aef5e5b40) (http://imgur.com/Q7vJ9DS)
I thought that the bony deformity which reappeared after the swelling went down post FFS and the three reburrings might have been due to my taking Fosamax anti-osteoporosis therapy for some time ( I ceased taking this in Feb 2012 before the second reburring in April 2012 ), but this is probably incorrect as the bone that Mr Eccles removed in October 2014 has resulted in the forehead remaining flat. However it could still be that when the reburring was done, not enough bone was removed containing the drug whereas Mr Eccles did remove sufficient, I really don't know. Maybe an analysis of the removed bone should have been done but when I discussed this Fosamax theory with Mr Eccles pre and post-operatively, he thought this theory of mine was probably a red herring! In reality, probably when the reburring swellings went down, the bone simply was not properly burred down.
Interesting, I never knew my Blood Group until now and when the result came back from my GP's surgery the other day, it is A Rh D POSITIVE which I understand is quite rare.
I was told that GP surgeries in England don't hold this information normally but hospitals where you have had surgery, do. Like many NHS departments, they don't talk to one another .. G'rrrrrrrrrrrr .. :(
This information is only one part of quite a few blood tests that have to be done prior to FT surgery.
In future, I will carry this information on me just in case something drops out of the sky and hits me on the head ... ;D
Wow thanks for sharing Paula!
Hi Debra,
Thanks honey.
You know everyone, I have been philosophical about my situation and have got on with life despite all the problems that begun in 2004 and beforehand in 1991. My late parents blessed me with many feminine features and the wonderful hair grafting done by the awesome Paul Cotterill in Toronto http://www.drcotterill.com/ simply transformed my life so I could once again enjoy swimming and other sports that I did in my previous life. So it's not been all bad. Also since meeting Facial Team my confidence in human nature has returned and I am very positive about the outcome of the forthcoming complex revisions I am facing this April.
FT and I know that this is going to be one big challenge.
I am not bitter because that can destroy a person BUT when I think of the £10,000.00 that I have effectively wasted going to and from the USA for pointless revisions, it has angered me. It also has delayed my spending all this money on other procedures that I need and should have been done over the last 10 years and I am not getting any younger.
However my plans remain as follows
April 2016 - FFS complex revision, rhinoplasty complex revision, secondary upper lip lift which will also remove the vertical raised ridge below right alars
Autumn 2016 - Fillers/fat to hide indented soft tissue above the old 1991 direct brow lift scars (this might be done during April surgery)
2017 - Brazilian butt lift , hair grafting to hide the two coronal incisions done in 2014 and again this year. Hair grafts to go along and hide the actual direct brow lift scars and maybe permanent eyebrow make-up to do the same.
2018 - Vocal Chord Surgery
2018/19 - Face and neck lift
So lot's to look forward to and give me another purpose in life.
I am not one of these women who want to grow old gracefully ... ;D and we girls are incredibly fortunate to remain looking younger than our years thanks to HRT and genetic background but only if we take care ourselves by not abusing our bodies by over eating, smoking, drinking too much and not getting sufficient and proper exercise.
I still feel blessed that I have been able to transition and live my life as it should have been in the beginning.
Finally I want to thank all my friends that have supported me down the years especially over the last 12 months. Hey guys and girls, I could not have done it without you ... :)
I hope all your dreams come true.
Paula
Quote from: Debra on January 07, 2016, 12:16:26 PM
Wow thanks for sharing Paula!
Thank you for the information. I'm just researching this too.
You are welcome Michelle ... :)
I have just found this foto of me that was taken in Jan 2009 aged 63 and 6 months (almost 5 years after FFS) and before any of the failed reburring attempts on my forehead in 2010,2012,2013 and the open surgery in 2014. Beginning to age with all the worry ... :(
You can see the bony deformities in the forehead, overburred orbital rims, piggy nose, fat lips, high eyebrows and vertical ridge below the right alars.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4X3rQfB.jpg&hash=88e672c98b2ba5bcbf861a896c86d0ec804a9b4e) (http://imgur.com/4X3rQfB)
Also found this one taken in November 2007 aged 62 and 4 months before all the stress got to me which has aged me considerably.
Look pretty good here thanks to the softer focus ... ;)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0Evlpu0.jpg&hash=1a1d245fe74a23f8018cc8879f7ebdec44e0b54c) (http://imgur.com/0Evlpu0)
I am 70 years and 6 months now but feel like a spring chicken again now that I know I am going to be sorted out .. Third time lucky, I trust ... :)
Seems like yesterday when I started on this road in 1987 when I was 42 !!!
But I can still swim many lengths in the pool and fast walk nearly 2-3 miles virtually every day to keep fit because it's essential at this age.
One thing that I do know is that stress is starting to go now and my friends say I am looking much younger again. The other day someone thought I was in my mid to late 50's, so something good is happening.
I might even go clubbing next weekend ... ;) but have to get rid of that " Turkey neck " ... ;D
Quote from: Michelle86 on January 09, 2016, 03:30:59 PM
Thank you for the information. I'm just researching this too.
Been downloading and then sending FT all the relevant fotos that I have post my FFS in 2004.
Taken me hours, there are so many .. LOL ;D
Just as well I kept them ... :)
I was chatting to a female friend of mine the other day at my local tennis club and I was telling her that I having some cosmetic surgery done in Spain this April.
She does not know my background as far as I know but even if she does " So what".
It's never been been discussed even if she does know.
Anyway, she said that a few of her friends have been to cosmetic surgeons in Spain rather than the UK for two reasons.
1) They are generally better than UK surgeons especially rhinoplasty surgeons and
2) It's a lot cheaper.
She has had work done in Marbella Spain and it looks great.
I did not ask which hospital and I did not mention mine for obvious reasons.
This lady is not short of a bob or two and neither are her friends.
Evening members,
I am getting real excited now.
The days are getting longer, spring is almost here ( well it is in the UK with our mildest winter on record ) and in exactly 9 weeks I will be in Marbella ... :)
I know it's corny but
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7aPp-4z-uw
Good morning everyone,
I am going to stay at Jenny's Nest for a few days after I have had my surgery on April 6th.
http://www.thehiddenwoman.com/
Luckily she was able to fit me in.
I will be in hospital to Friday April 8th and then go to her new chalet.
Looks great doesn't it? http://facialteam.eu/jennys-nest-for-patients-in-marbella/
Really looking forward to it and seeing her again.
Have a nice day.
Paula
So happy for you, and good luck! By the way how long will you stay at Jenny's after surgery? And will you go somewhere else afterwards?
Thank you ... :)
I am flying in to Malaga from London Gatwick on Thursday March 31st, staying at a rented studio apartment booked on Marbella's Golden Mile, chilling out by the pool in the complex, enjoying the many restaurants in Marbella, having surgery the following Wednesday April 6th, staying in the HC Hospital for 2 nights and going to Jenny's Nest on Friday April 8th. I don't know exactly how many nights I will be staying with her as it will all depend on how my healing process goes but when I do leave her care, I will return to the apartment on my own and fly back to the UK on Friday April 15th.
All I know is by going from all the patient's reports on here , I will not want to leave Jenny's luxury chalet ... :(
I am lucky that she is able to accommodate me for just a few days ... 8), otherwise I would be returning to an empty apartment as my friend who is also having some surgery with FT the week before me and I am her carer, is flying home on Friday April 8th, the day I come out of hospital.
Quote from: shoko on February 04, 2016, 11:27:32 AM
So happy for you, and good luck! By the way how long will you stay at Jenny's after surgery? And will you go somewhere else afterwards?
Enjoy the time spent there Paula, it goes by all too fast!
If I could do it again, I would have stayed 3 weeks instead of 2. But unfortunately family and work obligations take priority!
Hi Michelle,Quote from: michelle82 on February 05, 2016, 05:26:58 AM
Enjoy the time spent there Paula, it goes by all too fast!
Thank you, I will ... :)
If I could do it again, I would have stayed 3 weeks instead of 2. But unfortunately family and work obligations take priority!
Sure I understand, likewise but there ya go, maybe next time which there will be for me as I will be having a facelift/necklift done by FT in due course.
Hugs
Paula (Growing old disgracefully) ... ;) ;)
In just eight weeks and two days, I will be flat on my back in Marbella having a much needed few hour's rest and then off to "Jenny's Nest" for some TLC ... ;D
I love Andre Rieu
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_AxSvsSFMY
I can envisage Jenny, Nicola, myself and other patients singing and dancing in the 'Nest ' .... :icon_biggrin:
In a couple of hours time, I am getting my blood taken for these parameters:
Haemogram, coagulation, HIV and Hepatitis (B and C) and biochemistry (glucosa, creatinine, ions (Na, K y Cl), GPT(ALT), GOT(AST) and GGT).
In exactly eight weeks I will be recovering from surgery the day before.
I am staying in for two nights and then off to "Jenny's Nest" for a few days before returning to the apartment that I have booked in Marbella.
Quote from: Paula1 on February 10, 2016, 11:10:28 PM
In a couple of hours time, I am getting my blood taken for these parameters:
Haemogram, coagulation, HIV and Hepatitis (B and C) and biochemistry (glucosa, creatinine, ions (Na, K y Cl), GPT(ALT), GOT(AST) and GGT).
In exactly eight weeks I will be recovering from surgery the day before.
I am staying in for two nights and then off to "Jenny's Nest" for a few days before returning to the apartment that I have booked in Marbella.
So they operate on day one, and you will spend that night and one more night in the hospital ?
Quote from: Paula1 on January 02, 2016, 06:07:45 AM
Good morning members and may I wish you all a Happy New Year.
Just before I go away for a short break, here are images of my face.
I have now learnt that I will have computer access where I am going as I don't possess a laptop, so can reply if needs be.
Here is an X-Ray image (side view) taken in October 2012 which clearly shows the bony deformity over the left frontal sinus and adjacent to it towards the left centre of my forehead. The FFS was done in Feb 2004 as you know and this image was taken after two attempts of reburring in October 2010 and April 2012. There was a third and final attempt of reburring in April 2013 which also proved pointless.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fz1kEr3S.jpg&hash=3cecd1d1daa1bc71394de424d73b97902d04d741) (http://imgur.com/z1kEr3S)
Here's a front view
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FI7MAYxb.jpg&hash=d2bbb0bdb17737f85e939f63a47137d6bd1246b4) (http://imgur.com/I7MAYxb)
That forehead sinus area is still really large in your 2012 X-ray - - why was that not addressed as part of your first surgery 10 + years ago ?
Hiya,
Good question.
Because Dr Zukowski only burrs down the bone and is not qualified to perform craniofacial surgery.
Here's his CV. http://www.mlzukowski.co.uk/images/cv/cv.pdf
When I consulted him in the autumn of 2003, he said that it's not necessary to have forehead X-Rays done as he stops burring when the bone changes colour. Of course, now I am better educated.
As previously stated, my sinus cavity was penetrated during surgery.
He is a very good soft tissue surgeon but burring to the forehead is a very limited procedure and the result most of the time is a dolphin shaped forehead which is fine but not as good as proper reconstruction.
Quote from: oneoftwo on February 11, 2016, 09:20:33 PM
That forehead sinus area is still really large in your 2012 X-ray - - why was that not addressed as part of your first surgery 10 + years ago ?
Correct.
Surgery on April 6th and I leave hospital two days later on the afternoon of April 8th.
Quote from: oneoftwo on February 11, 2016, 09:14:32 PM
So they operate on day one, and you will spend that night and one more night in the hospital ?
Well another weekend beckons and lots to do as always.
Some good programmes to watch especially "The Voice UK" which I love.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Voice_UK_(series_5)
Far better than 'X' Factor IMHO
The banter and competition between will.i.am, Boy George, Paloma Faith and Ricky Wilson is wonderful.
Waiting to see if any of them turn round in their chairs is fascinating.
I used to sing in choirs etc and I am so looking forward to vocal chord surgery at Yeson in South Korea next year.
But it's been a hard week for a variety of reasons almost to the point of postponing my surgery to later in the year.
At my ripe old age ( and I never thought that I would ever say this ), small things as well as bigger things, I find difficult to deal with.
Also I find it harder to tolerate people's inefficiency, stupidity or sheer lack of common sense.
A couple of weeks back I went to the funeral of a lovely man who passed away at 61, way too young and eleven days ago I had a minor varicose vein procedure on my left leg by Radiofrequency Ablation. No general anaesthetic fortunately and so far a great success.
But a year ago the same leg was operated on by another surgeon in the same NHS hospital and the vein was cored out and avulsed proximally and distally. However this vein remained intact so unfortunately this had not taken away the vicious cycle or venous hypertension away.
The bedside manner of the original surgeon was to put it bluntly "Outright rude" and I nearly told him where to go and walked out of the hospital. Regrettably I went ahead.
To rub salt into the wounds at a later meeting with him, while he was dictating a letter to my GP, he referred to me as 'He'. His secretary upon typing the letter to my GP thought he must have made a mistake and, of course, referred to me as "She" because naturally all my records are female.
I am sure he enjoyed further insulting me put I kept my cool and was polite.
When I told my wonderfully supportive GP, she was shocked to say the very least.
I had a feeling he was transphobic when I first met him and I am just biding my time before reporting him to the hospital's chief executive.
The second surgeon is a lovely man and we hit it off from day one and the care that he and his team afforded me last Sunday week was awesome.
Shame that my medical records give the game away because the lady who carried out the pre-operative tests a couple of weeks ago was shocked when she realised from my records that I am transsexual. She said she would never have known except for this giveaway.
It surprising how many members of the medical profession have very negative opinions on transsexual men and women and on occasions we have to put our lives into the hands of these people.
I am not saying that the first surgeon deliberately messed up but you never know. Also he left with a rotten and painful keloid scar and I never scar badly. More to go in my complaint.
In two weeks time they begin injecting the keloid scar with kenalog. More expense that the NHS and ultimately the UK tax payer has to pay for.
However how lucky we girls are to have caring and supportive surgeons like Facial Team.
They are the only reason I did not postpone.
Time to chill and watch the Graham Norton show: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Graham_Norton_Show
Nitey nite and everyone have a restful weekend, I hope to.
Hugs
Paula
Chilling out to Mark Knopfler's (Dire Straits) awesome 2002 album "The R>-bleeped-<icker's Dream
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_R>-bleeped-<icker%27s_Dream
Thinking how wonderful it is that girls transitioning these days have the choice of some great surgeons.
When I transitioned in the late 80's, it was either recommendation by word of mouth or taking a chance with surgeons some of whom were very good at taking your money and running away when things went wrong or done badly.
I have had my fair share of bad luck as you will know if you have read this thread fully and my previous one https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,180029.0.html
There have been times when I thought that I must have done something wrong in my past life and I was now being punished for it.
There have been occasions when I have even felt guilty for transitioning.
In the early days of my transition, I approached the UK national press and women's magazines and as a result I had very positive articles printed because I wanted the general public to know that we are not freaks but simply people who were born in the wrong body.
In the mid 90's, I even sat in the audience on BBC 1's "Kilroy" which was a positive programme for us girls.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilroy_(TV_series)
Robert Kilroy- Silk was very pro transgendered/transsexual people.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Kilroy-Silk
as indeed retired BBC sports presenter Des Lynam is, who was good pals with model and James Bond girl " Tula " aka Caroline Cossey.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Des_Lynam
and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caroline_Cossey
Remember seeing them together one evening in Soho's "Madame JoJo's" http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/nov/24/madame-jojos-legendary-soho-nightclub-forced-close
But my worst experience was once meeting so called feminist Germaine Greer and I told her exactly what I thought of her .... ;D
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germaine_Greer
Let's put it this way, it wasn't exactly complimentary ... :icon_giggle:
See: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-34625512
and: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/germaine-greer-defends-grossly-offensive-comments-about-transgender-women-just-because-you-lop-off-a6709061.html
What angers me more than anything else is when we girls are exploited by so called medical professionals.
Don't get me started on London's Charing Cross Hospital "Gender Identity Clinic" back in the 70's/80's/90's.
It's better now but still has policies that get my goat.
Thank God, I avoided them as I probably would not be alive now.
Two pre-op friends of mine hung themselves because of the Charing Cross "GIC" back in the 80's .... >:(
Anyway lots more rest for me and positive thoughts before I take a Spanish holiday in early April .... ;D
Yesterday I e-mailed the final blood results required before surgery for these parameters:
Haemogram, Coagulation, HIV and Hepatitis (B and C).
All results normal/negative
7 weeks from today and I shall be in the operating theatre .... :o
I know that I am used to surgery but I am getting very nervous about it all.
Good Morning everyone,
Just been checking out Archlord's latest post after her surgery with Dr Bensimon in Canada.
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,204276.20.html
The nose has to be the most important part of the face, then the forehead.
That is why I am so looking forward to my complex revision rhinoplasty with Dr Bellinga on April 6th.
Then I will get the nose that I wanted in the first place as per Virtual FFS's foto in 2003.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FzKdnpQE.jpg&hash=23fa21f141da40421936e69f25c6e0b8f315d358) (http://imgur.com/zKdnpQE)
After my Feb 2004 FFS surgery, you can see that the nose and upper lip lift is very different to Virtual FFS's foto as above. Too much soft tissue was removed at the bottom of the nose leaving me with a somewhat piggy nose. Also the stupid fat in the top lip negated the upper lip lift performed and the effect of the fat makes me look like I have been having a few rounds in the boxing ring !!! ... :o ... Also note the over high eyebrows!!
Sorry for the unkempt hair but this foto was taken first thing in the morning after the night before travelling 1500 miles from Chicago to Albuquerque, NM in April 2013.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKfQKEnT.jpg&hash=32746338ab1439dd3dd46b84d02893766a4c85d2) (http://imgur.com/KfQKEnT)
I will upload more recent fotos of my face very soon.
Have a great weekend folks.
Hugs
Paula
Carrying on from my reply #16 on this thread https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,204358.0.html
Went to see the orthopaedic surgeon this pm and after examining the second toe on my left foot, the top joint is not right and needs straightening more ... Another pin thru the toe for a month or so!!
Gonna be interesting hearing the crunching going on ... :o as we agreed to have it done under a local. He said the painful bit will be injecting the anaesthetic in the base of the toe but I said that I am used to that ... ;D
Thanks Dad for giving me your funny feet.
I had the first op on them when I was 13 (both feet) when the fourth and little toes were locked solid.
Two further ops on both feet in 2007 & 2009 and now this final one (hopefully).
When I told him that I was undergoing the facial surgery in April, he said " Let's leave it until later in the year " which I thought was a good idea ... ;)
I am definitely a "surgery junkie " whether by design or not ..... ;D
Quote from: Paula1 on February 19, 2016, 12:48:27 PM
Then off to bed early because the lounge is being redecorated in the morning and then I have a hospital appointment to see an orthopaedic surgeon for a left foot second toe operation that was not done well a few years ago.
I don't seem to have much luck with some surgeons be they NHS or private !!! :o
Hi everyone,
Nearly the end of winter (February) and spring is beckoning.
Mind you, it has been the mildest winter here in the UK since 1910 and in some areas the wettest ... :(
A month on Thursday, I fly out to Spain.
Getting real excited but also more and more nervous which, of course, is natural when the face is involved.
Must say the attention to detail by Facial Team's co-ordinator Laura and her other colleagues is second to none.
Compared to some of the administration mistakes ( as well as surgery errors ) that I have suffered at the hands of the UK's NHS, FT are far more efficient.
In fact, I can safely say that they are the most professional and caring private provider that I have come across since transitioning in 1988.
Have a good week folks.
Hugs
Paula
:o :o :o :o :o
The pesky UK£ is falling against the Euro due to the UK's June "In or out of Europe" referendum.
G'rrrrrrrrrrrr !!!!
So my surgery is costing quite a lot more.
No need for it but it's engineered so that the money men can make lots of profit.
Bankers etc, I hate them .... >:(
Sent some of the money by TransferWise just now.
See: https://transferwise.com/
The rest two weeks before surgery.
Saves a small fortune in bank charges ... 8)
Also see my thread; https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,199848.msg1810925.html#msg1810925
Good morning everyone,
Last night I had a very encouraging e-mail wishing me the very best of luck with my surgery. This person recently watched Dr Bellinga do an extremely complex rhinoplasty and said that he was very impressive.
This person also said " That the main thing to remember with my nose is that it is complicated and it is not going to be possible to simply undo the damage that has been done, but of course, you know that."
" However, what you can hope for is a very useful improvement, and I know Dr Bellinga will be aiming for the absolute maximum improvement that his expertise can give you. Based on my observations, I would say his expertise is considerable."
I replied "I am 100% confident that he will do a great job, otherwise I would be leaving my poor nose and ears alone." ( I am having cartilage taken from them for the nose ).
Finally I said that I feel reassured now that my nose will be fine and said thank you for contacting me :)
Four weeks from today and I will be having my pre-op tests done and discussions with Drs Capitan, Simon & Bellinga.
Time sure moves fast !!! :o
Have a good week everyone.
Hugs
Paula
Woke up early this morning and realised it's four weeks today that I enter another operating theatre.
The only time I seem to get abroad these days or even have a holiday is to have surgery ... LOL ;D
Still it hasn't been all bad as I have many trips to the USA for revisions and it was a great opportunity to visit my two wonderful friends, one in New Mexico and the other in Wisconsin.
Thanks to Yahoo's FFS Support group, I met them in 2004 and 2005 and we have had some wonderful times together which I will cherish to the day I leave this earth. Now I am welling up .... :'( Daft me.
Since my Facial Team journey began in February last year, I have made more friends such as Jenny Bowman who runs 'Jenny's Nest' for FT's post-operative patients and cannot wait to see her again and stay for a few days after my surgery. I am sure that I will enjoy meeting her other recovering patients while there and hope to make more friends.
Anyway lots still to do to get ready for early next month such as spring cleaning etc, you know what I mean ... ;) ;)
Hi all,
Last Thursday I was at my local hospital awaiting an ultrasound on my left leg that was operated on at the end of January by radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and I was telling some other patients that I was undergoing a few hours forehead surgery in early April as a result of an accident many years ago.
They said " You are very brave ".
None of them I am sure were aware of my background.
It's surprising how many people are scared of any surgery, I am now just about immune to it all ... LOL ;D
I suppose we are brave or just mad to put ourselves thru all this surgery !!!
Do we have a choice " Not really ".
By the way, the operation in January was a success, so far !!! .... :)
I had an e-mail from Facial Team today that has made me feel even more relaxed than ever over my forthcoming surgery in just over three weeks time.
They sure are taking every precaution with me and looking after my best interests which is so reassuring.
It was discovered about three years ago that I had a slightly enlarged ascending aorta which my cardiologist feels that I may have had all my adult life.
I have had symptoms for years.
However I have had quite a lot of surgery pre and post transition and all GA's have been "A Walk in the Park" for me, I am glad to say. The last one in 2014 was a breeze but I am am still touching wood as I write this.
When I had my revision surgery with Mr Simon Eccles at London's Chelsea & Westminster in October 2014, they were made aware of this but my textbook blood pressure ( all my life) and good cardiogram result meant that they were not concerned about me. Being a teaching hospital, they, of course, had a cardiologist on standby ( as they do with every patient who has surgery there ) just in case of problems.
Anyway I am a bit older now although my latest January 2016 CT scan said that there was no significant change to the aorta which again demonstrates that I may have had this all my adult life.
I do have a gluten free diet, eat lots of vegetables and fresh fruit, take honey in my tea and 2000mg Omega-3 every day. I don't smoke, consume very little alcohol and I also fast walk around 2 to 3 miles a day and never get out of breath. I also swim quite often.
This website provides excellent advice to people like me:
http://www.healthcentral.com/heart-disease/c/1435/118832/neglected/
Since stopping taking the dreaded osteoporosis drug Fosamax/Alendronic Acid in 2013 ( which should never have been prescribed to me in the first place by an endocrinologist who should have known better ) - we girls don't normally need it as we are on HRT , any slight palpitations that I used to have have long since gone. One of the side effects of this synthetic drug is palpitations amongst others.
The manufaturers Merck have put aside $48 million to set up a defense fund for lawsuits related to Fosamax which is one tenth of what the company spent on legal costs for Vioxx in 2006.
My GP ( local doctor) said to me the other day, that it was a great pity that this uneducated ( for girls like us) endocrinologist prescribed this bisphosphonate drug for me in the first place.
I am so glad that I took it upon myself to see Dr Leighton-Seal the UK's top endocrinologist for us girls at London's Charing Cross and St George's Hospitals.
Anyway the FT e-mail said:
Planning for your pending surgery has involved several complex factors.
After careful evaluation of your medical history by our Anesthesiology Unit, the case has been classified as high surgical risk (ASA III-IV) due to the presence of a dilation of 4.6 cm at the level of the ascending aorta. This implies the need for a number of specific personnel and infrastructural measures in case of any post surgical complication or issue associated with the given heart condition.
The stated preventive measures would include the presence of two anesthesiologists during your surgery, an on-call cardiologist/chest surgeon, as well as an intensive care doctor for the initial hours after your surgery. If any complication were to arise during or after the surgery, a Cardiology Unit is required to respond to the need for any interventions. This type of medical unit, which is only required for "Third Level" public or private health centers according to the health legislation of Spain, is therefore not available within our current hospital. For this reason, our team informs you that it would be necessary, in the event of complications, to transfer your care (via the appropriate medical transportation system) to said Cardiology Unit within the nearby Quirón Hospital of Marbella.
Given the complexity of your case due to the peculiarities of the underlying pathology, it is our ethical and professional obligation to offer alternative solutions that guarantee security and stability throughout the surgical procedure and post-anesthetic period.
We want you to understand that this measure requires substantial modifications to our normal work routine and therefore involves the mobilization of a number of extraordinary resources. However, we perceive this to be part of our obligation and duty to ensure greater safety in the treatment plan proposed to you.
So I am now just chilling until I fly down to Malaga in just over 2 weeks time.
This surgery is going to be a big day for me and I am looking forward to getting it done so that I can get on with life once again.
If only the original surgery had been done properly in the first place and my not having to go through it once again.
But I am not the first patient to be in this situation and sadly will not be the last.
C'est la vie !!!
Seeing Shoko's positive report just now, I am getting more and more excited that I will be in Marbella in eleven days from now ... :)
Then it will be time to put my feet up for a few hours ... ;D
Have a lovely Sunday everyone.
I'm looking forward to watching the Australian Grand Prix.
I think that I will rename this thread Paula's blog .... ;)
On Saturday afternoon, I noticed that I had a bit of swelling around the left ankle and top of the left foot which concerned me.
So I drove over to my local hospital to get it checked as I had that varicose vein procedure on January 31st.
Anyway they took some blood in case there was a possible DVT and the following day (yesterday), they carried out a very thorough ultrasound scan which proved to be negative.
So that was good because you never know especially with us girls on HRT.
She reckoned that there was a bit of residual fluid in the ankle and foot and asked if I had been overdoing it. I said probably.
The operative was asking me why I had to go to Spain to have my forehead revised and told her about my long saga and the fact that London's Chelsea & Westminster hospital did not get it right. She was surprised when I told her that it seems that there is no surgeon in the UK who has the expertise in this type of revision surgery.
She said this must be costing you a small fortune but I told her that as the NHS had got it wrong, they were picking up Facial Team's tab. Brilliant she said and so they should ... :)
I said that I still had to pay for all my travelling and accommodation costs and I was paying for my rhinoplasty revision.
So all in all this weekend although very busy was also a positive one.
This morning the left foot is fine.
Have a good week folks .... ;D
Quote from: Paula1 on March 21, 2016, 04:41:26 AM
Anyway they took some blood in case there was a possible DVT and the following day (yesterday), they carried out a very thorough ultrasound scan which proved to be negative.
So that was good because you never know especially with us girls on HRT.
HRT is not all the same. Some components increase the risk while others, like bio-identical progesterone, finasteride/dutasteride don't and non-oral estradiol's effect is negligible.
First, I wish you the best in your surgery recovery. I've followed your post here and on Yahoo ffs-support for years.
I realize this is a FFS related thread but you are talking about HRT.
I'm 57, I have not been on HRT since shortly after SRS surgery in 1985. I just had a full endocrinology test panel done in late January. My endo followed up with the test results, saying I'm in post menopausal range, and she'd see me in a year. I fully informed her about my health history.
I have never seen any reports studying long term treatment of transwomen with HRT. I stopped HRT post SRS because I didn't believe any getting injections the rest of my life. I have taken calcium supplements the last 15 years or so.
Just to let you know there is another perspective related to HRT.
Hiya,
Thanks for the info.
I apply Sandrena Gel( Estradiol) transdermally at <Not Permitted> a day to the thighs.
Also take Finasteride <Not Permitted> every other day.
Quote from: KayXo on March 21, 2016, 04:21:15 PM
HRT is not all the same. Some components increase the risk while others, like bio-identical progesterone, finasteride/dutasteride don't and non-oral estradiol's effect is negligible.
Mod Edit:Dosage
Hiya ... :)
Quote from: deeiche on March 21, 2016, 06:12:50 PM
First, I wish you the best in your surgery recovery.
Thank you very much .... :)
I've followed your post here and on Yahoo ffs-support for years.
Wow. Yes I started my FFS journey in November 2003, a long time back now.
I realize this is a FFS related thread but you are talking about HRT.
I'm 57, I have not been on HRT since shortly after SRS surgery in 1985. I just had a full endocrinology test panel done in late January. My endo followed up with the test results, saying I'm in post menopausal range, and she'd see me in a year. I fully informed her about my health history.
I have never seen any reports studying long term treatment of transwomen with HRT. I stopped HRT post SRS because I didn't believe any getting injections the rest of my life. I have taken calcium supplements the last 15 years or so.
Just to let you know there is another perspective related to HRT.
Thanks for the information.
When I was taking oestrogen orally my levels were way too low and I had no energy, sex drive and generally felt old. Now that Dr Leighton-Seal my UK endocrinologist has put me on Sandrena Gel for 3-4 years now, my levels are higher and I have all the energy in the world.
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: deeiche on March 21, 2016, 06:12:50 PM
I have never seen any reports studying long term treatment of transwomen with HRT.
We have plenty of studies dating back to the 1960's. It's a matter of taking the time to dig them up, read them in their entirety and draw some conclusions as some recent researchers have, regarding the different health risks associated with HRT. Take Gooren's* or Asscheman's studies, for instance or this study (
Journal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology 2 (2015) 55-60,
Hormone therapy in transgender adults is safe with provider supervision; A review of hormone therapy sequelae for transgender individuals) Add to that the studies on ciswomen, on men and observations in pregnant women and you begin to see a pattern unfold. Soon enough, you realize that if bio-identical hormones are taken for a lifetime, they are quite safe and beneficial, to ageing, bones, perhaps breast cancer (as studies are more indicative of a protective than harmful effect, if you take the time to read several different types of studies and understand what they mean and their strengths/weaknesses), perhaps colon cancer, memory (it can slow down the onset or prevent Alzheimer's), mood, energy, libido, feminine appearance, skin/hair, cardiovascular health (as opposed to some progestogens and non bio-identical forms of estrogen; accounts for why women before menopause suffer less from this than men).
QuoteI stopped HRT post SRS because I didn't believe any getting injections the rest of my life. I have taken calcium supplements the last 15 years or so.
Estrogen is not only necessary for bones but for so many other things, as mentioned above. I see no reason, if one relies on studies so far, to not take HRT if the right hormones are taken, especially non-orally in the case of estradiol as it negligibly affect the risk of clots (supported by my own experience, pregnancy in women and studies in men and transsexual women).
Sadly, just because of the bad rap non-bio-identical estrogens have gotten and the famous WHI study of 2003 (which interestingly, was replicated years before with opposite results but on a smaller population), women and many doctors have come to view HRT in a negative fashion. The victims are the women who believe that all HRT is bad and who miss getting the many benefits from them when the right hormones are taken.
QuoteJust to let you know there is another perspective related to HRT.
It's your life, I respect your decision. But, I hope you took that decision knowing full well the potential consequences of not taking any hormones and having a clear understanding of the benefits/risks after having fully read through the literature. It would be unfortunate if that decision was based on incomplete or not fully understood data. I tend to blame more the doctors than the patients as the latter should (perhaps in an ideal world) rely on them to make sound decisions and be well-informed but in the world of HRT as it relates to transgendered women especially, few doctors are really well-versed and there is no official training at medical school for this. Biases also exist not only toward transgendered people but towards women, especially when doctors are male.
*
Journal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology 2 (2015) 55-60"Gooren et al. (2008), reported no increase in VTE among 2236 male-to-female (MTF) transgender individuals on HT
from 1975 to 2006 compared with controls, with the exception of those who used ethinyl estradiol, for which there was a 6-8% incidence [4]."
J Sex Med 2013;10:3129–3134"We researched the occurrence of breast cancer among transsexual persons 18–80 years with an exposure
to cross-sex hormones between 5 to >30 years. Our study included 2,307 male-to-female (MtF) transsexual persons
undergoing androgen deprivation and estrogen administration (52,370 person-years of exposure)"
"The mean follow-up period of subjects receiving anti-androgens and estrogens or only estrogens was 21.4 ± 8.7 years
(median 17.6, range 6.0–43.5 years)."
Another mention of long-term reports (follow-ups)
Andrologia. 2015 Aug;47(6):680-4."In the Amsterdam Gender Clinic between 1975 and
2006, 2306 MtoF transsexual subjects were treated. The
mean age at initiation of treatment was 29.3 12.7 years,
with a range of 16–83 years. Mean follow-up in these
subjects was 21.4 years, providing a total of 51 173
person-years of exposure and follow-up. Follow-up of
20 years or more was available of 303 individuals,
including follow-up of 30 years or greater in 151."
"In Trangender Clinic of Hospital das Clınicas, at the
Medical School of University of Sao Paulo, 166 MtoF
transsexuals have been followed since 1996."
Great post KayXo .. :)
Before I went to see Dr Leighton-Seal, my local endocrinologist had me on Fosamax/Alendronic Acid to reduce the risk of osteoporosis for a long time when I should never have been put on it in the first place as I was taking oestrogen and calcium tablets.
Bisphosphonate which the drug contains is an ingredient that has been used for many years in laundry soaps, fertilizers and industrial lubricants to prevent corrosion !!!
Merck this drug manufacturer introduced this product around 1995 and has been a money spinner for them. Sales reps toured the USA , UK etc selling it to doctors and endos alike. In 13 years sales were in excess of 3 billion dollars but they have put aside $48 million to set up a defense fund for lawsuits related to the drug.
This drug caused me to have palpitations until I came off it in 2013. Also bisphosphonates can weaken the jaw with a side effect called osteonecrosis, eczema ( which I had but long gone now), hair loss etc.
A very serious side effect is femur fracture. This happened to my friend's aunt in Florida who was on the drug for years and her femur broke when she was nearly 90. Effectively the drug killed her because she never recovered from the break.
See: https://www.drugwatch.com/fosamax/
Anyway back on topic, it's now 9 days before I fly to Spain ... :)
Nite all.
studies "dating back to 60's"? recent studies , something from 21st century, has shown that understanding of HRT even for cis women has changed. why should they not change for transwomen?
My bone density is fine, shown by recent test, so are my hormone levels.
What I'm trying to say is, everyone is an individual, long term HRT should be treated on an individual basis. If you don't "need" HRT why should you take HRT?
Quote from: deeiche on March 22, 2016, 06:00:32 AM
studies "dating back to 60's"? recent studies , something from 21st century, has shown that understanding of HRT even for cis women has changed. why should they not change for transwomen?
We understand things better today by looking at past results dating back to the 1960's. The accumulated evidence allows us today to draw more solid conclusions. We now are realizing that different types of estrogen affect the body differently, that bio-identical estradiol is safer, non-oral even more so. Same with progestogens. Etc. Had it not been for past results and experiences, we would not have understood this today. The science of the past is important.
QuoteIf you don't "need" HRT why should you take HRT?
In my opinion, having some sex hormones in the body enhances quality of life, slows down ageing, maintains feminization, prevents/slows down the onset of some diseases including diabetes, coronary heart disease and Alzheimer's. It makes for a better sex life as well and allows one to more fully enjoy life.
Quote from: Paula1 on March 21, 2016, 08:39:09 PM
Anyway back on topic, it's now 9 days before I fly to Spain ... :)
Best of luck and I'm glad you're off this terrible drug and feel better. Yuk!
Sorry Paula for hijacking your thread but this is an important topic.
I have estrogen in my body, adrenal glands also produce estrogen. Once again, I will state, my recent endo workup shows I have post-menopause hormone levels. My bone density is okay, I'm healthy, my docs acknowledge that. This is after 30 years post SRS with no HRT.
I'd love to read a long term double blind study regarding HRT vs no HRT post SRS in transwomen?
Quote from: KayXo on March 22, 2016, 07:44:13 AM
We understand things better today by looking at past results dating back to the 1960's. The accumulated evidence allows us today to draw more solid conclusions. We now are realizing that different types of estrogen affect the body differently, that bio-identical estradiol is safer, non-oral even more so. Same with progestogens. Etc. Had it not been for past results and experiences, we would not have understood this today. The science of the past is important.
In my opinion, having some sex hormones in the body enhances quality of life, slows down ageing, maintains feminization, prevents/slows down the onset of some diseases including diabetes, coronary heart disease and Alzheimer's. It makes for a better sex life as well and allows one to more fully enjoy life.
Best of luck and I'm glad you're off this terrible drug and feel better. Yuk!
Quote from: deeiche on March 22, 2016, 05:21:43 PMI have estrogen in my body, adrenal glands also produce estrogen.
Very little.
QuoteI have post-menopause hormone levels.
Post-menopausal levels are very low.
QuoteMy bone density is okay, I'm healthy, my docs acknowledge that. This is after 30 years post SRS with no HRT.
If you feel fine and you are healthy, great! It's a matter of personal choice. But why not take HRT?
QuoteI'd love to read a long term double blind study regarding HRT vs no HRT post SRS in transwomen?
One need only look at what the lack of hormones does in post-menopausal women who only have their adrenal glands producing sex hormones.
Maturitas. 2008 Jul-Aug;60(3-4):185-201."Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in young postmenopausal women is a safe and effective tool to counteract climacteric symptoms and to prevent long-term degenerative diseases, such as osteoporotic fractures, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and possibly cognitive impairment."
"In addition, recent indications suggest potential advantages for blood pressure control with non-oral estrogens."
BMJ. 2012 Oct 9;345:e6409."A significant interaction was found between hormone replacement therapy and age at baseline for the composite endpoint mortality or breast cancer (P=0.028) with the younger women (<50 years) receiving hormone therapy having a significantly reduced risk (0.49, 0.28 to 0.87, P=0.015, fig 6). Women who had undergone hysterectomy (n=192) and received oestrogen alone had a decreased risk of death or breast cancer compared with women in the control group (0.42, 0.18 to 0.97; P=0.043; fig 6)."
"After 10 years of randomised treatment, women receiving hormone replacement therapy early after menopause had a significantly reduced risk of mortality, heart failure, or myocardial infarction, without any apparent increase in risk of cancer, venous thromboembolism, or stroke."
Cardiovasc Res. 2006 Mar 1;69(4):777-80."There is an
abundance of scientific evidence for the protective effect of estrogen against atherosclerosis, such as short-term vasodilating effects as well as long-term vascular protective and anti-atherosclerotic effects [2]. Epidemiological evidence shows that pre-menopausal women have a reduced risk for mortality from cardiovascular diseases [3] and that women are at a lower risk for the development of heart failure [4] and have enhanced cognitive function and reduced neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer's disease and stroke [5]. Further proof for the protective effect of female gender is the fact that post-menopausal women have a similar or even increased risk for cardiovascular disease compared to men [3] and have an increased risk for adverse outcome after myocardial infarction and acute coronary syndromes, despite similar treatment with thrombolysis and percutaneous interventions [6]. It was therefore postulated that estrogen replacement would be beneficial in preventing cardiovascular diseases in post-menopausal females."
"The cardioprotective effect of estrogen is further supported by the findings that ovariectomy caused a loss of cardioprotection, which was regained by chronic estrogen replacement therapy."
"The vascular protective effects of estrogen and their mechanisms are thus fairly well-established."
Volume 64, Number 1
OBSTETRICAL AND GYNECOLOGICAL SURVEY
"Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) studies, in postmenopausal women, demonstrate that it is declining estrogen levels, as opposed to other aspects of aging, that are associated with undesirable skin changes that accompany aging (9)."
"Declines in estrogen in menopause are clearly associated with the thinning of the skin observed as women age. The direct effects of estrogen with regard to skin thickness are confirmed by the observation that estrogen replacement in menopause is consistently associated with a thickening of the skin. HRT has achieved increases in skin thickness of up to 15% (20)."
"The age-associated decline in estrogen is accompanied by drier skin as the water-holding capacity is reduced (20)."
"Estrogen in replacement therapy both prevents collagen loss and stimulates increases in collagen production. A large number of studies have demonstrated an increase, with HRT, of skin thickness associated with higher skin collagen content. Increases in skin collagen as high as 5.1% have been demonstrated with exogenous estrogen through HRT, with increases in dermal collagen as high as 6.5% (20)."
"At the menopause, a rapid decrease in skin elasticity begins (4,14), and this can be slowed or reversed with estrogen replacement therapy (4). Prevention of elasticity loss has also been reported with the use of HRT (14)."
"The consequences of estrogen deficit after menopause include increased wrinkling."
Maturitas. 2012 Mar;71(3):248-56. "Estradiol stimulates the activity of lipoprotein lipase
(LPL) in femoral adipocytes and lipolysis in abdominal adipocytes
[35], thereby promoting accumulation of gluteo-femoral fat. On
the other hand, estrogen deficiency is associated with enhanced
accumulation of abdominal fat [35]."
"HRT actually lowers weight gain and body fat [76,80,81].
In addition, HRT prevents the shift in fat deposition from the normal
female condition to the more unhealthy central fat depots associated
with the menopausal transition (Fig. 5) [76,82,83]."
"treatment of postmenopausal
women with estrogen enhances LPL activity in the
femoral region and at the same time lipolysis in the abdominal
region, which might promote fat accumulation in the former region
and fat loss from the abdomen [84]."
Int J Pharm Compd. 2013 Jan-Feb;17(1):74-85."Administration of compounded transdermal bioidentical hormone therapy in doses targeted to physiologic reference ranges administered in a daily dose significantly relieved menopausal symptoms in peri/postmenopausal women. Cardiovascular biomarkers, inflammatory factors, immune signaling factors, and health outcomes were favorably impacted, despite very high life stress, and home and work strain in study subjects. The therapy did not adversely alter the net prothrombotic potential, and there were no associated adverse events. This model of care warrants consideration as an effective and safe clinical therapy for peri/postmenopausal women especially in populations with high perceived stress and a history of stressful life events prior to, or during the menopausal transition."
Pathol Oncol Res. 2012 Apr;18(2):123-33."Insulin resistance and estrogen deficiency are concomitant disorders with mutual interrelationship. Insulin resistance and the compensatory hyperinsulinemia provoke increased androgen synthesis at the expense of decreased estrogen production. Similarly, a moderate or severe decrease in serum estrogen levels enhances the prevalence of insulin resistant states both in men and women. Healthy premenopausal women enjoy the defensive effect of estrogens against metabolic and hormonal disorders. However, even a slight decrease in their circulatory estrogen levels associated with insulin resistance may increase the risk for cancers, particularly in the organs having high estrogen demand (breast, endometrium and ovary). On the other hand, postmenopausal state with profound estrogen deficiency confers high risk for cancers in different organs with either high or moderate estrogen demand. After menopause, hormone replacement therapy improves insulin sensitivity and decreases the enhanced inclination to malignancies in postmenopausal women."
Diabetologia
June 1997, Volume 40, Issue 7, pp 843-849"Oestrogen replacement therapy is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. Patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) have an increased cardiovascular risk."
"In a double blind randomized placebo controlled trial we assessed the effect of oral 17 β -estradiol during 6 weeks in 40 postmenopausal women with NIDDM."
"Oestrogen replacement therapy improves insulin sensitivity in liver, glycaemic control, lipoprotein profile and fibrinolysis in postmenopausal women with NIDDM."
J Lipid Res. 2006 Feb;47(2):349-55."This prospective pilot study of 18 men with androgen-independent prostate cancer receiving ADT measured effects of TDE on lipid and inflammatory CVD risk factors before and after 8 weeks of TDE. During treatment, estradiol levels rose 17-fold; total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B levels decreased. HDL2 cholesterol increased, with no changes in triglyceride or VLDL cholesterol levels. Dense LDL cholesterol decreased and LDL buoyancy increased in association with a decrease in HL activity. Highly sensitive C-reactive protein levels and other inflammatory markers did not worsen. Compared with ADT, short-term TDE therapy of prostate cancer improves lipid levels without deterioration of CVD-associated inflammatory markers and may, on longer-term follow-up, improve CVD and mortality rates."
TDE = transdermal estradiol
ADT = androgen deprivation therapy
Atherosclerosis. 2003 May;168(1):123-9."Both oral and transdermal E2 significantly reduced fasting glucose."
Thanks honeybun.
Yep Fosamax is c**p.
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: KayXo on March 22, 2016, 07:44:13 AM
Best of luck and I'm glad you're off this terrible drug and feel better. Yuk!
No problems hun.
It's making some light reading for me before I head off to sunny Spain ... 8)
A CIS friend of mine was on HRT to about 15 years ago when she reached 65 and developed a rash. Her stupid GP without referring her to an endocrinologist told her to come off it.
Result:
1) Within 6 months she aged 10 years. Before she looked 55 despite being 65.
2) She has had major heart problems
3) She has since had two knee joint replacements and it's still not right.
4) She looks her 80 now which is so sad and uses a walker.
I am 71 in July and nobody in various motor clubs that I am a member of, believes it. They think that I am in my mid 50's which is kinda nice. Sounds big headed, but guys still 'Hit' on me, some quite young ... ;)
I walk 3-4 miles at a fast pace most days and swim many lengths.
I have more energy now than I have had for years since I went on to transdermal hormones -- Sandrena Gel which the UK's Dr Leighton-Seal prescribes to most or all his TG patients, pre or post op.
But as you say, we are all different and every person's case varies.
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: deeiche on March 22, 2016, 05:21:43 PM
Sorry Paula for hijacking your thread but this is an important topic.
I have estrogen in my body, adrenal glands also produce estrogen. Once again, I will state, my recent endo workup shows I have post-menopause hormone levels. My bone density is okay, I'm healthy, my docs acknowledge that. This is after 30 years post SRS with no HRT.
I'd love to read a long term double blind study regarding HRT vs no HRT post SRS in transwomen?
Paula
Sorry for the distraction, but at least you found some "light" reading to help you sleep.
A lot of HRT studies supporting HRT have been posted, that is fine. Me I don't mind aging, it is a normal part of life.
Only a small percentage of post-menopausal cis women take HRT, why should all transwomen continue HRT their entire life? Yes, adrenal produce a small amount of estrogen, that is not a bad thing, it's normal.
I deplore being dependent on any drug so I can "live". Having this conversation regarding HRT is a good thing. I see so many early transitioners freakout when they miss some HRT, like they are going to die if they miss any dosages.
I have questioned a lot of paradigms over the year, not taking HRT is only one of them.
When people are willing to look at the other side, they learn something. I just don't understand people who are unwilling to even look at things from a different perspective. That one sided view becomes dogmatic.
Quote from: deeiche on March 23, 2016, 08:05:10 AM
Me I don't mind aging, it is a normal part of life.
Do you mind aging slower?
QuoteOnly a small percentage of post-menopausal cis women take HRT, why should all transwomen continue HRT their entire life?
A small percentage of ciswomen take them because of the unfounded fears and ignorance that surrounds HRT. It's unfortunate.
QuoteYes, adrenal produce a small amount of estrogen, that is not a bad thing, it's normal.
Not saying it's bad. It's just very little.
QuoteI deplore being dependent on any drug so I can "live".
Aren't you dependent on food, water, money, people, health? We cannot escape dependency. Only after death or if we stop caring about (detach ourselves from) the material world and by material, I mean body and mind too.
QuoteI have questioned a lot of paradigms over the year, not taking HRT is only one of them.
When people are willing to look at the other side, they learn something. I just don't understand people who are unwilling to even look at things from a different perspective. That one sided view becomes dogmatic.
I only see harm and disadvantages from not taking bio-identical HRT. I've studied thoroughly this matter for 10 yrs + and have yet to find one good reason for stopping it after a certain age. I think it is important to question and be open-minded at all times. Most definitely agree with you but, like I said, I tried looking the other way and there was no reason to continue looking that way, the other side looked much more promising. :)
Quote from: Paula1 on March 15, 2016, 05:54:55 PM
If any complication were to arise during or after the surgery, a Cardiology Unit is required to respond to the need for any interventions. This type of medical unit, which is only required for "Third Level" public or private health centers according to the health legislation of Spain, is therefore not available within our current hospital. For this reason, our team informs you that it would be necessary, in the event of complications, to transfer your care (via the appropriate medical transportation system) to said Cardiology Unit within the nearby Quirón Hospital of Marbella.
Given the complexity of your case due to the peculiarities of the underlying pathology, it is our ethical and professional obligation to offer alternative solutions that guarantee security and stability throughout the surgical procedure and post-anesthetic period.
I've seen very good results from Facial Team and the reviews from their patients couldn't be more positive, but I am surprised that they don't perform FFS at a "third level" hospital with ICU or cardiology unit routinely. I thought they did. I wonder if it is safe enough to perform complex and long surgeries like FFS in less equipped hospitals -even if the patient were in apparent good health?
I must say I haven't got any bad news from Facial team, but it is known that other FFS surgeons lost patients while trying to resuscitate them in the way to a better equipped hospital.
Thanks Celia0428 ... Just what I needed 13 days before surgery ... A positive !!!
I am fully aware of the risks having had surgery in all sorts of clinics, hospitals etc.
Quote from: Celia0428 on March 23, 2016, 10:54:34 AM
I've seen very good results from Facial Team and the reviews from their patients couldn't be more positive, but I am surprised that they don't perform FFS at a "third level" hospital with ICU or cardiology unit routinely. I thought they did. I wonder if it is safe enough to perform complex and long surgeries like FFS in less equipped hospitals -even if the patient were in apparent good health?
I must say I haven't got any bad news from Facial team, but it is known that other FFS surgeons lost patients while trying to resuscitate them in the way to a better equipped hospital.
After sleeping on it and I am sure you meant well Celia0428, here is the full pre-op info that I received from FT which is in my post #52 dated March 15th.
I don't feel that they could give me any better care other than operate at the nearby Quiron Hospital.
The day before my surgery they carry out all the normal pre-op checks such as an ECG ( you have to fast the night before ) and if all is OK, they clear you for surgery.
If I die in surgery or just after for whatever reason, I have had a great life, been transitioned for 28 years and had a ball overall despite the tough times that we all have.
So please anyone, no more negatives as I need now to relax before I head off to Spain next Thursday.
Just wish me luck please, that's all I ask.
Have a great Easter.
Paula
After careful evaluation of your medical history by our Anesthesiology Unit, the case has been classified as high surgical risk (ASA III-IV) due to the presence of a dilation of 4.6 cm at the level of the ascending aorta. This implies the need for a number of specific personnel and infrastructural measures in case of any post surgical complication or issue associated with the given heart condition.
The stated preventive measures would include the presence of two anesthesiologists during your surgery, an on-call cardiologist/chest surgeon, as well as an intensive care doctor for the initial hours after your surgery. If any complication were to arise during or after the surgery, a Cardiology Unit is required to respond to the need for any interventions. This type of medical unit, which is only required for "Third Level" public or private health centers according to the health legislation of Spain, is therefore not available within our current hospital. For this reason, our team informs you that it would be necessary, in the event of complications, to transfer your care (via the appropriate medical transportation system) to said Cardiology Unit within the nearby Quirón Hospital of Marbella.
Given the complexity of your case due to the peculiarities of the underlying pathology, it is our ethical and professional obligation to offer alternative solutions that guarantee security and stability throughout the surgical procedure and post-anesthetic period.
We want you to understand that this measure requires substantial modifications to our normal work routine and therefore involves the mobilization of a number of extraordinary resources. However, we perceive this to be part of our obligation and duty to ensure greater safety in the treatment plan proposed to you.
Paula
I wish you the best in your surgery.
All the best. ;)
Thanks honeybun ... :)
My forehead and nose hopefully will be better than they are at present but what I like about Dr Capitan, Dr Simon and Dr Bellinga is that right from the outset, they said we will do as good as job as we can on you but it cannot possibly be as good as if we had done all your procedures originally.
There was no bull***t, telling me what I wanted to hear, you all know what I mean.
There was no salesmanship, just the plain honest truth.
This is what impresssed me most about their whole business/professional ethic.
As far as the paperwork pre-operatively is concerned, it's been pretty well faultless too.
I can safely say that in all the dealings that I have had with many surgeons since 1989 both here in the UK and "Across the Pond", they have done more for me already than any of the others.
Shame they were not around in 2004 but we can say that about many things in life.
So I am just counting down the days to when I depart the UK to hang out around the pool in the complex where I am staying.
Today I sat out on the patio where I live and the temperature on my thermometer directly in the sun read 80F and I thought to myself, it's going to be even warmer in seven days time ... 8)
But I will take with me high factor sunblock and a hat so I don't get my nose sunburnt otherwise I very much doubt Dr Bellinga will operate on it ..... :o
Tomorrow here in the UK we will be having gales and guess what ...... RAIN ...... ;D
One thing about our English weather is that you can hardly call it predictable ... ;)
Quote from: deeiche on March 25, 2016, 06:18:21 AM
Paula
I wish you the best in your surgery.
Quote from: Paula1 on March 24, 2016, 03:42:54 PM
Thanks Celia0428 ... Just what I needed 13 days before surgery ... A positive !!!
Sorry Paula, I didn't mean to be rude or sound like a bad omen, I just wanted to make a general comment about some aspect of their practice that I didn't expect to be like you wrote it was. You have been so optimistic and confident about those surgeons and promoted them with such enthusiasm that I didn't even think my comment could affect you in any way. I now realize that I should have had more tact. My apologies then, and I wish you the best of luck.
Hi Celia,
No offence taken and thank you for your sweet reply/apology.
I do have every confidence in Facial Team after seeing many of their post-op patients and my meetings with the surgeons both here in London twice now and once in Spain.
Your reply did remind me of the risks but I feel there is more chance of my breaking something in my body here at home than having a few hours of surgery with experts in their field.
Afterall they have performed many procedures now ( over 800, I gather) whereas I was one of the early patients with my first surgeon. I discount Simon Eccles work here in London.
Like anyone else on here, we listen to other members experiences, ask questions and go and see various surgeons before making the final decision on who is going to cut up one's face.
I shortlisted my choice to two surgeons:
1) Dr DiMaggio in Argentina
2) Facial Team ( Dr Capitan and Dr Simon + Dr Bellinga for soft tissue ).
It was a question of either or and because I liked what I saw with FT and the fact that Buenos Aires is so far way from the UK, I went with FT.
Depending on how I get on and how my English friend get's on with her face lift which Dr Bellinga is performing on Tuesday ( she flies out from the UK today - Easter Sunday), we have a friend in the USA who will probably fly over from the USA next year and have a face/neck lift with FT too.
My plan is also to have one in 2-3 years time with them.
A lot of USA girls are coming to Europe ( Spain & Belgium) for FFS just now because of the good prices and excellent results.
By the way, my heart goes out to all the poor people who died in Belgium earlier in the week. May they Rest in Peace. We live in a very dangerous world nowadays .... :(
Anyway Celia thank you for your good wishes and enjoy the rest of Easter.
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Celia0428 on March 26, 2016, 07:24:43 PM
Sorry Paula, I didn't mean to be rude or sound like a bad omen, I just wanted to make a general comment about some aspect of their practice that I didn't expect to be like you wrote it was. You have been so optimistic and confident about those surgeons and promoted them with such enthusiasm that I didn't even think my comment could affect you in any way. I now realize that I should have had more tact. My apologies then, and I wish you the best of luck.
Gee I am glad I am not flying to Malaga today.
106mph winds recorded on the Isle of Wight and many bumpy landings as well as diversions/cancellations at London's Gatwick Airport .... :o
I did not get a lot of sleep and apparently there are fallen trees everywhere down south in the UK.
My friend flew out last night from there and the flight was delayed for an hour due to the French Air Traffic Controllers strike/go slow.
She arrived at the complex at 2.00am in Marbella which we are sharing, managed five hours sleep and has her pre-op tests this morning.
Her surgery with Dr Bellinga is tomorrow.
I had an e-mail from my friend who is having surgery tomorrow with Dr Belinga.
This is some of what she said.
" The taxi arrived at the accommodation as agreed and the hospital is about 15 minutes away. I was really impressed with the set up. The hospital has to be seen to be believed.
I met my coordinator Laura and her identical twin sister who looked after me with the tests etc. I had chest x-ray, multipoint ECG and blood test. Their nurse even sorted out my heparin injection.
I then chatted to Dr Belinga who went through the butchery details and I am all set for tomorrow.
When the taxi dropped me off, I went to the Lidl supermarket which is about 5 minutes walk from the apartment.
The weather is to die for. I will get the sun into the apartment in the afternoon.
The apartment is quite compact but has all that is necessary. There is a very small safe.
No problems getting into internet after I found the instructions.
The lady who looks after the apartment is really nice. She even left some milk in the fridge.
Schedule
Today chill out as much as possible. 7.00 pm dinner and early bed.
9.00 am being picked up by taxi from out front and taken to hospital.
Surgery mid morning and being released mid afternoon Wednesday.
I feel that FT really do understand the 'care' thing. Let us see what tomorrow brings!"
Morning everyone,
Just seen post-op fotos of my friend and she has the cooling mask on.
She looks like Darth Vader ... LOL ;D
I said that she looked much improved ... He He ... ;)
Nearly packed my end and just 24 hours to go before I fly to Malaga and chill for a few days before being beaten up once again ... :o
Well the day has arrived and in a few hours time, I will be at London Gatwick airport.
One or two more items to pack and I am off to bed.
Just want to get there now, chill by the pool and get this all over with.
It's been 12 years now since my original FFS which is rather a long time.
Still onwards and upwards ... ;D
I will endeavour to keep in touch before and after surgery.
'
I am in hospital for two nights until April 8th and then I am off to 'Jenny's Nest' for seven days which I am so looking forward to and then home.
She has a full house so it will be a laugh a minute, I am sure.
It will also be good to meet and make new friends.
Take care everyone and thanks for all your support.
Hugs
Paula
Good luck Paula :)
Hi everyone,
Arrived safely, enjoying good food and sun.
Simply chilling to Tuesday when the pre-op fun and games begin.
Then Wednesday it's surgery time and FFS for the first time !!!
i.e Reconstruction
This is a huge deal for me and despite many operations down the years, this is the most important one of them all.
Have a good week everyone.
Hugs
Paula
Wishing you the best Paula
Good luck for tomorrow =)
Hi Shoko,
Thank you so much for your good wishes on my surgery last week.
All that I can say is that all the shoddy work that has been done by the previous two surgeons has been put right at long last and I have never been happier.
Facial Team are world class and I will tell you all about what they had to do when I get back to the UK at the weekend.
Jenny and Nicola of 'Jenny's Nest' have been wonderful and I have made new friends from the UK, the USA, Turkey, Australia and Germany.
This has been the best and easiest surgical experience in all my life and there have been over 17 of them, so this says it all.
HC Hospital is wonderful too.
Have FUN everyone.
Hugs and love to you all
Paula xx
Quote from: shoko on April 05, 2016, 12:09:29 PM
Wishing you the best Paula
A belated thank you honeybun.
This is the first time that I have been online.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: archlord on April 05, 2016, 06:03:29 PM
Good luck for tomorrow =)
P.S. My piggy and too small for my face nose has gone, the stupid fat in the top lip has been removed and the new upper lip lift is amazing.
Also my poor alarplasty from 2004 has been redone which looks awesome as well as now having at long last a properly reconstructed and feminised forehead.
Yay! glad to hear you've gotten through it and things are going well!
Congratulations Paula; it sounds like everything went as planned. Take care, and please keep us informed on your progress. 😊
So happy for you Paula!!! Glad everything went smooth! send Nicola and Jenny my love!
Hi Debra,
Thanks honeybun .. :)
I am going to tell everyone about the "Very best 15 days of my life " a little later today.
I am back home in the UK after a wonderful night's sleep, just watched last weekend's the UK's " The Voice " finals on BBC 'I' Player and so glad that ex "Liberty X" singer Kevin Simms won. Nobody told me the result which was great ... He's awesome .... 8)
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: Debra on April 12, 2016, 08:10:17 PM
Yay! glad to hear you've gotten through it and things are going well!
Thanks honey .... :)
Back later as I need to eat some more food.
I have eaten like a pig for 15 days and not put on one single pound, so my body needed it to heal.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: kittenpower on April 12, 2016, 08:19:42 PM
Congratulations Paula; it sounds like everything went as planned. Take care, and please keep us informed on your progress. 😊
Hi Michelle,
Thank you so much ... :)
I will be e-mailing them both later, so will pass on your love.
They have been awesome and I could not have done this without them.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: michelle82 on April 14, 2016, 04:23:31 PM
So happy for you Paula!!! Glad everything went smooth! send Nicola and Jenny my love!
Congrats. Looking forward to your post.
Thanks Jessie Ann ... :)
Forgive me but this being my first day back home, I am feeling really tired so will gradually post my whole Facial Team experience ( almost day by day - there are 15 days of them ) over the following days.
I need to get to bed now and rest otherwise all the good work that they have done will be wasted and undone.
I gather that I have the honour of being their oldest patient so far which I kind of find funny cos I don't look anywhere near as old as my actual age ( 71 in July ) but my body has been running since 1945.
So good night everyone and thanks for your interest and support.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: Jessie Ann on April 16, 2016, 10:24:45 AM
Congrats. Looking forward to your post.
Hi everyone,
Forgive me for not posting yet but I am still feeling very tired from my surgery almost two weeks ago now.
Gee time seems to fly by.
I will endeavour to post something later today or in the morning.
Have a great day.
Paula
Well my strength is returning but must get an early night.
I have so much to tell you about my brilliant surgery with FT, that it's now bugging me BUT it will be well worth the wait, I promise you.
Nite all
Hugs
Paula
Hi everyone,
Let's get down to the nitty gritty.
As you may well know from my previous posts, I had facial surgery in Chicago - Feb 2004 and all the problems are well documented in these earlier posts.
In October 2014, the craniofacial surgeon Simon Eccles had a go at London's Chelsea & Westminster Hospital and inserted inappropriate PEEK implants which were totally pointless. He did a bit of burring in the centre of the forehead which improved the profile a little but did not have the inclination or expertise to sort out the issue of my pertruding left frontal sinus.
So effectively I went thru over 3 hours of surgery which to all intents and purposes was a total waste of his time and mine let alone my having to recover from the operation. Also because he used the existing coronal incision from 2004, I have lost quite a lot of hair at the front and down the sides which were hairgrafted very successfully by Dr Paul Cotterill in Toronto, Canada in December 2004, June 2005 and July 2006.
These grafts are being replaced by Facial Team's Dr Meyer in November 2016 and paid for by the NHS as they damaged the existing grafted hair.
In a way, I was fortunate that the NHS messed up in 2014 because they have picked up the tab for my forehead surgery with Facial Team just two weeks ago today. Cannot believe how times seems to fly by as you get older !!!
Facial Team's Dr Bellinga also carried out a complex revision/corrective rhinoplasty to my piggy nose from 2004 which I have always disliked and was way too small for the size of my face. Also I looked like other patient's of the Chicago surgeon's with their identical noses which really angered me all these years. People would mistake these girls ( depending on their age ) as either my sister or daughter, a compliment in one way but the opposite in another as I wanted an individual nose not a cookie cutter version. This, of course, I have had to pay for cos I would not expect the NHS to pay for that and they wouldn't have anyway as it is cosmetic.
My forehead was a different matter of course as the revision/corrrective surgery was functional as I was suffering pain from the sinus cavity, nose bleeds and pain whenever I touched the PEEK implants. Not good eh?
Oh yes, Dr Bellinga also carried out an upper lip lift as well as the open rhinoplasty as the previous upper lip lift from 2004 was too conservative and the pointless fat put in the top lip made the area even longer simply by the weight of this fat. So Dr B removed the fat and moved my top lip up by 8mm !!!!
When I went down to Marbella in May last year to consult with Drs Capitan, Simon & Bellinga, they arranged for a 3D CT Scan to be done in the HC Hospital and I attach fotos of these.
They also had a 3D model made which I attach fotos of.
I also attach the fotos of the 3D CT scan done two days after the surgery on April 6th.
Finally here are fotos of the inappropriate PEEK implants that were removed during the surgery.
I will write my report of the actual surgery tomorrow but in the meantime here are the images.
PEEK Implants and titanium screws
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FrIuDWFf.jpg&hash=bede762ae0b1542083edf67828d7f9a33fa6e1a2) (http://imgur.com/rIuDWFf)
3D Model showing forehead as at May 2015 (You can see the PEEK implants fixings clearly and forehead bony deformity)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEvs5a9s.jpg&hash=97de93b87544efbd6cb2a740bbe049861a0824e1) (http://imgur.com/Evs5a9s)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fk3ws9oP.jpg&hash=22bd17e53d2dfc2713395e0c7eee71f58f10240a) (http://imgur.com/k3ws9oP)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FiPKSKgd.jpg&hash=47968116cc8d0d7237cd231189f2b3063a51823f) (http://imgur.com/iPKSKgd)
Forehead 3D CT Scans as at May 21st 2015 ( all since the revision surgery done in the UK in October 2014)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEWuJtT4.jpg&hash=a5236ddd8c2150a4f16e93df5abf61675935d517) (http://imgur.com/EWuJtT4)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5E71rQS.jpg&hash=bfdaecdb8c1985d54379db7e0e6e064a0dc1844a) (http://imgur.com/5E71rQS)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGzU8n6n.jpg&hash=a01c3427523334d18271f2ff16acff1ae524d850) (http://imgur.com/GzU8n6n)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FaFZd53Z.jpg&hash=0c07cd5ab7795afe0731e841a03d22938315fe33) (http://imgur.com/aFZd53Z)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FyLRKayv.jpg&hash=0a9406db2aee56a7c2877f4baa2fe5e2ef31fde8) (http://imgur.com/yLRKayv)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeXGidh6.jpg&hash=546b0d3c64618ee5361b46719171c54530ca646f) (http://imgur.com/eXGidh6)
Forehead 3D CT Scans done on April 8th 2016 post my surgery on April 6th.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJiWANso.jpg&hash=0a35dfa06a6e8e54747190c8206b38bc53d71182) (http://imgur.com/JiWANso)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1MzIqA1.jpg&hash=87b7f09245a7064870c228953e1aa4dbc3baca9f) (http://imgur.com/1MzIqA1)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FXCLbu9y.jpg&hash=46637713632bae12400103ea4506ead77187ddd9) (http://imgur.com/XCLbu9y)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fv4z8cUF.jpg&hash=a76832a3a0176b3f9527a82885e7a426759817c3) (http://imgur.com/v4z8cUF)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0P2Glde.jpg&hash=dfd87b86fb6e65fbaeb868a22a19e6af6f5efccc) (http://imgur.com/0P2Glde)
From these shots you can see that Dr Capitan & Dr Simon set back my forehead, remodeled my sinus cavities using their standard procedure:
See their video: http://facialteam.eu/#499-procedures-techniques-ffs-in-3d-videos
and also opened up the angles of my orbital rims as effectively until two weeks ago, I had NEVER gone under true Facial Feminisation Surgery.
My case was not as hard as others who have had poor surgery elsewhere and gone to Facial Team for corrective surgery. One girl had holes all over her forehead and like myself Facial Team was "Our last chance saloon".
All that I can now say is that I have never been happier with any surgery that I have undergone and without the care, love and support that I have received from every single person at Facial Team and, of course Jenny and Nicola at Jenny's Nest ( I really miss Jenny's mid morning fry ups .. ;) ) I would probably be dead now.
Yes members, last year I was close to calling it a day and now I have been reborn for the third time in my life ... :)
Have a nice evening or day wherever you are.
Hugs
Paula
Oh yes, I have fotos of my surgery and if anyone wants to see them, then I can pm them as they are somewhat brutal.
But not until tomorrow as I have to make dinner and get to bed early still.
xx
PPS. My forehead is now nicely contoured, flat and properly feminised.
All my friends cannot believe how good it already looks and virtually all the bruising has now gone. They also love my new nose and top lip.
The new coronal incision which is to the rear of my head ( very clever of the surgeons) where the hair is thickest cannot be seen which is awesome. Nicola who put betadine on it during the first days after surgery said that she has never seen an incision look so nice and healing so fast. All down to my vascularity I have been told.
I will post fotos post operatively in due course.
My pre-op shots from May last year are already somewhere in this thread.
Glad everything went well Paula, I have been following your thread for some time now and if you don't intend to place the photos on here I would very much like see them via a pm :)
B.t.w those implants look massive I don't understand why someone even place those things...
Hi Janice,
Great to hear from you ... :)
Hope all is well in your life and neck of the woods.
I will send the fotos via pm very soon.
I know the implants were totally pointless and actually disfiguring and painful to touch.
They each measure around 1 inch (25.4mm) to 1 and a half inches (38.1mm) wide by 1 inch (25.4mm) deep !!!!
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: JaniceNL on April 20, 2016, 02:13:21 PM
Glad everything went well Paula, I have been following your thread for some time now and if you don't intend to place the photos on here I would very much like see them via a pm :)
B.t.w those implants look massive I don't understand why someone even place those things...
Hey Paula, long time no see! lol
It was really nice to meet and hang out with you in Marbella as we recovered at Jenny's nest. I am so happy for you! You have been through quite the ordeal with various other surgeons, and I am so glad that Facial team was able to do such a great job making it right.
Hi Brynn,
Great to hear from youQuote from: Brynn on April 21, 2016, 01:09:00 PM
Hey Paula, long time no see! lol
I agree when was it :icon_question:
Ah I remember six days ago .... ;) ;)
It already seems like an age has passed but those 15 days in Marbella were the best days of my life in many ways.
Hope the trip back home was not too stressful.
How's Mum?
You both really made my days there very special and thank you Sharlo for all those wonderful smoothies.
Did you get my e-mail with foto I took last Friday?
It was really nice to meet and hang out with you in Marbella as we recovered at Jenny's nest.
Absolutely and that cannelloni was so good too ..... Paula giggles ;D ... We sure had a lot of laughs together and Jenny and Nicola were simply great.
I am so happy for you! You have been through quite the ordeal with various other surgeons, and I am so glad that Facial team was able to do such a great job making it right.
Thank you honeybun, the last twelve years have been kinda interesting but FT sure did an awesome job on me, that's for certain.
How is your healing going?
Hugs
Paula xx
Just a quick message to all those who kindly pm'd me about sending my fotos.
I will upload them over the next two days and send them.
It's just that at the end of the day ( nearly 8.00pm here in South West London ), I get very tired and I don't want to undo all the good work that Facial Team has done.
Rest is so vital after FFS or indeed any surgery so I had better heed my own words.
Nite everyone.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: Paula1 on April 21, 2016, 01:55:26 PM
It's just that at the end of the day ( nearly 8.00pm here in South West London ), I get very tired and I don't want to undo all the good work that Facial Team has done.
Rest is so vital after FFS or indeed any surgery so I had better heed my own words.
Sure! Take your time ;)
Thank you ... :)
I think that I will take a sleeping tablet with a warm cup of cocoa.
Quote from: Fresas con Nata on April 21, 2016, 07:07:59 PM
Sure! Take your time ;)
Good Morning Members,
Well it's nearly afternoon here in the UK ... ;)
I had a reasonable night's sleep but still feeling very tired so this week's endeavours has been catching up with me a little.
Having said that I will be sorting out my fotos later and hopefully get them to you later today or over the weekend.
Hugs
Paula
This afternoon I contacted my patient coordinator Laura in Marbella by phonel as I spotted a spitting stitch coming out of the open rhinoplasty incision.
She asked me to e-mail a foto which I did and very soon after I received a reply from her and Dr Bellinga saying that I should get it seen to by my GP ( local doctor ) or her nurse.
This I did earlier and my local doctor's nurse removed the aforementioned stitch.
Once again would class service from Facial Team.
Off to bed soon and I promise that I will work on those photos tomorrow.
Nite all and have a great weekend.
Hugs
Paula
Hi everyone,
Well I have all my jpg fotos pre-op, post-op and during surgery but I am unable to save them to my computer for some reason.
I am no computer buff.
So I have asked my patient co-ordinator if she can send them seperately or something, I really haven't a clue.
So it will be a few more days sadly before I can share my fotos.
Sorry.
Nite
Paula
PS. My healing is really going well and the bruising after only two weeks and three days to all intents and purposes has gone. Now I am getting those funny shooting pains in my forehead and around the orbital rims as everything wakes up which I am used to, of course. The dissolving stitches behind my ears close to the head where the cartilage was taken for my nose are settling down well too.
The upper lip lift incision and open rhinoplasty incision above the ULL incision, I have been treating since Wednesday with, as instructed, rose hip oil and then next Wednesday I will then apply Dermatix Gel , also as instructed. These incisions are settling down very well also.
The coronal incision has healed beautifully fortunately because I am very vascular. A surgeon once said to me "Don't get run over as you will bleed to death before the blood wagon arrives" ... LOL ... ;D .... :o
Hi everyone,
I had a fairly restful weekend but today it all seems to have caught up with me and it has been the worst day so far.
I woke up feeling tired and then had to go down to my local doctor's surgery to have a 'Shingles' jab done.
As parking is bad in my town, my plan was to walk to the bus stop, catch the bus and then walk to the surgery.
Big mistake as I found walking exhausting and when I saw the GP's nurse, she said how do you feel? I said shattered. So she consulted with my doctor(GP) and they agreed ( so did I ) to postpone the injection for three weeks because my resistance is low and as it is a live vaccine, not a good idea to inject.
Anyway I decided to have a sandwich and cuppa tea in my favourite place, chatted to the owner who I have known for over 20 years and we agreed that the 3D Model of my pre-op forehead will look good painted in a flourescent paint, insert a light in it and wear it around my neck at Halloween !!!! LOL ;D
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEvs5a9s.jpg&hash=97de93b87544efbd6cb2a740bbe049861a0824e1) (http://imgur.com/Evs5a9s)
That made us both laugh and it made me feel better. I carried out some more shopping and then caught the bus home and walked a bit quicker to my place.
Yesterday I had some fotos done and last night and again today, I sent Facial Team's patient co-ordinator Laura some fotos of my nose and upper lip lift for him to give me some advice and he is going to reply tomorrow.
I am now 19 days post-op and things have caught up with me in terms of tiredness and swelling in the nose and upper lip lift area. But this almost always happens, so I was expecting it. The forehead swelling is less though but the edema usually goes downwards.
Anyway, the good news is that my fotos are now in my computer thanks to my friend in the USA who processed them for me late last night.
Here are my pre-op fotos.
While I was relaxing a few days before surgery, a mosquito bit me twice over the left eye which went down very soon after my operation as I applied lots of ointment as soon as I was bitten. You can see the fat in the top lip which was inserted in February 2004 which then negated the conservative upper lip lift done at the same time by the fat's weight ( which Dr Bellinga removed during my open rhinoplasty ), the inappropriate PEEK implants over the orbital rims inserted in October 2014 in London, too short and too narrow piggy nose from 2004 and very poor burring result in my forehead also from 2004 and partially in 2014.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZSsFXcn.jpg&hash=e2506a378db1f08b8b6999c785bdd7428e7566ed) (http://imgur.com/ZSsFXcn)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMUVkc2J.jpg&hash=fc683bc200bbc6a174a6002ea40ab8427e2d0ad0) (http://imgur.com/MUVkc2J)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fq2V7ErK.jpg&hash=2f8ad842f513c1986291fdfbb55e4425f39f4064) (http://imgur.com/q2V7ErK)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTFdTo6G.jpg&hash=815e7524b0502b1c2c8e388dc38a8518e81c8625) (http://imgur.com/TFdTo6G)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgImjO6C.jpg&hash=bb05b6f18cc7af97aee923a7335db5111944dd5e) (http://imgur.com/gImjO6C)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJ9ZaiDp.jpg&hash=0926bb3c6256259c439f5cadbaddf108174a355f) (http://imgur.com/J9ZaiDp)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FC6puGT9.jpg&hash=b7e941f532b3d3b012bfd9de083ab5098110c8ac) (http://imgur.com/C6puGT9)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVXl8MNt.jpg&hash=d91275ff9ca65cf6c13f21e39d510dba770b0253) (http://imgur.com/VXl8MNt)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKXPhUzO.jpg&hash=b6a0b5c6da8f9f80c09d4570d9ad1e524cc06ee2) (http://imgur.com/KXPhUzO)
Here are my post-op fotos taken after I had my upper lip lift stitches and coronal incision ones removed 8 days after surgery. My eyebrows are higher due to the forehead swelling but they are coming down now. They were on the high side before surgery. You can see how much shorter the top lip is now, the wonderful forehead shape, much better transition from the forehead to the nose, far better nose and so on. My eyes are further forward too. A bit battered but to be expected so soon after true FFS, my third rhinoplasty and second ULL. You would never know that 8 days earlier my forehead was opened up. I will send the "In surgery" fotos to those who requested them
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FPheB0KC.jpg&hash=ca57e58726b034564a9e385bfcde2599298f20c6) (http://imgur.com/PheB0KC)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fo1U9ymt.jpg&hash=30a21023251ba4a7cbf92943563bd377d67808b0) (http://imgur.com/o1U9ymt)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FkPcqNCj.jpg&hash=60327501ff7fdcff30f6141d0e1a2d0e2a3626c1) (http://imgur.com/kPcqNCj)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfgCDuML.jpg&hash=d2ffb81ea74a7a4b3cce690ecce8d7349c515142) (http://imgur.com/fgCDuML)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FcI8ZfUn.jpg&hash=0274f153503dbc33b55c50d978e456b14c6a4dfa) (http://imgur.com/cI8ZfUn)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FqIv28AQ.jpg&hash=172839b841f0bae9605a53fa7410581cf6f144cf) (http://imgur.com/qIv28AQ)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVGY68Dg.jpg&hash=c2daeabbd2b805f8cab7a9b25ba36917c8961fcb) (http://imgur.com/VGY68Dg)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fm1Q9ZIs.jpg&hash=c5d23cb1f5ff56d782fe386a44b32220829bc2e0) (http://imgur.com/m1Q9ZIs)
Not too bad for a 70 year old, 71 in July thanks to HRT and my late mother's genes ..... :) Thanks Mum.
Next stop later in the year is to have hairgrafting done by FT to replace those damaged in October 2014 by the surgeon using the original coronal incision which was at the front of my head where the hair was thinnest. FT this time carefully made the incision to the rear half of my head where the hair is the thickest. Clever planning.
Then in two years time I will get a full facelift by Dr Bellinga to get rid off in the main my turkey neck ... LOL ... ;D . He might also have to perform a secondary tracheal shave at the same time as the first one done in 1989 was on the conservative side.
Well that's it for tonight, I am off to bed with a cup of cocoa and maybe a sleeping tablet as I seem to wake too early at present.
Goodnight all.
Hugs
Paula raccoon face ... ;) ( One of my favourite animals which I see when I am in the States )
PS. Depending on how the eyebrows settle down, we probably will remove them altogether by laser and then lower them with permanent tattoing over the actual orbital rims. The shape, width and length needs improving too.
Just before I retire to my bedchamber, three more fotos:
Yours truly with the lovely Laura my patient co-ordinator before my surgery
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIkgeRjZ.jpg&hash=6ced4f61fc3514cd5f512fdbf71b5e60d4a6899a) (http://imgur.com/IkgeRjZ)
The day after surgery. You can see the cooling mask indentations. This was great to wear to keep cool and reduce the swelling
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbsdRba1.jpg&hash=2542919e424ceca758674333d3a5bc2825789199) (http://imgur.com/bsdRba1)
and on my penultimate day, 8 days after surgery with the wonderful Dr Simon and Dr Capitan
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNs4fmyn.jpg&hash=ad0c9663bb69e692bb31342a09978d5a735bf255) (http://imgur.com/Ns4fmyn)
You can see the weather in Marbella is great but back here this week in the UK, it's winter woolies on again with the Arctic blast ... :(
Last night I had a good night's sleep (without taking a sleeping tablet too) and today I feel 100% better and more like my old self.
Swelling has virtually gone from my forehead and all the bruising too.
The nose swelling/incision and ULL incision will naturally take longer.
Anyway I have sent one member my " In surgery fotos " which, of course, are explicit but if anyone else wants to see them please ask here or pm me, and I will send them.
Have a great day/evening wherever you are ... :)
Hugs
Paula
They did an amazing job for you girl! You should be very happy with the results. I can't wait to see the results after the bruising and swelling have gone away.
Suddenly realised that I have not yet told you about my experiences upon arrival in Spain.
When I arrived at Malaga on Thursday March 31st, I quickly went thru customs and immigration and collected my checked luggage from the carousel where Facial Team's driver was waiting for me with my name on his board.
Nice guy and we chatted about his three week old Skoda on the way to the studio apartment that I had booked prior to my going to Jenny's Nest the following Tuesday before my operation on the Wednesday.
I think that I mentioned this before but I was very tired physically and mentally prior to my leaving for Spain and unbelievably I was unable to lift my two legs without assistance with my hands from below. I have never experienced this before as I am very fit and healthy for my age.
Having five days rest beforehand was essential as it happened otherwise I would not have been ready for the surgery which would have meant my delaying it to later in year which would have been expensive for FT and myself.
The lady who looks after the studio flat suggested my going for a meal at the Argentinian restaurant next door to the complex and not only was it great but there was so much of the half chicken left, I took home a doggy bag and the meat provided me with two more portions for the next two nights supper.
This is the restaurant and it has to be booked up a few nights in advance as it is so popular.
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g187439-d3396881-Reviews-Cabana_Nagueles-Marbella_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html
I must write a report too on Trip Advisor who I booked my apartment thru at Carolina Park.
Anyway my friend who met me when I arrived ( she was recovering from a facelift with Dr Bellinga ) was unable to join me as she had her surgery two days earlier and was unable to eat solid foods. Shame cos she would have enjoyed it.
Over the next few days I relaxed by the complex's pool, got bitten twice by that pesky mosquito, shopped for food at the local Lidl and on the Sunday went along the front by the sea with my friend.
By Tuesday morning the day of my pre-op tests I was feeling much better and could not wait to have my surgery the following day.
Part 2 a little later .... :)
Quote from: Paula1 on April 19, 2016, 05:44:23 PM
Well my strength is returning but must get an early night.
I have so much to tell you about my brilliant surgery with FT, that it's now bugging me BUT it will be well worth the wait, I promise you.
Nite all
Hugs
Paula
A'wwwwwwww thank you Jessie .... ;D
Did you enjoy the surgery shots that they took ... ;)
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Jessie Ann on April 26, 2016, 02:38:13 PM
They did an amazing job for you girl! You should be very happy with the results. I can't wait to see the results after the bruising and swelling have gone away.
Very interesting. I bet your glad that they got those implants out. Have you heard back about what that lump at the back of the sinus plate was? I'm guessing that based on your earlier comments and scans it was some type of filler.
Quote from: Paula1 on April 26, 2016, 02:48:44 PM
A'wwwwwwww thank you Jessie .... ;D
Did you enjoy the surgery shots that they took ... ;)
Hugs
Paula
Hi Jessie,
I haven't heard back from FT but will let you know as soon as I hear from them.
Yep those PEEK implants were a crazy idea, simply disfiguring as well as totally unnecessary and painful to the touch !!!
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Jessie Ann on April 26, 2016, 03:06:56 PM
Very interesting. I bet your glad that they got those implants out. Have you heard back about what that lump at the back of the sinus plate was? I'm guessing that based on your earlier comments and scans it was some type of filler.
Sorry everyone but I will post Part 2 tomorrow now as I am going to get an even earlier night this evening as I felt so much better today after last night's excellent rest.
Bye for now
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Paula1 on April 26, 2016, 02:47:01 PM
Suddenly realised that I have not yet told you about my experiences upon arrival in Spain.
When I arrived at Malaga on Thursday March 31st, I quickly went thru customs and immigration and collected my checked luggage from the carousel where Facial Team's driver was waiting for me with my name on his board. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Part 2 a little later .... :)
Quote from: Paula1 on April 26, 2016, 12:39:36 PM
Anyway I have sent one member my " In surgery fotos " which, of course, are explicit but if anyone else wants to see them please ask here or pm me, and I will send them.
Did you send only to one member? So am I The One? :)
The pics are pretty explicit and awesome to look at. You look wonderful in the after pics even only 8 days after surgery!
Good Morning,
Love your username "Strawberries with Cream", one of my favourite deserts.
Jessie Ann has also seen the inside of my forehead so you are the only two so far to see what it looks like inside Paula 1 .... LOL ... ;D
What I find incredible is that just 3 weeks ago today, I was lying flat on my back having a rest with lots of people devoting their skills and attention to me.
All a bit surreal really.
Now it's all down to me and follow their post-operative instructions to the letter and heal. That's the part that takes time, of course.
Thank you for the comment on how I looked just 8 days after surgery <hugs>
I assume that you live in Spain from your spanish username?
Have a great day ... :)
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Fresas con Nata on April 27, 2016, 12:56:59 AM
Did you send only to one member? So am I The One? :)
The pics are pretty explicit and awesome to look at. You look wonderful in the after pics even only 8 days after surgery!
Quote from: Paula1 on April 27, 2016, 04:27:42 AM
Love your username "Strawberries with Cream", one of my favourite deserts.
"Nata" is one of the ways to abbreviate my name Natalia ;) (or Natalie for you english speakers).
Quote from: Paula1 on April 27, 2016, 04:27:42 AM
I assume that you live in Spain from your spanish username?
I'm currently divided between Spain and UK (for work reasons) but yeah my primary place is in Spain. That's one of the reasons I'm paying special attention to this thread.
Hi Natalia,
Nice name, my flatmate's grand daughter is called Natalie ... :)
Quote from: Fresas con Nata on April 27, 2016, 06:33:18 AM
"Nata" is one of the ways to abbreviate my name Natalia ;) (or Natalie for you english speakers).
I'm currently divided between Spain and UK (for work reasons) but yeah my primary place is in Spain. That's one of the reasons I'm paying special attention to this thread.
Kewl ... 8) ... In due course, I am going to look into getting a small apartment in Marbella as I really have fallen in love with the place, the people, the weather and, of course, Facial Team ... ;)
Hugs
Paula
Good Evening members,
Here is Part 2.
Before I tell you about the day before my surgery, I have never known such attention to detail that Facial Team provides to their patients.
Right from the beginning of my dealings with them in London - February 2015, the sheer professionalism I have found quite outstanding.
In fact it has made my dealings with all the transition surgeons that I have been to since 1989 to 2014 look rather poor by comparison.
The hospital where the surgery takes place - HC Hospital in Marbella - has made the NHS hospitals that I have attended these past years for non transition surgery look almost third world.
When I had my forehead revision surgery at London's Chelsea & Westminster Hospital in 2014, the care was fairly good although I was sirred by a nurse twice as I was in the section where there was one small ward with men in it and next door to it, a section with women in it, where I was.
I hardly look like a guy and have not been sirred since 1989 when I transitioned so I was furious and complained bitterly to the ward's sister who apologised profusely. I nearly walked out of the place a day early because of this. To this day I think that the nurse who insulted me was prejudiced against people like us and enjoyed what she said.
Here is a foto of me in 2003 before any facial surgery.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeDnzoyI.jpg&hash=473a230ba0c34de4b5e4c1eca910e8e21de2a59d) (http://imgur.com/eDnzoyI)
Some of my friends after my original 2004 facial surgery said "What have you done to your face and nose " ( some of these friends back then had no idea about my background). However my forehead needed to be sorted as I hid it with bangs, but the rest was fine except a nose that needed an alarplasty and minor rehaping due to a deviated septum.
My face did change as a result of the original surgery and although I still looked feminine, I felt that I lost some of my face's original character.
When I discussed my FFS with FT, I wanted my nose to return to how it was before 2004, and it has to a great extent thanks to Dr Bellinga's excellent surgery.
Anyway sorry to digress but back to the day before surgery for my pre-op tests and final consultations with the three surgeons who were going to work on me the following day - Dr Simon & Dr Capitan (forehead) and Dr Bellinga (nose and upper lip lift).
FT provide every patient before leaving home by e-mail a Patient Schedule from the day of arrival to the day the person goes home so everyone knows what is going on. My patient co-ordinator Laura was looking after me and she did a great job although at times I must have frustrated her because I can get grumpy at times.
Sorry Laura, it's my senior moments ... ;) ;)
Having fasted since the night before, the same nice driver from the airport picked me up at 8.45am from Carolina Park where I was staying with my friend for the 15 minute drive to the hospital where Laura was waiting for me at 9.00am. My foto with her is back earlier in this thread and you can see happy I was. From that moment on I relaxed into the whole business and let them take me over like going down a production line. It was wonderful to be able to do this knowing that I was now in their safe and caring hands.
I was then taken into the section by one of the hospital's staff to have an anti coagulant injection in my tummy.
Then in the next room they carried out a scan of my chest as well as a cardiogram on my heart.
I might have left something out but don't think so. My excuse is that it's over 3 weeks since that day.
Anyway at 9.30 am, Laura rejoined me and took me over to see the good doctors and for the next 60 minutes, we went over the surgery that I was going to have.
Dr Bellinga told me what he was going to do with regards my nose by rebuilding it to a decent size for my face by taking cartilage from my two ears. I said "Would I land up with Prince Charles ears" ( they stick out rather a lot ) and he laughed but said that they will be even tighter to my head than before, so that was good to know.
He said that he would lift my top lip by up to 8mm !!! Wow
Drs Capitan and Simon then went over my forehead procedure, told me that they would remove the pointless and disfiguring PEEK implants, work on the centre of my forehead as per this video. http://facialteam.eu/#499-procedures-techniques-ffs-in-3d-videos, reshape and open up my orbital rims that were never worked on before and alter the transition from my forehead to my nose that again was never worked on previously.
They also said that they would make a fresh coronal incision towards the rear of my scalp in the area where my hair is the thickest, a clever decision because my hair is a little thin in the centre and it would have been a disaster waiting to happen hair loss wise if they were to use the existing coronal incision from 2004 and in 2014. They also showed me the 3D model from my May 2015 CT Scan done when I was in Marbella last year.
I then signed all the consent forms and Laura gave me again ( she sent them to me back in the UK earlier) all the information sheets on the forehead, rhinoplasty and upper lip lift procedures. They tell the patient exactly what to do before and after surgery.
I think that's about all, bade farewell to the doctors and I said " See you all tomorrow and don't go to bed too late ", we all laughed and then Laura took me back to the main hospital at around 11.00 am ( FT are in an annexe in the lovely grounds) to wait for the taxi to take me back to my accommodation. However I decided on a change of plan with regards "Jenny's Nest" where I was due to stay from the Friday for seven days. So instead of going there on the Friday after surgery from the hospital with all my cases, Jenny, Laura and I thought it much better if I went back to the apartment to pick up my cases which were already packed with my remaining food as originally I was going to the hospital from there the next day. The food would have been wasted, of course, as there is nowhere to store food in the hospital naturally. A much better plan so a quick drive back to the apartment where I said goodbye to my friend until the Thursday when she popped in to see me after my operation and the taxi then took me to "Jenny's Nest". So I was able to settle in and then Nicola and Jenny showed me around the wonderful villa that they have. I also went food shopping with Nicola and prepared my supper early bearing in mind the early kick off the following day and, of course, obeying the fasting rules. I thought that I would try the pool because I would not be using it after surgery but after dipping my toes in the still chilly water, I thought," Not such a good idea. " ... Then we all went to Marbella by two taxis with all the new patients and old for a meal in a lovely restaurant. Sadly I could not eat as I had already eaten back at the villa and the food did look awesome ... :'( but it was a good way to meet and talk to my new housemates. I could drink water though up to midnight.
Then back to the villa for an early night,
The story continues tomorrow (hopefully) on my big day.
Here's the restaurant we went to in Marbella Old Town.(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1wMvWPO.jpg&hash=27f0adec20dab624514f30171718a4021accab84) (http://imgur.com/1wMvWPO)
The food that Jenny ate (she did give me one bit of meat)(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3DP4dNO.jpg&hash=b69c64fd2d71a9a03105f13f398c3a0de0f83c67) (http://imgur.com/3DP4dNO)
The pool and "Jenny's Nest" villa in the background taken when I arrived(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxwsK7WA.jpg&hash=42b105317199b22653f3ca829872990d8e44e382) (http://imgur.com/xwsK7WA)
and Facial Team's annexe in the grounds at HC Hospital, Marbella taken the day after my surgery from my room.(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FqkxMqa5.jpg&hash=ac9d4573e22f45b8981a717611e204e0514ceedc) (http://imgur.com/qkxMqa5)
Quote from: Paula1 on April 26, 2016, 04:05:24 PM
Sorry everyone but I will post Part 2 tomorrow now as I am going to get an even earlier night this evening as I felt so much better today after last night's excellent rest.
Bye for now
Hugs
Paula
Your experience mirrors mine, except for one big thing (which I have explained in my thread)
I'm glad you had a such a great time :)
Hi Shoko,
Thank you .. :)
I am sorry to read about your woes.
I am very happy with their work.
But having had two previous rhinoplasties, I know how long noses take to settle down.
My second one in 2004, took 18 months and this time it may even take longer but I have become very patient with it all now.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: shoko on April 27, 2016, 08:11:58 PM
Your experience mirrors mine, except for one big thing (which I have explained in my thread)
I'm glad you had a such a great time :)
Here is the actual diagrammatic video of the forehead procedure that I had.
http://facialteam.eu/#499-procedures-techniques-ffs-in-3d-videos
My apologies but this link takes you to FT's website and then you will have to scroll down to their 3D video techniques section and select the video called 3D-FOREHEAD COUNTOURING
Hi Jessie Ann,
This morning I received a reply from Doctors Capitan and Simon.
Here is what they said:
Dear Paula, thank you so much for your questions. Here you have the answers:
Picture 10. Bone overgrowth in combination with previous filler material (bone cement?). We just removed it.
Picture 11, 12, 13. The white spot corresponds to bone reaction to the aforementioned material. We never use non autologous material (cement or fillers). The anterior wall of the frontal sinus was repositioned and fixed with titanium plates after adaption to the new shape.
If anyone else wants to see these rather explicit in-surgery images, I am more than happy to send them by private message.
These fotos taken by FT during my corrective surgery on April 6th have now shown me for the very first time in actual detail what a really poor job I had done by just the basic burring to my forehead in 2004 with the penetration of my left frontal sinus and the subsequent filling it in with filler material by said surgeon.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Jessie Ann on April 26, 2016, 03:06:56 PM
Very interesting. I bet your glad that they got those implants out. Have you heard back about what that lump at the back of the sinus plate was? I'm guessing that based on your earlier comments and scans it was some type of filler.
Just been thinking,
I believe in fate.
The basically non-revision surgery that I had in London in October 2014 brought me to where I am now by my going to see Facial Team when they were in London - Feb 2015.
They were my "Last chance saloon " and the forehead situation has now been sorted out, thank heavens.
Because of my poor nose job in 2004, Dr Bellinga and I know that my nose will never be quite as good because it was not done properly back then (especially the alarplasty and virtual removal of all the soft tissue in the tip) and noses can be very hard to fix. However I have no choice but to accept that. However it already does look much better after only 3 weeks but as I have said before, noses can take a long time to settle especially ones that have been worked on previously.
Finally don't forget that the nose looks almost perfect a day or so after surgery and then as the swelling sets in over the following days and weeks, the body's healing process sets in and you think " Ohmigod what I have done " ... :o
So do be patient, let the body take over, eat well and stay cool ... 8)
Also very important this "Don't worry " as stress can interfere with the healing and I know all about that in the past.
I have been stuffing myself silly ever since day two after my surgery and have not put on one ounce.
I was expecting to be a stone overweight but no just maybe a few pebbles and grit ... ;) ( my friend Claire's joke in the USA not mine ).
But do remember everyone when choosing your surgeon "Buyer Beware" !!!!
Sorry but in post #131 there was a bit of miscommunication so have reposted there in red:
We never use non autologous material (cement or fillers). The anterior wall of the frontal sinus was repositioned and fixed with titanium plates after adaption to the new shape.
This is very vital, of course.
Hi again everyone,
Please bear with me with regards Part 3 - my surgery day - I have lots to do over the next few days so might not get round to it until Sunday or early next week.
Have a great weekend.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Paula1 on April 28, 2016, 06:03:41 AM
Because of my poor nose job in 2004, Dr Bellinga and I know that my nose will never be quite as good because it was not done properly back then (especially the alarplasty and virtual removal of all the soft tissue in the tip) and noses can be very hard to fix. However I have no choice but to accept that. However it already does look much better after only 3 weeks but as I have said before, noses can take a long time to settle especially ones that have been worked on previously.
Finally don't forget that the nose looks almost perfect a day or so after surgery and then as the swelling sets in over the following days and weeks, the body's healing process sets in and you think " Ohmigod what I have done " ... :o
So do be patient, let the body take over, eat well and stay cool ... 8)
Also very important this "Don't worry " as stress can interfere with the healing and I know all about that in the past.
But do remember everyone when choosing your surgeon "Buyer Beware" !!!!
Buyer beware indeed.
When he states he didn't do something as I had requested no amount of time will fix that other than another operation. Blaming it on swelling or accusing the patient is completely wrong.
I hope you notice his lip lift technique is less than optimal with little attention to detail
Dear Shoko,
If you have a beef with Facial Team's Dr Bellinga, would you mind not airing it on my thread.
Please continue it on your thread.
I am very happy with Dr Bellinga's work and if I wasn't then I would say so.
My nose is awesome already and the upper lip lift too despite the swelling and scars which always take time to settle.
I have had many surgeries since 1989, so I do have some experience on this matter.
My mastopexy scars ( breast lift ) after 4 years have just about gone away with the added help of Kenalog (steroid) injections.
I don't want negatives from people when I am in the process of recovering and healing so will you kindly remove this post of your's, if not I will ask the administrators/moderators to do so.
Thank you.
Paula
PS. If you remove your post, then I will remove this one.
PPS. With regards your comment "I hope you notice his lip lift technique is less than optimal with little attention to detail" , frankly I see nothing wrong with mine so again please don't neg me out, OK.
Dear Shoko,
I have seen that you have been online and have not removed your negative and inappropriate post on my thread.
I don't need this and thank you but I have been unable to get the rest that I desperately need at 70 going on 71 this early morning here in the UK because of your action.
So I now formally ask the moderators to remove your post and I would ask you please not to post on this thread ever again and I will not post on your thread either (not that I have).
However I wish you all the best in the future on your journey.
Paula
Hi Members,
Change of plan, I need my rest so I am not going to post on here for a while ( sorry to those who are interested in my recent FFS experience with FT ... especially Part 3 - the day of my surgery).
I am not going to prejudice all the good work that has been done.
Have a lovely weekend.
Paula
Quote from: Paula1 on April 29, 2016, 01:16:09 AM
I need my rest so I am not going to post on here for a while ( sorry to those who are interested in my recent FFS experience with FT ... especially Part 3 - the day of my surgery).
Agreed, that's what I was going to suggest after reading above. Go have some rest, enjoy real life as much as you can and forget about the internets for a while. And thanks for sharing your experience so far!
Bless you Natalia.
Take care.
"I'll be back" as Arnie says .... ;) ;)
Quote from: Fresas con Nata on April 29, 2016, 01:51:53 AM
Agreed, that's what I was going to suggest after reading above. Go have some rest, enjoy real life as much as you can and forget about the internets for a while. And thanks for sharing your experience so far!
Morning everyone,
I feel more rested now but before I post Part 3 - my surgery day later in the week, I thought that you would like to see this.
As you are aware, I had a poor nose job and upper lip lift done in the USA in February 2004 and Dr Bellinga has done a good job on mine.
It was a very difficult procedure too as it was my third nose job.
In fact my complex forehead procedure took just 90 minutes but the rhinoplasty/ULL took 150 minutes. Total 4 hours and then 8 hours in recovery just to keep an eye on me due to my age.
Having had three attempts at my nose, now I am 100% happy although it's still very early days since the surgery ( three weeks and three days ), and it will be months before I see the final result which I will share with you all in due course.
The first few days after a rhinoplasty the nose almost always looks great and then the healing starts in earnest and the swelling starts and you think "Oh Gee "- what have I done and the surgeon has messed up.
With my healing process anyway, my nose always starts to look worse and worse for the first few weeks after surgery and then slowly it gets better. With others I have seen nose jobs that look good even after a month's healing has taken place. We all heal differently and at different rates.
The last five days or so, my top lip has become numb and fatter whereas a week ago it was not numb and less fat.
It also makes drinking and eating more difficult.
But I accept this although I don't like it as people look at me and see that I have had surgery. Yesterday when I was at an event, I kept telling people who I know that I had some cosmetic surgery when they asked what was wrong with my face as they were concerned that I had an accident.
All that I can say is you have to have patience with any surgery while the body takes time to heal.
What us girls go through eh to get where we wish to go?
Here is my before foto with the piggy and too short nose for my face and ineffective ULL which was made even worse by the weight of the fat put in during surgery in the USA in 2004.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTFdTo6G.jpg&hash=815e7524b0502b1c2c8e388dc38a8518e81c8625) (http://imgur.com/TFdTo6G)
and after surgery in April with a decent sized nose, much better ULL and fat removed.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfgCDuML.jpg&hash=d2ffb81ea74a7a4b3cce690ecce8d7349c515142) (http://imgur.com/fgCDuML)
Just out of interest to you all. here is my nose about three weeks after my 2nd rhinoplasty in 2004 (USA) and look what a mess it looked. It took over a year for the nose and ULL scar to fully heal. To be fair, the ULL scar was hardly noticeable once it had healed but the nose was always incorrect for my face and I was left with a raised ridge below my right alars after it had healed. Dr Bellinga has removed that scar/ridge from the 2004 surgery when he performed the fresh ULL and also improved the right alarpasty incision from 2004. * Note also the over raised eyebrows !!! My bruising by the way from my recent surgery has now gone so what a difference then from 2004. Using an endoscope usually causes more disturbance to the soft tissues which you don't get with an open procedure.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJLgNWGE.jpg&hash=d97323026d5b39071f8febe26d8036e31976e97e) (http://imgur.com/JLgNWGE)
Another foto of my face five weeks after surgery in 2004.
You can see also the poor forehead result due to burring whereas now my forehead is properly feminised.
Today I was seen by two friends of mine who had surgery also by the same surgeon as mine from 2004 and they were very impressed with my forehead/nose and ULL so far. But as we agreed, it's all too swollen at this moment before making a final judgement.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZIBvGip.jpg&hash=807dd993453c0292875232a2d29f627488144c21) (http://imgur.com/ZIBvGip)
Incidentally if an ULL scar needs it, it can always be lasered to improve it's appearance down the healing road.
Finally, here is a foto of me taken at 23 weeks and 5 days after my Feb 2004 rhinoplasty and ULL in the USA ( 6 months later in August 2004). See the ULL scarring/redness/swelling still which finally went away and the scar eventually was very good to be fair to the surgeon. Also my nose is less swollen but still piggy like. The whole surgery took another year to look optimal but during this time I had to travel to the USA and have kenalog (steroid) injections to my nose especially the right side which coincidentally is the most swollen part right now.
As the forehead swelling had largely subsided, you can also now see that the forehead was already looking poor and the transition area below my forehead and above my nose was never worked on/feminised in 2004.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FqEo0jp5.jpg&hash=72cc26bca8f5b16f2027ddc140514851fa11b410) (http://imgur.com/qEo0jp5)
My forehead 3D CT Scan in May 2015 before my April FT surgery
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEWuJtT4.jpg&hash=a5236ddd8c2150a4f16e93df5abf61675935d517) (http://imgur.com/EWuJtT4)
and afterwards two days after the surgery. What a difference !!!
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJiWANso.jpg&hash=0a35dfa06a6e8e54747190c8206b38bc53d71182) (http://imgur.com/JiWANso)
Hugs
Paula
This afternoon I went food shopping at my local Tesco's (equivalent to Walmart in the USA in many ways ) and a cashier Sue that I have known for some time said that I looked amazing when I told her that I only had surgery 25 days ago. That really cheered me up ... :)
Frankly when I look at my face right now compared to where I was 12 years ago, the difference in nose swelling and the ULL incision situation is in a different ball park. Also all the visible bruising has totally gone now
I am exceedingly happy folks and looking forward to the rest of the holiday weekend.
I went for a 30 mile drive just now too.
Paula
Just had an e-mail from one of the the two friends of mine who saw me yesterday and she said this:
Hi Paula, I know you are still all swollen and bruised internally but I think the nice Facial Team people have done a good job. It will take time to settle down - 12-18 months. But your upper lip/nose looks good and forehead too.
Quote from: Paula1 on May 01, 2016, 05:25:08 AM
Today I was seen by two friends of mine who had surgery also by the same surgeon as mine from 2004 and they were very impressed with my forehead/nose and ULL so far. But as we agreed, it's all too swollen at this moment before making a final judgement.
This healing process is crazy.
This evening the feeling in my top lip is returning and the swelling is reducing too.
Less slurping my drink and food later ... LOL ... ;D
Also getting used to the new top lip dynamics is very interesting in terms of feel and appearance.
More feminine for sure ... :)
Tomorrow I will tell you about the advice and information that FT gave me in terms of aftercare of the nose and upper lip lift.
This must be followed to the letter.
Gentle massaging of my nose, open rhinoplasty incision and upper lip lift incision is a must now.
Nitey nite
Paula
Good Morning everyone,
Had a good night's sleep and ready for another day.
Last night it was quite cold out and while walking the dog, the upper lip lift and open rhinoplasty incisions felt very sore.
During the day when it's warmer, this is not a problem.
The sensation in my forehead is getting back to normal slowly which is good.
But I do know that this healing is going to take some while yet, so I must be patient which is still hard although I am a surgery junkie now ... LOL ... ;D
Facial Team really had to work on my forehead and it is invasive surgery, for sure.
The orbital rims feel sore to touch which I find strange as they were never properly worked on previously and I am getting the usual shooting pains in the general forehead area as the nerves reawaken.
I do get angry though that I have had to endure all this again due to poor work in the past.
But that's life and at long last it looks like I am done as far as the work carried out nearly 4 weeks ago which is a big relief.
Back later, I have been summoned.
Here we go.
Better late than never.
Liplift and Open RhinoplastyTwo weeks after surgery, I applied Musk Rose Oil to the incisions for a week.
Then after the third week, I am now applying Dermatix Gel for four weeks to the incisions.
Also I have been instructed to gently massage the incisions area and the actual nose and tip itself.
All this is helping in improving the scars and general swelling.
Quote from: Paula1 on May 01, 2016, 01:28:58 PM
Tomorrow I will tell you about the advice and information that FT gave me in terms of aftercare of the nose and upper lip lift.
This must be followed to the letter.
Gentle massaging of my nose, open rhinoplasty incision and upper lip lift incision is a must now.
Nitey nite
Paula
Well another weekend beckons and what a difference in the weather here in the UK.
Last week it was like winter with snow up in the north of England and in Scotland and now the temperatures are in the 70's F ( 25C on Sunday ) ... 8)
The same has been happening with my face.
Earlier in the week I e-mailed my patient coordinator Laura and asked her to send this information to Dr Bellinga:
It has been nearly a month - Day 26 since my surgery.
The last five days or so my top lip became numb and fatter whereas a week ago it was not numb and less fat.
Then yesterday the feeling in the top lip returned quite a lot and the swelling reduced too. Weird eh?
It did make drinking and eating more difficult but I know that this is all part of the healing process.
The upper lip lift looks rather high still ( higher than just after surgery ) but I guess it will come down as the healing progresses. Also it's more feminine so I just guess that I am not used to it.
I mentioned that if required, I could always fly over for some kenalog (steroid) injections to my nose or is it too early still?
I said that my forehead is looking great and all external bruising has gone from my whole face .. :)
Yesterday I e-mailed Laura again and said this:
Well my top lip is getting smaller ... :)
and my nose too .. :)
I said it's facinating how my forehead healing process is progressing.
Apart from getting feeling slowly back to my forehead and the usual shooting pains, the orbital rims are sore to touch as they have not been worked on properly before.
Funnily enough I noticed more bruising has appeared above my cheeks today while gently massaging my nose, ULL and open rhinoplasty incisions. This I feel was because the swelling in the bruised areas has gone down exposing any residual bruising. Just goes to show that I have a lot of healing still to do and it will be some time yet before everything has settled down.
I also mentioned that I can see some of the dissolvable white stitches around my nose spitting.
Last evening I had a reply from Dr Bellinga via Laura and it said this:
"Dear Paula.
The liplift has this effect at the beginning, it looks a bit unnatural due to the swelling and the fact that you were not used to seeing your upper lip as it looks now. As time passes by, the lip will drop a little (relapse) and it will look more natural.
Now we prefer to wait for any steroid injection at least 3-4 months, due to the risk of creating an atrophic skin.
Keep on taking care of the scars as you are doing now and keep us updated.
Kind regards."
So I am more than happy with their response and the aftercare that I am receiving from Facial Team and as I keep saying to myself " I must be patient".
Strangely this morning, I can see even more positive changes to the nose, upper lip lift and open rhinoplasty incisions ... :)
The ULL scar is almost invisible as well as the slightly raised section of this scar in the centre under the nose.
It's now only been 29 days since the surgery ... 8)
The post-op instructions must be followed 100% which also means getting lots of rest, eating properly and walking a lot.
No junk food either !!
Over the weekend, I'll post all about (at long last) my Part 3 surgery day.
Enjoy the weekend everyone ... :)
Hi again,
Here are more before and after shots.
The marks above my left eye are two mosquito bites while I was relaxing round the pool a few days before surgery and they had almost gone when the after shots were done eight days after the operation.
The eyebrows are already coming back down ( they were over high before surgery) as the forehead swelling subsides.
Before(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVXl8MNt.jpg&hash=d91275ff9ca65cf6c13f21e39d510dba770b0253) (http://imgur.com/VXl8MNt)
After(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVGY68Dg.jpg&hash=c2daeabbd2b805f8cab7a9b25ba36917c8961fcb) (http://imgur.com/VGY68Dg)
Before(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZSsFXcn.jpg&hash=e2506a378db1f08b8b6999c785bdd7428e7566ed) (http://imgur.com/ZSsFXcn)
After(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FPheB0KC.jpg&hash=ca57e58726b034564a9e385bfcde2599298f20c6) (http://imgur.com/PheB0KC)
In the before shots you can see the inappropriate PEEK implants inserted in 2014 here in the UK, my piggy nose and inappropriate fat in the top lip which negated the ULL done in 2004 when this fat was inserted.
The whole forehead profile is now feminine and my eyes are far less recessed. Also the transition area betwen the forehead and nose is now properly done and feminine.
All my friends say that I already look ten years younger and even more so I hope when I have a full facelift next year especially to get rid of my turkey neck ... ;)
Quote from: Paula1 on May 01, 2016, 05:25:08 AM
Here is my before foto with the piggy and too short nose for my face and ineffective ULL which was made even worse by the weight of the fat put in during surgery in the USA in 2004.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTFdTo6G.jpg&hash=815e7524b0502b1c2c8e388dc38a8518e81c8625) (http://imgur.com/TFdTo6G)
and after surgery in April with a decent sized nose, much better ULL and fat removed.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfgCDuML.jpg&hash=d2ffb81ea74a7a4b3cce690ecce8d7349c515142) (http://imgur.com/fgCDuML)
Good evening members,
As I have lots to do this weekend, I am going to go for it and post my surgery day experience (Part 3)
As you know, the night before my surgery I ate early before 8.00pm as I wanted at least a clear 12 hours before the operation and then went out with some of the other patients who were staying at 'Jenny's Nest' but was unable to eat although I did sneak a small piece of Jenny's meat and a couple of olives which was fine as the deadline was not until midnight. I drank lots of water throughout watching my friends eat and did so when we all returned home until the midnight deadline, eight hours before surgery. It is vital to be well hydrated before surgery.
I slept pretty well considering although I was nervous at what was going to happen the next day.
I woke really early ( about 6.00am ), showered, washed my hair with baby shampoo and thought at least I will not have to bother putting any make-up on. Made a change and as a result the whole getting ready for the day process was much quicker. Nicola was also up and having breakfast which I sort of envied as I did feel hungry. Then Jenny joined us and in no time at all after she took a few fotos of me at my request, the taxi arrived at 8.15a.m and Jenny and I travelled the 15 minute journey to HC Hospital. As we drove along I thought, albeit very briefly, I hope that I will see this wonderful scenery again. Silly really but I was very emotional and Jenny's wonderful company made it so much easier for me to cope. This was going to be a huge deal for me.
When we arrived Laura my patient coordinator was waiting for us and we all went to my room and I changed into an operating gown and put on the anti-embolism stockings which is always a struggle. I also unpacked my case and hung up the clothes that I had brought from 'Jenny's Nest'.
Jenny made sure that I was tucked up in bed and then Dr Capitan, Dr Simon and Dr Bellinga came in to see me for a final chat. At about 8.55 am the nurses arrived to wheelchair me through to the room where the anaesthetist chatted to me and one of the nurses put the cannula in my left arm.
I asked if I could get on the operating table rather than be lifted on as I have a minor back problem and wanted to make sure that I was comfortable and my back was in the right position. They said that's fine.
All the rest of the gadgetry was attached and I was looking forward to the rather nice feeling as the anaesthetic goes in but nothing as I went out like a light.
Oh well, maybe next time !!!!
Apparently because of my slightly enlarged aorta, there were two anaesthetists looking after me, the main three surgeons operating and another surgeon who I understand is training and just assisted. So I was really looked after during my four hours in the operating theatre, one and half hours for the complex forehead reconstruction with Dr Capitan and Dr Simon and two and half hours on my complex third rhinoplasty, second upper lip lift and removal of the inappropriate fat in my top lip by Dr Bellinga.
I don't remember the exact time I came round in the recovery room but to make sure that I was OK, they kept an eye on me for 8 hours until 9.00 pm. I tried to pee but even my asking the nurse to pour water from one jug to another, it did not work and reluctantly I agreed to be catherised. Having had this done before it's always uncomfortable ... :o
Oh yes, I have an old real bristle Kent hair brush that I have had for over 20 years ( they are over £80 new now) but are wonderful as they don't pull the hair out like other brushes do. So I requested if the nurse could use it to tidy my hair after the surgery as I am paranoid about my hair. This they allowed which was awesome ... :)
At around 9.00pm they wheeled me back ( on a bed ) into the room and while I was on my own bed the catheter slipped out and had to be put back in again and that definitely made my eyes water.
I was offered a bit of light food but refused as I was not hungry but sipped water.
I had the cooling mask on for 24 hours but had a good night's sleep with hardly any discomfort at all.
Obviously pain killers and other drugs were being fed through the cannula in my arm.
The next morning Thursday April 7th, I felt really good and had a light breakfast. Laura popped in and brought my camera and handbag that she had kept for me locked away in Facial Team's office. She took off the cooling mask and then Dr Bellinga came in around 9.15am , removed part of the upper lip lift bandage and the plugs/packing in my two nostrils which was a big relief being able to breathe again thru the nose. Then my UK friend came by who had her facelift with Dr Bellinga the week before and who was staying in the Carolina Park studio apartment that we shared before I went to Jenny's Nest. Throughout the day I walked around the grounds a lot, taking fotos which I will share with you soon. Dr Capitan & Dr Simon also came in later in the day and told me that my surgery was 100%. ( I have shared with you already what they found in my forehead and what they had to do ).
From the moment that Jenny took me to hospital, the surgery carried out, Laura my patient coordinator and her colleague Carmen's care, the hospital's staff and nursing care, the food, in fact everything was just exceptional. Best surgery experience of my life ... :) It was simply a well oiled machine.
Anyway here are the fotos that Jenny took of me before we left on the previous day (Wednesday the 6th) to go to the hospital. No make up, nothing, just the bare me. You can just see the old direct browlift scars over the eyebrows that have remained ever since 1991 with the old fashioned (even back then ) procedure that I had in London !!! G'rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr ... >:(
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvD0Cvsi.jpg&hash=91447cc075d12f28d05f73578dd8f3691b8bb20e) (http://imgur.com/vD0Cvsi)
You can really see the bony deformities in my forehead, inappropriate PEEK implants, too small 'Piggy Nose', inappropriate fat in my top lip, weak upper lip lift negated also by the weight of the fat in my top lip. The implants were also painful to the touch and I had constant nose bleeds due to foreign material in my left frontal sinus cavity still
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FaB5LZZa.jpg&hash=c1a45243dbb90d5495174b6451acc444685ce675) (http://imgur.com/aB5LZZa)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJ1Wsmt7.jpg&hash=dd9c79d6c6f882fda0f9413aa3d67cf346d6904c) (http://imgur.com/J1Wsmt7)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJkYxe71.jpg&hash=ab7206f9d70e3195551b11ee413b3fa5f3146120) (http://imgur.com/JkYxe71)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFp8q4gh.jpg&hash=22421493be77689f47eeacd684a1696466d08e70) (http://imgur.com/Fp8q4gh)
Here is a foto taken with the cooling mask on before it was briefly taken off on Thursday morning before Dr Bellinga removed part of the ULL bandage.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FRGAZhET.jpg&hash=8855216575a38b571d1daba55d5c8d332611301a) (http://imgur.com/RGAZhET)
These are the the fotos taken by my friend showing the wonderful new forehead shape and transition to my new nose with cartilage taken from behind both ears. Note the cooling mask indentations
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVVWoj4q.jpg&hash=f30b385f78f437bcbaab0772c2877b130a33fb36) (http://imgur.com/VVWoj4q)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0DwVmZ2.jpg&hash=d8c716dc382e43b27363491b2d8c2151ee22ce71) (http://imgur.com/0DwVmZ2)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoRU9lFN.jpg&hash=fc2d6295f7e9fa951cd370cfd265608db759cf18) (http://imgur.com/oRU9lFN)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FC1bSgjN.jpg&hash=806daad9b8b7d3af95ba39c0bc60b7d33feec330) (http://imgur.com/C1bSgjN)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0ygrS7e.jpg&hash=53e2ef49cdfa95bb00922d995ee41a5805ac7f8d) (http://imgur.com/0ygrS7e)
Here is the view of the grounds from my bed
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEuesTnA.jpg&hash=70034b525aad769e0625a889c07daae774ed861c) (http://imgur.com/EuesTnA)
Seeing the bed, it's time for me to hit the decks and will be back over the weekend.
Nite all
Hugs
Paula
PS. My friends already say that I look ten years younger which is kinda nice and that's without a full face/neck lift (to be done in the next two years ).
Good Morning everyone,
Had a decent lie in and ready to go.
Before I tell you about my final day in hospital ( Friday April 8th ), here is the lovely dinner that I had Thursday night.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgpWDLWN.jpg&hash=9b7f931062b2a9142eace7e5eb10b0172f1a59de) (http://imgur.com/gpWDLWN)
I slept well again with virtually no discomfort at all.
I showered, washed my hair very carefully again with baby shampoo (I washed it on Thursday too) had breakfast and waited for the day to begin.
My friend from the UK popped in once again and took more fotos of me. She was seeing the doctors and having her stitches removed from her full facelift the week before as she was flying back to the UK the same day.
Doctor Bellinga again came in and removed the tape over my upper lip lift stitches but the nose tape had to remain.
Here are the fotos.
No doubt due to the fact this was the third and final attempt (Thank God) at feminising my forehead and orbital rims, third nose job, second upper lip lift and top lip fat removal, I look pretty beaten up compared to other FT patients who I have seen just post-op. But I am incredibly vascular and this does not help. However being very vascular really helps the healing process along. My eyebrows are very high due to the swelling, but the brows are now coming down ( they were on the high side prior to surgery).
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsypG1mu.jpg&hash=1ecc1e02d4673fda238b86e98abf2b4021d80ea3) (http://imgur.com/sypG1mu)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSUaRPQy.jpg&hash=dc74e29a9a545cd7d368ace6d93752631f0b0334) (http://imgur.com/SUaRPQy)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJ1JV4BN.jpg&hash=cf918688c739029fe83a85cf4fd4ee923ad32cbb) (http://imgur.com/J1JV4BN)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FkYPkYug.jpg&hash=2bd7b2ab6e69d882c47f989fe8046530f79cf487) (http://imgur.com/kYPkYug)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FRM1WFRz.jpg&hash=4ac1186ab1b2ce31df4c317660a1ae8a18e45fa1) (http://imgur.com/RM1WFRz)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FimAqybr.jpg&hash=d1fc361c94856ef0c6f71adf796ad3243e9c0945) (http://imgur.com/imAqybr)
I then bade farewell to my UK friend and had lunch. Yummee!! ... :)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBNm0VJq.jpg&hash=b6f6f45474b37136af93dc6cbe58b444fe501cc8) (http://imgur.com/BNm0VJq)
After lunch, I went to see another two patients who were also staying at 'Jenny's Nest' and here is a foto of Jenny Bowman and I ( I have cropped out the other patient's face as I don't have her permission ).
I look very happy as you can all see. I suppose that I don't look too bad for a beaten up 70 year old ... :laugh:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKZQBfrD.jpg&hash=5749fa432e8fd6e60c809d2f6e59f76baa09ab95) (http://imgur.com/KZQBfrD)
and then it was time to say farewell to all the nurses and staff and Jenny took me home by taxi to her 'Nest'
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgMgUkby.jpg&hash=853974cc403fddd6563c0081340e6974c5bcf036) (http://imgur.com/gMgUkby)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fb5ABUqD.jpg&hash=d7dbec8308a4a6af5dec01276b8876ea39a2963c) (http://imgur.com/b5ABUqD)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0i0Lx0B.jpg&hash=9df8eb424ba113c3b845be79f67b8ef2f94e9c7b) (http://imgur.com/0i0Lx0B)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIZqB8BD.jpg&hash=3b29c750394c36641cc908139763d3665ee94518) (http://imgur.com/IZqB8BD)
All that I can tell you is that my three days in hospital were just magical and would do it all again if I had to ... 8)
So when I return in the late autumn to have more hair grafting done and again in a year or so for a full face and neck lift, I know what to expect with all the love, care and expertise that I had just received from Facial Team and HC Hospital.
I will return soon and tell you all about my very special 'Jenny's Nest' experience.
Have a great day everyone.
Hugs
Paula
A friend of mine said to me just now.
"Remember that younger patients tend to heal much quicker than older girls ".
Also I was told that I am the oldest patient that Facial Team has worked on, so far.
Eeekkkkkk ... :o :o
Hi everyone,
Another week starts and on Wednesday, I will be 5 weeks post-op.
Every day I notice positive changes to my forehead, nose and upper lip lift.
In fact as I write, the feeling is returning in my top lip, wonderful .... 8)
Anyway back to my stay at 'Jenny's Nest'.
My first evening back (Friday April 8th) was taken up settling back in again and getting a good night's sleep as the following day (Saturday) there was much lined up for me.
Two days before my surgery I received an e-mail from my patient co-ordinator Laura at the studio apartment that I was sharing with my UK friend in Carolina Park, Marbella saying this:
Dear Paula,
The reason for this email is to inform you that everyday we try to improve the experience of our patients; helping them as much as possible throughout the process prior to surgery, but what is more important, during the postoperative time.
To do this, we want to launch a pioneering acupuncture therapy, which aims to reduce inflammation, pain and stress caused by the surgery and also try to improve the quality of sleep.
We need to know as soon as possible, if you would be interested in participating in this therapy during your postoperative time. Of course, it has no cost for you. Attached you can find the information about this therapy and also the curriculum of the doctor who is doing the therapy, Dr. Jiménez.
Please let me know if you are interested.
Thank you very much and kind regards,
See Facial Team's website: http://facialteam.eu/acupuncture-sessions-for-the-post-surgical-recovery-of-facialteam-patients/
Naturally, I accepted and on the following Saturday Dr Jiminez duly arrived around 11.30am.
It was an amazing experience and I promptly fell asleep with needles sprouting out from all over my face and feet.
Pictures tell the story.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4CVwrsa.jpg&hash=6de978e8e499c5d706760083fac1e7dcbd995e38) (http://imgur.com/4CVwrsa)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsE3DgQB.jpg&hash=a34ebf5abd41c67f27839c69f24ed2347de3c40f) (http://imgur.com/sE3DgQB)
Not sure what the light is about, so will need to ask
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1Asi9yL.jpg&hash=71ecf6ffffe5bc62991a9ea1b0f15ba2690eabd7) (http://imgur.com/1Asi9yL)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLEAiIek.jpg&hash=8b9219740d8d9dd1c0ecf2fb27918c703412d67c) (http://imgur.com/LEAiIek)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FprANDPV.jpg&hash=41930362247c98304ff0d399ab79fe8d6fa6a3e3) (http://imgur.com/prANDPV)
Then in the afternoon, it was off up the road with other patients and relatives from the villa to the local supermarket to get our food in. One of the patient's Mum's from the USA made us all wonderful and nutritious smoothies from the fresh strawberries that we bought.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfhwEzqg.jpg&hash=e364ebcd30c41e6dd20c1d771b325056e904d79a) (http://imgur.com/fhwEzqg)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLZMeDyp.jpg&hash=8df2234faa93279d3f792e0b2a8f014dae4b28ee) (http://imgur.com/LZMeDyp)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FqP3BQTt.jpg&hash=746bf263c4c173fbdc98e4f2963328bb258c652a) (http://imgur.com/qP3BQTt)
The range and quality of the produce in there (Mercadona) was awesome
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FP4p5ynm.jpg&hash=3af59efe11deac8d1439f77dbb4c7cd747875fb1) (http://imgur.com/P4p5ynm)
After arriving back at our villa, I had another treatment with the wonderful Antonio Romero Moreno who performed a lymphatic drainage massage on me and once again I fell to sleep.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBBOAnye.jpg&hash=28daa30a9740a57fb750d822efdbecf4558bcd57) (http://imgur.com/BBOAnye)
So all in all a wonderful day and the following day (Sunday) there was more treatment to follow.
Back soon.
Doctor Jimenez is very qualified:
MANUEL JIMÉNEZ FERNÁNDEZ
Colegio de Médicos de Jaén: Colegiado número: 232305427
PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATIONS
Bachelors of Medicine and Surgery at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of
Granada.
Medical Specialist in Clinical Neurophysiology, after four years of intensive formation
via the MIR system at the Virgen de las Nieves Hospital of Granada.
Diploma of Advanced Studies (Research Doctorate) obtained from the Faculty of
Medicine in Granada.
Masters in Sleep, Physiology and Medicine. Certified by the University Pablo de
Olavide in Sevilla.
Certificate in Acupuncture & Moxibustion, Craneopuncture and Auriculotherapy from
the Escuela Superior de Acupuntura CML Lasvi, in Madrid.
Certificate in Lifting with Acupuncture from two training centers: IEN El Vergel, Jason
Smith and CML Lasvi.
SCIENTIFIC ASSOCIATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS
Sociedad Española de Neurofisiología Clínica (SENFC).
Sociedad Andaluza de Neurofisiología Clínica (SANFC). Member of the Board of
Directors and the Scientific Committee.
Sociedad Andaluza de Epilepsia (SADE).
Sociedad Española de Acupuntores
SCIENTIFIC AND RESEARCH ACTIVITY
Multiple presentations and papers at conferences and meetings of regional and
national level. Active research projects during 2015:
• Joint study of sensory and neural pathways of upper limbs in patients with
fibromyalgia. Compared with healthy control group.
• Auditory Evoked Potentials study in children by age groups. Facts compared
with normal hearing thresholds.
• Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as a treatment in patients with
upper limb motor-skill damage after cerebral stroke.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Faculty Specialist & Area Manager in Clinical Neurophysiology for the Unit of Clinical
Neuroscience at the Hospital Complex in Jaén of the Andalusian Regional Health
Service.
Specialist in Clinical Neurophysiology and Clinical Medical Acupuncturist at a private
Health & Beauty clinic in Jaen.
Information on Antonio Romero Moreno - Fistoterapeuta
http://terapiasmarbella.com/es/page/equipo-de-la-cl%C3%ADnica-0
Good Morning everybody.
Bit early here in the UK, nearly 4.00am !!! :o
Next door I have a lovely junior doctor living with her other half and yesterday, I showed her my 'In surgery' fotos.
She was amazed at the results and it's a shame that I cannot post them here but, of course, that is not allowed.
Some members have requested my sending them by pm, so if anyone else wishes to see them and don't mind a bit of gore, you are welcome to pm me and I will send them.
Have a nice day.
Paula
Good evening,
Went to see my GP (local doctor) this morning and she was very impressed with the result after just 5 weeks (today) since surgery ... 8)
I have booked flights back to Marbella for a week's stay from July 17th to July 24th for a check-up (Week 15) with Dr Bellinga for my nose and Dr Simon for my forehead. If required Dr Bellinga will inject Kenalog (steroid) to my nose and ULL area.
I will be seeing Dr Capitan anyway on July 8th in London when he is here consulting but a week's break in Spain appealed to me and of course seeing Dr's S & B.
Managed to book one of the last rooms available in a small hotel Hostal Paco in Marbella Old Town - https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187439-d621013-Reviews-Hostal_Paco-Marbella_Costa_del_Sol_Province_of_Malaga_Andalucia.html - which was lucky and even cheaper than Hotel San Cristobal that I stayed in last year.
Looking forward to meeting up with Jenny and Nicola once again although Jenny will also be in London on the 8th and then Facial Team go up to Manchester for 'Sparkle' the following day.
See: http://www.sparkle.org.uk/
Nite everyone ... :)
Good afternoon members,
Just realised that Facial Team will be in London on Thursday July 7th as well as the 8th before they travel up to Sparkle, so I might go and see them on the Thursday instead, if they have an appointment available.
Anyway I went for a long walk this afternoon and when I arrived back, I realised just how much this surgery has taken it out of me. I understand that every hour under anaesthesia ( 4 hours in my case ) takes a month to recover, so it's not until August that I will be fully back to normal again.
Mind you it was in the late 70's F and humid after all the rain we have had these last few days here in the UK, so that did not help.
Before surgery, I was walking up to 3 to 4 miles each day at a fast pace and there was no way I could do that right now, but hope to soon.
At my age especially, it's essential to keep a level of fitness maintained otherwise it fast goes away.
I am really noticing now how I am healing well and my eyebrows are coming down a lot.
Anyway back to my stay at Jenny's Nest.
After a wonderful night's sleep Saturday April 9th, the next day (Sunday) Dr Jimenez returned around 10.30am and I had another session of acupuncture. This time I was wired up and afterwards he said that I had a large amount of energy for someone my age. ( I don't feel energetic today that's for sure ... :laugh: )
Here are the fotos to show what he did.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FaFMP8DQ.jpg&hash=0bb02fac13703fe2be4129000e9cbeb8cdd998d4) (http://imgur.com/aFMP8DQ)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEfAnQPg.jpg&hash=eec86884dbcee6b27d8b758df2196afdd7c2a78d) (http://imgur.com/EfAnQPg)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F10HcyI9.jpg&hash=948b6b4215a559874d2e9da339cb80f86bc9550c) (http://imgur.com/10HcyI9)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSPCN0SQ.jpg&hash=d2016d4c90654605967009b048bcb2ef01998140) (http://imgur.com/SPCN0SQ)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F75oOYTC.jpg&hash=529b740d0a8576e3113fa5dcf63d6da40d0e22e4) (http://imgur.com/75oOYTC)
Still had my nose cast on(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fam64a38.jpg&hash=717f71b4f5d55bac6a061329ea52800ae0a7ff80) (http://imgur.com/am64a38)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvsBOfhy.jpg&hash=edd69a94f80e5000cf58f5f3e492256a08a1f068) (http://imgur.com/vsBOfhy)
I assume the meter measures the energy levels but apart from that I don't know too much.
All that I can say is that the treatment made me feel very relaxed once more and again I fell to sleep.
Another post-op patient was also undergoing the same therapy and she said it was very relaxing too.
Reinvigorated before lunch I decided to stroll around the grounds of the villa and took lots of fotos which I will share with you on my other thread:
My experience at Jenny's Nest - April 5th to April 15th 2016.
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,207962.0.html
Here's a taster:
Bye for now ... :)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTIYA3zk.jpg&hash=c84c6c16f201c2b225edfc0c04bdc2d61df4d5f7) (http://imgur.com/TIYA3zk)
Quote from: Paula1 on May 11, 2016, 05:54:27 PM
I will be seeing Dr Capitan anyway on July 8th in London when he is here consulting but a week's break in Spain appealed to me and of course seeing Dr's S & B.
Looking forward to meeting up with Jenny and Nicola once again although Jenny will also be in London on the 8th and then Facial Team go up to Manchester for 'Sparkle' the following day.
See: http://www.sparkle.org.uk/
Hi everyone,
I trust you all had a good weekend.
I am finding now that as I come up to week 6 ( this coming Wednesday ) that my forehead's feeling is improving all the time and I get the odd shooting pain, nothing serious just weird really.
Because my scalp has now been opened up three times plus three sessions of hairgrafting, I am not sure if I will ever get back full feeling. But I am used to it now anyway after the second scalping in 2014 ... LOL ... ;D
I have just got to be careful for the rest of my life that when I hit my head that I don't knock it too hard, otherwise I might pass out and that will not be such a good idea ..... :o
All part of the lottery/game of transitioning eh?
My nose is getting smaller and the top lip coming down. The top lip is still pretty numb as the healing process takes place which makes eating and drinking sort of interesting ... ;)
But being a bit of a surgery junkie by now, I know that time is the healer and it cannot be rushed.
It's going to be interesting to see how long it all takes before I am back to normal.
Lots of positive comments yesterday from people who met me for the first time when I told them that 6 weeks I had been hit by a Mack Truck !!!! ;) ;)
Seriously though, I told them that I had forehead surgery, a rhinoplasty and upper lip lift, and they all thought I looked pretty good considering that the surgery was only recent.
So that was good to hear and encouraging too.
But I know how girls feel who have not had this type of surgery before and feel very anxious that it will never heal and look a mess forever.
This morning being a Monday after a good weekend, I felt a little down when I looked at my face which is always more swollen first thing, whether I have had surgery or not. But after 30 minutes to an hour, the swelling goes down and every day this edema seems to get less which is heartening.
But although I am pretty patient after all the facial work done on me down the years, I still cannot wait until the healing process is complete.
However, I am getting on with life as normal and just accepting the fact that my beaten up look is going to remain for a while longer.
Anyway I am off to bed now ( an hour later than I intended ).
More to follow on my stay at "Jenny's Nest" with fotos tomorrow.
Hope wherever you are, you get a good night's sleep, I hope to.
Nite
Hugs
Paula
Sorry to hijack the threat but isn't Facial Team extremely slow in replying to messages? Is there someone other than Lilia who can handle external communication?
Hi,
No problem re the thread ... :)
Don't know where you got that information from but I have always found FT very quick to reply.
Lilia Koss is their Director of Marketing and Institutional Relations so would not normally deal with day to day patient enquiries.
It all depends, of course, who you wish to contact as these days they are very busy.
They have many staff who deal with all different types of matters/enquiries.
What do you need to know, I am sure that I can point you in the right direction to speed things up?
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: bunny girl on May 16, 2016, 07:00:59 PM
Sorry to hijack the threat but isn't Facial Team extremely slow in replying to messages? Is there someone other than Lilia who can handle external communication?
Thanks Paula :)
I sent an enquiry about their tracheal shave procedure & cost via their website and then Lilia got back to me and asked me to send in my photos because I live miles away from them. It's been a little over a week and still no reply... I should probably send a reminder email.
Btw, I might be moving to London this summer. I believe you are from England?
Quote from: Paula1 on May 17, 2016, 05:46:41 AM
Hi,
No problem re the thread ... :)
Don't know where you got that information from but I have always found FT very quick to reply.
Lilia Koss is their Director of Marketing and Institutional Relations so would not normally deal with day to day patient enquiries.
It all depends, of course, who you wish to contact as these days they are very busy.
They have many staff who deal with all different types of matters/enquiries.
What do you need to know, I am sure that I can point you in the right direction to speed things up?
Hugs
Paula
Hiya,Quote from: bunny girl on May 18, 2016, 08:42:50 PM
Thanks Paula :)
You are welcome .... :)
I sent an enquiry about their tracheal shave procedure & cost via their website and then Lilia got back to me and asked me to send in my photos because I live miles away from them.
Sorry, I did not realise that Lilia dealt directly with patients by e-mail although she attends their presentations when abroad.
It's been a little over a week and still no reply... I should probably send a reminder email.
I know that they are incredibly busy all the time so a small nudge would be a good idea.
Btw, I might be moving to London this summer.
Neat, where are you based now?
I believe you are from England?
That's right, I am based south-west of London - 30 minutes from Central London by train.
Facial Team are in London for consultations Thur July 7th & Fri July 8th and then up to Sparkle in Manchester for July 9th.
Hugs
Paula
Morning everyone,
Amazing what a few days has done to my healing.
Over the last week or so, the top lip's ( the red bit ) skin has been cracking (like a chapped lip) as the swelling has been going down and now looks better still. Moisturiser has done the trick.
The open rhinoplasty and upper lip lip incision is getting less too, in fact I would say only just visible when up close which is remarkable, no doubt due to my using Dermatix Gel ( as recommended by Facial Team ) on these incisions these last three weeks. They say stop using it after four weeks which is next Wednesday - 7 weeks after surgery.
The nose swelling is also improving which is good.
I have been massaging the scars and nose more vigorously which has to be helping a lot ... :)
Sorry for the delay in uploading more fotos, but just been too busy.
This weekend I will have more time, so back then.
Have a great day folks.
Hugs
Paula
Hi all,
Back to my Jenny's nest stay.
The last post was about Sunday 10th April when I had my final session of acupunture.
Monday I chilled out and then on Tuesday, Antonio Moreno came round to see another patient to perform some lymphatic drainage massage and I managed to get a foto with him.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F15SMt60.jpg&hash=d3425ec331a9177a8a5bc99fd9b83008b42ffbd8) (http://imgur.com/15SMt60)
The next day Wednesday, Nicola, one of the patient's mothers and myself walked down from the villa to Marbella Old Town to get some items.
It really is stunning and a great place to window shop or maybe buy, eat tapas, possibly have lunch/dinner in the many restaurants/bars or simply have coffee and watch the world go by.
On the way down
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSsWvHPN.jpg&hash=4d1c70f0c86819466b7e98d2f801eef42fc9ce82) (http://imgur.com/SsWvHPN)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FteWQXvs.jpg&hash=aed1ee462da0375eb890aff0de802bf560a5e6c6) (http://imgur.com/teWQXvs)
Orange Square
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3TiYcGW.jpg&hash=325d7a5780a95d5aea400f4a15276b9f99e3c266) (http://imgur.com/3TiYcGW)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FUc3EIPB.jpg&hash=fd67181f7cc0964cf07d6ca356fa2afbb9d9fa8a) (http://imgur.com/Uc3EIPB)
Shops
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fmo4LbcR.jpg&hash=e90c2e3ae8611ce6b3e0729d390a6a434bad7bda) (http://imgur.com/mo4LbcR)
Town Centre
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FDX4WlR3.jpg&hash=a082712573b25e62b621802027dc47778ba35d17) (http://imgur.com/DX4WlR3)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F7nOCWkj.jpg&hash=98ec4d3a827b43ff599eab429cce1f123362b57f) (http://imgur.com/7nOCWkj)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgEdb2NP.jpg&hash=c2ae118dd6a948905d44fe9ae9c07275466c0c10) (http://imgur.com/gEdb2NP)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fha7FIkz.jpg&hash=494379be49d5fd8af797be40bb4469811ddd2a24) (http://imgur.com/ha7FIkz)
That evening I decided to make a quick meal for everyone. Previously I had bought a ready made cannelloni which turned out to be disgusting, the salad part was fine that I had prepared and the strawberries were good which was something at least.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlYvO7jp.jpg&hash=e0546f6561bcf3b171c0e6eb442727c439087462) (http://imgur.com/lYvO7jp)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F6UQGQh7.jpg&hash=9cda1e872a55c94e9ee946b8ad7bf07c51631672) (http://imgur.com/6UQGQh7)
So Jenny quickly brought out some pizza from the freezer to save the day, thanks heavens. Very embarrasing and I don't think that Jenny and Nicola will ever let me live it down ... LOL ... ;D
Then on Thursday, the penultimate day, I asked Nicola to take fotos of the coronal incision stitches and dissolving stitches behind my ears where the cartilage was removed for my nose reconstruction.
The coronal incision after only 8 days was well healed thankfully due to my good vascularity
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBijDLuE.jpg&hash=cdc75cefda6a3c063fbff59ebe339a222c619100) (http://imgur.com/BijDLuE)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLtgFvF9.jpg&hash=f6689a9d1460c8bb5dc87cc484acdb3c178fddde) (http://imgur.com/LtgFvF9)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVSj2jBB.jpg&hash=b193be4e8287848467fac376aa2bdc5524585b3d) (http://imgur.com/VSj2jBB)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FuYibPqY.jpg&hash=58cd357afde69fa20f8f360d69d331b5d0a8b472) (http://imgur.com/uYibPqY)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FWUg0i58.jpg&hash=e98775eb030f41e9ab625f75551b264589e902fa) (http://imgur.com/WUg0i58)
Then she took some profile shots.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZQLptoe.jpg&hash=a4025ab415848de5abe966d5ac6372e31493aa8f) (http://imgur.com/ZQLptoe)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGbM2Okc.jpg&hash=04f9c7d8bc5b5a8851d42d038fa6be71ab18cd91) (http://imgur.com/GbM2Okc)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FdFKbHbI.jpg&hash=254d39d5718b2cf794f1b84ea1f935712967c836) (http://imgur.com/dFKbHbI)
After lunch we took the taxi to the hospital to have all my stitches removed.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FDYtw4Kc.jpg&hash=5870229bbab31914a3af865f21b582a884a78a84) (http://imgur.com/DYtw4Kc)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FAsaLu6X.jpg&hash=2faf140ab9c8935a30e2003f9250e688810dbd16) (http://imgur.com/AsaLu6X)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIp4kADp.jpg&hash=07990c35352e96701d7ef8a18ef1266e522e0cc3) (http://imgur.com/Ip4kADp)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYNFQB3g.jpg&hash=c872d8b99be4cdaa8b37b910e200163df243869d) (http://imgur.com/YNFQB3g)
Nicola and the other patient co-ordinator Carmen
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2vRdw3y.jpg&hash=76f2e9d93c5a7f609d49855ec2bf6e1acafc3820) (http://imgur.com/2vRdw3y)
FT's Head Nurse Grassyt Gonzalez
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQm6QTpH.jpg&hash=48130104ac458cf40be12ea401c33b4d8f8fd7a8) (http://imgur.com/Qm6QTpH)
Upper Lip lift & open rhinoplasty stitches (left) and coronal incision stitches(right)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTiHwwDQ.jpg&hash=f84c0a69f4f73472656563b47e96ca0ca2055a3d) (http://imgur.com/TiHwwDQ)
She also removed the nose plaster and took some fotos. Since then my eyebrows have come down a lot, they were over elevated in 2004
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQN73JS2.jpg&hash=c525664f18866dcecc0db56f697b0b6bf771295f) (http://imgur.com/QN73JS2)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FokX8bsA.jpg&hash=294a9b7885665ef956f2d2537cba09f721b98aa6) (http://imgur.com/okX8bsA)
I took this selfie in the mirror
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FV2Spkf4.jpg&hash=9b21f3e5b3bbc46629ed2cefba528a25b02269d1) (http://imgur.com/V2Spkf4)
Then I had my final chat with the surgeons and then back to the villa
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFnXx2Ly.jpg&hash=fb103d7f5956680091d90457113ae41227d99574) (http://imgur.com/FnXx2Ly)
That evening Jenny and I plus some other people (no Nicola sadly) went into Marbella by taxi and had dinner at El Tanguito in the old town
These horses are gorgeous in the town centre. In July I am going to go for a ride in one of the carriages .. :)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgIIQ8TN.jpg&hash=21c03d7ceb92e02201c94cd337b9e1483c040467) (http://imgur.com/gIIQ8TN)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FWmSqyGG.jpg&hash=63baf97cc16af632256a0c9da793f2cb9d00f476) (http://imgur.com/WmSqyGG)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FP2KFCZl.jpg&hash=974a0c0bcdfcec00a3a35affe79bc25e23155cd2) (http://imgur.com/P2KFCZl)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FE6rZpIi.jpg&hash=7621dbae039274428e1ffbb1a0a2003358e1227c) (http://imgur.com/E6rZpIi)
View from the terrace upstairs
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FmdwpLDH.jpg&hash=c8d16d8c16ba65ced6facfa4f15ef10e434c9640) (http://imgur.com/mdwpLDH)
The outside section, it was too cold so went inside downstairs
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5cwv1l1.jpg&hash=d9cc37656b8af34d26eccb8252ac2cac24962336) (http://imgur.com/5cwv1l1)
Inside
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FqcfK02v.jpg&hash=392aac9dea32bfdbaceb8ad9849f54dc3270995c) (http://imgur.com/qcfK02v)
I had their delicious shepherds pie
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fcfc3wWO.jpg&hash=de97b36af33c7adc4a393d732db77e4d1fcdfdce) (http://imgur.com/cfc3wWO)
And then it was back home for my final night.
More tomorrow on my final day.
Ms. Paula,
With all due respect, your eyebrows need some serious attention :-\
Hi,
Thank you for the comment ... :) and glad you pointed this out.
In my thread I have said that when I had my original facial surgery in 2004, the eyebrows were raised too high which was sometimes a feature of this surgeon's work ... i.e ... a surprised look !!! :o
Also he did not take into account the previous 1991 Direct Brow Lift.
But please remember that all these photographs are just post-op one week and due to the swelling they are even higher than they were before the surgery.
Now that I am 6 weeks post-op they have nearly come down again to the level that they were prior to April 6th.
Dr Capitan, Dr Simon and I discussed this problem a long time ago and I plan in due course to have the existing eyebrows lasered out and have permanent tattooing done lower down my forehead and in a better shape.
They both said along with Dr Bellinga in my pre-op consultation the day before my operation that afterwards my nose will be a better shape and size along with the feminised upper lip lift, my forehead will be properly feminised for the first time along with the transition to the nose, so the present position of the eyebrows will look incorrect because the proportions will then be wrong.
In 1991, a surgeon here in the UK performed a Direct Brow Lift procedure that had I known was going to leave me at the time with disfiguring and visible scars above the eyebrows, I would never had it done. This surgeon, thankfully now long since retired, performed a lot of bad work on sisters at the time but he was recommended to me by the gender reassignment surgeon who did not want to know when I prolapsed three weeks after surgery !!!
1991 was a bad year for me, that's for sure.
The sad part about it, this is still happening with some surgeons to this very day.
They take your money and run when things are not done right or go wrong.
G'rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr .... >:(
In fact next week, I have an appointment in London with people recommended by Facial Team to discuss having permanent tattooing done as well as laser removal of the existing eyebrows.
Fortunately the old direct brow lift scars are less visible now due to some dermabrasion and microneedling, so should just look like forehead creases.
So my facial journey continues.
Hugs
Paula
PS. Here is my face the day prior to surgery and the eyebrows were much lower down. Now they are almost the same height. Note the mosquito bites above my left eye. Ouch !!!
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZSsFXcn.jpg&hash=e2506a378db1f08b8b6999c785bdd7428e7566ed) (http://imgur.com/ZSsFXcn)
Quote from: Ⓥ on May 21, 2016, 01:53:34 PM
Ms. Paula,
With all due respect, your eyebrows need some serious attention :-\
Forgot to mention but Facial Team's surgeons also pointed out that my eyebrows need to sit over the reshaped orbital rims not above them !!!
I am really looking forward to my new eyebrow positions ... :)
Hi Paula,
Thanks for sharing your pictures and experience with us 😊
Hiya,
You are welcome honeybun ... :)
I feel it's so important that members should see what is involved in having this type of surgery.
However I sincerely hope that other people's FFS journeys are not quite so long as mine .... ;) ;) ;)
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: kittenpower on May 22, 2016, 12:15:16 AM
Hi Paula,
Thanks for sharing your pictures and experience with us 😊
On Friday, I was told that the surgeon who performed my SRS in March 1991 at the London Bridge Hospital in London had recently passed away.
Quote from: Paula1 on May 21, 2016, 04:22:24 PM
In 1991, a surgeon here in the UK performed a Direct Brow Lift procedure that had I known was going to leave me at the time with disfiguring and visible scars above the eyebrows, I would never had it done. This surgeon, thankfully now long since retired, performed a lot of bad work on sisters at the time but he was recommended to me by the gender reassignment surgeon who did not want to know when I prolapsed three weeks after surgery !!!
Good afternoon everyone,
Interesting but there is still a slight trace of the heaviest bruising below my eyes at the bottom where it is purple, so the forehead healing is still taking place at nearly 7 weeks post surgery.
Foto taken one week after surgery - My Raccoon look ... ;)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FUbXQY62.jpg&hash=f5ec3c27e05bfcb63341967afd410f2e8e3e3916) (http://imgur.com/UbXQY62)
My last day at Jenny's Nest post to follow later ... :)
Hi again everyone,
I wish to share these fotos as Marbella is such a great place to have surgery at, so I hope you don't mind.
Part 1 - Final day
I got up early on Friday my last day as I had to pack and vacate my room by 1.00pm as Jenny had another guest staying.
Also I wanted to spend my final day sightseeing down in Marbella. See street map:
http://www.malagacar.com/maps/marbella/marbella_map_8.htm
and: http://www.viamichelin.co.uk/web/Maps/Map-Marbella-_-Malaga-Spain?strLocid=31M3lkdjEwY016WXVOVEE1T1RFPWNMVFF1T0RnMk5UTT0=
So I had an early breakfast, left the villa and walked down to the bus station where there is a taxi rank.
A few people looked at me as I looked rather beaten up but as I am used to this anyway, it did not bother me one bit but it might have bothered them !!
Some people asked me what's happened to your face, so I said that I had a bit of reconstructive surgery the week before due to an accident I had a few years ago .... LOL ... ;D
Anyway a lovely young taxi driver dropped me down to the town centre, paid him with my debit card plus tip and then I realised I needed to go to the same nail bar about half a mile away that I went to before surgery and have the nail varnish put back on my left little fingernail which I had to remove before the operation.
So he took me there and when I said how much he said 'Nothing' which was awesome. A real nice guy.
Anyway after the nail bar, I decided to walk down to the sea and have a look around and do the touristy thing with my Panasonic 'Bridge' camera with it's amazing 25 to 600mm 2.8mm Leica Lens and 4D video.
http://www.expertreviews.co.uk/digital-cameras/bridge-cameras/1403827/panasonic-fz330-review
Here are my fotos.
Seafront looking west
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLH12C7D.jpg&hash=36fa261744c58e8d55c14622053af3a2fc90f68f) (http://imgur.com/LH12C7D)
Seafront looking east - There are cafes, tapas, restaurants everywhere.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fp17zL7q.jpg&hash=ee9f4e3a484324730c3a43a01901ba9b4de6c76e) (http://imgur.com/p17zL7q)
Lots of small kiosks like this selling all sorts of items and ice creams
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGn5j66I.jpg&hash=4383bf09be33124debaeb6b22e3f50bf0a082aa7) (http://imgur.com/Gn5j66I)
Looking south towards the harbour and Mediterranean beyond
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSgldPFd.jpg&hash=04a6c4c875be71a7058ad21437afe3886a847c35) (http://imgur.com/SgldPFd)
There was some kind of charity race taking place which was fun to watch
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1gBpGhJ.jpg&hash=8ef5574fe9601054fc294e510e8ac1dfb959cabe) (http://imgur.com/1gBpGhJ)
Looking north away from the harbour
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2vyKqPl.jpg&hash=cda120d30d65d9d7f665afe8a3db5f2f0094abd9) (http://imgur.com/2vyKqPl)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FO2z8o76.jpg&hash=ef5ee8bf07fd22057b477358c5b93a1b382974bf) (http://imgur.com/O2z8o76)
Looking east away from the harbour
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fg9sh3ct.jpg&hash=c142925233800678c4c6143fe6a82f5d939bcc53) (http://imgur.com/g9sh3ct)
Looking north-west from the harbour
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FucBbF6O.jpg&hash=f47b8d1dc8b24f3442b3388805a01281c6ecfefb) (http://imgur.com/ucBbF6O)
The Puerto Banus ferry (Catamaran) coming in
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FHiTxsQH.jpg&hash=2632fcb583e1db92b4732eaee3e0465d17bb4d10) (http://imgur.com/HiTxsQH)
I used the zoom
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FmXX8RDi.jpg&hash=b722ad00e3a9205aedf1a2e8936b15a1fb9bfa84) (http://imgur.com/mXX8RDi)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEZxTlgK.jpg&hash=adcb319fa562298c4dd8924c441959937b8305d8) (http://imgur.com/EZxTlgK)
Harbour looking south
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVInNFbr.jpg&hash=931ce3fac650d4c76eba7590e141eff910cd769f) (http://imgur.com/VInNFbr)
Harbour looking south-west
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4rISap5.jpg&hash=5a3f4381d390a390c67e6595da2cdadd348b3b8c) (http://imgur.com/4rISap5)
Ferry office - I am going on the ferry in July, cannot wait .. :)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FPcbgLwz.jpg&hash=c3ee09d428d0dde250923cd0099db383675455d6) (http://imgur.com/PcbgLwz)
Real Club Maritimo Marbella
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FD1dXXGi.jpg&hash=775efdfcc521b008548ebe8ad3bcdadfa7ef6b2c) (http://imgur.com/D1dXXGi)
Police Horses that were attending the charity race
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0rsCZIx.jpg&hash=929b551db6adc45bf016dd23715ff1f9c5d81e9f) (http://imgur.com/0rsCZIx)
This guy was watching me !!! and maybe wondered who beat her up
or just thought ' Another Facial Team patient ' .. LOL .. ;D
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FAoN02Qn.jpg&hash=381f8e81cef3ac41296af6864a0b5e1b0a5f8ccd) (http://imgur.com/AoN02Qn)
Another kiosk
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvfzU0yj.jpg&hash=52bb585e555337b10f5f08fd54aa7f2dc7f9622a) (http://imgur.com/vfzU0yj)
Beach to the east of the harbour
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvnsLEnO.jpg&hash=0403ebda6f5bece22b7ca945e2680029d63a768b) (http://imgur.com/vnsLEnO)
I then decided to walk north up Avenue Miguel Canao where there are many restaurants and cafes.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fo77kLl5.jpg&hash=ba1899bd70a775140dffeecb5ef5e2bb0a52268c) (http://imgur.com/o77kLl5)
Looking south from same avenue
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FAqQP6Xa.jpg&hash=b8c7e93e91012a60c0d1a5b52d77c7bb53b74654) (http://imgur.com/AqQP6Xa)
Last year in May, I had a great pizza and desert here and will return in July
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBvUDvJU.jpg&hash=7947677e9c44d42faff3b9e104a2eb06e99b5527) (http://imgur.com/BvUDvJU)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FySkjmTG.jpg&hash=8a58f62555c7049971d5b9976e123ee9fdcf6864) (http://imgur.com/ySkjmTG)
and when I arrived in Marbella last year, the first night I enjoyed a meal here at 10.30pm
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOv7X7RF.jpg&hash=a7d7687ad0f2ae96f7fdd9d03331b844c98b4e67) (http://imgur.com/Ov7X7RF)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3LkFz09.jpg&hash=1dc77eb4c21afb9b61b1f00910d8a1f55894b594) (http://imgur.com/3LkFz09)
I then walked further north up the same avenue.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0NkGu34.jpg&hash=909dd302dcf6c426ff64aa27c0dfda7b8a284508) (http://imgur.com/0NkGu34)
and spotted this gorgeous dog
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FANWVsav.jpg&hash=a27ac4441f8f97e11f4ff153d55a52908bd8082f) (http://imgur.com/ANWVsav)
outside this bakery and cafe
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FjgXcdH2.jpg&hash=e1b532494c2c670e791080ff305d4d20fa85cc5e) (http://imgur.com/jgXcdH2)
This guy chatted to me with his lovely pet despite my apperance .. ;)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FImicfkH.jpg&hash=1dc7d9fec1d0791e33119975ee1350265c37f158) (http://imgur.com/ImicfkH)
Inside the bakery/cafe
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfNA8nlv.jpg&hash=8e03465feb87fdf6af4a01bad31c999c5ce14594) (http://imgur.com/fNA8nlv)
So I chose some lovely looking strawberry tarts to take back to everyone at 'Jenny's Nest'
and then sat down to have some and coffee too ... Yummee .. They were delicious, so well worth a visit.
Outside of cafe looking south
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhLn6JcM.jpg&hash=3ec81f539cc1b996af97da653cd3ef8abe5d29aa) (http://imgur.com/hLn6JcM)
This place opposite looks interesting, so I will visit in July
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FWB9j1zO.jpg&hash=0682667f5d2ed988ab7269ee8032fa7e1241cc08) (http://imgur.com/WB9j1zO)
As I was running late and had to get get back to the villa, I knew that there was a taxi rank at the top
of the avenue and then what happened next would probably have ruined my relaxed final day, in fact the whole previous two weeks, had I allowed it!!
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVBtKq2B.jpg&hash=af40dd536801af61f16f0b8dc57591301ca5cd65) (http://imgur.com/VBtKq2B)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYzWisG9.jpg&hash=3accac8a9bd968bda5c778c157fa0b931291981e) (http://imgur.com/YzWisG9)
Part 2 probably tomorrow now.
Sorry ... ;) ;)
Part 2 - Final day
Good Morning everyone,
Another week of healing begins .. ;)
When I sat in the taxi that was at the head of the queue, I had a gut feeling that something was not right by the demeanour and attitude of the driver.
I should have got out, walked away and chosen another taxi. However as I was running a bit late, I needed to return to the villa as soon as I could.
I showed the driver exactly where I wanted to go ( I had the address details printed out ) so he had no excuse and off we went.
When we arrived close to the street where Jenny's Nest is situated, he drove in a different direction, no doubt to increase the fare. The area that the villa is situated is very wealthy, so a good excuse to charge as much as he could.
When I told him that he was going the wrong way, he shouted at me and said I have lived and worked in Marbella for over 40 years.
I said that I did not care and please take me the correct way. He then got nasty and said he would call the Police, so I said please do. I said that's not the way to treat a customer ( I was getting heated and stressed ) especially a woman who you can see has obviously undergone recent surgery.
He drove around the block a few more times and eventually we arrived. I paid my fare, did not tip him to which he swore at me in Spanish and drove away fast nearly ripping my hand off the door I was closing.
Now either he knew my background or not ( remember that many taxis go to and from the villa, so word gets around ) and maybe was prejudiced towards women anyway, who knows, but the way he treated me was outright disgraceful and disrespectful.
All the other taxis I went in during my stay, the drivers were great. Some knew my background because they were hired by FT, but others did not as I just chose them from a rank when I needed to.
So when I entered the villa, I was very upset and stressed so soon after surgery too.
However after a nice cuppa tea and lunch, I felt much happier and I quickly put the whole incident down as being unfortunate and I did not want my lovely day ruined by some idiot.
The rest of the afternoon was spent chilling out with the other girls and Jenny until the taxi arrived at 5.15pm to take me to Malaga airport.
It was very emotional saying goodbye to everyone and the whole Facial Team experience was simply incredible from the moment I set foot in Spain to the day I got on the plane back to the UK.
I said goodbye to my room and the lounge that we all enjoyed watching TV, having acupuncture, lymphatic drainage massage etc or simply chatting in.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FHhth0We.jpg&hash=aa768d6ce0d8f5b9e44cff3257ad866719f5c36c) (http://imgur.com/Hhth0We)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Feoi4gqK.jpg&hash=addfb23fbc26bc0fdfce201b87d2831d3707b651) (http://imgur.com/eoi4gqK)
Would I do it all again? Of course if I had to, but naturally will not because this chapter of my journey is now closed.
Here are the fotos I took during the 40 minute journey to the airport.
The drive is simply stunning along the Mediterranean coast with the lovely properties.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fi8AjRYK.jpg&hash=6e43892b79a33792ccd45d98ed93d2e72cde0257) (http://imgur.com/i8AjRYK)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvMZ73wf.jpg&hash=bba205aa4b883e5ba333ef0486a0e0536e8652a2) (http://imgur.com/vMZ73wf)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FzNBH7LG.jpg&hash=dc84070cbd765554c5ebd00b341f7c2077bbe649) (http://imgur.com/zNBH7LG)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTOCGvPm.jpg&hash=a192641602a9bf97b6169269f9958ab1f82e4164) (http://imgur.com/TOCGvPm)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FqhpeYE4.jpg&hash=1d7bd1140d7ce295f59178b471e9964b8e802bc9) (http://imgur.com/qhpeYE4)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbnyCvm3.jpg&hash=c10747b2db8dc875527dc1a58bed69b9e7023db4) (http://imgur.com/bnyCvm3)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMG8rr2x.jpg&hash=6b0ddc65f906fbe0d3bdad16fdbc8fc099ce4e69) (http://imgur.com/MG8rr2x)
Not my plane but view from the terminal
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYFBRsaR.jpg&hash=ae2013b7b020d86255adda59f0b92605c74ae4b9) (http://imgur.com/YFBRsaR)
As soon as I arrived at the airport, I requested a wheelchair which I suggest everyone does when they have had surgery such as this. For a start you are not allowed to lift heavy bags etc for a number of weeks and it sure speeds up going through check-in, passport control etc ... :) Facial Team also give you a 'Fit to Fly' letter for the airline. I was one of the first on the plane and upon arrival at Gatwick, Monarch Airlines had already phoned through so that a wheelchair was ready to take me to a kart which two other passengers from the flight joined me on to take us through customs and passport control. To see all the others passengers walking and queuing to go thru passport control was rather nice, so having surgery does have it's advantages ... ;) ;)
It was very cold back in the UK compared to Marbella, so I was glad I had a warm jacket to put on.
My flatmate was waiting to pick me up at the airport, so that was great and just a 45 minute drive home, made some tea and I fell into bed shattered.
Cannot wait to return to Marbella in July for a week's break, check up with the surgeons and touch base with Jenny and Nicola again .... ;D
read up on hemosiderin, it may not be bruising. It could be iron left from the bleeding which occurred after surgery. It can take several months for the body to reabsorb the iron. It took about 3 months before the bruised look went away after FFS.
Quote from: Paula1 on May 22, 2016, 09:13:31 AM
Good afternoon everyone,
Interesting but there is still a slight trace of the heaviest bruising below my eyes at the bottom where it is purple, so the forehead healing is still taking place at nearly 7 weeks post surgery.
Foto taken one week after surgery - My Raccoon look ... ;)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FUbXQY62.jpg&hash=f5ec3c27e05bfcb63341967afd410f2e8e3e3916) (http://imgur.com/UbXQY62)
My last day at Jenny's Nest post to follow later ... :)
Hiya,
Thank you for your reply ... :)
I will look into that, ta.
Some days it's visible, other days it's not.
Weird eh?
Funnily enough I take iron tablets as I have a slight iron defficiency.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: deeiche on May 23, 2016, 07:28:50 AM
read up on hemosiderin, it may not be bruising. It could be iron left from the bleeding which occurred after surgery. It can take several months for the body to reabsorb the iron. It took about 3 months before the bruised look went away after FFS.
Hi all ... :)
Well I am 7 weeks and 1 day post-op and my face is changing each day now and really settling down.
Before I go for my check up in 8 weeks time in Marbella with Dr Simon and Dr Bellinga, I will also be seeing Dr Capitan in London on July 7th which is in 6 weeks time when he is over here seeing old patients for check-ups and new patients too.
Have a nice day.
Paula
Good evening members,
Amazing what a few days makes to the healing process ... 8).
I am nearly two months post-op.
My top lip is constantly getting chapped ( skin peeling ) in the area below the vermilion zone as the swelling reduces as the whole lip is settling down.
I am being patient because not only did I have an upper lip lift but I also had a complex open rhinoplasty revision using cartilage from behind both ears so there was far more trauma to this area than normal with just an upper lip lift. Also Dr Bellinga removed the ridiculous fat put in the top lift ( and subsequent top up ) during my facial surgery in 2004.
Right after surgery the top lip looked great and then a week later as the healing process kicked in, it looked more 'Bugs Bunny' in appearance.
Now that look has virtually gone and over the next few weeks, I am sure my top lip will look great.
To reassure me, Dr Bellinga said that the top lip will go down (relapse) as time passes by and it will look more natural.
My nose is improving all the time and considering this is my third rhinoplasty, he has done a great job. My piggy and too small nose has being consigned to history ... :)
Those eyebrows are continuing to drop too. This was due to them being lifted too high previously and has nothing to do with Facial Team's surgery.
The last dissolving stitches behind my ears spat today, so all is going well in my healing.
It will only get better as time goes by .... :)
Good afternoon members ... :)
I have posted the interior shots of 'Jenny's Nest' that I took the day I left to go home on my 'Jenny's Nest' thread ... I was so sad to leave ... :'(
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,207962.0.html
It was an awesome place to go to after surgery and the care and attention that I received from both Jenny and Nicola was great ... ;D
All the patients, parents and friends had a fun time which really distracts from the healing process so soon after surgery.
I highly recommend going there.
Hugs
Paula
Hi everyone,
About a week after my FFS, I noticed that I was getting some swelling around my left ankle despite my getting enough walking done.
On January 31st, I had a minor varicose vein procedure performed on my left leg here in the UK and no doubt this swelling was connected to my FFS surgery as any surgery takes some time to fully settle down and having my FFS just over 9 weeks later resulted in the body reacting at this weaker spot.
My patient coordinator Laura arranged for me to see the general doctor at HC Hospital and she prescribed me Daflon. I bought this at the local pharmacy in Marbella and made sure I had enough for when I got back to the UK. It very much helped.
Just as well as it's not available on prescription in the UK and has to be bought direct from the manufacturer.
The number of different products in this Spanish pharmacy compared to the usual UK pharmacy was remarkable.
Anyway the ankle swelling continued up to about three weeks ago and now it's gone altogether along with the much reduced swelling in my nose and upper lip lift.
Funny thing the body as it reacts to unrelated surgery ... :)
Have a good weekend
Paula
Hi again,
I checked it out and found this:
https://www.realself.com/question/hemosiderin-staining-long-last
https://www.realself.com/question/irvine-long-heal-from-hemosiderin-staining-resulting-from-juvederm-injection-the
https://www.realself.com/question/treatment-hemosiderin-staining
and: http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-hemosiderin-staining.htm#didyouknowout
Vitamin K cream looks like a good suggestion or maybe laser at some point, if necessary.
Still very early days yet and the staining is getting less ... :)
Quote from: deeiche on May 23, 2016, 07:28:50 AM
read up on hemosiderin, it may not be bruising. It could be iron left from the bleeding which occurred after surgery. It can take several months for the body to reabsorb the iron. It took about 3 months before the bruised look went away after FFS.
glad I could help
Quote from: Paula1 on June 03, 2016, 09:30:45 AM
Hi again,
I checked it out and found this:
https://www.realself.com/question/hemosiderin-staining-long-last
https://www.realself.com/question/irvine-long-heal-from-hemosiderin-staining-resulting-from-juvederm-injection-the
https://www.realself.com/question/treatment-hemosiderin-staining
and: http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-hemosiderin-staining.htm#didyouknowout
Vitamin K cream looks like a good suggestion or maybe laser at some point, if necessary.
Still very early days yet and the staining is getting less ... :)
Hi everyone,
Hope you are all having a good weekend ... :)
Well another week has gone by and I am just over 9 weeks post-op.
There have been subtle changes to both the open rhinoplasty scar and upper lip lift scar, I am pleased to say.
And the lifted upper lip is continuing to drop down to a very natural position, I am glad to say ... :)
Yesterday I had my hair done and my hairdresser Julie remarked how good I am now looking.
I visited her just after I arrived back in the UK, 12 days after my surgery just to say 'Hi' and she said what a difference nearly two months make.
I have been religious with my post-operative care of the scars and followed to the letter Facial Team's instructions.
These are using Musk Rose Oil on the scars two weeks after surgery for one week and then Dermatix Gel for another four weeks on the scars.
I recently e-mailed Dr Bellinga who performed this side of my surgery via Laura my patient-coordinator and asked "Can I continue with the Dermatix Gel for longer as it has really helped with settling down the open rhinoplasty and upper lip lift scars" and he said 'Yes'.
I am flying back to Spain mid July for a check-up with Dr Simon (forehead) and Dr Bellinga ( nose and ULL ) which will be 15 weeks after the surgery and if necessary, Dr B will then be able to inject some Kenalog ( steroid ) in my nose especially the right hand side which always remains more swollen in my case. It was like that in 2004 but after the Illinois surgeon injected it with Kenalog a couple of times over the 12 months healing period, it settled down very nicely, so I am not in the least concerned.
However if needed, any revisions cannot be done until much longer than just 3 to 4 months after the surgery to my nose.
Being a perfectionist, I will ask Dr B if any residual ULL scars and open rhinoplasty scars can be lasered, injected with Kenalog or whatever.
Mind you all the scars are now looking minimal.
As it's summer now, I was advised to avoid sun exposure so I wear a hat when out ( which I like anyway ) but also apply Factor 50 sunscreen on these scars.
I will definitely need this when I am in Spain next month but cannot wait to spend a week there meeting up with all of Facial Team's surgeons and staff plus Jenny and Nicola from Jenny's Nest .... 8)
It's going to be great not to have to recover from surgery there, simply chill out, visit different places, eat out and swim in the pool at the apartment's complex that I rented in early April before going on to 'Jenny's Nest' after my surgery.
Take care everyone
Paula
Funny but when I wake up everything is more swollen than it is later in the day.
Just been looking in the mirror and my top lip is virtually perfect now and the scars are fading rapidly.
I reckon that all I will need is a Kenalog injection to the right side of my nose when I see Dr Bellinga next month.
Incidentally, I find him and his colleagues totally professional, very attentive to my needs and worries which is what I have always wanted from any surgeon(s) practice.
By the way, my UK friend who had a full face/neck lift with him the week before my surgery has no issues at all with his surgery and she looks years younger too. She is very happy with his work.
My turn next to get him to remove my turkey neck etc .... LOL .... I am a little jealous of my friend .... ;) ;)
Gosh it has been eleven weeks since my surgery and I find that the older I get, the quicker time passes by.
This scares me somewhat but hey ho !!
I have fully resumed my exercise regime and walk two to three miles every day.
I lost a lot of my fitness which is now coming back.
The top lip still get's chapped interestingly enough as the tissue below seems to be shrinking still.
The nose is still improving but I know that it's healing process is going to be fairly long term.
The scars below my nose from the open rhinoplasty and upper lip lift are improving too.
This area of my face (nose and top lip) still feels a little odd. The only way that I can describe it, is that its stiff.
However I am massaging the area well and the feeling in the top lip is returning to normal as each day goes by.
Have a good week everyone .... :)
Hi Paula, it's good to hear that you are recovering well, and that your fitness is improving. Under two weeks now before I go to Marbella for my consultation with "The Team".
Hiya,
Thank you very much ... :)
May I wish you a safe trip and successful consultation in Marbella.
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: firestarter on June 22, 2016, 03:10:41 AM
Hi Paula, it's good to hear that you are recovering well, and that your fitness is improving. Under two weeks now before I go to Marbella for my consultation with "The Team".
Hi members .... :)
Well three months have now gone by since my surgery and all seems well.
The healing process continues and I can see small changes almost every day.
I am now applying Vitamin K cream made by Reviva Labs ( which I had to get from the USA as it's not easily available in the UK ) to the dark areas at the top of my cheeks. It helps fade and clear bruises. It's also very good for improving the appearance of broken capillaries, spider veins, rosacea and any reddened, irritated areas on the face.
See deeiche's post #Reply 176 in answer to mine on May 23rd.
Tomorrow week, I see Dr Capitan when he comes to London for consultations, so it will be interesting to see what he thinks about my surgery.
Three weeks today (July 20th) I will be seeing Dr Bellinga and Dr Simon in Marbella which I am also looking forward to.
This June the UK weather has been terrible with all the rain so I cannot wait to get some warmth and relax down there for a week.
It will also be good to get away from all the political turmoil and uncertainty with the UK's 'Brexit' vote.
It will be good to meet up with Jenny Bowman and Nicola from Jenny's Nest in Marbella although I will be seeing Jenny next week in London too.
She will be tired of the sight of me .... LOL .... ;D
Have a great week folks.
Paula
I'm so glad that your recovery is going very well. It makes me very happy. Especially because you're such a good person. Keep us posted. Hugs!
Hi KarmaGirl ... :)
Thank you for your kind words and I am glad that your surgery has been such a great success.
That makes me happy too.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: KarmaGirl on June 29, 2016, 03:59:01 PM
I'm so glad that your recovery is going very well. It makes me very happy. Especially because you're such a good person. Keep us posted. Hugs!
Just been reading Deeiche's thread " Dr Rossi surgery Sept 16 " and saw her post: Reply #29 on: June 10, 2016 concerning "spitting sutures".
Over the last week, I have developed a scab on the coronal incision which bled so have put antiseptic cream on it. It must be a spitting suture.
I think that I will go to my local NHS 'Walk in Centre' in the morning and have it looked at as I don't want to get an infection there.
Also right below my nose I have a spitting suture and it is driving me mad because it looks like a spot.
I had almost forgotten that the body takes time to remove these foreign objects.
Quote from: Paula1 on June 29, 2016, 06:12:04 PM
Just been reading Deeiche's thread " Dr Rossi surgery Sept 16 " and saw her post: Reply #29 on: June 10, 2016 concerning "spitting sutures".
Over the last week, I have developed a scab on the coronal incision which bled so have put antiseptic cream on it. It must be a spitting suture.
I think that I will go to my local NHS 'Walk in Centre' in the morning and have it looked at as I don't want to get an infection there.
Also right below my nose I have a spitting suture and it is driving me mad because it looks like a spot.
I had almost forgotten that the body takes time to remove these foreign objects.
How long has it been Paula? How many months post-op before you noticed the results of spitting sutures?
Quote from: Debra on July 01, 2016, 06:29:45 AM
How long has it been Paula? How many months post-op before you noticed the results of spitting sutures?
I'm not Paula, ;-) , but 9 months after surgery I still have spitting sutures. They actually aren't that uncommon.
Quote from: deeiche on July 01, 2016, 01:16:25 PM
I'm not Paula, ;-) , but 9 months after surgery I still have spitting sutures. They actually aren't that uncommon.
Ah sorry I was mixing up threads. Paula's very active on all of these lol
Wow 9 months, thanks. good to know.
Quote from: Debra on July 01, 2016, 10:44:12 PM
Ah sorry I was mixing up threads. Paula's very active on all of these lol
Wow 9 months, thanks. good to know.
Oh, I think you misunderstood.
This is Paula's thread and she stated there maybe a suture "spitting" from her coronal incision. I responded to your question in her thread that I have definitely had "spitting sutures" from various locations on my head months after surgery. I started a thread about "spitting sutures (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,199393.msg1772770.html)" when I first started seeing them, at the time no one else seemed to have ever experienced them.
Interesting discussion about spitting sutures.
I still had one spitting suture along the coronal incision from my Oct 2014 surgery in early 2016 - 15 months on !!
Yesterday I eventually went to see the doctor at my local 'NHS Walk in Centre' and after examination he said that there is no infection.
Phew !!!
He said that it's just a scab and the incision is healing well. I mentioned the possibility of a spitting suture and he said that may well be the case.
We shall see what Dr Capitan says when I see him next Thursday in London. Perhaps with his well trained eye he will spot one.
Quote from: Paula1 on June 29, 2016, 06:12:04 PM
Just been reading Deeiche's thread " Dr Rossi surgery Sept 16 " and saw her post: Reply #29 on: June 10, 2016 concerning "spitting sutures".
Over the last week, I have developed a scab on the coronal incision which bled so have put antiseptic cream on it. It must be a spitting suture.
I think that I will go to my local NHS 'Walk in Centre' in the morning and have it looked at as I don't want to get an infection there.
Also right below my nose I have a spitting suture and it is driving me mad because it looks like a spot.
I had almost forgotten that the body takes time to remove these foreign objects.
Hi Paula, Just wanted to say I wish you the best that this long story soon ends happy for you. I saw those pictures you posted after FFS in 2004 - it was really sad what happened there. Apparently 2004 was a bit early to trust someone other than Dr O with FFS? I transitioned around 1998-2001 and at that time FFS was considered a new thing and only Dr O was doing it under that label, but since then more and more people have picked up the topic. I do not know how you looked like before that first surgery, but I hope that so many years later now you finally will get an improvement.
Hiya ... :)Quote from: anjaq on July 04, 2016, 09:27:56 AM
Hi Paula, Just wanted to say I wish you the best that this long story soon ends happy for you.
Thank you so much. It's going to be a few more months yet before the surgery fully settles down and now is the worst time waiting for the final result.
There are days when I get a bit depressed about it but having been through it all before, I know that it will get better. They say that the 3 months to 12 months is the worst period of the healing process. Also I am finding it hard to adjust to the third reincarnation of my face although my friends think that I look really good now. Actually it's my fourth incarnation taking into consideration my pre FFS face !!!
I saw those pictures you posted after FFS in 2004 - it was really sad what happened there. Apparently 2004 was a bit early to trust someone other than Dr O with FFS? I transitioned around 1998-2001 and at that time FFS was considered a new thing and only Dr O was doing it under that label, but since then more and more people have picked up the topic.
That's very true but Dr O priced himself him out for many people.
I do not know how you looked like before that first surgery, but I hope that so many years later now you finally will get an improvement.
I looked OK but the bangs hid many problems.
My foto before any FFS is featured in my Reply #127 - PAGE 7 on: April 27, 2016 within this thread.
Take care and thanks for your post.
Hugs
Paula
Oh - you really did not look that bad at all before the first FFS - I feel sorry that you had this experience. I do not even see much in terms of really bad forehead stuff in that picture, even bangs cannot hide it if it is really bad. But of course forehead is the classical thing that makes us perceive the face in a certain way and gender it. Hairline is also important and that is usually hidden well with bangs - I do the same of course. By the way I transitioned 16 years ago - no actually 18 years and I recently am pondering about getting FFS done. I pass well and few people know this part of me, so I am really switching back and forth between going for it or just leave it as it is - keep my bangs and keep going without risking this.
"Incarnations" is good - hehe - or like in Dr Who "Regenerations" - getting a new appearance each time. I know reconstructing a nose from which too much was removed, as it appears to be in your case, is a hard thing to do. A friend of mine had to get that done as well. Hopefully FT managed to get a good job done at it, but sith noses especially I was told it takes the longest time to heal and settle.
Best wishes for that...
Hiya ... :)Quote from: anjaq on July 05, 2016, 01:27:54 PM
Oh - you really did not look that bad at all before the first FFS - I feel sorry that you had this experience.
Thank you.
I do not even see much in terms of really bad forehead stuff in that picture, even bangs cannot hide it if it is really bad. But of course forehead is the classical thing that makes us perceive the face in a certain way and gender it. Hairline is also important and that is usually hidden well with bangs - I do the same of course.
Yep the male forehead and hairline is a giveaway.
By the way I transitioned 16 years ago - no actually 18 years and I recently am pondering about getting FFS done. I pass well and few people know this part of me, so I am really switching back and forth between going for it or just leave it as it is - keep my bangs and keep going without risking this.
If Facial Team had been around in 2004, things would have been very different for me. But's that's life.
"Incarnations" is good - hehe - or like in Dr Who "Regenerations" - getting a new appearance each time. I know reconstructing a nose from which too much was removed, as it appears to be in your case, is a hard thing to do. A friend of mine had to get that done as well. Hopefully FT managed to get a good job done at it, but with noses especially I was told it takes the longest time to heal and settle.
The nose is a much better shape and length now and Dr Bellinga did a fine job. Just have to wait for the incisions below the nose to fully heal. The area still stings quite a lot so I know there is quite a way to go yet.
I am looking forward to seeing Dr B in Marbella the week after next and see what he thinks.
Best wishes for that...
Thank you ... :) ... My visit to London on Thursday to see Dr Capitan went well and will report on that tomorrow.
Hugs
Paula
Morning everyone,
My trip to London to see Facial Team and Dr Capitan on Thursday went well and it was good to meet one of the post-op patients who was staying at Jenny's Nest at the same time as me.
Dr Capitan said I was healing very well and I look forward to seeing Dr Bellinga and Dr Simon in Marbella in ten days time.
FT work closely with Aprils Touch who were also in attendance.
See: https://www.aprils-touch.com/
I had a consultation with them and in November I am going to get my eyebrows permanently tattooed in a lower position. They have never been a good shape so I am really looking forward to getting this done.
One of FT's patients Merryn is featured on their website who has had this same procedure.
My eyebrows were on the high side prior to my April surgery but are even higher now due to the latest coronal incision.
So a few weeks beforehand, I will get electrolysis to remove the existing brows.
Also April's Touch will improve the appearance of the old direct brow lift scars by micro needling them and colour in the white scars so they are far less visible.
So all in all, it was a good day.
Paula
Quote from: Paula1 on July 10, 2016, 03:01:12 AM
FT work closely with Aprils Touch who were also in attendance.
See: https://www.aprils-touch.com/
I had a consultation with them and in November I am going to get my eyebrows permanently tattooed in a lower position. They have never been a good shape so I am really looking forward to getting this done.
This is the best thing you came up with. Tattooing your eyebrows in a lower position. I think that is the only thing you need to change in order to look perfect. Just make sure to get natural looks..
xxxx
Ok, I never heard of someone wanting to lower the eyebrows, most people talk more about brow lifts and such - I guess that this is because you had several surgeries which moved the eyebrows up higher?
Hiya,
Thank you for your comments ... :)
When I have the procedure done in November, we are going to experiment until we get the best position but I don't want them too low as I prefer a higher position than many natal females have.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: reborn on July 10, 2016, 09:09:04 AM
This is the best thing you came up with. Tattooing your eyebrows in a lower position. I think that is the only thing you need to change in order to look perfect. Just make sure to get natural looks..
xxxx
I am afraid so.
The worst procedure that I have ever had was the Direct Brow Lift in 1991.
When I went to see renown Harley Street surgeon Jan Stanek a few weeks after it was done, he could not believe that any surgeon would carry out such an outdated procedure even back then. He said that this kind of lift went out of favour back in the 70's because of the scarring issues.
Jan performed some dermabrasion at the time which improved the outcome a little.
Had I known that 25 years on I would still be resolving this issue, I would never have gone near this surgeon, no point in mentioning his name since he has long since retired. Sadly I was not his only patient who had issues ... :(
But back in those days research was mostly done by word of mouth etc.
Quote from: anjaq on July 10, 2016, 11:38:43 AM
Ok, I never heard of someone wanting to lower the eyebrows, most people talk more about brow lifts and such - I guess that this is because you had several surgeries which moved the eyebrows up higher?
On Sunday I fly down to Spain for a week and on Wednesday will be seeing Dr Bellinga and Dr Simon for a check-up.
I have a few questions to ask in relation to my healing so I am looking forward to the meeting.
Also it will be good to meet up again with Jenny and Nicola at Jenny's Nest.
I am looking forward to the break from everything.
Have a good weekend everyone ... :)
:police:
Topic locked for review.
Hi friends :police:
The discussion of silicone injections is against site rules, further derailment of this person's topic will result in warning levels being issued
Topic reopened
Thank you
V M
Hi members,
I arrived back from Spain on Sunday after an eventful trip.
I met up with Jenny Bowman from 'Jenny's Nest' a few times, enjoyed her company and patients at an evening BBQ she held.
I even managed a swim in the pool there which was great.
Last Wednesday, Dr Bellinga administered some steroid injections to my upper lip lift scar and right hand side of my nose which were very painful.
The healing is progressing quite well but it's going to take quite a few more months before everything settles down.
I am going back again in October for more injections and review.
I would never go down there again in mid summer because it was way too hot for me. One day it was 40C/104F and I felt exhausted the whole time. The heat also made me bad tempered.
It has taken me three days back in the UK to recover. Many of us Brits cannot take this kind of heat.
Take care
Paula
Quote from: Paula1 on July 15, 2016, 04:11:43 AM
On Sunday I fly down to Spain for a week and on Wednesday will be seeing Dr Bellinga and Dr Simon for a check-up.
I have a few questions to ask in relation to my healing so I am looking forward to the meeting.
Also it will be good to meet up again with Jenny and Nicola at Jenny's Nest.
I am looking forward to the break from everything.
Have a good weekend everyone ... :)
Quote from: Paula1 on July 27, 2016, 09:05:06 AM
Hi members,
SNIP
I would never go down there again in mid summer because it was way too hot for me. One day it was 40C/104F and I felt exhausted the whole time. The heat also made me bad tempered.
It has taken me three days back in the UK to recover. Many of us Brits cannot take this kind of heat.
Take care
Paula
I guess you haven't visited Albuquerque in the summer either, eh? Since end of June it has been over 100 a lot this summer, with almost no rainfall.
Hiya,
Late May is the latest that I have stayed in ABQ but I found the heat quite tolerable because of the low humidity.
Marbella was very humid when I was there .... :(
Quote from: deeiche on July 27, 2016, 09:12:36 AM
I guess you haven't visited Albuquerque in the summer either, eh? Since end of June it has been over 100 a lot this summer, with almost no rainfall.
Quote from: Paula1 on July 27, 2016, 10:11:51 AM
Hiya,
Late May is the latest that I have stayed in ABQ but I found the heat quite tolerable because of the low humidity.
Marbella was very humid when I was there .... :(
yep, end of May is <10% humidity, July - Sept is our "monsoon" season. Most houses here cool with evaporative coolers, which don't work well during monsoon.
Glad to hear you made it back to cool weather UK.
Hi everyone,
Just a quick update on my healing progress and eyebrows.
I went up to see Lisa at April's Touch in London yesterday afternoon to finalise the plan to improve my eyebrows in terms of shape and size. We experimented with my eyebrow pencil.
Instead of having my existing eyebrows removed totally by electrolysis, she is going to tattoo below the existing hairs which will not only make them thicker (they are way too thin anyway) but will make them lower. Additionally she will also tattoo within the existing hair as the hair density is presently quite sparse due to my age. The benefit of this treatment apart from the much improved appearance is that I will no longer need to use eyebrow pencil for some considerable time which I find harsh and unattractive anyway. With older people like myself fading takes place much slower and a top up tattoo may be only needed once every two to three years or even longer.
It will take three sessions to get the brows right from this coming November to January.
Lisa also thought that the upper lip lift scar was much improved since she last saw me in July nearly 6 weeks ago which is good. When you look at it yourself every day, you hardly see any difference !!!!
I look forward to posting fotos once the treatment is done.
Take care one and all.
Paula
Quote from: Paula1 on July 10, 2016, 03:01:12 AM
Morning everyone,
My trip to London to see Facial Team and Dr Capitan on Thursday went well and it was good to meet one of the post-op patients who was staying at Jenny's Nest at the same time as me.
Dr Capitan said I was healing very well and I look forward to seeing Dr Bellinga and Dr Simon in Marbella in ten days time.
FT work closely with Aprils Touch who were also in attendance.
See: https://www.aprils-touch.com/
I had a consultation with them and in November I am going to get my eyebrows permanently tattooed in a lower position. They have never been a good shape so I am really looking forward to getting this done.
One of FT's patients Merryn is featured on their website who has had this same procedure.
My eyebrows were on the high side prior to my April surgery but are even higher now due to the latest coronal incision.
So a few weeks beforehand, I will get electrolysis to remove the existing brows.
Also April's Touch will improve the appearance of the old direct brow lift scars by micro needling them and colour in the white scars so they are far less visible.
So all in all, it was a good day.
Paula
Hmmm, I think that your current eyebrows position is too high and unnatural looking. I don't think it is a good idea to make your existing eyebrows thicker. You need to lower them at least 7- 10 mm. I am sorry for being this direct, but the only thing about your face that needs corrections are your eyebrows, and I think it would be dishonest to tell you what you want to hear.
You have been through so much. I hope everything heals the way you are hoping. Hugs to you.
Quote from: reborn on August 16, 2016, 09:14:27 AM
Hmmm, I think that your current eyebrows position is too high and unnatural looking. I don't think it is a good idea to make your existing eyebrows thicker. You need to lower them at least 7- 10 mm.
I totally agree with this.
Hiya,
Thank you so much.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: I Am Jess on August 16, 2016, 10:17:16 AM
You have been through so much. I hope everything heals the way you are hoping. Hugs to you.
Hi reborn and Celia0428,
Thank you for your comments and concerns.
I would agree with you entirely based on the fotos on here that were taken about a week after surgery but the eyebrows have dropped dramatically since due to the swelling going down.
Since May, I have not posted any recent fotos because I still don't look anywhere near my best.
In 2004, I looked pretty crappy for at least 10 months post surgery and it's the same this time
I will have some more fotos taken in the autumn and then you will see what I mean.
I am seeing Facial Team again in October/November down in Spain and will also discuss this with them.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Celia0428 on August 16, 2016, 02:58:50 PM
I totally agree with this.
I would wait with the eyebrows until your face has settled after the FFS - if you say last time it took 10 months, I would give it that time or a full year to settle completely and then make a judgement about the eyebrows and repositioning them. Otherwise maybe the face would still change after a while during healing and its not the right thing again.
I am a bit worried now about eyebrows and FFS. I did electrolysis on my eyebrows and had them shaped, but I did not have FFS before. Now I consider FFS and wonder if they would change too much by this.
Hiya,
Thank you, that's very good advice.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: anjaq on August 17, 2016, 05:50:20 AM
I would wait with the eyebrows until your face has settled after the FFS - if you say last time it took 10 months, I would give it that time or a full year to settle completely and then make a judgement about the eyebrows and repositioning them. Otherwise maybe the face would still change after a while during healing and its not the right thing again.
I am a bit worried now about eyebrows and FFS. I did electrolysis on my eyebrows and had them shaped, but I did not have FFS before. Now I consider FFS and wonder if they would change too much by this.
Hi Paula, I just wanted to send you hugs! I hope things get resolved sooner than later. I can already see, there are some amazing women on here giving you the best advice.
Let us know how things progress.
Hi KG,
Thank you so much.
Lots of hugs going your way too.
I am seeing Facial Team in Marbella this November and I have lots to discuss with them.
Take care and well done on your great result.
Paula
Quote from: KarmaGirl on September 01, 2016, 04:09:54 PM
Hi Paula, I just wanted to send you hugs! I hope things get resolved sooner than later. I can already see, there are some amazing women on here giving you the best advice.
Let us know how things progress.
Quote from: Paula1 on September 02, 2016, 06:41:01 AM
I am seeing Facial Team in Marbella this November and I have lots to discuss with them.
Oh - so you are planning on more procedures with them?
Hiya,
Just hairgrafting to replace the damaged hair from the 2014 surgery done in London.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: anjaq on September 03, 2016, 05:41:06 AM
Oh - so you are planning on more procedures with them?
Good luck healing. I look forward to your updates.
Thank you Rachel,
Quite a long way to go yet but I will get there I am sure.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on September 05, 2016, 03:12:03 PM
Good luck healing. I look forward to your updates.
Quote from: bunny girl on May 16, 2016, 07:00:59 PM
Sorry to hijack the threat but isn't Facial Team extremely slow in replying to messages? Is there someone other than Lilia who can handle external communication?
They have been very slow getting back to me. Kind of puts me off tbh.
It's great to read how they have transformed your negative experiences, Paula, into such a positive outcome.
Hi Rachel,
Sorry to hear that FT have been slow getting back to you.
I have heard that they are incredibly busy.
Is it your plan to travel to Spain or see them at one of their overseas consultations?
Thank you for your comment re my outcome.
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on September 25, 2016, 01:50:49 PM
They have been very slow getting back to me. Kind of puts me off tbh.
It's great to read how they have transformed your negative experiences, Paula, into such a positive outcome.
Hi Paula,
I was thinking about your eyebrows and I think i have a perfect solution for you. Have you ever thought about hair transplants to change the position of your eyebrows. I think it will look way more natural than tattoo
Hiya,
Thank you for your suggestion ... :)
That is an option I have been considering and will discuss it with Facial Team next month in Marbella.
The biggest problem is the visible old direct brow lift scars that sit just above the brows.
That 1991 procedure has caused me more grief than any other I have had ... G' rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr ... >:(
In November, Lisa from April's Touch ( http://www.aprils-touch.com/ ) is going to work on the scars here in London by microneedling especially the left hand one ( which is worse ) and see if by flattening them and also adding colour to the skin will make them look less obvious. They might land up looking like natural creases.
It's a question of a step at a time to see how the scars look after this treatment.
Also the left hand one scar is more recessed and next year when I get my hair grafting done Facial Team are going to put filler or fat in there to make the scar less obvious. Fillers and fat have to be periodically renewed I gather.
The brows have dropped a lot since the April surgery and they may not need repositioning at all. Adding just a few more hair grafts to the bottom of the brows ( to make them look lower) I have been thinking about too so there's quite a lot of options to discuss with both April's Touch and Facial Team.
Also there is the option of tattooing as well as hair grafts to improve the overall shape and appearance of the brows. At present the brows are on the thin side so making them thicker will benefit them greatly.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: reborn on October 09, 2016, 07:29:36 AM
Hi Paula,
I was thinking about your eyebrows and I think i have a perfect solution for you. Have you ever thought about hair transplants to change the position of your eyebrows. I think it will look way more natural than tattoo
I have experience with treating depressed scars with dermal fillers and they are very effective treatment. I had permanent filler injected and it made the scar much less obvious. Also I had permanent make up over the scar and it is almost invisible now. I think you will succeed with that kind of treatment. I would just go for permanent filler instead of fat or HA based fillers. I wish you success and please inform us how it goes. When are you planning of sharing photos of your new face? I would love to see your eyebrows and give you my honest opinion
Are there any permanent fillers that are turely safe? I know some use Silicone, but it is not really considered safe even if it is high quality.
Lipofilling is considered a safe filling method. I would definately stay away from sillicone regardless of what some people or doctors say. Lipofilling is permanent but only around 70% of the fat stays so it's usually done twice. There is a lot of stuff on google about it... maybe something to consider.
Hi Reborn, JaniceNL and Anjaq .... :)
Thank you for your comments and kind advice.
I will discuss fillers/fat/eyebrow position when I see Facial Team in less than three weeks now.
I am not ready to show fotos yet of my face as being a perfectionist, I want to look my best when I do post them. My upper lip lift scar on one side is still slightly raised ( the other side is virtually invisible now ) but it's improving all the time.
I might have some more Kenalog injected in this scar ( and on one side of my nose) once again when I am down in Marbella (if its needed) and lasering/dry needling to the ULL and open rhinoplasty scars might possibly be needed in due course.
I also have what looks like a spitting stitch right under my nose where the open rhinoplasty incision was made and it's driving me bonkers as it looks like a pimple. It's not a pimple as it's below the surface of the skin.
But I am only 6 months post-up and healing is still far from over, so I am trying to be patient which at my ripe old age I find increasingly difficult ..... LOL ;D
My eyebrow position is so much better now than it was just after surgery and with a little tweaking here and there, I know we will get it right as far as it is possible.
To think that I started my FFS journey over twelve years ago and here we are still sorting it out after all the previous surgery. But c'est la vie.
However I am in good company as I am not the only member on here who has undergone major FFS revision surgery.
Hugs
Paula
Hang in there Paula! We are all rooting for you! HUGS!!!
Hiya .... :)
Thanks honeybun .... :-*
I hope all is going well with you.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: KarmaGirl on October 31, 2016, 03:48:56 PM
Hang in there Paula! We are all rooting for you! HUGS!!!
Hi Janice
Regarding lipofilling, have you had it done yourself? Of the 4 (very reputable) FFS surgeons I've approached, two favor silicone or medpor cheek implants, one favors lipofilling to cheeks, and one suggested nothing.
If 70% is realistic (only 30% absorption), then I'll definitely consider it.
Thanks!
- Taylor
Hi Paula, how are things going? It has been so long since you posted here. I hope things are turning out well,
you've had a lot to go through... I just noticed your video on facial teams youtube is not up anymore,
I hope nothing bad has happened with surgery or in life otherwise? Take care, you strong person :)
Hi everyone,
Wow cannot believe that it's many months since I last posted on here. 2017 healthwise was my 'Annus Horribilis' but I am fully fit again.
Anyway, here's my update.
From November 2016 to February 2017, I had microneedling done to my upper lip lift scar, the incision beneath my nose especially the pimple looking area right beneath the nose.
This work was carried out by Lisa Lefever from April's Touch during her visits to London.
Due to my illness, I was unable to see her again last year.
On Thursday last week I attended Facial Team's consultations in London for a follow up with Dr Simon.
Lisa was there too as well as Dr Capitan.
My revision forehead surgery has fully settled down now and my complex nose surgery performed by Dr Bellinga (at the same time as the forehead surgery) looks great.
The upper lip scar is invisible now thanks to the excellent surgery by Dr B and Lisa's Scar treatment.
The pimple needs one more treatment by Lisa and then should become invisible.
In November, I am travelling back to Marbella for a hair grafting session to replace grafts damaged during the 2014 revision surgery at London's Chelsea & Westminster Hospital.
Lisa will be in Spain at this time and will carry out some more microneedling to the pimple scar.
My hair grafting would have been done last autumn but my poor health intervened!!
Facial Team and Lisa have done a great job and I am so happy that I found them both.
My best wishes to you all.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: transtastic on March 12, 2017, 07:18:01 AM
Hi Paula, how are things going? It has been so long since you posted here. I hope things are turning out well,
you've had a lot to go through... I just noticed your video on facial teams youtube is not up anymore,
I hope nothing bad has happened with surgery or in life otherwise? Take care, you strong person :)
Hi honeybun,
Just spotted your post and thank you.
All is well now many thanks.
I had FT remove my YouTube video but hey might do another one some day.
Take care.
Hugs
Paula xx
Hi all,
Wow it's hot and humid here in London.
Probably the warmest May on record...😎 and often warmer than down in Marbella.
Laura, Facial Team's Patient Coordinator who has been looking after me for the last couple of years, yesterday confirmed my hair grafting date this coming November.
I always flew from Gatwick with Monarch Airlines and was very sad when they went bust last year primarily as a result of falling sales due to Brexit and the weak pound !!! They were a good airline.
So after some research I have booked with British Airways and this time I am flying to Malaga from Heathrow which is actually more convenient for me. Also by booking six months in advance, I have got a great deal for £95.80 return inc one checked bag at 23kg in addition to the carry on. I will reserve seats later today which costs a little more. Heathrow is usually a more expensive airport to fly from and I thought paying around £160.00 last time from Gatwick was a good deal!!
I am going for just over two weeks as I need a break from last year's traumas.
I will probably stay at the Hotel San Cristobal in Marbella which I have used before and is excellent value, especially off season and with good food.
Really looking forward to seeing all my Facial Team friends again and my other friends down there.
Enjoy the summer everyone
Paula xx
Just sent my 20% deposit to FT and what a difference 2 years has made in terms of £ Sterling's value in relation to the Euro .... 😡
In 2016 the rate was 1.2741 and today it is 1.13690 !!
Once again I have used Transferwise who are brilliant in saving money sent overseas as against banks etc. I have saved £37.26 compared to most banks.
The money left my bank account yesterday May 31st and will arrive in FT's bank account today June 1st.
Another important loss to UK citizens once we leave the EU is no longer having the European Health Insurance Card which will leave us very vulnerable if we require health treatment in EU countries and vice versa for EU citizens coming here to the UK.
Expensive Travel Insurance will be a must in future and paying up front for medical treatment in most cases.
Weak pound = dearer holidays abroad.
Weak pound = dearer FFS and other surgeries for us if we go overseas.
Now Trump has started a Trade War !!!
We live in a very volatile world....🤔
However let's look on the bright side of life.
It isn't all bad 😉😉
Hugs
Paula
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WoaktW-Lu38
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=X_-q9xeOgG4
Reserved my seats today and was the first one on both flights to do so.
For an extra £56 it was well worth doing as being tall I now have seats with extra leg room.
The final amount came to £151.80 about the same that I paid Monarch nearly 2 years ago and from a better and more expensive airport.
It really pays (if you can) to book early.
Enjoy the weekend everyone wherever you are and whatever you are doing ....😀
Paula xx
Paula, best wishes on your latest adventure! And enjoy the weather in Marbella.
Quote from: Kendra on June 02, 2018, 02:41:46 AM
Paula, best wishes on your latest adventure! And enjoy the weather in Marbella.
Hi Kendra,
Thank you very much.
Yes, I am really looking forward to going back to Spain 🇪🇸 this November.
I was there in November 2016 for my second check up and it was still pleasantly warm.
My first check up was in July that year and at 41C (105.8F) it was too hot.
You have picked a great time of year to have your surgery.
There are so many good restaurants in Marbella and reasonably priced too.
An Argentinian restaurant in Old Town Marbella named Tanguito is especially good.
You must be heading home soon so may I wish you a safe journey back 'Across the Pond'. 🇺🇸
Take care and happy healing.
Hugs
Paula
Hi everyone,
Stunning May and June here in the UK with record temperatures ... 😎
Seeing Kendra's hair grafting result in her FFS thread (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,230933.80.html), looks like I will be in good hands.
Only just a few months to go .... 😀
Sitting down relaxing over some coffee and cake 🍰 in a Cafe Rouge restaurant.
Looking at Kendra's result, cannot help thinking that Facial Team are awesome surgeons.
27 months on, they sure did a great job on all my revisions and maybe one day, I will share my fotos once again with you all.
Still amazingly hot here in the UK 🇬🇧, long may it continue ... 😎
Countdown to your hair grafts in November, I bet you're excited! Having hair grafts in autumn/winter is a good decision, less worry about too much direct sunlight or drying out the transplant site.
I was in Arizona earlier this week for different surgeries (labiaplasty and breast augmentation), trying to be careful in insanely hot weather with transplants that are less than two months old.
Quote from: Kendra on July 15, 2018, 03:53:52 PM
>>>Hi Kendra,
Countdown to your hair grafts in November, I bet you're excited!
>>>Sure am👍
Having hair grafts in autumn/winter is a good decision, less worry about too much direct sunlight or drying out the transplant site.
>>>I agree. My first session was in December 2004 which was 10 months after my original FFS in Chicago. The surgeon was Dr Paul Cotterill from Toronto and he is still one of the finest hair grafting surgeons in the world. My second session was in June 2005 with him and the 3rd and final session was in July 2006 when 🇮🇹 Italy won the World Cup. There were loads of very handsome Italian guys roaming the streets and I even had dinner with one of them. But that's a different story...😉
I was in Arizona earlier this week for different surgeries (labiaplasty and breast augmentation), trying to be careful in insanely hot weather with transplants that are less than two months old.
>>> Well I trust that went well despite the heat. I have experienced Arizona and New Mexico heat many times when visiting my dear friend Johanna from Albuquerque. I love desert country and she and I have done countless road trips together. I am hoping to return next year and maybe we could meet up?
>>>Take care and continual happy healing.
>>>Hugs
>>>Paula xxx
Hi members,
Hope you are enjoying summer.
Just come back from a trip to Italy 🇮🇹 in the River Po valley area around Milan and Pavia.
I swore that I would never go to Southern Europe in July/August again due to the high temperatures. It was 41C/106F at times when I was in Marbella in July 2016 for a checkup. It was nearly that two weeks ago in Italy and together with the high humidity, mosquitoes etc it was not pleasant at all. The area is the major rice growing part of the country, hence lots of water and mossies ...😱 But I persevered and overall had a good time. The food is awesome and the culture and architecture is simply awesome.
The city dwellers in these inland towns disappear to the coast throughout August and the traffic is negligible which makes travelling by car or taxi a lot easier.
The whole of Europe and the 🇬🇧 UK have had a record breaking summer and other parts of the world too.
Anyway counting down to the days when I head off to Spain 🇪🇸 in a few weeks time, at least it will be cooler. 😀
Have a good fall/autumn 😎
Three more months! I am excited for you - and yes, the weather will be nicer when you're in Marbella this November. I wish I could be there.
Quote from: Kendra on August 30, 2018, 06:28:24 AM
Three more months! I am excited for you - and yes, the weather will be nicer when you're in Marbella this November. I wish I could be there.
Thanks Kendra 😀 xx
Hi everyone,
It's now two and a half years since my remedial facial surgery with FT and even now after all this time, like a good bottle of wine, my face is improving.
The very difficult nose revisions that Dr Bellinga carried out are simply awesome.
There has been some criticism of his work on here which surprises me as his credentials and experience are second to none.
My previous rather piggy nose has been dramatically improved by taking cartilage from behind both ears. It looks far more natural as it was originally before my 2004 rhinoplasty and is in better balance with my face.
The forehead work by Drs Simon and Capitan has fully settled down and looks great. My eyebrows have dropped and look fine.
Looking forward to climbing aboard the flight to Malaga in November for my final hair grafting session in Marbella.
Have a wonderful autumn 🍂 folks
Hugs
Paula
your nose looked great even after the surgery. I am really interested in your eyebrows. Do you plan to post some recent pictures?
Hiya,
Good to hear from you again 😀
Thank you regarding my nose.
I am still thinking about posting any more pictures as I really am stealth nowadays.
But I can promise you the eyebrows really do look good and their position I am quite happy with and that's all that really counts at the end of the day.
I might get Lisa from Aprils Touch to extend them a little but will be advised by her expert knowledge and experience.
Take care
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: reborn on October 09, 2018, 12:14:57 PM
your nose looked great even after the surgery. I am really interested in your eyebrows. Do you plan to post some recent pictures?
that is a great news. I am very happy for you ;D
Quote from: reborn on October 12, 2018, 03:02:06 PM
that is a great news. I am very happy for you ;D
Thanks honeybun xx
First taste of winter here in the UK today 🇬🇧
Having been spoilt with balmy temperatures since April, there is an icy blast all the way from the Arctic.
In just over three weeks time, I will be heading south again to sunny Spain 🇪🇸 and can't wait.
Had my hair trimmed just over a week ago as it will not be cut for a while after the hair grafting is done.
Happy Halloween 🎃 👻 everybody.
Xxx
Hi everyone,
In exactly two weeks time, I shall be in Marbella and really looking forward to being there again.
Can't wait to dine in one of my favourite restaurants in the Old Town called 'El Tanguito'.
See: https://m.facebook.com/tanguitomarbella/reviews
Happy memories of eating there with many patients who have previously gone to FT.
This time around the recovery will be far easier than last time I entered the operating theatre in HC Hospital, Marbella although hair grafting is always a lengthy business.
It's unbelievable that my first session of hair grafting performed by the wonderful Dr Paul Cotterill in Toronto, Canada was almost 14 years ago in December 2004, 10 months after my original FFS.
Then two more sessions with him, one in June 2005 and the last in July 2006, 12 years back.
It sure is scary how time goes by more quickly the older you get!!
My flight from London Heathrow is an early morning flight so will get to Malaga around lunchtime and FT have arranged for a taxi to take me to my hotel in Marbella.
Thank heavens this procedure is this side of Brexit because if we do leave the EU next March without a deal, traveling to Europe is going to be a much greater hassle for all Brits in more ways than one.
G'rrrrrrrrrrrr 😡😡
Have a good week folks .... 😀
Wow, three more days time and I will be safely ensconced at my hotel in central Marbella.
The next day Monday, I have a morning meeting with Dr Alcaide who is performing the hair grafting prior to the surgery on Wednesday November 21st.
Had a pleasant surprise from Kendra who is going to be there for her 6 months checkup and at the same time as Stephanie who is having her surgery at the beginning of December.
We are going to meet up before I fly back home on Tuesday December 4th.
That will be fun and as I have a wonderful connection with the USA after my first FFS in 2004 and made some great friends over there, I am really looking forward to seeing them both.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Paula
Wahoooo!!!! Paula you're gonna do great!
See you soon.
Thanks Kendra,
I sincerely hope so.
You betcha, see you and Stephanie in sunny Marbella very soon.
Have a safe journey 'Across the Pond'
Hugs
Paula
Morning everyone,
Well I am here in Marbella after a good night's sleep in my hotel.
My flight was an hour late leaving as it left Hanover in Germany an hour behind schedule.
However this gave me more time to enjoy a hearty breakfast in Heathrow's Terminal 5.
Facial Team's taxi was there to meet me at Malaga Airport and I remember the driver so well from 2016. I apologised that we were late arriving.
I'm going to have a decent breakfast downstairs and at 10.45am I'm being picked up by the taxi and taken to HC Hospital to see the hair grafting surgeon.
H'mmmm!!! When did I have my first procedure?
I remember ... 1989. That's nearly 30 years ago ... 😱
It was dry and cold when I left the UK but it's raining and warmer here.
Rain is forecast for every day this week.
Back later to report after my meeting.
Have a good day folks.
Paula
What a great meeting with Dr Meyer my hair grafting surgeon earlier.
She and I are both singing from the same hymn sheet.
As a result of the unsuccessful forehead surgery in London's Chelsea & Westminster in 2014, the surgeon used the original incision from my 2004 FFS in the USA which caused thinning in and around this part of my scalp.
Facial Team's incision in 2016 is further back.
I have enough donor hair still to reduce the thinning behind the hairline and in the crown which is awesome news. I may want to have a fringe/bangs in the future.
My surgery coordinator Silvana Ruiz and I went over the pre and post-op instructions thoroughly and I signed the necessary agreements etc.
I'm going back tomorrow for a Clexane injection an anticoagulant to prevent blood clots in the legs as I will be stationary for a few hours on the gurney and then surgery early Wednesday morning.
I really cannot wait now ... 😀
The first few days after surgery, I have arranged room service for breakfast and lunch, cos I don't want to put off the other residents appetite by being in the restaurant at the same time as them ... 😂
Also I just want to chill and rest in my room watching telly etc.
On the way back from my meeting I bought some milk, fruit and chocolate bars to snack on when I feel peckish especially in the evening.
I am treating this as a holiday too ... 😎
Anyway time for bed, it's 11.54pm here.
Nite all.
Xx
Good luck honey. I wish you a successful surgery.
Hair's to great results tomorrow!
All the best with the procedure, Paula! Looking forward to meeting you in 12 days. I'll be on that table in 14 days...
Stephanie
Quote from: reborn on November 20, 2018, 05:49:16 AM
Good luck honey. I wish you a successful surgery.
Thanks sweetie pie.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Kendra on November 20, 2018, 07:20:20 AM
Hair's to great results tomorrow!
Like it Kendra .... 😀 ... just hoping it's not too hairy an experience ... 😉😉
Thank you very much and see you soon ... 😎
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Steph2.0 on November 20, 2018, 11:15:49 AM
All the best with the procedure, Paula! Looking forward to meeting you in 12 days. I'll be on that table in 14 days...
Stephanie
Hi Stephanie,
Thanks so much and really looking forward to meeting you and Kendra very soon ... 😎
I'll keep the table warm for you .... 😉😉
Hugs
Paula
Hi everyone,
After my injection this morning, had a busy day sightseeing around Marbella.
I'm going to have a shower tonight and as instructed shampoo my hair in the morning.
Then I am hotel bound until next Tuesday when my hair is washed by the transplant team at the hospital.
Taxi picks me up at 8.00am and surgery commences at 9.00am.
Have checked the postoperative instructions again, have a couple of questions to ask when I arrive at HC Hospital.
Prepared a chart for my medications that I must take so had better have that shower and hit the decks as I have set the alarm for 6.15am and it's nearly midnight here.
Nite all
Paula
Morning everybody,
Well it's day 3 here since my surgery on Wednesday (Day 1) and been busy since with my post operative care.
On Wednesday I was picked up by taxi at 8.15am and it was bucketing down with rain.
Arrived around 8.30am at HC Hospital to be met by Silvana my surgery coordinator.
I was shown my room where I changed into a theatre gown and anti embolism stockings. They are tough to put on!!
It was suggested that I kept my trousers on as I was going to be in there for the day and the necessary air conditioning will be on. They didn't want me to get cold. 🥶
Around 9.00am I was wheelchaired into the an anti room where the donor site at the rear and sides of my head were shaved prior to removing the strip containing the grafts.
Then I was wheelchaired into the Operating Theatre and given various meds including some to relax me. I normally have textbook blood pressure but it was a little high no doubt to anxiety.
I lay on my back in the chair/table which was better than before in Canada when I was on my tummy.
They started work at 9.30am and I don't remember much at all
At 2.30pm the technicians and Dr Meyer stopped for lunch and I was wheelchaired back to my room for a nice plate of fish with vegetables, an orange and yoghurt. As I hadn't eaten since the night before, I was really 😋 hungry.
Then it was back to the operating theatre at 3.30pm and we finished at 5.00pm, a long day for all concerned.
In total the procedure took 7 hours!!! Wow 😮
I went back to my room again by wheelchair and was given tea and something more to eat which I have forgotten.
Silvana then gave me the Saline Solution and Betadine Shampoo to use back at the hotel
plus Amoxicillin, Ibuprofen and Paracetamol tablets to use instead of the Ibuprofen if I needed a stronger painkiller. Fortunately I have a high pain threshold so I am OK pain wise.
I relaxed in my room for another 30 minutes and then changed back into my clothes and shoes.
The taxi took me back to my hotel around 6.30pm and room service brought me supper.
On Day 1, I was to only use the Saline Solution every 30 minutes on the grafts to keep them moist and prevent scabs forming which prevent the newly transplanted hair from growing.
I did fall asleep quite a lot during the evening and night due to the effects of the medications and long day so obviously spraying is not possible but all seems fine.
Day 2 to follow in a short while as I have some spraying to do.
Oh yes,
Silvana also gave the following medications.
Omeprazole - Gastro-resistant capsules before breakfast and
Iraltone Aga Capsules - to strengthen the scalp and prevent hair loss to be taken with breakfast for the first six months.
Doesn't time fly when you are having fun!!
It's Friday already, Day 3
From Day 2 (Thursday) onwards until Day 7 (next Tuesday - November 27th), apart from spraying the Saline Solution every 30 minutes, three times a day I also spray the Betadine Shampoo directly to the grafts using the dispenser but without massaging or touching the grafts. I am also allowed to shampoo the rest of my hair with the Betadine especially the donor area which is now feeling far more comfortable when sleeping on this part of my head at the back of my scalp. At all times you sleep on the back never the sides so as not to disturb the grafts.
I rinse the shampoo off using a small cup with lukewarm water, never the shower head despite at low pressure. Just have to cherish those grafts.
On Day 7 next Tuesday at 11.15am, I am being picked up again by taxi and taken to the hospital for hair washing by the transplant team at 11.30am and then the instructions change a little from Day 8, which I will tell you about next week.
This afternoon I am meeting up with Dr Simon who with Dr Capitan performed my remedial FFS in April 2016 and also seeing Dr Bellinga who remodelled my nose for a check up. Then they fly off to Australia for consultations.
So a busy day for them to say the least.
Have a great weekend folks
Paula
Happy Friday! Sounds like things are going exactly as planned.
Quote from: Paula1 on November 23, 2018, 04:53:00 AM
> Iraltone Aga Capsules - to strengthen the scalp and prevent hair loss to be taken with breakfast for the first six months.
When I had my transplants there I was given the same instructions with Iraltone Aga capsules and handed a 2 month supply. It's a mixture of vitamins etc, over the counter but seems to be only available in Spain or that area of Europe. I found none of the mail-order sources were very fast to ship, took 3 weeks for international delivery. In hindsight I should have checked with a local pharmacy before I left town.
Hi Kendra,
Thank you, touching wood all is going great ... 😀
I'll check into the Iraltone Aga capsules and if necessary buy some before going home.
It was lovely seeing Dr Simon and Bellinga again, they have done such magical work on me.
Dr Bellinga taking the cartilage from behind both ears to lengthen and reconstruct my former too piggy nose was exceedingly clever. Also Dr Simon and Dr Capitan's forehead work had been a treat. Thank heavens for their expertise which has made my life so wonderful again.
Silvana took more fotos of me for the records and I have copies too.
Dr Meyer also has prescribed three months supply of Deflazacort (Zamene) which is an anti inflammatory drug. They really look after you.
Better apply some more Betadine Shampoo before watching television this evening and also before I go to bed interspersed with the Saline Solution spraying.
I love the peacefulness of this part of Spain and don't want to go home.
Enjoy your weekend kiddo, soon we will be seeing each other which will be awesome.
Hugs
Paula xx
Quote from: Kendra on November 23, 2018, 09:26:41 AM
Happy Friday! Sounds like things are going exactly as planned.
When I had my transplants there I was given the same instructions with Iraltone Aga capsules and handed a 2 month supply. It's a mixture of vitamins etc, over the counter but seems to be only available in Spain or that area of Europe. I found none of the mail-order sources were very fast to ship, took 3 weeks for international delivery. In hindsight I should have checked with a local pharmacy before I left town.
I wish you a swift recovery Paula. Keep up your positive attitude :D :-*
Thanks honeybun 💕💕
I had forgotten how easy recovery from hairgrafting is providing one sticks to the instructions.
Have a lovely weekend
xx
Quote from: reborn on November 24, 2018, 06:37:35 AM
I wish you a swift recovery Paula. Keep up your positive attitude :D :-*
Morning everybody,
Right at the beginning of this thread back in November 2015, I couldn't resist posting this song from 1974.
My first trip abroad was in fact that same year to Majorca and the song was incredibly popular with us Brits. I remember my fellow holidaymakers singing it on the coach on the way to our hotel from the airport.
I thought it was a bit corny back then but it's a happy tune and brings back great memories of that first Spanish holiday.
So I am reposting it again because whenever I come to sunny Spain, I love being here and feel more happy and relaxed compared to any other country that I have been to, even the USA which I adore too. The Spanish people, their customs, their food, their traditions, architecture and so on are great.
Enjoy
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=W7aPp-4z-uw
Hi Kendra,
I checked out the website of the company that sells the Iraltone Aga capsules.
They cost €29.95 for 60 capsules + shipping = 2 months supply.
http://www.farmacia-internacional.net/en/antioxidants-vitamins-minera/15332-ifc-iraltone-aga-60-capsules.html
and will order them when I return to the UK if I cannot purchase them here in Marbella.
Facial Team have provided me with 4 months supply so will get another 2 months as they suggest taking the product for 6 months.
However when I see Dr Meyer next Tuesday week for our final meeting (the day I fly back home), I will ask her if it's a good idea to take them for life.
I already have been taking Biotin at 5000ug once a day since 2003 before my original FFS in the USA in 2004 and my three hair grafting sessions in Canada later that year and in 2005 & 2006.
Dr Paul Cotterill in Toronto suggested I take Biotin in addition to the Finasteride <dosage removed> every other day that I have been taking since 1988 when I transitioned.
Taking Hormone Therapy helps against hairloss of course and when I see some genetic women with considerable hairloss at a similar age to myself, I am so pleased that I still have a great head of hair thanks no doubt due to the various products I take.
See you and Stephanie at the end of the week ...😀
Safe travels.
Bet she is getting excited.
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Kendra on November 23, 2018, 09:26:41 AM
When I had my transplants there I was given the same instructions with Iraltone Aga capsules and handed a 2 month supply. It's a mixture of vitamins etc, over the counter but seems to be only available in Spain or that area of Europe. I found none of the mail-order sources were very fast to ship, took 3 weeks for international delivery. In hindsight I should have checked with a local pharmacy before I left town.
<edit by moderator>
Hi again Kendra,
Just bought 60 capsules at the pharmacy next door to my hotel.
€26.95, a saving of €3 and no shipping to pay .... 😀
After I have seen Dr Meyer next week, if she feels that I should take them for life, I'll buy some more before flying back home.
Mind you I will be coming back to Marbella each year for ages to come as I love this place so much. It's so civilised and at this time of year prices in hotels are very reasonable and it's wonderful to get away from the North European winter.
I am paying only €44 a night including a large breakfast, so I am putting on weight.
But who cares, I am on vacation with a little bit of surgery in between ... 😉😉.
Today is the first day that I have left the hotel since last Wednesday apart from trips to the hospital due to the hair spraying regime. Also my hair looks presentable again to wander around the town.
My hair will look even better after the FT shampooing tomorrow.
I am writing this while enjoying a strawberry tart and decaffeinated coffee ☕️ plus watching the world go by. It's amazing how many different nationalities I am hearing.
Later tomorrow afternoon FT have arranged for me to see Dr Kaye at Ocean Clinic which is only a stones throw from my hotel regarding getting a quote to rid myself of my 'Turkey Neck' ... 🤣
Paula xx
Wow, it's been a long day here (Tuesday November 27th - Day 7)
The hair washing by the lady at the hospital went well and she also gently massaged my scalp with her fingertips in a circular motion. There were no scabs so I have been doing my job properly and all the grafts are still in place. After my previous three sessions in Canada all those years ago, they stayed in place too and immediately grew. I mentioned this to Dr Simon when I saw him last Friday and he said it can often happen. I have good vascularity in my scalp and that helps, so I am fortunate.
From tomorrow Wednesday (Day Eight), I no longer need to use the Saline Solution just twice a day the Betadine Shampoo and if I wish afterwards a gentle shampoo like Pilopetan Shampoo. Like today, I can very gently massage the scalp as done today at the hospital.
This regime continues for a week to Day 14, Tuesday December 4th which is the day I fly home.
Then from Day 15 Wednesday December 5th to Day 28 - Tuesday December 18th, I still should not have any scabs and just need to wash my hair daily with the Pilopetan or Baby Shampoo. I can apply a little olive oil to the area one hour before washing my hair to soften the site.
Finally from Day 29 onwards Wednesday December 19th, I can use my usual shampoo which is not a strong one. It's Eucerin Dermo Capillaire Calming Urea Shampoo which keeps my Seborrhoeic Dermatitis at bay since earlier in the year. It also protects the scalp moisture.
My meeting with Dr Kaye from Ocean Clinic went well and look forward to receiving the quote via Facial Team. He does their soft tissue surgery.
See: https://www.oceanclinic.net
The rainy weather has gone and now it's really warm. This afternoon it was 63F/17C and by the weekend it will be 70F 😎
Christmas Plants like Poinsettias and Cyclamen are planted out in the roadside beds whereas in the UK, they are only sold as indoor plants. No frosts here .. 😀
This climate in Marbella is simply awesome. No wonder so many Brits and North Europeans over winter in this part of Spain.
It gone 10.00pm, so time for some shuteye.
Nite all ... 😀
Hi everyone,
Cannot believe that it's Sunday already and in two days time, I will be leaving this wonderful country and people ...😢
My hair regime I have down to a fine art now, so that's going well ...😀
Really looking forward to meeting up with both Kendra and Stephanie tomorrow lunchtime when I have my donor site stitches removed at HC Hospital.
The plan is to have dinner tomorrow evening at their hotel.
So I am just enjoying my last couple of days here and then it's back to winter ❄️ 🥶 in the UK.
Bye for now.
Paula
Glad to hear things are going well for you!
We're in Marbella and will be at our hotel soon. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow night. Maybe we'll run into each other at the clinic!
Stephanie and Kendra
Hi Stephanie and Kendra,
Welcome to Marbella .... 😎
I am sure we will meet sometime at the hospital tomorrow. It's a small place.
Have a lovely evening, chill out and try to get lots of sleep.
Don't forget, no alcohol Stephanie 🍷😉😉
See you both soon.
Nite
Hugs
Paula
Quote from: Steph2.0 on December 02, 2018, 09:38:20 AM
Glad to hear things are going well for you!
We're in Marbella and will be at our hotel soon. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow night. Maybe we'll run into each other at the clinic!
Stephanie and Kendra
Paula it was awesome to finally meet you! You are sooo sweet, and knowledgeable with so much experience pursuing your goals every way possible. I admire your persistence in never letting unanticipated setbacks permanently block you. Several times now you have jumped forward by stepping back and trying a different approach.
I hadn't had the opportunity to see Old Town Marbella until yesterday, and glad to have seen it with you and Stephanie. Your favorite restaurant which had been closed (owners on holiday) was open. Yay! Now I know why it's your favorite. Yum!
All the best,
Kendra
Hi Kendra,
It was wonderful meeting you and Stephanie too.
Thank you so much for your kind words < Big hugs >
Before you arrived after your appointments, I really enjoyed my afternoon on Monday chatting over lunch with Stephanie and sincerely hope that she is recovering well from her surgery the next day.
It was fun walking around Old Town Marbella and eating together in Tanguito restaurant.
I am so pleased that it had reopened just before returning to the UK on Tuesday.
I assume you are on the way back now 'Across the Pond' and wish you a safe journey home.
As we all said, keeping in touch is a must. 😎
Take care and my love to Stephanie.
Hugs and love
Paula xx
Quote from: Kendra on December 04, 2018, 07:40:54 AM
Paula it was awesome to finally meet you! You are sooo sweet, and knowledgeable with so much experience pursuing your goals every way possible. I admire your persistence in never letting unanticipated setbacks permanently block you. Several times now you have jumped forward by stepping back and trying a different approach.
I hadn't had the opportunity to see Old Town Marbella until yesterday, and glad to have seen it with you and Stephanie. Your favorite restaurant which had been closed (owners on holiday) was open. Yay! Now I know why it's your favorite. Yum!
All the best,
Kendra
Love back to you, Paula. I enjoyed our afternoon together, too.
Recovery is a whole lot of no fun, as I'm sure you know. But I think I can see some improvements under the swelling and bruising.
Stay warm back home!
Stephanie
Hi everyone,
After my stitches removal on Monday, I had a great time meeting up with Kendra and Stephanie afterwards.
The following day last Tuesday, I had my final appointment with my hair grafting surgeon Dr Meyer and she and I are very happy with the result.
All the thin areas at the front and in the crown have been filled in which I am very happy with.
Apart from the break for lunch, I slept through the whole procedure which is kinda kewl.
It took all day because they had to be careful because of all my existing hair which is fairly long although I had it trimmed the week before surgery.
When Dr Meyer was examining my harvested grafts under the microscope before implanting them, she noticed a bit of redness in the area around the follicles, so she prescribed an anti inflammatory drug called Deflazacort which I need to take each day for 3 months.
With her dermatology experience, this attention to detail is typical of all the surgeons at Facial Team.
Then it was a sad farewell to her, my surgery coordinators and even managed to say goodbye to Dr Simon who had just returned from consulting in Australia.
I was taken back by taxi to my hotel "Hotel San Cristobal" in the centre of Marbella, had a typically great lunch and at 4.00pm, Diego picked me up (he and his taxi firm are employed by FT) and it was off to Malaga airport for my return BA flight back to London Heathrow that early evening.
It was a beautiful sunny day and it was an emotional and sad journey to the airport.
Diego and I bade farewell, hugged and I thanked him for his and his colleagues great service.
I said 'To the next time' and he wished me Happy Christmas and a great New Year. I said the same.
I was not looking forward at all to returning home and after an uneventful flight with typically good British Airways service, I returned to a chilly 45 degree Fahrenheit wet evening. A huge shock from the 70 degree Fahrenheit a few hours earlier.
I will get used to being home and enjoying Christmas but I am glad that I had 16 days of vitamin D giving sun with a bit of surgery inbetween.
Since Tuesday I have been relaxing as much as possible although yesterday I had an appointment with my endocrinologist Dr Leighton Seal at St George's Hospital in London.
Amazingly enough I was talking to one of his staff and told her that I had just returned from Marbella and coincidentally another patient of his is having surgery with Facial Team next week.
It's a small world.
I am being very careful with my grafts and looking after them as previously described. I will keep you updated.
Take care
Paula
Quote from: Paula1 on December 02, 2018, 09:09:14 AM
Hi everyone,
Cannot believe that it's Sunday already and in two days time, I will be leaving this wonderful country and people ...😢
My hair regime I have down to a fine art now, so that's going well ...😀
Really looking forward to meeting up with both Kendra and Stephanie tomorrow lunchtime when I have my donor site stitches removed at HC Hospital.
The plan is to have dinner tomorrow evening at their hotel.
So I am just enjoying my last couple of days here and then it's back to winter ❄️ 🥶 in the UK.
Bye for now.
Paula
Hi Stephanie,
Thank you sweetheart and great to hear from you.
Glad you are doing ok and pleased that you see the changes.
Yep it all takes time but you will be fine and enjoy that lovely hotel and service.
Funnily enough its become warmer here at 58 Fahrenheit, so not so much of a shock from Spain.
Bit warmer than my friend Claire in Wisconsin where it's 22 Fahrenheit!!
Take care and happy healing ... 😀
Paula xx
Quote from: Steph2.0 on December 06, 2018, 02:23:14 PM
Love back to you, Paula. I enjoyed our afternoon together, too.
Recovery is a whole lot of no fun, as I'm sure you know. But I think I can see some improvements under the swelling and bruising.
Stay warm back home!
Stephanie
Hi everybody,
Not long to go before Christmas.
I'm already on a diet since putting on the lbs when I was in Spain ... 😱
It's now three weeks and three days since my hair grafting and my head feels like a hedgehog 🦔
The grafts are growing nicely and are almost half a centimetre long.
They did this after my previous three sessions back in Canada 2004/5 & 6, so I am very pleased.
I was told that it could be due to a good blood supply and not being a smoker or drinker. Who knows?
I also take lots of vitamins including Biotin and Finasteride.
In addition Facial Team told me to take the Iraltone Aga Capsules which they supplied and this must help them take root and grow.
I am still using the gentle Pilopetan Shampoo daily but after next Tuesday (Day 28), I can start using my normal but still gentle shampoo Eucerin Dermo Cappillaire Calming Urea Shampoo.
I continue to take the Deflazacort pills every day as prescribed by Dr Meyer.
I am so happy that I got to meet Kendra and Stephanie while I was in Marbella.
They were great company and of course Steph is flying back to the USA tomorrow. Kendra is already there.
May I wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy 2019 if in the meantime, I don't come back on here.
Take care
Paula
Interesting. I'm taking the AGA capsules too, but no one said anything about Deflazacort. I've never heard of it. I don't know if I even met Dr. Meyer. I talked to Ana Mota about hair stuff and of course Dr. Bellinga about everything else.
I'm in cold and wet Paris again. I'll write about it in my own thread. Tomorrow is the ordeal of traveling for 13 hours before I get back to Florida. Ugh. Wish I could have taken the Concorde I walked through today...
It was a pleasure to meet you, too. Stephenie Robinson sends greetings!
Stephanie (with an "A")
Hi Stephanie,
Quote from: Steph2.0 on December 15, 2018, 11:14:48 AM
Interesting. I'm taking the AGA capsules too, but no one said anything about Deflazacort. I've never heard of it.
>>>> See my post 292 dated December 6th which explains why I was prescribed the Deflazacort.
I don't know if I even met Dr. Meyer. I talked to Ana Mota about hair stuff and of course Dr. Bellinga about everything else.
>>>> Ana Mota, don't think I ever met her.
I'm in cold and wet Paris again. I'll write about it in my own thread. Tomorrow is the ordeal of traveling for 13 hours before I get back to Florida. Ugh. Wish I could have taken the Concorde I walked through today...
>>>> Enjoy what us North Europeans have to put with 😉😉 .... Shame that Concorde is still not flying.
It was a pleasure to meet you, too. Stephenie Robinson sends greetings!
>>>> Thank you re Stephenie ... 😀 and look forward to reading your chronicles.
>>>> Hugs
>>>> Paula
Stephanie (with an "A")
Ah, right. I remember about the deflazacort now.
I forgot to mention but when I saw Dr Meyer on my last day in Marbella, she suggested that in future, I should take the Iraltone Aga capsules each spring from February to April and in late summer/early autumn from August to October, that's 6 months every year.
The main benefit of taking them is for increased hair density.
Quote from: Paula1 on November 26, 2018, 04:38:07 AM
Hi Kendra,
I checked out the website of the company that sells the Iraltone Aga capsules.
They cost €29.95 for 60 capsules + shipping = 2 months supply.
http://www.farmacia-internacional.net/en/antioxidants-vitamins-minera/15332-ifc-iraltone-aga-60-capsules.html
and will order them when I return to the UK if I cannot purchase them here in Marbella.
Facial Team have provided me with 4 months supply so will get another 2 months as they suggest taking the product for 6 months.
However when I see Dr Meyer next Tuesday week for our final meeting (the day I fly back home), I will ask her if it's a good idea to take them for life.
I already have been taking Biotin at 5000ug once a day since 2003 before my original FFS in the USA in 2004 and my three hair grafting sessions in Canada later that year and in 2005 & 2006.
Dr Paul Cotterill in Toronto suggested I take Biotin in addition to the Finasteride <dosage removed> every other day that I have been taking since 1988 when I transitioned.
Taking Hormone Therapy helps against hairloss of course and when I see some genetic women with considerable hairloss at a similar age to myself, I am so pleased that I still have a great head of hair thanks no doubt due to the various products I take.
See you and Stephanie at the end of the week ...😀
Safe travels.
Bet she is getting excited.
Hugs
Paula
<edit by moderator>
Very interesting! Did she say why just those specific seasons?
They gave me a box of them, but they weren't enough to cover the entire time they recommended, so I ordered another box, which puts me about 50% beyond their recommendations. I may just continue taking them indefinitely, along with the finasteride and the minoxidil. Also looking into one of those laser helmets. The doc I originally had my consultation with (can't remember his name off-hand) said they were originally skeptical, but have decided they're actually helpful, along with Platelet Rich Plasma injections.
Stephanie
Hi Stephanie,
See you arrived safely in Orlando, well done. Sleep well later.Quote from: Steph2.0 on December 16, 2018, 03:26:06 PM
Very interesting! Did she say why just those specific seasons?
I cannot recall unfortunately but I do know that hair grows better in the spring and maybe taking them later before winter is beneficial.
They gave me a box of them, but they weren't enough to cover the entire time they recommended, so I ordered another box, which puts me about 50% beyond their recommendations. I may just continue taking them indefinitely, along with the finasteride and the minoxidil. Also looking into one of those laser helmets. The doc I originally had my consultation with (can't remember his name off-hand) said they were originally skeptical, but have decided they're actually helpful, along with Platelet Rich Plasma injections.
Everything helps 😀
Take care
Paula
Stephanie
Happy New Year everyone.
Had my hair cut earlier today as it grows quite rapidly and I last had it done by my hairdresser 7 weeks ago just before leaving for Spain.
She stayed clear of the hair surrounding my new grafts so as not to disturb any.
It doesn't appear that any have fallen out as they are growing nicely and it's now 6 weeks and 3 days since the surgery.
When I gently touch them, they feel like a crewcut which I once had many years ago ... 😂
Over the last week or so I have been getting itchiness in the scalp around the donor site so as instructed in my post op instructions, I contacted Facial Team's post op team.
They said it's a consequence of the inflammatory process. The tissues after stretching have to recover their position and one of the consequences is itchiness and dryness. They said if it's accompanied by dehydration, there are special pharmacy products to hydrate the scalp and recommended Neutrogena T/Gel which I have just commenced using.
I'll let you know how I get on and post a foto in the next few days of my scalp just after the procedure.
Have a great weekend ... 😀
That's great Paula! Sounds like success so far.
Seems just a few days ago you were showing me & Steph2.0 old town Marbella. Has it already been more than a month?!
Hi Paula,
Friday was a month since I was on the table. It seems that some of the grafts in the corners have shed so I'll have to wait until the regrowth cycle on those. The ones in the front feel like Velcro, so I have to be careful about getting close to fuzzy things so I don't get stuck and make a loud ripping noise to get loose. The last scab on the back incision came off on Friday, so it's fairly smooth now. My scalp is starting to loosen up from its previous drum-tightness. The forward part of my scalp, just behind the grafts, was pretty sore until the last few days, but feels pretty good now. No itchiness so far, but I'm a week or two behind you, so we'll see.
The rest of the procedures are healing fairly well, though I'm a little disappointed in the lip lift. At this point it feels like they were a little too conservative, and I wish they'd taken a few more millimeters out. But my nose is still swollen, so I'm hoping that as it goes down it will raise the lip just a bit more.
I'd had two different concerns: they would either make things worse, or would be so conservative that there would be no discernible improvement. The first concern wasn't a problem. I'm still not sure about the second. I can see that the nose is smaller, so I'll just have to wait on that. The lip is what it is...
I'm so glad to hear that you haven't had any loss. That's awesome!
Stephanie
Hi Kendra,
Happy New Year.
Quote from: Kendra on January 06, 2019, 08:31:58 PM
That's great Paula!
Thank you
Sounds like success so far.
I hope so
Seems just a few days ago you were showing me & Steph2.0 old town Marbella. Has it already been more than a month?!
It's scary how time flies. Yep that lovely evening we spent together was just over 5 weeks ago.
Take care
Paula xx
Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 06, 2019, 09:05:23 PM
Hi Paula,
Hi Stephanie,
Happy New Year.
Friday was a month since I was on the table. It seems that some of the grafts in the corners have shed so I'll have to wait until the regrowth cycle on those. The ones in the front feel like Velcro, so I have to be careful about getting close to fuzzy things so I don't get stuck and make a loud ripping noise to get loose. The last scab on the back incision came off on Friday, so it's fairly smooth now. My scalp is starting to loosen up from its previous drum-tightness. The forward part of my scalp, just behind the grafts, was pretty sore until the last few days, but feels pretty good now. No itchiness so far, but I'm a week or two behind you, so we'll see
Thank you for your update. Don't worry about some of the grafts going into resting phase, it's quite normal. Velcro is a great description and yes be careful getting too close to fuzzy things ... 😉
The rest of the procedures are healing fairly well, though I'm a little disappointed in the lip lift. At this point it feels like they were a little too conservative, and I wish they'd taken a few more millimeters out. But my nose is still swollen, so I'm hoping that as it goes down it will raise the lip just a bit more.
It is very early days still and I remember back in 2016 that I had concerns like your's. It does take quite a long time for the final result to be seen. With me it was 12 months at least.
I'd had two different concerns: they would either make things worse, or would be so conservative that there would be no discernible improvement. The first concern wasn't a problem. I'm still not sure about the second. I can see that the nose is smaller, so I'll just have to wait on that. The lip is what it is...
Please don't worry too much. From your photos that I have seen, you look fine and it will only get better. You can always get a revision to your lip lift at a later date if you are still not happy. Better to have too little tissue removed than too much. After all my FFS experiences, cosmetic surgery is such a difficult art.
I'm so glad to hear that you haven't had any loss. That's awesome!
Thank you honeybun.
Stephanie
Look after yourself and following your chronicles, you are enjoying life.
Hugs
Paula xx