Community Conversation => Transitioning => Facial feminization surgery => Topic started by: Apples Mk.II on September 08, 2014, 06:31:28 AM Return to Full Version

Title: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 08, 2014, 06:31:28 AM
Date: 13/11/2014
Stay in Bangkok: 10/11/2014 - 29/11/2014
Recovery hotel: Bangkok-Rama

Procedures
- Forehead contouring with brow lift and hairline Adancement and Reshape
- Eyelid Surgery
- Rhinoplasty with Alarplasty
- Lip Lift
- Tracheal Shave

Dropped Procedures (Planned for a second stage)
- Jaw and Chin Contouring
- Sliding Genioplasty

Actions Taken so far
- Sent the deposit
- Bought Flight Tickets
- Bought some summer clothing
- Bought a Big suitcase
- Obtain a new post-name change passport (08/09/2014)

To Do List
- Have Blood Tests done with National Healthcare (16/09/2014)
- Do x-rays on a private Clinic (10/09/2014)
- get More Pajamas
- Pay the rest of Surgery

Personal Stats
- Time on HRT: 16 months
- Full Time: 10 months
- Passability: Not achieved
- Breasts: A-Cup
- Height: 175 cm
- Weight: 63 kg

Time for me to finally do it. I've been full time since October 2013, and it hasn't gotten easier with time. HRT changes have been minimal, and my face remains completely unchanged shave for the shaped eyebrows and hair removal. After deciding between three doctors (Chett, Cardenas and Bart), Chett was the one I felt more safe with, having followed several other girls experiences and results.

I was lucky that I was required to expend the remaining vacation days for the year and the company actually wanted me to be out for three weeks, so it looked like the best possible time. I've been moving fast during August to arrange everything, and so far things are nearly arranged, just needing the medical tests and x-rays. The minor things would be buying more clothes, specially comfy pajamas. Due to my more or less bad habit of sleeping naked (unless it is freezing), I only have one sumer pajamas. Given the fact that I'll be spending a lot of time bedridden and gorging on painkillers, it's better if I buy at least three more pairs, enough to hold for three weeks.

What to do in Bangkok?
Apparently, not a lot, save for stocking on survival items during the two days before the surgery.

- I've thought about bringing my DSLR camera, but it's too heavy considering that I won't be able to do lenghty trips until the last days. Also, I don't think I want to hit my not fused nose and forehead against the viewfinder. So I'll stick with my small camera.

- Studying would be a great idea, once I can get away from the bed and concentrate. There will be plenty of time to prepare my ISTQB certification book and some PDF's on the tablet (No laptop)

- Supposing the easiest thing I can do is lay on bed and watch tv, I could bring my WDTV Live Hub Media center. It's a 20x15 cm little thing loaded with 1 tb of movies and series, so I will have plenty of time to finish Firefly or maybe rewatch Stargate SG-1.

- Clothes:
Temperature in november will be of 25º, so the only coat I bring will be intended for travelling and commuting on airports.
So far,I have bought one pair of short jeans (the last of their kind, seeing how they are pulling away summer clothes to make room for the autumn / winter collection, two pairs of extra-light sandals (cheap to the point of just being the sole and some strings)... The reasoning is that I will spend most of the time in a pajamas or just a shirt and underwear, and I will only need clothes if I need to go down to the restaurant or buy something at Tesco Lotus. I have several Tank Tops that should make it easier to fit my heat without hitting the stitches mess my face is going to be.

In the end:
- Old pants, t-shirt and sweater for the trip
- A summer dress(for the day I'm feeling ok)
- Long and short jeans with tank-tops
- Sneakers, wedges, and flat sandals. I don't want to fall flat on my face while in stilettos
- A light coat for the airports.

I'm not buying a swimsuit, even if it to stay by the pool. A) I don't want to suntan while between laser sessions, B), the bikini would be useless after the Breast augmentation. Same reason I'm not buying new bras.

- The Journey:
All right, this is tricky. My ID photos are in full drag: Extensions, makeup, and girly clothing. And If I will have to take between two and three flights, want to wash my face, etc... there is no way I'm getting all dolled up just to travel. Even if this causes me problems with controls, I'll go in normal girl jeans (not skin tight), a t-->-bleeped-<-, no make-up and absolutely no tucking. I may even remove my bra. I plan to stay as a comfy as possible. Once I am there I will dress nicely for when I am brought to the doctor.

The real trick would be bathroms. Give me andro clothes, no makeup, push-up bra, I am gendered make, since my face is genuinely male (that's the point of doing this). So I will be using the male bathrooms for the last time. On the way back, maybe things will be different.

Higyene and beauty in Thailand
This one is going to be complicated, namely the hair part. Since my whole face will be a massive wound, most of the cleaning will be decided by the doctor or nurses. I don't think they will let me use my straightening iron until it is fully healed, so for the same reason it does not matter bringing all the stuff from the 7 days straight keratin system (7 different bottles between shampoos, conditioner, heat activated product and daily lotion. I'm not even sure I will be able to use minoxidil, So I will be nearly three weeks with curly hair and headbands. Sucky.

Same way, exfoliating may not be a great idea. Although it is not SRS, having Antibacterial soap with me may be a good idea. What can't miss is truckloads of moisturizer, given the hot and humid climate.

Another excruciating problem will be body hair. I do a ful shave once a week, but my face needs more work. Either way, I'm bringing razors and cream. As soon as I am allowed to, I'm shaving ASAP (I had a new regrowth recently, but I'm not doing electro until I'm back from surgery.

To be continued during the morning
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Monkeymel on September 08, 2014, 07:02:52 AM
Comfy long t-shirt /nighty (cotton) can be bought from Tesco for about 190-250 baht.
Have a great and safe trip
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on September 08, 2014, 07:20:36 AM
Dear Julia

I wasn't aware that your FFS was so close - this is great news!!  :D   What you're doing is very similar to the FFS I had in summer with FacialTeam, although I did the rhinoplasty last year separately.

A little bit of advice:  eat more in the 2 weeks before you leave.  You will lose 2-5 kg after surgery due to lack of appetite or a mouth that doesn't want to work properly.  If you are staying on your own, get consommé or puree soups in advance, or make some up for yourself to last for at least 4-5 days.   You may have trouble opening your mouth after the genioplasty, as well as chewing even soft things, and the trach shave might make swallowing uncomfortable too. 

If you recover fast, like I did, in 10 days you will feel pretty good, although my genioplasty remains a real annoyance 6 weeks later.  I expect the mechanical recovery to take around 4 months, and the nervous recovery to take 6-12 months.

Good luck, y mucha suerte chica!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: crowcrow223 on September 08, 2014, 07:26:56 AM
From my and my friend's personal experience though: Chett really messed up my friend's nostrils, up to the point where she couldn't breathe through one side of her nose, her nose was too thin, he removed too much of the bone tissue, and she had to undergo a reconstructive rhinoplasty. From my own experience, he did not remove my addam's apple. It's as prominent as it was.

Good luck and hope you have a better experience with him :)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 08, 2014, 07:28:11 AM
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on September 08, 2014, 07:20:36 AM
You may have trouble opening your mouth after the genioplasty, as well as chewing even soft things, and the trach shave might make swallowing uncomfortable too. 


Thanks. The jaw is part of the dropped procedures, or things I won't be doing now (The lip lift is the lowest I will be going on my face, not counting the trach shave. Theoretically I should be able to eat without issues, but if I have the lip lift in the end, I may need to have some liquid food ready.

Also, I've been told that I will be nearly blind for the first two days due to having work done on my eyelids (swelling is going to be BIG)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on September 08, 2014, 08:19:30 AM
Hi Julia

The lip lift didn't worry me at all, so I think it's a low concern, but some liquid food will really be helpful. 

After rhinoplasty you won't be able to breathe through your nose for some time, so food that's easy to get into your mouth and rapidly down your throat will be good to have.  And since you will scarcely smell or taste it, keep it bland and boring

:D 

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 08, 2014, 09:01:00 AM
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on September 08, 2014, 08:19:30 AM

After rhinoplasty you won't be able to breathe through your nose for some time, so food that's easy to get into your mouth and rapidly down your throat will be good to have.  And since you will scarcely smell or taste it, keep it bland and boring

:D

Oh, don't worry about that, I'm have too much experience with having an out of order nose. Between my enlarged nasal turbinates (had surgery one year ago) and the colds I usually get (I only get mucus, just mucus, all the time), I'm pretty used to not being able to breathe through my nose. Irritating, but not the first time I have to spend two days filled with cotton.

As far as the initial evaluation goes, he saw the nose and trach shave as the most complicated areas. I have that kind of nose that is big, long, wide, with a hump and even pulls out the lip, so no matter the angle, it alwayss looks bad. Regarding the trach shave, I've accepted that complete removal may not be possible. It's a big one, and since I also have very little fat on my face and neck, it can't be hidden.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on September 08, 2014, 10:55:41 AM
Darling,  I think we need to have a before-and-after competition.  I had a seriously big nose, (I used to arrive everywhere twice :D) and there was also some concern that I'd still have some adams apple visible.  Neither was the case, so have faith!!!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: EmmaD on September 08, 2014, 03:35:24 PM
Hi Julia,

I have chosen to go with Cardenas and mine is on 22/11/14!  My list is about the same but at the moment, no lip lift or trach shave in the plan but due to the effects of gravity and weight loss, a major face lift is required. I am not full time until I get back to work on 5/1/15.  So I am away from work for 6 weeks.

It seems we have a nose comp going on here.   Mine is a disaster too.  How much so became apparent yesterday when an ENT surgeon had a look.  Blocked sinuses and polyps that all need removing before FFS.  So on October 17, I am going in for that little procedure.  Another week off!!  She is leaving my deviated septum for the Cardenas team so they have enough tissue to play with for the Rhinoplasty.  Life is full of little surprises!

I am about as prepared as you but I have done all my name changes and have the passport that says "F".  Its so much easier in Australia to get everything else done if you have photo ID with the "F" marker.  I have had to be careful with Medicare (Australia) to ensure prescriptions, private health names etc all match.  That is why I jumped the start on The name change thing.

My intention is to lay on my bed and watch films BUT for my vision.  My eyesight is stuffed too so if I can't put my glasses on, well I guess I will do nothing.  Meditate or something.  So eyes swollen, can't see anyway, nose bandaged, the chances of getting specs on seem pretty remote for a few days!!

All the best.  It seems too soon to be getting nervous excited but it is happening with me.  My wife says there is plenty of time to crap myself when I am on the plane!!  Gee, thanks.

Emma

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: calicarly on September 08, 2014, 05:45:27 PM
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on September 08, 2014, 10:55:41 AM
Darling,  I think we need to have a before-and-after competition.  I had a seriously big nose, (I used to arrive everywhere twice :D) and there was also some concern that I'd still have some adams apple visible.  Neither was the case, so have faith!!!

Arrive everywhere twice! Lol Julia you are a character!!
You always throw in a little joke that makes me laugh
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: missymay on September 08, 2014, 06:48:43 PM
Congratulations on your upcoming surgery!  I went to Dr. Chettawut in 2011 for a lip lift, tracheal shave, breast implants and liposuction.  I am pleased with the results, but would have liked a little more of the trach shaved down, but even still, there is a significant improvement, and just a subtle prominence remains.  As far as the lip lift goes, don't worry, it shouldn't interfere with eating solid food.  Anyway, I had a wonderful  experience, and the after care I received from the nurses when they visited me at my hotel each day was first-rate. 
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 09, 2014, 02:53:41 AM
Thanks, gurlz.

I'm still updating this and adding sections.

Documentation can be a b*tch. My ID has a neutral name, female photo and male gender marker. Also there's the fact that during the flight I won't be wearing any kind of makeup or hair extensions, maybe not even a bra (and clearly not a push up). I won't stay tucked for 17 hours, and I will limit myself to comfy jeans, a t-shirt and a light jacket. Most probably I will get gendered male all the time, so It will be back to using the sausage bathrooms, and see how things change in the way back.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Dahlia on September 09, 2014, 05:59:13 AM
I had partial FFS with dr Chettawut late 2004 with really esthetical pleasing results, very natural, as I requested.
You're in good hands, dr Chet's wife and nurses are very kind and caring too.

Good luck and happy healing!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 09, 2014, 06:03:34 AM
Quote from: Dahlia on September 09, 2014, 05:59:13 AM
I had partial FFS with dr Chettawut late 2004 with really esthetical pleasing results, very natural, as I requested.

Mmm. is it possible to request more "dramatic" results? I don't need minor sublte improvements, since I am a case of unmistakeable male. It actually needs to change and a lot. I probably need a Type III forehead, nose can't pass for female.. In my case, the surgery is not meant to slightly beautify, but to make me "pass". NO matter the movement, speech, manerism... My face does not induce to error.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: crowcrow223 on September 09, 2014, 03:15:05 PM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on September 09, 2014, 06:03:34 AM
Mmm. is it possible to request more "dramatic" results? I don't need minor sublte improvements, since I am a case of unmistakeable male. It actually needs to change and a lot. I probably need a Type III forehead, nose can't pass for female.. In my case, the surgery is not meant to slightly beautify, but to make me "pass". NO matter the movement, speech, manerism... My face does not induce to error.

I can only complain about dr Chettawut. He charged me 15% extra for my tracheal shave as I had it done once in the past and it's almost as if he didn't even touch it - extremely disappointed. Take your money elsewhere when it comes to addam's apple shave. You've got another woman here saying he left a bit of her addam's apple as well. Pointless

I asked him to carve a V shaped chin for me, and he didn't listen in the slightest, even though he reassured me he knows what I want. he did on me a chin like any other of his patients, and I wanted it to be V-shaped. and it isnt
His jaw work was alright.
But he isn't good in my opinion.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 09, 2014, 03:20:42 PM
Crowcrow, I have already heard you once, and you are not going to make me change my mind. If you want to ->-bleeped-<-post about Chett, feel free to create your own thread. I could start unleashing ->-bleeped-<- on Dimaggio, Cardenas and Bart, but as you see I'm not doing it. I've created this thread to record my experience, not to decide if a surgeon is good or bad.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 10, 2014, 01:11:13 PM
10/09/2014
Today I went to a radiology clinic. in the beginning, they would not do them unless they had an specific request from a doctor. Showing them Chett's website detailing the sets seemed to be enough. The problem is that although I managed to obtain a copy, I also have an extra-CD with unknown software, and I'm missing two of the three images in physical format. So tomorrow I will have to do another visit...

In case anybody wants to see them and speculate

http://imgur.com/a/wVdVP (http://imgur.com/a/wVdVP)

I was expecting to see a dark spot where the sinuses would be. It's hard to appreciate, but definitely that's a Type III. So reshaping and screws for me. Yay.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on September 10, 2014, 01:35:47 PM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on September 10, 2014, 01:11:13 PM
10/09/2014
Today I went to a radiology clinic. in the beginning, they would not do them unless they had an specific request from a doctor. Showing them Chett's website detailing the sets seemed to be enough. The problem is that although I managed to obtain a copy, I also have an extra-CD with unknown software, and I'm missing two of the three images in physical format. So tomorrow I will have to do another visit...

In case anybody wants to see them and speculate

I was expecting to see a dark spot where the sinuses would be. It's hard to appreciate, but definitely that's a Type III. So reshaping and screws for me. Yay.

Yes, you're going to be a bionic woman by the time you're done  ;D  It won't make the machines at the airport go "ping", but it does make MRI's lightly challenging:

Them: "Anything to declare?"
Me:  "Yup, titanium screws in my chin, and a few titanium plates in my forehead."
Them (thinking):  "Ummm, what has this woman done to herself?"
Me (anticipating):  "It was a bit of plastic surgery..."
Them:  "Oooook, if anything starts to get hot, please let us know immediately"


I had an MRI on my arm a few weeks ago... Apart from the usual claustrophobic discomfort, nothing seemed to get warm :-)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Monkeymel on September 10, 2014, 01:58:23 PM
I got a cd with electronic x-Ray images on it. With "unknown" software. You have to remember the manufacturer of x ray devices record images very differently to camera and scanner. The software I had allowed me to export the images as JPEG which was enough for Dr Chettawuts team. Give the cd a try before getting more print outs made
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 10, 2014, 02:07:03 PM
Quote from: Monkeymel on September 10, 2014, 01:58:23 PM
I got a cd with electronic x-Ray images on it. With "unknown" software. You have to remember the manufacturer of x ray devices record images very differently to camera and scanner. The software I had allowed me to export the images as JPEG which was enough for Dr Chettawuts team. Give the cd a try before getting more print outs made

I only have JPG files,I've found that the files are in the other CD, but the software does not allow exporting, just low res copy pasting to photoshop. I have tweaked the levels to show more detail. Hope it works... Helluva big nose, BTW.

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Dahlia on September 12, 2014, 06:46:02 AM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on September 09, 2014, 06:03:34 AM
Mmm. is it possible to request more "dramatic" results?
Yes, it is. And btw: thai surgeons aren't very good at performing nosejobs on Westerners.

Most look too small, too 'ski jump', too plastic,  too skooped out, too fake.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 12, 2014, 06:54:22 AM
Quote from: Dahlia on September 12, 2014, 06:46:02 AM
Yes, it is. And btw: thai surgeons aren't very good at performing nosejobs on Westerners.

Most look too small, too 'ski jump', too plastic,  too skooped out, too fake.

When I wear black rimmed glasses it looks as if the nose was a phrostetic, like those googles with nose and moustache. So anything can be an improvement.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 18, 2014, 02:22:28 PM
18/09/2014: No AIDS

So apparently, I'm not a carrier. No wonder given my sex life... But that was only part of the blood test requested by the surgeon. Most of the values are in ok ranges, except for cholinesterase. Last time I had surgery I was also informed about this, just that my values seems to have worsened compared to April 2013. By the time the old was taken I was only 9 days on hormones, and on a small dose, so I wonder if it is related to HRT.


Anyways, this is everything I needed. I just need to do two bundles of documents, the medical ones and the data and send them to Chett. After that, it's a matter of waiting, living frugally and trying to keep calm.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on September 23, 2014, 07:58:07 AM
23/09/2014: The time off HRT

So I sent all the files plus some questions. And I got this:

Quote1) When should I stop Hormone replacement Therapy before surgery? As
have been told by my endocrinologist, I have high natural testosterone
levels and my body can revert the changes made HRT very quickly. My current
medication is: XXXXXX

Answer: You must stop taking aspirin or any blood thinner medication,
estrogen hormone, all NSAID drugs (for example, Ibruprofen or Advil),
Diclofinac or Votaren) at least 2 weeks before traveling.

He only says estrogen hormones... Maybe that means I still can take the antiandrogen?
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on October 15, 2014, 06:14:33 AM
Remaining balance paid. Pretty much I'm finished so far, just buying some extra clothes before leaving. 29 days for surgery.

Just scared that the things I am not doing (jaw and chin, 8000€) will still clock me. I'm also changing looks after FFS, curly / wavy hair instead of straightened. After the scalp advancement I may be able to afford not wearing a bangs extension, and let my hair heal from constant heat.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: BreezyB on October 15, 2014, 09:30:12 AM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on October 15, 2014, 06:14:33 AM
Remaining balance paid. Pretty much I'm finished so far, just buying some extra clothes before leaving. 29 days for surgery.

Just scared that the things I am not doing (jaw and chin, 8000€) will still clock me. I'm also changing looks after FFS, curly / wavy hair instead of straightened. After the scalp advancement I may be able to afford not wearing a bangs extension, and let my hair heal from constant heat.
Hi Julia,
I'm thinking about having something similar with Dr Chet next year.  I've heard good things about him.Do you mind if I ask what he's charging for your stage 1 work?
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: missymay on October 15, 2014, 08:02:13 PM
Quote from: BreezyB on October 15, 2014, 09:30:12 AM
Hi Julia,
I'm thinking about having something similar with Dr Chet next year.  I've heard good things about him.Do you mind if I ask what he's charging for your stage 1 work?

I think Dr. Chettawut lists his prices on his website

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: BreezyB on October 15, 2014, 10:20:26 PM
Quote from: missymay on October 15, 2014, 08:02:13 PM


I think Dr. Chettawut lists his prices on his website

No prices, just surgery time. I may need to contact dr Chettawut for prices.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on October 16, 2014, 12:35:33 AM
Surgery prices were removed months ago from the site, although some info websites keep some prices, albeit outdated.

Partial (every bad are but the jaw and chin) is costing me around 17.000€ with 8000-10000 for what I am missing. Tissue work is cheap, but working on the bones is as expensive as SRS with him.

Hotel, travel and food expenses are not included.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on October 23, 2014, 12:07:48 AM
Very interesting and helpfully post , I will follow all your process and trip in Thailand with Chettawut. I would like to do my FFS with him and this post can help me too much to choose him finally. I wish you all the best  :)

¡Suerte guapa!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on October 23, 2014, 04:31:44 AM
Quote from: Liara on October 23, 2014, 12:07:48 AM
Very interesting and helpfully post , I will follow all your process and trip in Thailand with Chettawut. I would like to do my FFS with him and this post can help me too much to choose him finally. I wish you all the best  :)

¡Suerte guapa!

I will probably keep my blog updated (www.flyingtoaster.net), although only in spanish.

Things I still need to buy:
- New titanium piercings for my ears (I don't want the holes to close and I won't be wearing earrings for some time.
- Pajamas
- A bag for hygiene products
- More underwear? In case I don't want to do laundry. Most of the time I will probably be half naked inside my room...

What I don't know is: What's the period between surgery and when despite bandages you can move or go out of the hotel to buy stuff? From the pictures I have seen most of the bandages are removed after 1-2 days post-op, except for the nose. And speaking of that... I'm supposing they will provide the hospital gown for the surgery day and the next day in the recovery room, don't they. Apart from the pajamas and the outdoors clothing, I'm not bringing a lot more.


And sigh... Since I live in a place where it is always cloudy and rainy, I haven't updated my sunglasses. plus I suppose I will need some kind of protective headwear. Since my surgery has been delayed, I have one extra day to do some tourism.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on October 23, 2014, 08:35:47 AM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on October 23, 2014, 04:31:44 AM
I will probably keep my blog updated (www.flyingtoaster.net), although only in spanish.

Things I still need to buy:
- New titanium piercings for my ears (I don't want the holes to close and I won't be wearing earrings for some time.
- Pajamas
- A bag for hygiene products
- More underwear? In case I don't want to do laundry. Most of the time I will probably be half naked inside my room...

What I don't know is: What's the period between surgery and when despite bandages you can move or go out of the hotel to buy stuff? From the pictures I have seen most of the bandages are removed after 1-2 days post-op, except for the nose. And speaking of that... I'm supposing they will provide the hospital gown for the surgery day and the next day in the recovery room, don't they. Apart from the pajamas and the outdoors clothing, I'm not bringing a lot more.


And sigh... Since I live in a place where it is always cloudy and rainy, I haven't updated my sunglasses. plus I suppose I will need some kind of protective headwear. Since my surgery has been delayed, I have one extra day to do some tourism.

Hi! So I will follow all your process in your blog ^^. I'm so exciting for you! . I suggest you to wait 4 or 5 days after the surgery because the firts days maybe you will have nausea and headache so you should take with calm all the process and repose the firts days untill you feel better.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 04, 2014, 08:51:29 AM
Ten days to go. It's my fifth day without hormones and I'm starting to get pretty tired by now... Headaches, more anxiety, and ->-bleeped-<- happened with my neighbours that forced me to call the cops because of blasting extremely loud music to the point I reached my break. las thing I want now is more headaches. I just need peace while I start preparing the suitcase this evening...

I leave this monday, surgery in two fridays...
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 13, 2014, 09:36:27 AM
Well, minus ten hours until they pick me and we enter the clinic... Good luck to me, I guess.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: LilDevilOfPrada on November 13, 2014, 12:37:43 PM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on November 13, 2014, 09:36:27 AM
Well, minus ten hours until they pick me and we enter the clinic... Good luck to me, I guess.

Hope it all goes well.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on November 13, 2014, 03:23:51 PM
Hey Julia! I'm so exciting for you! I can't wait to see you after your FFS. I'm so happy for you. I wish you all the best.  :laugh:

P.D: I'm following your daily blog and is so helpfully. ¡Mucha Suerte guapa!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: JLT1 on November 13, 2014, 05:25:06 PM
Good luck!!!

Keep us posted!

You're going to be beautiful!

Hugs,

Jennifer

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: BreezyB on November 14, 2014, 05:06:15 AM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on November 13, 2014, 09:36:27 AM
Well, minus ten hours until they pick me and we enter the clinic... Good luck to me, I guess.
How exciting Julia, your going to look amazing xx
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on November 14, 2014, 09:56:14 AM
Hey Julia

Unas breves palabras para decir que estoy pensando en ti, chica!  I hope you're doing great, and that you're over the anesthetic, and getting ready to start walking about.

Take it easy, the first few days are a challenge - we'll be here when you're up to writing.

Un abrazo
J
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Shantel on November 14, 2014, 10:00:37 AM
Thinking of you Julia and hoping for great success and a quick recovery.  :icon_bunch:
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 16, 2014, 12:51:11 AM
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwHze1wQ.jpg&hash=730730cc5b6b1611edbc69a6fe583c179f7acdb5)

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FXsbOo3P.jpg&hash=a3c8e6d494c5a3ea8afecef2516ac57ee76300ef)

It was not easy. I though SRS would be the most painful one, but messing at the same time with both eyes, nose and throat is not a good recipe. Even if I had had all the money, I would still have divided it in two stages.

Yesterday I was really depressed, but today I am starting to see my old face. I still need to put Ice packs constantly, but the worst parr is the unnecessary catether I have to carry until Monday. I already made a good mess, and while I don't get this removed, I can't wash my clothes or do better cooking.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on November 16, 2014, 02:47:39 AM
Hey Juilia

Considering what you've had done, you're looking quite good!  I know how it feels to see yourself all battered and bruised, but be patient and in around 2 weeks you'll be astounded by the results. 

I admire you for doing this on your own - that takes real strength!

Hugs
Julia
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Jennygirl on November 16, 2014, 03:12:13 AM
Can't wait to see the beauty unfold as the swelling starts to come down. Keep following the directions to the tee and you'll be good to go. It takes a long time to see your old face again, too, so try to keep your mind out of there. After my FFS procedures I discovered I have quite terrible post-op anxiety. Take it from me, having that anxiety is not worth it. Just try to relax and trust your decision, it will help you heal faster being happy and looking forward to seeing the results really start to appear.

So happy for you Julia :D Keep us updated on your progress!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 16, 2014, 03:30:35 AM
Thanks girls. The worst for me now is the oitchinea I can't scratch. Also, I want to talk to the other girls but I can't abuse my throat after the teach shave.

Tomorrow the nurses will come to remove the catether and maybe give me a good facial cleaning, or let me do it. I know the cast won't come put in at least seven days, but I really want to take put the headband and do my hair

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: JLT1 on November 16, 2014, 08:36:50 AM
Hey!

Your going to be seeing improvement a little bit each day for a long time. Enjoy that part of this. Congrats and I'm glad your OK.

Hugs

Jen
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on November 16, 2014, 10:02:42 AM
Hello Julia. I'm happy to see you are fine. You will look incredible sweetie, don't be hard with yourself. You should  wait a few days to see your new face. Take it easy and enjoy your post-op.  :)

Xx
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: michelle82 on November 16, 2014, 09:26:35 PM
Stay strong you will be fine! Cant wait to see more progress!!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 16, 2014, 10:25:23 PM
Day #03:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FICfVuhS.jpg&hash=e9f08948b4c0890bcece08e17ad03e2395a9f8d7)

Les swollen, but still impossible to know what do I really look like Let's hope I don't end looking even more assymetrical...
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: JLT1 on November 16, 2014, 10:41:04 PM
Did you ask your doctor how long for the full recovery?   Mine is 6 to 8 months.   And he is actually correct.  Give it time.

Hugs

Jen
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: EmmaD on November 17, 2014, 12:54:58 PM
Hi Julia,

I was a bit frightened by the first pics especially your eyes because my surgery is on Saturday and they will be playing with my eyes a lot along with my nose.  Your day 3 pics show a huge change.  Thanks so much for posting them as it shows how you just have to chill for a while and let the healing process work.  I also get a lot from the replies as there is much wisdom and experience being shared.

Take care

Love Emma
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Shantel on November 17, 2014, 01:05:39 PM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on November 16, 2014, 10:25:23 PM
Day #03:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FICfVuhS.jpg&hash=e9f08948b4c0890bcece08e17ad03e2395a9f8d7)

Les swollen, but still impossible to know what do I really look like Let's hope I don't end looking even more assymetrical...

Hi Julia,
     Good show sweetheart! I'll bet my paycheck on a pretty looking face and a marvelous recovery!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 17, 2014, 11:29:29 PM
Post-op Day #04

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FpeyFedEl.jpg&hash=49b1ac490e7c38acbf4d12b43a43022f649e5bdb)

Swelling seems to be moving to the lower part. I'm still not allowed to remove the headband or wash my hair until next Friday, which would be when I am also allowed to leave the hotel. I hope they remove some of the stitches by then...

Only problem is that now that I have killed the most malelike features and can start seeing myself as a woman... THen I have genuine genital dysphoria. Not about sex, but about being whole as a woman.

It will be still two years before that next surgery, so I hope the incoming boobjob lifts up my mood a bit.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on November 18, 2014, 01:53:42 PM
Hello Julia!. You will look beautiful girl! In 2 approx weeks you will can appreciate your new face.  :)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 20, 2014, 02:37:57 AM
Not a lot going on, six days later. On friday they remove the stitches on my nose / lip, and by monday the headband comes out and I can wash my hair. 9 friggin days.


So I am thinking, this is not enough. I have changed what could be changed of my body(the face), plus the small bonus that will be breast augmentation in the next month (nothing outrageous). But there are still two things I haven't handled about being a woman yet:

- The first one is hair. I need to visit a hair stylist who can find something that can work to favor my face, and not require me to use heat every day. in the last year I've simple straightened it daily. I need to discover how to treat its frizzynes and arrange its natural curls. Also, it needs to work with my loss of density and shorter hair in the top scalp. TO add insult to injury, I've lost truckloads of hair between stopping E, Minoxidil (I can't start using it again until one month post-op, and all the anxiety.

- Second issue is what to wear. Even if I have a female face now, my body is still male. Long torso, broad shoulders, wider ribcage. I neef to create and style of clothes to wear, more femenine and that works into diminishing my worst male characteristics. It's too bad I don't have a female friend who can work into finding me clothes on a shpping day.

- Third issue is health and body. Although I am not fat, I'm quite flabby and look terrible I need to start going frequently to the gym or doing exercise at home. My body, specially from the waist down looks like a deflated ballon. I need good thights, and to develop a butt, something only exercise will give me.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: BreezyB on November 21, 2014, 12:04:54 AM
Thanks for sharing your journey through FFS Julia. It helps us girls who are planning the same journey. Sounds like a couple of weeks and you'll be seeing the fruits of your labour. I'm sure your going to look fabulous.

Hugs,
Bree
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 21, 2014, 01:24:44 AM
Sadly, today I have discovered that I have ended with a disaster. The thing I feared the most.

Today I just noticed that my septum now has bent to one side, blocking my left nasal cavity.

How has this happened? I had an assimetrycal face with a smaller left side. So my mouth is diagonal. When he did the lip lift and, he tilted the base of the nose so that it would align with my mouth. If it is what I believe, now my nose tilts at the lower part, and that's why the septum bends.

Basically, this required an ENT surgeon. Now it seems like I need a septoplasty. Sigh. When I had turbinate surgery they deemed it as not enough deviation to correct. So I hope they can change it now.

I'm lamenting this surgery alreay. At first I was happy to finally remove my male features, but now the price is having to breath from the mouth. It was a very hard face to work with, and that's why I feared something like this could happen that would increase my assimetry.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: BreezyB on November 21, 2014, 08:01:23 AM
Oh honey, that sounds like more surgery. Youve been through enough. I hope the can get you breathing through your nose without too much effort. Take care girlfriend, hope you can at least put your feet up.

:icon_hug:
Bree
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 21, 2014, 10:11:13 AM
Basically, I have two theories about my nose :
-the septum was deviated during major rhinoplasty

- I had a slightly deviated septum in a nose that was big, long and wide, so much that when I has my consult action for turbinate surgery they deemed it as not enough to operate. But what happens when you put the same deviation in a nose not shorter, smaller and thinner? That you have a big deviation.

That's the problem with surgeons: they always have an Achilles heel. Chett is a cosmetic surgeon, not an ENT surgeon (Cardenas actually have one). I am apple-less now despite having massive prominence ( just my prominent trachea remains), my forehead is incredibly round now and my eyes not only look bigger, but fully symmetrical.

In fact, just by showing my photo to a friend without telling what I had done, he went straight to the lips. "I don't know what has changed, but your mouth is completely feminine now".

Lesson of the day: If you have a Special nose that is going to require functional work, look for a surgeon that can do more than just rhinoplasty.  Basically my septum was not altered, and it should have been corrected at the same time.

I'm considering starting my E tomorrow. It's been a week since surgery and I'm getting into post-op depression territory. I don't think I have to worry about clotting now.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: EmmaD on November 21, 2014, 12:53:06 PM
Hi Julia,

I am very sorry that your nose is going to need further work. 

I think I am lucky as my septum deviation is a known!  That's why I am in Guadalajara now needing an ENT to be involved.  Hindsight is a fine thing but if I hadn't had a nose op 5 weeks ago to remove a bunch of polyps,  I wouldn't have known the extent of the problem.  Dr Cardenas' wife is an ENT and is used to doing these repairs as part of FFS.  I could just as easily have picked a surgeon who doesn't have an ENT readily available as I booked well before I knew the extent of the problem.

That all said, with my propensity to grow polyps, I now know I will be back at the ENT in Melbourne getting more removed in the next year or so.  I just accept my nose is going to be high maintenance.  Unfortunately, it sounds like yours is too.

All the best with your recovery. 

Emma

P.S. I like your attitude to the other areas to improve.  Even though my FFS is tomorrow, it is good to look forward and not look at this as a magic pill.  It is but one component of a complex journey.  Thanks for the reminder.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on November 21, 2014, 02:09:59 PM
Hi Julia

Permit me to observe that you might be reacting a little too fast, sister.  :D It is natural for your nose breathing to be very strange at this time, so soon after surgery.

Rhinoplasty is very invasive and your breathing may not stabilise for at least 8 weeks.  In fact, it took the better part of 6 months for my nose to fully stabilise in terms of aesthetics and usability. 

Hermana, entiendo que has vivido con unas frustraciones enormes, per, mirando tus posts desde la cirugía, quiero que hagas todo lo posible para percibir lo positivo en tu mundo.  Acabas de arreglar tu cara, y seguramente saldrás estupenda.  Dentro de poco tendrás tus pechos también.  Es para celebrarlo, en mayusculas!!  Claro, todavía te queda trabajo, pero, jo**r, mira que salto has hecho.  En vez de ver cada cuesta como un obstaculo, yo hago lo máximo para tener en mente que, desde la cumbre de cada cuesta hay vistas espectaculares, y desde allá puedes ver cuánto has avanzado.   Smile and carry on!!  :)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 22, 2014, 07:55:51 AM
What I have now is my septum deviated just at the entrance. Every time the nurse is trying to clean it in the mornings, she hits it and its pure pain. I'll have to get it checked with my otorrinolaryngologist when I am back. This is something that existed before, but feels as if the rhinoplasty worsened it.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on November 22, 2014, 10:45:30 AM
Julia, was this not something Dr Chett was intending to fix during your FFS?  If something has gone wrong as a consequnce of the rhinoplasty, isn't it worth asking him to fix it now, while the bones are still malleable?
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: blackponyx on November 22, 2014, 11:45:06 AM
It's too early to judge.

Swelling could cause (temporary) deviations and even uneven nostrils!

Give it some time and check with Dr Chettawut to see if this is indeed swelling, or otherwise.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: JLT1 on November 23, 2014, 01:53:24 PM
Hi,

I'm at seven months and my nose is almost calmed down.  Four times each day I have to hold it bent slightly to the left.  It can take time. 

Hugs!!!

Jen
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on November 23, 2014, 04:48:12 PM
Quote from: JLT1 on November 23, 2014, 01:53:24 PM
Hi,

I'm at seven months and my nose is almost calmed down.  Four times each day I have to hold it bent slightly to the left.  It can take time. 

Hugs!!!

Jen

The things we do to look pretty  ;D  I swear, if there was ever a crazy bunch, and I'm right in the middle of it!  :D
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on November 23, 2014, 11:15:39 PM
Hello Julia. I'm a little bit worried for you . I hope you are feeling better sweetie. Be strong, I know is a little difficult in this moments but I know you are a warrior.

Wish you all the best.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 23, 2014, 11:31:28 PM
Trying not to freak out right now.

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FnWeEg91l.jpg&hash=1489eb5aed36a561b7ae4c8af80624b1b52ee6ea)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FWgF6bxRl.jpg&hash=1dd8339737488afaea6da920caa758092e052593)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FCV04gxhl.jpg&hash=2383f64b12fb7828c14cd5a4b6a5e0bb80976990)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FpmCtBFdl.jpg&hash=f6fd94c185bf36d239ad04c13ffd17eb3b8428d7)

For comparison, Pre-FFS, February:
Spoiler
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F92py8rFl.jpg&hash=e66542eca686f8c7c7c124e03cba7d23d52305d1)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FzrP5LVol.jpg&hash=c004554e4f2f78dab9de1295bef01e32a2a93303)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeFX2cgIl.jpg&hash=52532a410e79061f15de9e01f9f3cc274b859022)
Well, I don't recognice my face. The nose is still big, but that's mostly because I had a long face to beging with. It's the same face, but with minor changes, and yet.... Well, he has managed to do what I asked with my nose. Definitely, the front view looks good compared to before, at least in the mirror.
Looks like one eyebrow is higher than the other in the mirror. WTF? I don't know if t is an optical illusion or what...

Well, my eyes seem to be quite even right now. No droopy eyelid for now. In fact I'd say it's difficult to close them. Perhaps the residual swelling, maybe?

too bad my eyes are deep set. The forehead is round, and the bossing does not cover my eyes, so I can't wait to try makeup on.

Lower face is still the same, but I'm not that worried about it.

I've been told I don't need to wear the cast anymore, or the head band at night.. I thought it was good to keep wearing the cast for at least four months... I still have it with me, though. She threw it to the trash...
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: missymay on November 24, 2014, 12:41:05 AM
Hi Julia, your results look quite good at this stage; your forehead and nose look amazing!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: blackponyx on November 24, 2014, 06:08:44 AM
You worry too much. And I understand why.

But as a 3rd part who has seen your post-op face for the first time - I am telling you that your changes are amazing. I loved how much he reduced the forehead and the forehead now is smooth and perpendicular to the ground (it was a lot receding previously...the slope not the hairline)

I am Asian so we have different views on the nose. I can still see visible swelling. Compared to the pre-op photo I would say it's a great improvement. I would, personally, however, prefer a much refined nose tip. It still looks a little bulbous BUT that's possibly swelling. And like i say, i know too little about Western noses to judge.

Get out of your depressed mood and celebrate. You look gorgeous!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: michelle82 on November 24, 2014, 08:34:52 AM
Wow i think you look great julia!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 24, 2014, 09:01:42 AM
To be honest, he had made a massive work with my nose. It's not symmetric sure, and I can feel that at bone level, but it works much better into hiding it than before. My face was highly assymetrical with a smaller side that literally ->-bleeped-<-ed everything. Now the eyes are corrected by doing an assymetrical blepharoplasty so that they have enough skin to hang at the exact height. Only the mouth remains, but that would require a double jaw ostheotomy for aesthetic purposes, something I can't do anymore.

As far as I know, this was a rhinoplasty with alarplasty and he had intention on reducing the tip (did he said tip-plasty?" I have seen other recent noses, and they look bulbous, too. It's a common thing for the first three months, although noses are the longest to heal.

The forehead yes, it's amazing. A type III complete reconstruction, and I'd say that he also burrowed the "spikes" that went upwards  from the brow. If you search my old post when I would rand, my worst issues were the almost diagonal forehead (yeah, it was a friggin' slope, and the nose. Combined they made a rat face. I also specifically asked him if he could alter how the lip connected to the nose, since nose pulled out lip (more rat face). I like that now there is no brow bone to completely hood my eyes, so this time eyeshadow won't smudge and end in the brow as before.

The eyebrows now have a natural curve, but just at the exact point to not to look surprised all the time. The skin is really tight there, and I still have issues with closing my eyes.

On the negative side of things, I've lost a lot of sensitive and considerable nerve damage. I don't have facial issues mobility, but I've lost sensitivity from the crown to the hairline, in several parts of the forehead and eyelids. This came to be a problem during my first shower, since I did not know what was I touching. Not being able to feel the pressure proves to be a problem with my eyelids for applying eyeliner, too. So regarding makeup, when I go back to work I'd limit myself to base and concealer. Right now there's still a lot of glue that is taking a lot of time to go away.

Pain wise, I still have it in the Trach shave and the forehead. Yawning is one of the most complicated issues, although swallowing is ok for now. The forehead is not to be touched for now, and my right side gets either weird sensations or a jolt of pain. I can feel clearly one of the screws.



I'm not going to lie. The first day was terrible. Due to a delay in the date I had the surgery on friday, and the morning of the saturday I was sent back to the hotel with a bag full of pills and a catether. I was in an awful state where I could barely see, talk or eat. And in those conditions, I had to cook (the bangkok rama restaurant is now closed for lunch, and it would have been harder to talk for ordering pizza). The big deal with this date is that there are no nurses on sunday, and I had to spend the worst part without observation until monday. Even if I was given cleaning material for the sutures, THere was a lot of black crust in the first days.

Being realistic, I should have spent the saturday at the clinic, which supposedly is the normal thing to do, but Chett sends his patients too quickly to the hospital. I'm glad somebody could help me, because in that first day post-op I really needed assistance and I should not have been left alone.

Speaking of other things, my voice is still not functional. I have checked that I can still pitch high, but the throat is still too weak. I have also oticed that now I don't physically lock when going up to falsetto. Now there's an empty space where there's no sound production from when I leave my high range until I enter falsetto territory.

Right now I compare this recovery with the future SRS I will have to endure. It will be four crippling days stuck in a bed (and with a catheter again. Did I mention how much I hate those things?), but still, it is not as abad as not being able to look, breath and eat, all at the same time. Even if I had had the money, I think I would have lamented going for the procedure I decide to remove, the jaw / chin contouring. One bone operation is more than enough.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on November 24, 2014, 10:33:39 AM
Hola Julia

I think this is an excellent result. The change is remarkable, and frankly, your nose looks good, even so soon after surgery.  You're not a tiny girl, so your nose will almost certainly fit your face and body nicely. 

Sensitivity will probably return quite slowly.  Swelling will take 4-6 months to go down.  But in around 4 weeks your face will look great - only you will know that it's still in recovery.

You should be very pleased with this result.

Un beso
Julia

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on November 24, 2014, 11:57:22 AM
Hey Julia. What an amazing result girl. You must to be patient and wait untill the swelling it's gone. In my experience, you will see the final result after the swelling dessapear.

Hugs and Kisses


xx
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Carrie Liz on November 24, 2014, 12:21:17 PM
HUGE change in the eye area.

Getting rid of the bossing, and the trimming that was done on the upper nose bridge, has really made the whole area look more open, and the femininity quotient as a result has REALLY gone up. Very impressive!

(By the way, I've kind of been stalking your FFS posts because I'm trying to decide whether I want to do FFS or SRS first myself. :P )
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: ana1111 on November 25, 2014, 01:50:03 PM
I think your looking great in your after pictures! The nose only seems big do to swelling which takes months after rhinoplasty to go completely down so don't worry bout it!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 25, 2014, 10:57:49 PM
I think we can conclude that Chett is great at bone work. I had heard comments about him doing "weird" foreheads, but I think I am the living example of how an extremely male forehead with massive brow bossing to the point of being slopped can be rounded.

I've been taking photos daily. After I get home I will start working on a timelapse video for it. Although after the three first weeks mark I'll limit myself to a weekly picture.

@Carrie Liz Even if you don't believe me, I'm sorta regretting the FFS. After finally being able to see a woman in the mirror and weeks of everybody treating me like that, genital dysphoria has grown to the point of anxiety just by looking at it. Estrogen is slowly helping into mitigating it, but I need to save for SRS. And wishing I had had an orchi in the beginning.

PS: from a decent shaped A cup with even breast and a somewhat OK shape to cone shaped mini breasts with uneven size and shape again which won't fill the push up. Luckily My BA is coming in 2-3 months, bit... God damn of.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on November 27, 2014, 08:09:44 AM
Stitches are out, save for three self dissolving ones in my forehead. Tomorrow I have my leave consultation with CHett, so I guess I will do an effort into shaving my legs and other body parts.

Overall, I'm recovering pretty well and fast, despite numbness being an issue with makeup. I'm going to let my eyebrows regrow so that I can have them waxed and reshaped again. At the new position I don't need to remove that much hair from below, so maybe we can try a few new things.


Anyways, as a bit of advice for other people, be it FFS or SRS:

- The day you are taken to the clinic for surgery, wear the most comfortable, loose and easy to put clothes, and for the love of everything, avoid pants, specially tight fitting ones. Yes, wear a freaking dress, even if you hate them.


Basically I went to the clinic in very tight jeggings, gaff, skin tight top and converse boots. Imagine the next day to try and fit into that, tie my shoelaces and... yeah, a gaff and catheter tube coming out of my dick. I could never see that coming. Basically I should have worn an easy summer dress with a wide opening for my head, and the biggest underwear they had. Basically, this is what I will be doing when I come back for SRS.

The second advice: If you can, bring somebody with you to stay until you regain some sort of independence. The first day will be terrible, and you truly are going to need somebody to help you. I was almost blind, trying to cook while lugging around a painful catheter that was telling me to avoid doing unnecesary movements. Be it SRS or a massive amount of FFS, you will want to have somebody close to you. If possible, befriend other patients. Most of your online contacts won't be there to try and calm you give the time difference.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 01, 2014, 05:51:40 AM
After two weeks and two days, I'm back to work. Overall people won't notice anything or comment, save for my close-coworkers. The women who knew I was getting some surgery notice the changes a lot and openly talk about them, while men... shut up. I suppose that they still see me as a man (My previous face outed me) and don't feel very well about telling a "guy" he looks pretty now. For people who knew me from before but did not know I had surgery, they are perplexed and seeing that I look completely different, much better, but they don't know what has changed.


With the family, it's been different. My father either has not noticed the change or has preferred to shut up. Anyways he almost never looks at me directly when presenting femal (now I always present female, there's no male remaining in me, even at a mental level).


So far, my biggest issue right now is hair loss. It was fairly bad after removing the headband, but it's even worse. I want to think that it is a combination of going off Estrogen, Minoxidil, traumatic damage and not a great blood flow to the scalp after being with a compression headband for 10 days straight. My hair was thin, with short roots and felt easy, but this is a freak out level now. Previously I would clean my brush once a month, now I need to remove the hair daily. I've stopped using heat at all save for one quick pass on my bangs so that I can keep them under control. The last time this got so bad was when I was prescribed venlafaxine, which I quit cold turkey precisely because of this. I've been on an antidepressant Chett prescribed for two weeks, so I wonder if all those meds have something to do.

Right now I'm looking into biotin, not sure if it can be obtained in capsules. I suppose tomorrow I will ask at the pharmacy. Yesterday I resumed my injections, so right now I'm taking cyproterone acetate, dutasteride, injectable estradiol valerate and next week I will resume progesterone (I want to take it easy and avoid saturating the body with too much drugs at the same time.

One funny thing I noticed is that my libido and erections are fully dependent on estradiol. I was dead down there when off E, but it quickly came back after I took them again.


So far, so good. Another nose stich came out yesterday, although the three that remain on my forehead are still holding well. Mentally I'm better than ever. Yesterday I was incredibly scared about going out for the first time (I needed to buy bread and move money between accounts), and in the end I went out without makeup, dressed quite girly (I'm not feeling ok with andro looks) So far, no weird looks and gendered female. I am much calmer and at ease now, always smiling (on what measure the lip lift allows me).


Regarding what's next, I have started saving for SRS already. Today I called the hospital's plastic surgery department to tell them I am back, ok, and they can put me backon the wait line for breast augmentation, which will possibly happen in January.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Eva on December 01, 2014, 09:01:00 AM
Thank you I havnt had FFS yet but I will and your experience is valuable  ;)

Your results look very good to me so far, congrats  8)

I cant imagine going off HRT for anything and Im taking IM injections of EV every 5 days...

How long did the doc want you off HRT??? 
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 01, 2014, 10:05:52 AM
Quote from: Eva on December 01, 2014, 09:01:00 AM
How long did the doc want you off HRT???

Two weeks before surgery, and until I was back home (another two weeks in my case). I was told to stop "Estrogen drugs, NSAIDS and blood thinning meds", so I kept the antiandrogens all the time except for the 2-3 days of surgery and initial recovery
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Eva on December 01, 2014, 11:49:32 AM
That HAD to suck, well you made it through and Im sure your gonna just feel better by the day now, congrats  ;D

I dont get why they would want you to stop IM injections though... Women have surgeries all the time and they cant stop E ??? ::)

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Carrie Liz on December 01, 2014, 11:52:44 AM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on December 01, 2014, 05:51:40 AM
(now I always present female, there's no male remaining in me, even at a mental level).
...

Yesterday I was incredibly scared about going out for the first time (I needed to buy bread and move money between accounts), and in the end I went out without makeup, dressed quite girly (I'm not feeling ok with andro looks) So far, no weird looks and gendered female. I am much calmer and at ease now, always smiling (on what measure the lip lift allows me).

After all of the negativity and self-hatred that I've seen you write about your own appearance, that is seriously the greatest thing I've ever heard you say. So happy that you finally feel confident! :)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Eva on December 01, 2014, 11:58:33 AM
I agree and Im inspired!!! Really happy for you  ;)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: michelle82 on December 01, 2014, 01:30:52 PM
Glad to hear your recovery is going well and that you are safely home! Post more pix of your progress!!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 01, 2014, 03:32:32 PM
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fwz32davl.jpg&hash=9160c30ec326f213688ddd7cae434aa56efe4e12)

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F8t5gX5ul.jpg&hash=8f9b3ece73ea416800c129804d7667415139a04f)

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvQTgDhMl.jpg&hash=3f33aeb14e4fd7d3873be70d499d4dd2d6f2f3df)

I don't know if I put the camera too high, but damn my chin. I still feel pretty ugly when I look at those protruding cheekbones, and my facial fat still hasn't come back in two years.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Liara on December 01, 2014, 09:41:10 PM
 :o Without words Julia.. You are absolutely beautiful! I'm so happy for you, You deserved it! Do you feel more confident with your self?  :)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 02, 2014, 03:01:05 AM
Honestly, not a lot. I like passing and being gendered female without being all dolled, but I'm still frustrated about HRT doing nothing to soften my features. I have corrected the fixed things that HRT would not change, but my skin and facial fat are still nonexisting.

These days I only think about having an orchiectomy. Just not having testosterone in my system, as I feel that my hyperactive testicles have been slowing down my transition. It will still be at least 19 months until SRS.

My eyelid numbness has gone and I can feel preasure again, although I don't want to use makeup. Today I had to go to the hospital to get something removed from my upper eyelid. The eyelid had swollen and I was scared about having broke something, but as I was told, the bleph has fully healed by now. I had to give explanation about my bruising, since nurses kept inquiring about if I had taken trauma. I really don't like explaining these kind of surgeries, and only my therapist and my doctor were aware of them. Right now I have some cornea damage that will need some care for the week.

And Liara, please. No quoting of pictures. Not that it serves a lot now that susans won't allow privacy edits, but anyways I can remotely wipe the pics.



PD: No catcalling so far.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Julia-Madrid on December 03, 2014, 01:49:07 AM
Chica

I think this is a very good result.  Now give it time to heal.  In 4-6 months you will be astonished by the improvement.  Take a selfie each week and review them in April.

Julia
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 03, 2014, 03:08:39 AM
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on December 03, 2014, 01:49:07 AM
Chica

I think this is a very good result.  Now give it time to heal.  In 4-6 months you will be astonished by the improvement.  Take a selfie each week and review them in April.

Julia

Right now my biggest issue is that I want to do lots of stuff and I can't. I look ok at a bone level, even with the swelling, bruising and scars I still look like a girl, but inside I'm still all broken. I want to exercise till I run out of breath, get a full beauty maintenance and over everything else, and have sex like it was the end of the world now that I don't feel as a man and thinking of it as gay sex. But sadly, it's all looks. I'm still a construct made of fresh sutures, healing bones that is only healed on the outside. I feel weak, I am scared of hitting my nose every time I hug or kiss somebody and overall I feel like I will break if I do anything else that is not walking carefully and staying very quiet until I am healed. Washing my face always feels like handling a cake without crushing it, and I keep getting pain from soap in my eyes. I am not even putting makeup because I am scared it will mess with the scars healing (and it would not allow me to massage my nose).

I wish I could get a good haircut (my forehead  scar still hurts when handling hair, so I am afraid about letting a professional do intensive work), do my eyebrows (they were plucked away by the tape holding the cast and they still need one month of growth minimum), or get a professional facial cleaning (literally forbidden, same as with exfoliating after a rhinoplasty).

I have started taking biotin too. If it can help with hair and skin recovery, be it welcome.

BTW, I'm friggin' horny, as if all the accumulation from those weeks came back, and wishing I could be physically functional. I feel so weak. I want to get fit, gorgeous... but I hate waiting and being careful. To make things worse, after the eye thing I had to deal with gastric issues, nausea and vomiting for the rest of the day.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Eva on December 03, 2014, 08:20:05 AM
Just the IM injections make me horny enough :laugh: The psychological things you describe sound nice, I bet in just another two weeks as you heal more you will feel better...   

Im very impatient too, thank you for your thoughts, it helps me to prepare for what Im going to be in for   :)

You just gotta wait it out and take care, Ive been going crazy myself here recovering from voice feminization surgery.... Not quite the same thing but still a big deal thats changed my mind and life for the better  ;D
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 03, 2014, 09:05:14 AM
Quote from: Eva on December 03, 2014, 08:20:05 AM
Just the IM injections make me horny enough :laugh


I don't even want to think about it... Tomorrow I have bikini line lasering, and I'm considering masturbating before going to avoid "surprises".
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: BreezyB on December 03, 2014, 09:48:24 AM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on December 03, 2014, 09:05:14 AM

I don't even want to think about it... Tomorrow I have bikini line lasering, and I'm considering masturbating before going to avoid "surprises".

Oh, your a lucky girl Julia, I mean, this girl can't even get it up, damn 'no testosterone' lol..

But seriously Hun, you look fantastic, and I know looks are not everything and all the healing is happening on the inside but on the outside, I would say all has been a success. You originally said you wanted to split the surgery, and so the chin work will come when your ready. And also the hair, looking great, I can't see any issue girlfriend?

Now, about me.. I'm heading to Dr Chettawut in Jan, first of all for a Trachea Shave. Mined if pm you Julia as need a few tips on travel stops and eateries lol.

But seriously girl your looking good, and whilst I don't speak from experience I hear it just gets better

Hugs,
Bree xxx
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 03, 2014, 10:01:19 AM
Quote from: BreezyB on December 03, 2014, 09:48:24 AM
?

Now, about me.. I'm heading to Dr Chettawut in Jan, first of all for a Trachea Shave. Mined if pm you Julia as need a few tips on travel stops and eateries lol.

Hugs,
Bree xxx

Sure, although the biggest issue you will have with the trach shave is.... No spicy food, no cold drinks, and you will have to rely on soups or very small rations for the first days. Also, never ever try to contain sneezing. I did it today and I am still hurting.

Bangkok is a bad place if you can't tolerate spicy foods, although most of the time you will live on precooked stuff and the restaurant's room service for dinner. For the first 2-3 days I was only having creams, soup and the blandest possible things.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Apples Mk.II on December 15, 2014, 02:37:47 AM
Four weeks post-op:

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fl65zWlTl.jpg&hash=8352d3bc92b0c17c3775204f067588fab5c393ed)

Terrible terrible selfie after a christmas office lunch while going back on the metro. Swelling has been moving down to my face lower part. Still a long long wait to go, as Chett put the full recovery at 6 months.

This wednesday I'm having my eyebrows redone, and maybe I should see if I can get an appointment for my hair on thursday.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: BreezyB on December 15, 2014, 04:44:03 AM
Your looking great Julia. Looks like the recovery is coming along nicely.

I'm all booked in to see Dr  Chettawut in the first week of Jan for the Trachea Shave. But this is also a consult for FFS mid year so hoping things go as well as they have for you.
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: missymay on December 15, 2014, 08:24:04 AM
Quote from: Julia (Apple-Whatever) on December 15, 2014, 02:37:47 AM
Four weeks post-op:

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fl65zWlTl.jpg&hash=8352d3bc92b0c17c3775204f067588fab5c393ed)

Terrible terrible selfie after a christmas office lunch while going back on the metro. Swelling has been moving down to my face lower part. Still a long long wait to go, as Chett put the full recovery at 6 months.

This wednesday I'm having my eyebrows redone, and maybe I should see if I can get an appointment for my hair on thursday.

You look so pretty :)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Jennygirl on December 31, 2014, 04:22:45 AM
Incredible transformation. You must be over the moon about your results! What a beauty! :D
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: ReDucks on January 01, 2015, 05:57:17 PM
Wow! You look amazing!
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Sophiabutterfly09 on January 22, 2015, 01:02:43 PM
I love the results, especially your Eye area!!! superb
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: Joanne Feliz on February 07, 2015, 08:07:04 AM
wow great journal and very informative.

Sounds like all the procedures you had done I was told I needed by Dr Chettawut.  Is scarey but at the same time reassuring that you have recovered.

PS you look fantastic!

;)
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: JLT1 on February 14, 2015, 07:04:17 PM
Hi Julia!

I missed the earlier posts...

That looks GREAT!.  Wow..  YOu have to be happy.

Hugs,

Jennifer
Title: Re: Partial FFS With Chettawutt (13/11/2014)
Post by: daniellahaumono on March 14, 2015, 07:13:16 AM
Hi julia thank you so much for your diary on FFS with Dr Chets im so happy now i will be going to him this june i hope he does the same job as he has done to you...you look amazing by the way a true English rose anyways thank you again for this beautiful testimony
Kind Regards
Daniella