Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Hey Ladies :)

So it's official, I'm joining the pack and will be going to Rochester NY on the 23rd to have my pre-consult on the 24th and surgery on the 25th. Since it is Thanksgiving week, the office basically told me I have to stay until the 30th before I'm cleared to leave.

That being said, any advice on where to stay? It's 160/night at the Marriot, and I was thinking about doing AirBnB or take any recommendations on what to do while I'm waiting after the surgery. I do have a friend coming with me so I won't be lonely. If anyone is around, perhaps we can have a chance to meet and perhaps have a thanksgiving dinner together, since I won't be in the midst of my immediate family.

As for the surgery, I will be undergoing the triple with Dr. Haben. I will probably be packing a few scarves and several coats. Hopefully it's not too cold yet! I am nervous, excited, afraid, and hopeful all at once. Someone posted something about getting the higher gauge sutures, and I was wondering if anyone here took that option or know anything about doing that? I may opt for it, but know nothing about how this procedure may be impacted by it. Remaining very optimistic :)

Audree

I thought the hotel stay came pre-packaged with the price of the surgery? I didn't have to pay anything to the hotel because whatever amount I paid Dr Haben covered accommodations at the hotel.

I was in the Marriot and it was really nice. I could get used to staying there but you are correct about it being costly. You can search for hotels on the internet and you should be able find something. As for the weather, I was from Wisconsin and that time of year it gets chilly but not cold enough for much in the way of snow. I suggest you take a heavy coat as few of us in the South West have the type of winter gear that they wear back there. I outgrew what I had when we move and never replaced it.

You may be able to see some of the autumn colors, something I miss from living back there. Welcome to the club and let us know if we can help you.

Quote from: audreelyn on October 26, 2015, 11:21:38 PM
Hey Ladies :)

So it's official, I'm joining the pack and will be going to Rochester NY on the 23rd to have my pre-consult on the 24th and surgery on the 25th. Since it is Thanksgiving week, the office basically told me I have to stay until the 30th before I'm cleared to leave.

That being said, any advice on where to stay? It's 160/night at the Marriot, and I was thinking about doing AirBnB or take any recommendations on what to do while I'm waiting after the surgery. I do have a friend coming with me so I won't be lonely. If anyone is around, perhaps we can have a chance to meet and perhaps have a thanksgiving dinner together, since I won't be in the midst of my immediate family.

As for the surgery, I will be undergoing the triple with Dr. Haben. I will probably be packing a few scarves and several coats. Hopefully it's not too cold yet! I am nervous, excited, afraid, and hopeful all at once. Someone posted something about getting the higher gauge sutures, and I was wondering if anyone here took that option or know anything about doing that? I may opt for it, but know nothing about how this procedure may be impacted by it. Remaining very optimistic :)

Audree

I stayed in the Marriott as part of the package deal also, but you might try priceline if you can get something that's not too far from the hospital or Dr. Haben's office.  Be prepared to spend at least 50 dollars on cabs.  Rochester doesn't have uber yet and while the hospital will provide transportation before and after surgery, you are on your own when getting to his office and to and from the airport.   Someone (maybe Elaine or Isleeplikeacat?) mentioned the "stronger" sutures but I'm unaware as to whether that is a real option.  I didn't ask, and Dr. Haben made no mention to me of any other options in regards to that.  Congrats, and as the others have said, if you have any questions there are several of us now who have gone through the process :)

Awesome, yes, thank you all :D

To clarify, the first two nights are included, I think this was what the package came with originally, right?

What they told me thereafter, was every night post was 160/night.

Uber and Lyft aren't there yet? Oh what a bummer. So, stay close to the hospital, is what I'm gathering.

If I remember what the cab driver told me correctly, there are about 6 hotels near the Marriot/hospital. The Marriot and the hospital are close together with Dr Haben's office and the airport close together. The two groups are 10/15 miles apart.

The package comes with two nights at the Marriot but they might have a reduced rate if you book for an extended period of time. It will be cheaper to stay somewhere else.

Quote from: audreelyn on October 27, 2015, 12:53:12 AM

Uber and Lyft aren't there yet? Oh what a bummer. So, stay close to the hospital, is what I'm gathering.

Yeah, I was surprised to find that out since it's become so commonplace.  I found a cab driver on yelp who operates a one man business.  He was extremely nice, extremely fast, very professional...but pricey!  Luckily you'll have a companion who can call to order cabs while you're recovering since you can't just use the uber app :)  As for hotels you might want to do a priceline search just to see what pops up in the nearby area and then compare to the normal rates and see if it's worth the gamble.

G'luck with your surgery! The Marriott was quite nice, but I'm sure you can find a cheaper hotel nearby, maybe like a Comfort Inn or some other Inns that includes breakfast. I didn't go anywhere exciting after the surgery, since we drove back to Canada right after the post-op check-up.

Ohh, goodness. I'm going to look at airbnb, I've found some places that charge as long as 40/night. Albeit, these are people's homes, but I figure I should save a little bit.

Priceline and breakfast in the morning is also tempting...! Thanks for the suggestions :)

Audree

Yes be sure to prepare some money for cabs. My mom and I didn't sight-see or anything; we just took cabs to and from appointments and hospital visits, and I think we spent at least $120 on cab fees.

The cabs take plastic so there is no need to dip into your cash. I took about $500 in cash incase plastic failed me but the only thing I used the cash for was tips for food and the cleaning people. I ate in the hotel and put everything on my room tab then paid for it when I left. It's been 3 month and I haven't been to the ATM for more cash. Of corse, I haven't had any fast food in three months either. I want to try the gender test on the inhuman order stands at a fast food place  ;D

Good to know. Jeez. I might grab a place within walking distance, ahaha.

What's the fast food gender test, Dena?

Audree

Quote from: audreelyn on October 27, 2015, 08:24:21 PM
Good to know. Jeez. I might grab a place within walking distance, ahaha.

What's the fast food gender test, Dena?

Audree

I'm assuming it's one of those automated machines you talk to so you can order food, and then they address you based on your gender/voice. I could be completely wrong though. Lol.

And yeah, you most definitely will need a few cab rides.

You don't need a cab ride from the airport to the Marriott. You call them once you are at the airport and they send someone to pick you up. We just ended up tipping the Marriott driver.

You need to get to Dr Haben's office on your own. Cab price from the Marriott to his office ran at least $30, and then another $30 on the way back to the hotel.

The hospital picks you up for your surgery the next day, and then they send you back to the hotel.

You probably will need to take a cab ride to whichever hotel/home you are staying at after the Marriott. Then two more cab rides to and from Dr Haben's office during the post-op checkup.

And then finally one last cab ride to the airport to get home. That's six cab rides total for you, and I can see you probably spending at least $180-$200.

Quote from: Roni on October 27, 2015, 09:23:19 PM
I'm assuming it's one of those automated machines you talk to so you can order food, and then they address you based on your gender/voice. I could be completely wrong though. Lol.

You nailed it. It's the same as the telephone test.

Hey! So I will be having surgery on that day as well :) im 23 coming from la. New to this site so just getting the hang of it but wanted to create an account to share my experience.

Welcome to Susan's Place Holly. I think you will enjoy everything about the trip except the surgery. Feel free to ask any questions you might have because I have been there and done that.

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Quote from: HollywoodPrincess on October 30, 2015, 09:35:34 AM
Hey! So I will be having surgery on that day as well :) im 23 coming from la. New to this site so just getting the hang of it but wanted to create an account to share my experience.

Hey HP! Welcome :) :)

Where are you going to be staying in Rochester? Does he have you staying post-thanksgiving too?

Glad to hear another So.Cal girl is going to be around :)

Audree

Hey! I'm going to be staying at the hotel they provide and I have to stay till Monday also. How can we exchange info? We should srrange to meet up.

Once you reach 15 quality post you will be able to send PMs to other users. Don't try to pad posts or you posts will be removed or your post count decreased.

Quote from: HollywoodPrincess on November 02, 2015, 05:19:55 AM
Hey! I'm going to be staying at the hotel they provide and I have to stay till Monday also. How can we exchange info? We should srrange to meet up.

Oh yes that sounds lovely! I guess we'll have to wait until you reach 15 posts so we can swap info??

btw, I was able to find a place to AirBnB for 260 from the 26th to the 30 :3
If you haven't found a place already, you should look into it, much more affordable than 150/night ;*(

Audree

Wow that's a really good deal...but since it's near the holidays I don't mind treating myself. Also I'm staying one night at the hospital since I'm traveling alone. I can't wait. I've had ffs and other work done so I pass untill I speak lol. So this will be awesome. I hope

Congrats, Audree! I hope the best for your time there and your recovery. :)

Thanks!I think it'll be real good (:
My friend and I are both writers so we'll probably use the time to do a little writing retreat.

HP, I'm so excited for you too! We should definitely meet yup at some point. Who did your ffs?

Cadence, how has your recovery been? I bet you're really loving life! I seriously can't wait to be where y'all are at in terms of recovery. Hehe.

Audree

A doctor I don't care for did my Breast and nose in Beverly hills. I don't want to slander his name so I won't say. The rest was dr raphael in texas. He did my ffs.

Actually I looked on Priceline and the hyatt is only 90 bucks compared to the Marriott for the price the hospital is offering at 160. I'm definitely going to book my own hotel room to save. Lol.
Yes we should meet up. How far is New York city from rochester? Lol
Hopefully they have a mall or movie theater close by.

Quote from: HollywoodPrincess on November 08, 2015, 10:27:52 AM
A doctor I don't care for did my Breast and nose in Beverly hills. I don't want to slander his name so I won't say. The rest was dr raphael in texas. He did my ffs.

Actually I looked on Priceline and the hyatt is only 90 bucks compared to the Marriott for the price the hospital is offering at 160. I'm definitely going to book my own hotel room to save. Lol.
Yes we should meet up. How far is New York city from rochester? Lol
Hopefully they have a mall or movie theater close by.

NYC is very far from Rochester, about a 7-8 hour drive depending on traffic. It takes even longer by train or bus.

Well as far as I know we should grab thanksgiving soup together and if we have the strength, do some black Friday shopping... Probably won't have the strength for it. But movies sound good! Anything fun coming out?

Audree

The voice surgery won't slow you down but you need to be careful you don't stress the voice area as that can affect healing. Dr Haben told me I needed to avoid anything that would cause me to grunt but I was extra careful and discontinued my evening walks until I knew I healed enough that there would be no damage. As for being tired, I was but that was because I took a shot of Dr. Haben's cough medicine. Codeine hits me pretty hard and there was enough in the bottle to make me sleep all the way home. I still have the bottle only missing one dose. Friday after the surgery, I visited my mom at work and was out and about. Plan something after the surgery because you will have plenty of time on your hands.

Hey ! So I just spoke with the nurse and she said it would be 600 to stay in the hospital. For some reason I thought it was 300. Id rather just pay someone a couple hundred to pick me up from the hospital and escort me to my hotel room.
Only 11 more days till I fly to New York!! What day do you get to new York? I'm flying in on the 23rd.
Also what part of so cal are you from? Im in la. Maybe we could meet up before our flight

NO NO NO. The hospital say is to watch for complications and help you while you are still unsteady from the surgery. Stay in the hospital unless you have somebody who you trust with you who can watch you for about 16 hours after the surgery. I didn't have anybody with me and it was worth it to spend that night in the hospital. My balance was still a little off a couple of days after the surgery but it was good enough for me to get home.

Are you sure it's necessary? After my ffs and Breast augmentation I took care of myself. I feel like this surgery will be a breeeze. Or am I being naive?

New York law says you need a hospital room or a care taker. You need tons of ice water that you sip all the time, your food desires may not be standard because of the condition of your mouth and you may make many trips to the bathroom with unsure footing. Should you have pain or coughing issues the hospital is a better place to be. How are you going to call on the phone for help if you need it?  Yes you might be able to get by but for me the hospital was worth every cent.

Look at it this way, for the $600 you get all the popsicles you can eat  ;D

The hospital was fine but I personally would have been more comfortable in a hotel room.  The hospital actually CHARGES you extra if you want to watch TV and after the money I was already shelling out for an overnight stay, I didn't want to dish out any more.  One nurse offered me magazines and then never returned.  So I basically spent an entire day staring at the wall.  Oh, and you give your belongings to security when you go under and it took them forever to find mine so I didn't even have my phone for a while. The hospital is fine, don't get me wrong but if you have an option to get a chaperone and be in a hotel you may be more comfortable.

I certainly wouldn't advise ANYONE to disregard the law and more importantly the doctor's orders but in my case I definitely didn't feel like I needed aftercare whatsoever.  Other than a very mild sore throat I felt completely normal 20-30 minutes after waking up.

I'm amazed to hear you were fine half hour after waking up. After I woke up, I felt really nauseous and stayed in the hospital bed for another 1.5-2 hours before heading back to the hotel with my parents. Before the surgery, I was planning to watch the Big Brother finale and Survivor premier on that night lol, but didn't even have the energy to sit up in my bed and keep my eyes open, so I ended up lying on the bed the whole time.

Quote from: kwala on November 13, 2015, 09:20:28 PM
The hospital was fine but I personally would have been more comfortable in a hotel room.  The hospital actually CHARGES you extra if you want to watch TV and after the money I was already shelling out for an overnight stay, I didn't want to dish out any more.  One nurse offered me magazines and then never returned.  So I basically spent an entire day staring at the wall.  Oh, and you give your belongings to security when you go under and it took them forever to find mine so I didn't even have my phone for a while. The hospital is fine, don't get me wrong but if you have an option to get a chaperone and be in a hotel you may be more comfortable.

I certainly wouldn't advise ANYONE to disregard the law and more importantly the doctor's orders but in my case I definitely didn't feel like I needed aftercare whatsoever.  Other than a very mild sore throat I felt completely normal 20-30 minutes after waking up.

Quote from: jollyjoy on November 13, 2015, 10:38:04 PM
I'm amazed to hear you were fine half hour after waking up. After I woke up, I felt really nauseous and stayed in the hospital bed for another 1.5-2 hours before heading back to the hotel with my parents. Before the surgery, I was planning to watch the Big Brother finale and Survivor premier on that night lol, but didn't even have the energy to sit up in my bed and keep my eyes open, so I ended up lying on the bed the whole time.

Yeah, I guess everyone is different!  I actually couldn't sleep and stayed up almost all night. Think I was just too excited to finally have this done.

I'm with you kwala. I would feel more comfortable in the privacy of my own hotel room. Also if I was to stay in the hospital the next morning checking into my hotel room would be a dread to me. They said because it's thanksgiving I would have to cab. I can't imagine trying to check into a hotel the morning after surgery looking like crap. How embarrassing! I would hate having to wake up and shower and do my makeup and hair. Sorry but I'm a diva. Lol. I would need to look hot in order to check into my hotel room. I couldn't phantom not looking put together. So for me it makes more sense to already be checked in to my hotel room so after surgery I can go directly to my room and bypass the front désk. Lol.
I've had like 7-8 cosmetic procedures and have taken care of myself after each one.
I tend to just sleep mostly on the day of surgery. This should be a walk in the park. Xoxo

Also the night before surgery I plannin having water fruit and everything I possibly will need laid out. I also plan on buying a washable dry erase board to carry around with me lol.

I had about 3 note books and 4 pens with me so I could lose a few and still have a spare. I was also easer to take on the airplane and get past airport security.

lollll, no wonder your username is HollywoodPrincess! :) 

Quote from: HollywoodPrincess on November 14, 2015, 06:25:18 PMSorry but I'm a diva. Lol. I would need to look hot in order to check into my hotel room.

Does anyone know how long I have to wait after surgery to have sex?
Or drink?

You should wait at least 6 weeks before drinking. If you have VFS you need to avoid grunting until you are reasonably healed and should avoid excessive exertion.If you have CTA, there is a 8 pound lifting restriction for a while. You want the cords to fuse and you won't really know if they have until the sutures dissolved which should take place around week 5 or 6. It really depends on what you do when you have sex and no, I really don't want to know.  :o

Quote from: Dena on November 16, 2015, 07:58:17 PM
You should wait at least 6 weeks before drinking. If you have VFS you need to avoid grunting until you are reasonably healed and should avoid excessive exertion.If you have CTA, there is a 8 pound lifting restriction for a while. You want the cords to fuse and you won't really know if they have until the sutures dissolved which should take place around week 5 or 6. It really depends on what you do when you have sex and no, I really don't want to know.  :o

What Dena said, and also you'll want to avoid sexual activity for at least the initial no talking period (until day 8)because it's very hard to do without making noise lol and that includes panting and heavy breathing.  Even after that, I would be very careful to not use your voice.  Might be best to just not do it for several weeks.

That really sucks....thanks for the info. It's very helpful. Also does anyone know what the rescheduling fee is? I paid my 3500 deposit but I've been considering going home for thanksgiving. Not sure yet but I'll make up my mind within the next couple days.

You will have to check with the office but I don't think there is a rescheduling fee. They may not refund your money but they will allow you to apply it to a different date.

oh wow! yeah I'm down to meet up before the trip. feel free to PM me...

I am however at a very early point of my transition, so I still play around in boy mode a lot... my voice is also quite deep so there's no passing for me when I talk hehe.

Anyway, if you don't happen to reschedule, it would be cool to have another gal to go shopping with--we may even benefit from splitting taxi fare since Uber/Lyft isn't available.

Audree

So I'm waiting in Chicago international airport. I'm flying the red eye and I'm going to be in Rochester at eleven am! Consult this afternoon and then... Then surgery tomorrow morning. I think I'm going to be the first one.

I'm kinda scared, not going to lie.

I will ask about the extra gauge suture though since I think I probably have some sleeping habits that may not be conducive to healing. Definitely mouth breathing at night lol, but I bought myself this real comfy memory foam travel pillow to prop my head up better.

Ahhh the anticipation. At this point my voice doesn't pass, period. It can only get better. I'm hoping for an Emma stone voice. Hehe.


Audree

Quote from: audreelyn on November 24, 2015, 05:38:43 AM
So I'm waiting in Chicago international airport. I'm flying the red eye and I'm going to be in Rochester at eleven am! Consult this afternoon and then... Then surgery tomorrow morning. I think I'm going to be the first one.

I'm kinda scared, not going to lie.

I will ask about the extra gauge suture though since I think I probably have some sleeping habits that may not be conducive to healing. Definitely mouth breathing at night lol, but I bought myself this real comfy memory foam travel pillow to prop my head up better.

Ahhh the anticipation. At this point my voice doesn't pass, period. It can only get better. I'm hoping for an Emma stone voice. Hehe.


Audree

Have a great trip!  I remember that nervous feeling but this will all be over before you know it and you'll be in recovery and on your way to a new voice.

Don't be scared, you'll be fine. :) Best wishes to you on your surgery!

Quote from: audreelyn on November 24, 2015, 05:38:43 AM
So I'm waiting in Chicago international airport. I'm flying the red eye and I'm going to be in Rochester at eleven am! Consult this afternoon and then... Then surgery tomorrow morning. I think I'm going to be the first one.

I'm kinda scared, not going to lie.

I will ask about the extra gauge suture though since I think I probably have some sleeping habits that may not be conducive to healing. Definitely mouth breathing at night lol, but I bought myself this real comfy memory foam travel pillow to prop my head up better.

Ahhh the anticipation. At this point my voice doesn't pass, period. It can only get better. I'm hoping for an Emma stone voice. Hehe.


Audree

Yesterday I had my consultation with Dr. Haben. Here are somethings to note:
My untrained voice: E2 at 110hz
After CTA, he estimated: 200hz

Had the surgery today! Just got back to the hotel and took my meds. I am so tired, my throat is at a 5/10 in terms of pain, going to take the prescribed codein and sleep.

Post:
my throat is FLAT. Like even with the swelling it's hardly anything at all. whereas before it probably jutted out by an inch.

Coughing... I have a strong urge to do so, but haven't yet!! I have been drinking Naked Blueberry juice and alternating that and water. It helps a lot :) We went to WalMart last night and got Kings Hawaiian Bread, snagged some Vegan Vanilla Icecream and literally made an icecream sandwich.

My post-op consultation is on Monday. I think I'm going to pump my androgynous clothing for work and a little bit of girly stuff for the weekends. My bud and I are thinking about going to Niagara Falls just to check it out. I rented a car, so... might as well when I'm feeling stronger.

Happy thanksgiving y'all!!  ;D

Audree

Audree I am so happy for you! I hope you are comfortable enough when fully healed to post a recording and maybe pictures of your adam's apple area? I don't have a prominent adam's apple and was very lucky in that regard, but would like to see if I could still benefit from having my trachea completely shaved if yours is indeed super flat. Mine is already flat but if you feel enough there is a tiny bump in my neck area, nothing worse than what some cis girls have. However I do plan on losing about 15 more pounds and am scared I will lose fat in my neck area, therefore exposing what little apple I have.

I know I said somewhere that I didn't need or want CTA, but it's still a curiosity for me as well.. it seems girls who have gotten CTAs have had their pitch dramatically increased, so I am curious how it will work out for you. I have a high pitched voice but still need to do a bit of vocal exercise work, as well as put in a bit of effort (not as much as before, perhaps half the effort) to attain a very feminine pitch. I am wondering if getting a CTA is the thing I need to push my natural voice where it needs to go.

Heal up well girly, and I think it was a smart idea that you ended up renting a car! Probably cheaper than taking cabs in the long run, especially if you want to head to Niagara Falls or take a tour around Rochester. Keep us updated love!

Quote from: audreelyn on November 25, 2015, 06:39:58 PM
Yesterday I had my consultation with Dr. Haben. Here are somethings to note:
My untrained voice: E2 at 110hz
After CTA, he estimated: 200hz

Had the surgery today! Just got back to the hotel and took my meds. I am so tired, my throat is at a 5/10 in terms of pain, going to take the prescribed codein and sleep.

Post:
my throat is FLAT. Like even with the swelling it's hardly anything at all. whereas before it probably jutted out by an inch.

Coughing... I have a strong urge to do so, but haven't yet!! I have been drinking Naked Blueberry juice and alternating that and water. It helps a lot :) We went to WalMart last night and got Kings Hawaiian Bread, snagged some Vegan Vanilla Icecream and literally made an icecream sandwich.

My post-op consultation is on Monday. I think I'm going to pump my androgynous clothing for work and a little bit of girly stuff for the weekends. My bud and I are thinking about going to Niagara Falls just to check it out. I rented a car, so... might as well when I'm feeling stronger.

Happy thanksgiving y'all!!  ;D

Audree

Glad everything went well.  Enjoy your holiday and rest that voice :)

Kwala! Thanks for the well wishes :) Hope you have a great holiday, yourself!

Roni! I would hesitate for you to get your CTA done. I heard your recordings, pre and post op, and quite frankly I don't think you need anything else. You already sound great and with some training I'm sure you'll be exactly where you need to be. Since you're a skinny girl, if you do lose weight, it'll be elsewhere and probably not in your neck. Personally, I would try to save that weight for a nicer butt :)

More things to talk about:
During the Consultation, I forgot to mention that Dr. H found that i have a form of chronic laryngitis--as indicated by having darker vocal folds. He said this wasn't a problem just something worth noting. I was in a heavy metal band and I did a ton of screaming so... this could be why.

Swallowing hurts. it takes a huge amount of effort. Anyone else experience this? Must be a CTA thing.

As for recordings, you can find me on YouTube.
This is me reading Pablo Neruda.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ML76Ez3H-A

I'll definitely post again when I have the strength to do so.
We're outta the room in about 3 hours and onto the AirBnB place. Yeah, renting a car was definitely a good call. I got one for 300 for one week, so it was a great deal :)

Audree

Urrrggg, My male voice had to be even lower than that!!! I had to have been standing in the wrong line when they were handing out voices. Even with CTA I would probably need to use a trained voice post surgically.

PS: If swallowing hurts, keep taking small sips of cold water and take the cough medicine. it's a pain killer as well as a cough medicine.

Audree:

Happy Thanksgiving.

I am happy that your surgery was uneventful and you are now on the mend. Do keep us up on your experience as time passes. How long did Dr. Haben say for no speaking? I will be there in December and will not be speaking for a minimum of 1 month and minimally the second month post op. If you have the chance, could you post a pix of the CTA incision? Having an initial idea and follow up pix of that is of interest to quite a few here.

Do take care and minimise chances for inadvertently speaking. This time is all about YOU! Do the best you can to help ensure the best possible outcome. Remember the mantra of patience, patience, patience. Don't give in to the urge to speak too soon. Our home looked pretty "interesting" last time with papers stuck up EVERYWHERE reminding me "do not talk". It was difficult to adapt to that as I am one to talk. A lot...

Get your rest and take all the required meds and "ask", on paper of course, about taking ibuprofen to help ease swelling. Have paper and pen at hand always and have friends or significant others to try and be in the same room when asking questions. Hand signs/signals work easily for most things if the speaker asks pointed yes and no questions vastly helping your recovery as it removes another potential speaking reflex situation. Try and have anyone with you answer common questions too.

Try to speak proof your home by removing obstacles you may step on or bump with your feet as it can have the ouch reflex occur. Others mentioned the benefit of a humidifier to help ease the potential of coughing, I'm definitely going to try that one myself. Liberal use of the cough medicine, if you tolerate it, will have you in a restful state and do try and remember to have Dr Haben give you a refill on the RX before you leave. Getting it filled before you leave Rochester can save future hassles with it nt being where you may live and cross state narcotic prescriptions may be turned down...

There is getting to be a pretty sizable amount of data on VFS here now and it has been great to see so many chronicaling their experiences for others to read and help decide for themselves about VFS.

I sincerely wish you the best during your recovery and in the future.

Be safe
Elaine 

Audreelyn, yes swallowing does hurt for the first week or so, and your taste will be altered and things can taste bitter.

I know you probably hate your pre-op voice, but that reading you posted is soooo good, it's like you had a movie narrator voice, it's sounds so soothing!! 

Quote from: audreelyn on November 26, 2015, 08:26:31 AM
Kwala! Thanks for the well wishes :) Hope you have a great holiday, yourself!

Roni! I would hesitate for you to get your CTA done. I heard your recordings, pre and post op, and quite frankly I don't think you need anything else. You already sound great and with some training I'm sure you'll be exactly where you need to be. Since you're a skinny girl, if you do lose weight, it'll be elsewhere and probably not in your neck. Personally, I would try to save that weight for a nicer butt :)

More things to talk about:
During the Consultation, I forgot to mention that Dr. H found that i have a form of chronic laryngitis--as indicated by having darker vocal folds. He said this wasn't a problem just something worth noting. I was in a heavy metal band and I did a ton of screaming so... this could be why.

Swallowing hurts. it takes a huge amount of effort. Anyone else experience this? Must be a CTA thing.

As for recordings, you can find me on YouTube.
This is me reading Pablo Neruda.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ML76Ez3H-A

I'll definitely post again when I have the strength to do so.
We're outta the room in about 3 hours and onto the AirBnB place. Yeah, renting a car was definitely a good call. I got one for 300 for one week, so it was a great deal :)

Audree

Thanks Joy for the kind words. I didnt mind my old voice--tried to make the most of it. Sadly, it's just not compatible for the life that I want.

Elaine, here are a couple pictures:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FIMAG3502.jpg&hash=33a4bc3a4284059b7f313cf353c9346e00e8c854) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/zer0zOd/media/IMAG3502.jpg.html)


(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2F303e373c-ae03-44b0-b51b-6ec0f63b022c.jpg&hash=0ea045db124c1de3ca644684163ee5cdaf1fdb3c) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/zer0zOd/media/303e373c-ae03-44b0-b51b-6ec0f63b022c.jpg.html)

I'll post more pix when Dr. Haben removes the stitches next week. He told me 1 week minimum no exercising, and as for the voice rest, at least 2 weeks. I'll be taking 1 month no speaking and definitely before I leave, will get a refill on the cough syrup. Due to the chronic laryngitis he did give me 2 months of the acid reflux medication.

Also, I did use a mouth guard for the surgery, it was a 5 dollar one that I bought. I dunked it into a hot cup of coffee, bc that was what I was drinking, and when it got melty, I put it in my mouth and bit down until it set. Dr. Haben said it worked really well for the surgery--my teeth are in good shape and it didn't cost me $200!

Eating healthy stuff now! Thinking I might pass on Niagara falls and just rest up. Might not be worth the exertion to get over there.

Dena,
Dr. Haben said my pre-op voice is in the middle of the road of male range. It's alright, we have the means to make our lives better now :) I hope you continue to recover! When are you going to post a new recording??


Hope your thanksgivings are going well!

Audree

I never measured my male voice but it had to be in the 90 to 100Hz range. I could comfortably hit 80Hz without forcing it. You have to remember I haven't used my true male voice in 35 years and I wasn't sure remembered where it was. October 15 was the three month mark and because of Dr Haben's backlog, I haven't received the report on the voice sample I sent in. My voice is still giving out with usage but it's getting better very slowly. I guess I can do another sample when the voice is rested but I am not sure how much better it will be.

Heyyyy everyone :)

So I'm at my two week mark.

Let me start off with: I did make it to Niagara Falls, it was Saturday the 28th, and it was fairly chilly, and about 80 miles from Rochester. The car I rented did come in handy, and taking the surgery during thanksgiving was a pretty good idea since my office shuts down for the holidays. Lucky me!!

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FIMAG3539_1.jpg&hash=3f61a517a6380097f9a95d3859787983ca0c1cbc) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/zer0zOd/media/IMAG3539_1.jpg.html)

Jax and I stayed at the AirBnB place literally next to the U of R medical center. Great alternative to staying at the hotel since our host was just great and very nice. I would recommend for anyone staying longer than the included two nights that you try it.

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FIMAG3542.jpg&hash=589a5714eecd4b3465f4ce205e1194123d3659b1) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/zer0zOd/media/IMAG3542.jpg.html)

Here's the fireplace! Our host built us a fire and we watched "Den" on netflix. It was a modern horror... I would say watch it if you're into less supernatural horror and more into the secular... like Texas Chainsaw. "Babadook" was also quite frightening, but I liked it anyway. Jax also introduced me to Skins, The IT Group, and we watched the Misfits, along with some Master of None. So a lot of British television Misfits and Skins are just so good!
Aziz does a great job with his new show, so I would recommend that as well. I don't watch a lot of tv when Im at home so I may not continue these shows... but if I was an avid TV watcher, I would definitely do so.

Since I got back home to California on Monday the 30th, I've been wearing my scarf on the way to work, and that's about the only time that it sees the sun, otherwise my neck is pretty covered up. Here's what the incision looks like now:

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FIMAG3662.jpg&hash=552ab708b703eb8971f8f874c5423bc00c3b0e23) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/zer0zOd/media/IMAG3662.jpg.html)

Keep in mind that I did get the Triple. With that I really don't think it's all that noticeable unless you happen to be looking for it. The swelling is still there. But oh well, that's normal and in 5 or so months it'll be gone.

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FIMAG3665.jpg&hash=32b96b06ca67f4b86690028fc97bae3f552e2e61) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/zer0zOd/media/IMAG3665.jpg.html)

Here's one of me in my car in the parking garage at work. See, not really noticeable unless you're looking for it.

So I did speak a sentence today for the first time...: The Quick Brown Fox jumps over the Lazy Dog. It couldn't louder than a whisper, but I can already tell my pitch has gone up, and I feel pretty good about it so far despite the laryngitis. For the Triple, the instructions say 6 months will be the final result, so we'll see.

As I said before, Dr. H gave me an extra month of Omephrazole bc apparently I have chronic laryngitis from acid reflux, he guessed. Either way, it's been such a hell bc it makes me so constipated I feel like crying... I drink about 100oz of water every day--almost a gallon... and I am half vegetarian (by that I mean I go about half the weak w/o meat, and the other half with light consumption), and this is the worst thing about this so far. Anyone have this problem???

Other than that, I've been taking my daily vitamins and hormones as normal. I did get another bottle of the cough syrup and I don't really need it, but nice to have just in case as I feel like I've been able to control my coughs with all y'all's tips :)

In other news; I've been learning American Sign Language, and if not communicating through my smart phone's app: Text to Speech, which was been great to speak to everyone without using my own voice. ASL is coming along slowly, but once in a while I run into someone who knows it and it definitely pays off. Other than that, I am teaching my roomie how to sign, albeit poorly. but he's kinda sad that we don't have conversation during dinner anymore :P

Yawning kinda hurts, so when I get tired I find myself automatically clenching my jaw so I don't trigger a yawn. This sucks, but oh well. I suppose I just have to wait for the swelling to go down.

Anyway, thanks for staying tuned :)

Audree

Audree, your scar is healing nicely!  Take your time with the voice, but can't wait to hear it when the swelling goes down  :)

Quote from: kwala on December 10, 2015, 06:56:58 AM
Audree, your scar is healing nicely!  Take your time with the voice, but can't wait to hear it when the swelling goes down  :)

Thanks kwala! Cocoa butter does amazing things. I was in the tundra a couple years ago, sub zero degree weather and my hands were so cold and dry that they were bleeding to the touch. I started using cocoa butter and in a couple of days they were back to normal even in that climate! I'm hoping this will do the same for the incision.

Yes, I did break my vow of silence, but I was just itching to hear it. Well here goes another two weeks of quiet!

Audree

Audreelyn, I also had constipation from the Omeprazole for a while, along with stomach cramps and headaches...but at the end I still finished the 30 day dose since I didn't want the sutures to dissolve prematurely. 

Hiii Everyone!!

3 Days ago I made my 3 weeks post op! So I have a few updates:
1. Coconut milk & wheaties, & low cal. popcorn... I'll leave it at that.
2. Yawning doesn't hurt me anymore. I was gritting my teeth, especially at night when I start to get sleepy almost to the point where I started grinding. Either way, I'm not afraid to yawn anymore.
3. I did a sneeze I couldn't control last night. It came upon me so suddenly I didn't have time to suppress it. The head voice that came out was pretty disgusting... like some sort of dying cat demon. Gross.
4. Here's my week two vid:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FDoc%2520H_ALynn%2Fth_VIDEO0089.mp4&hash=4b0bb1800d9dd5b592285e10b8a4a8a064176539) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v180/zer0zOd/Doc%20H_ALynn/VIDEO0089.mp4)

and to compare, my week 3 post op vid:

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FDoc%2520H_ALynn%2Fth_VIDEO0092.mp4&hash=3e1fd952eb723400c268ec06099e760cd1148f8f) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v180/zer0zOd/Doc%20H_ALynn/VIDEO0092.mp4)

After I hit the 1 month mark I think that's when the anti-scarring ointments can be applied. Um. It also doesn't look like I'll be strong enough to speak normally, but I feel like I'm making a lot of progress. Going to be really quiet again until I've reached the maximum healing time--since that's when Dr. H said one should start to use her voice again.

For fun, here's one of me and my friends before the Star Wars premiere Thurs Night!!
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv180%2Fzer0zOd%2FDoc%2520H_ALynn%2FIMAG3772.jpg&hash=e78b1e2a4c6e84946b933332786fb09b5654af64) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/zer0zOd/media/Doc%20H_ALynn/IMAG3772.jpg.html)

Audree

Thanks for the updates, Audree.  Sounds a lot like me around 2 and 3 weeks.  The scar is barely visible!  Sounds like you are doing all the right things and I think you'll have a great outcome eventually  :)

So, 1 month update.

Still no voice, still at a whisper.
I guess continued rest and minimal use is what the doctor ordered. Well! I guess it's just a waiting game.

Merry Christmas y'all :)

<3
Audree

Audree:

At the 17 day mark here and it feels like have a Christmas gift I am saving till a few days after New Years to open.

Your CTA scar looks more like a small scratch than an incision. Excellent.

I am not appreciative of the texture of mine at this point. Yes, it is very, very early but it is nowhere near as nice a result compared to other pix posted here.

Dr Habens remark of "I defy you to see it at 6 months" hangs in my mind. Really want him to be right.

Be safe and hope you have a nice day.

Elaine

Quote from: Elaine S on December 26, 2015, 11:07:54 AM
Audree:

At the 17 day mark here and it feels like have a Christmas gift I am saving till a few days after New Years to open.

Your CTA scar looks more like a small scratch than an incision. Excellent.

I am not appreciative of the texture of mine at this point. Yes, it is very, very early but it is nowhere near as nice a result compared to other pix posted here.

Dr Habens remark of "I defy you to see it at 6 months" hangs in my mind. Really want him to be right.

Be safe and hope you have a nice day.

Elaine

Yes I was hoping mine was going to be well and ready for Christmas, but didn't happen that way. I went to a comedy show this evening and I was able to speak loud enough for people to suspect laryngitis. So... not bad at all.

It's hard to see the CTA incision without calling attention to it... I also put SPF lotion/foundation on mine so it's extra unnoticeable. I hope he's right too!!

Elaine I hope your voice comes out well. You've been through enough and deserve a beautiful voice.

Happy new years everyone :)

<3
Audree

That CTA scar is barely visible! It looks less visible than mine, and I'm at 3 months! I've been putting the silicone scar gel twice a day, hopefully by 6 months it'll be lighter.

Quote from: jollyjoy on December 29, 2015, 03:26:15 PM
That CTA scar is barely visible! It looks less visible than mine, and I'm at 3 months! I've been putting the silicone scar gel twice a day, hopefully by 6 months it'll be lighter.

Thanks Joy! I really ought to post some pictures of the scar without the spf/foundation applied, bc I feel like while not entirely conspicuous, the difference is rather pronounced.

I need to pick up some scar gel. Is there a specific brand that you use? Or can anyone recommend one that really produces great results?

Audree

Hey Audreelyn, I think I read a post from you mentioning that the triple would take 6 months to hear final results? Is that on your post-op sheet? Mine says the swelling over the voicebox and incision takes 6 months to mature, and final results take 8-12 weeks.

Quote from: jollyjoy on January 20, 2016, 01:36:50 PM
Hey Audreelyn, I think I read a post from you mentioning that the triple would take 6 months to hear final results? Is that on your post-op sheet? Mine says the swelling over the voicebox and incision takes 6 months to mature, and final results take 8-12 weeks.

Hey Joy,

I just checked my paperwork and it says exactly as you mentioned. So if I said something like that let me take it back. Though, I will say it definitely feels like it'll be six months.

Well I'm at 2 months tomorrow and done with omeprazole. Still hardly a voice. People can hear me if it's quiet though. I just sound like I'm perpetually whispering.

Audree

Thanks Audreelyn, I feel like mine will be 6 months as well (or even longer) since I'm already at 4 months. I can use my voice now, it just that the hoarseness is still there. It's interesting a lot of the girls that went before us recovered pretty fast. Maybe it's because of the dry winter air causing recovery to be slower for us.

Quote from: audreelyn on January 21, 2016, 01:00:50 AM
Hey Joy,

I just checked my paperwork and it says exactly as you mentioned. So if I said something like that let me take it back. Though, I will say it definitely feels like it'll be six months.

Well I'm at 2 months tomorrow and done with omeprazole. Still hardly a voice. People can hear me if it's quiet though. I just sound like I'm perpetually whispering.

Audree

Hey Joy,

Yes it's so interesting because I noticed that that girls that went around winter had a harder time. Though I think there are a number of factors that we don't know about and so many other girls who don't even post and had a successful and quick healing period. Unfortunately, we might just be the outliers ):

Oh well, I'm happy regardless, and having the bass removed from my voice has stopped me from getting clocked since the surgery.

I'm sure you feel the same way.

Audree

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