Alrighty, so go ahead and skip this first bit if you don't feel like reading a bunch of rambling!
... after a lot of consideration and brainstorming I've decided to start a thread about my planned FFS with Dr Z. I've been reluctant because I am unsure if it is too soon to post this, or if it makes any difference, or if it will help to alleviate my anxieties (and possibly someone else's.) Regardless, I am going to continue on trying to do my part to depart with the community information, experiences, and reassurance as you all have done for me. That being said there may be long periods of time between activities, however it is just here in waiting for the finale.
To begin I'll talk a little about myself, just in case anyone is wondering since I will be using this to follow up on my consultation, surgery, and pre-post occurrences. My name is Braeley (I stole a D and added an E), I'm twenty-five years old currently and reside in Vermont. Sometimes I dress as a woman, sometimes I dress as a man. Clothes are clothes! I've been undergoing hormone replacement therapy for almost five years now and had been strongly contemplating FFS ever since the beginning. My mindset was that I would wait a year or two to see the changes in my face, then work toward altering what I couldn't deal with after.
To touch on wanting to do the FFS I'd like to cover a few things I've realized and learned from myself and other girls. For one, the decision to undergo any alteration or cosmetic surgery (I really think it's more of a "corrective" surgery for us) is completely dependent on that person's desires. Many have told me that I do not need or require any alteration, that I am fine the way I am, that I pass, that all is well, etc. Yet to me when I look in the mirror and at my face I still see the shell of a boy from the past and the real me sitting behind it all waiting to burst out. Sometimes we just want to see someone new in that mirror, someone who doesn't remind us of that past. I think that is reasonable enough for me.
My consultation is on November the 21st, planning the surgery to be next summer, and I have a very good idea of what the doctor will suggest. I've gotten assessments from many doctors including Spiegel, Ousterhout, Suporn, Cardenas, and Bensimon to name a few. Deciding on who you want to trust with your face is very difficult and a personal thing, but what got me through it was my gut feeling. Little things have done it for me from the quickness to respond to my inquiries to how I am handled during calls, being able to laugh and joke and be light-hearted with staff.
And now the meat of it. I'm predicting my procedures would be along the lines of:
- Jaw/chin recontouring.
- Brow reduction/shave.
- Feminization rhinoplasty.
- Cheek augmentation.
- Trachael shave.
This could be more or less than others, maybe some think I won't need it to look fine, but I feel that it is something I strongly desire. Again, I am doing this for myself and for myself only. I think someone said to me here, "You look great unless you're not showing us something." It made me smile because I know for sure there is a lot of little/big somethings! I think that by showing others my truly nightmarish assessment photos it might make someone feel better about themselves or whatever. I'm not very clever forgive me!
Let's get this show on the road ladies and bust out my no make-up, no hair-do mugshots!
Front Before
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNQtag.jpg&hash=7b952315c171a90fa224f6a496e2d538ff8bcaf2)
Side Before
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FG8v3E.jpg&hash=7a2d58f88788f234523e44feed4aaacf9a0c8156)
Comments, suggestions, ideas, backrubs? Feel free to let me know and I will keep everyone posted who is interested! For now though it's time for a nice bubble bath and the greasiest food I can grip my mittens around. Gosh, the pictures are almost enough to give me an anxiety attack, haha!
I have had FFS consults with Dr O, Z and S. for your dear all I'd suggest is a lip lift. It's about 3k to 4k and it's done in office local anastesia.
Sorry but that would be my suggestion since you asked.
I'm excited that you started this thread. I think that if (more like when) I go the FFS route I'm going want to go to Dr.Z since for me he's also local. Can't wait for the updates!
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on November 19, 2012, 04:49:11 PM
Gosh, the pictures are almost enough to give me an anxiety attack, haha!
^^ This is why I did facial surgery. I had the same: "you pass, you look fine, you don't need it, blah blah," comments before I did it. Was totally worth it. Still have some issues with how I look, but it's way, way better. People don't always realize you aren't doing it for everyone else, you're doing it for you, to be comfortable with your own body.
You do what you need to do for your mental health.
I personally went with Spiegel, but I've heard lots of good things about Dr. Z. I'm sure you'll look (more) beautiful.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on November 19, 2012, 04:49:11 PM
And now the meat of it. I'm predicting my procedures would be along the lines of:
- Jaw/chin recontouring.
- Brow reduction/shave.
- Feminization rhinoplasty.
- Cheek augmentation.
- Trachael shave.
Well I'm not sure what brow work would do, you have almost no brow ridge now. I agree the nose could be femmed up. Maybe a trachea shave? I wouldn't bother with the rest YMMV.
i agree with Sophe,
Your brow looks feminine enough. Lip lift +1, ear pin, chin, nose and chick implants. and perhaps the adam apple.
You look great now, you've got a lot of very feminine features, and any FFS you have will add to that. But I agree with your assessment: do the procedures you think are right and do them because you want them. We can only tell you what we think will make you look good to us, but your own feelings about your face should trump that.
I, too, think Dr. Z is a great choice, and I'm scheduled with him in February.
Sorry for the late replies, I actually fell asleep in front of the fireplace on accident yet again. Good thing it's gas and enclosed or I'd be a crispy critter. :X
VickyMI
I never even thought to consider a lip lift. I'll see what Dr Z has to say and consider if it's worth it! No need to feel sorry about suggestions I asked for, thank you for the input as well!
Penny Gurl
Awesome! I hope it will keep turning out more and more. If you get to see the doc before me tell us how it goes, pleeeeaaaase? I'm also excited/anxious!
Sarah7
It's so nice that I can relate to someone about it now, thank you! Several people I know have gone to both Suporn and Spiegel for their FFS and I just wasn't magnetized to either. Not that they are bad surgeons (the opposite really) but gut feelings, yadda yadda!
Stephe
I appreciate the input! I'm still floating about on the brow personally. Sometimes I see it prominently, other times it seems less so. Then again it's a bit difficult to see your profile constantly without mirrors and wizard magic, haha.
swan
All good! I was suggested an ear pin by Suporn but honestly the ears are a tad of a novelty. I can't look too perfect afterwards, buahaha... I jest, I jest.
NekoKoNeko
Guh, I am so thrilled for you! You're making it to the finish line before me, so you better let me know how it goes! -nudge nudge-
I have spent a lot of time looking at womens brow bones, after reading here how "freaked" many people are about them. Yes some women have none, some have more that I do. I agree for some MTF with large brow bones, yes this is needed. I don't think you need to have none for your face to look fem. I have noticed most women do have smaller noses then men, less wide and most are more turned up. This also will change how you lips look and to an extent how big your chin looks. Narrower nostrils will make your cheeks appear fuller too. It's all about balance.
The other thing to consider besides cost is recovery time and risks. My nose (no bone work) had a down time of about 10 days. The pictures 10 days post op don't look a lot different than I do today. No bruising or ugly stitches. The worst part was recovering from the anesthesia and maybe the internal stitches inside my nose. Those dissolved within a couple of weeks. I was on pain meds for 2 days, then advil was enough. No numbness etc. Also the longer you are under, the longer recovery from that will take and the more risk you are taking. Yes there is some money to be saved doing "everything at once" but only if you do go back and get everything. I was initially going to do my nose and thinking later go back and get some chin work. After seeing the results of just my nose, I was happy and stopped there.
But only you can decide how bad these things bother you or which parts really do. For me, now when I look in the mirror, I see girl. Even in the morning with no makeup. That at least was my goal and I feel like I reached it. Like all women, we can try for perfection and pick our appearance to death. I'm happy to be a fairly attractive women and that's good enough for me.
I'm really glad you responded again Stephe and took the time to share your experiences. The thought of being under more than say 4-6 hours terrifies the pants off me. I really hope that isn't normal but I seem to keep coming across all those horror stories over and over. The risk is worth it to me because honestly if I found out right now at this very moment with absolute certainty I could never get the surgery in the entirety of my life... I'd likely end up taking the easy way out, cough!
Recovery and down time isn't a terribly huge issue for me, but obviously I don't want to be shacked up and incapacitated for ages. I've already decided the parts of my face that break my heart the most and don't care a terrible much about other things. I am and remain open to speculation/examination/recommendation/somethingation though, just out of consideration!
All I want is to be able to look in the mirror and be like, "Oh hey a girl!" Instead of, "OH LAWD WHAT THE EFF IS THAT, HNNNG!" And it makes me happy that seeing yourself and being happy with yourself is something you're able to experience! :D
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on November 20, 2012, 12:28:40 AM
I've already decided the parts of my face that break my heart the most and don't care a terrible much about other things.
Well then fix what bothers you. Honestly with me, other people, including my doc were saying "but what about your ____?". All I could see in every picture of myself was "OMG my nose is ugly and it is totally a guys nose -right- in the middle of my face!" The rest was like "well yeah, sorta, I guess" so I left all of that alone. Like you said about your ears, that doesn't bother you and I didn't even notice that until someone else mentioned it. We do need to remain unique and not try to rubber stamp our face into a mold of -This is what a female should look like-.
I guess what I'm saying is fix the parts that "break your heart" and leave alone the parts you don't care a terrible much about.
Best of luck with your consultation harmonic
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on November 20, 2012, 12:28:40 AM
I'm really glad you responded again Stephe and took the time to share your experiences. The thought of being under more than say 4-6 hours terrifies the pants off me. I really hope that isn't normal but I seem to keep coming across all those horror stories over and over. The risk is worth it to me because honestly if I found out right now at this very moment with absolute certainty I could never get the surgery in the entirety of my life... I'd likely end up taking the easy way out, cough!
Recovery and down time isn't a terribly huge issue for me, but obviously I don't want to be shacked up and incapacitated for ages. I've already decided the parts of my face that break my heart the most and don't care a terrible much about other things. I am and remain open to speculation/examination/recommendation/somethingation though, just out of consideration!
All I want is to be able to look in the mirror and be like, "Oh hey a girl!" Instead of, "OH LAWD WHAT THE EFF IS THAT, HNNNG!" And it makes me happy that seeing yourself and being happy with yourself is something you're able to experience! :D
When all is said and done, I think you are going to be spectacular.
As I've mentioned to a couple others before, personality counts for a lot and you seem to have it in spades. Best of luck!
Alrighty, consultation update time!
So I got to chat today with the good doctor and it was beyond enjoyable. I'll tell you that he is very explanatory going as far as to inform and compare various procedures for you. He was very professional and obviously reflected his knowledge/experience in the field, more so than I'd expected. I was extremely impressed! Never once did I find him blunt (however maybe that's just because I have thick skin) nor did he try to pressure me into committing to his suggestions. Every recommendation was followed as an option in his opinion, which works for me!
The best part about it was that the man has an amusing sense of humour and is very down-to-earth. The last bit of our conversation was honestly about his times hanging out in Vermont and neat places to visit around the area. We laughed, joked about, and generally talked to each other as you would an acquaintance over coffee. This is definitely why I decided to choose Dr Zukowski!
PS - I asked him about his infamous nose pinch which he will delightfully oblige, haha.
Now, an update on the procedures and pricing? Oh my! Hold onto your bloomers, here it comes:
Most of the crap I need, lol:
- Brow ridge.
- Nose.
- Chin / Jaw.
- Trachea.
Spacebux = 24,000 gibblybits
Optional doomaflitchies:
- Cheeks.
- Ears! (Yes, you were right. +10 pts)
Spacebux = 4,000 gibblybits
The pricing is locked in for the rest of this year as well as all of next year, which is terribly convenient for me. Now I am waiting for the god awful DVD I keep hearing about to arrive in my mail bin so I can cure my insomnia, haha. My normal sleep schedule is pretty awful so I had to wake up rather early in the morning for my phone consultation yet I also went to sleep very early in the morning. So now it is time for me to eat my breakfast and go to sleep (isn't that backwards?) Come here cereal.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFyQff.jpg&hash=4c2e0a41eaaa17ec584f574f47df29bc0bc92fbb)
I had FFS and BA by Dr. Zukowski back in May 2006. I have no complaints. Anyone have any questions message me @ jamieshines@yahoo.com
Quote from: Michelle Hayden on December 02, 2012, 10:25:18 PM
I had him do revisionary FFS winter of 2011 and ever since I have had nothing but issues. I wanted the lower jawline burred down to make it more narrow. Dr. O had done the sliding genioplasty originally when I had my FFS done, so there was a plate put in. He insisted it needed to be taken out for it to be narrowed. He didnt even take out all of the screws!..Ive had a series of infection, swollen-ness, bumps (which now i have on on the left part of the chin area that is very irritated and I can feel it pulling on the left side of my lip). He made an irregular incision on my neck that is oh.. about 3-1/2" long). My chin now instead of having the curved bump that is normal to the chin is now actually receding. He said that making that incision would make it less likely to hit nerve, funny though that I have much less feeling then I did before the revisionary was done. This is just a fraction of what I have had to go through. I have traveled there again last spring for him to hopefully fix this, but nothing..He did another TS where I live..same issues. He will not go into the gumline to work on you, so you will be left with a long scar on your neck that will most likely not even be straight. I have pictures. You are not going to like what you see, but you make your decision. I am going back to Dr O to hopefully correct this, which is costing me close to what he charges for full FFS, but I can not go on looking like this. I had this done almost a year now and it is still looking pretty bad. I personally would go with Dr O., who had done my original FFS. Anyone want know exactly what I have had issues with..pm me. I advise to really think this over. Having a good bedside manor will not get you what you want. /color]
but how can he remove your screws from your sliding genioplasty? the screws hold your chin in place, no? since DR o is the most aggressive with bone work, hadnt you considered that the amount of bone removed was already the maximum limit? im sorry your going through this but since im still deciding between dr and dr z fr my chin work i would like to know more, thanx.
Quote from: Michelle Hayden on December 04, 2012, 03:05:24 AM
I had a consult with Dr Z to see if the lower jawline could be narrowed and the chin shortened a bit about 10-11 months ago. Dr. Z at the time of the consult said that the plate had to be removed to do this and that it was making it also look bulkier. I was a little leery but he was very sure that the plate had to be taken out to accomplish this. The plate is screwed into the bone..It is just unscrewed to remove the plate. The bone was fused, as it had been 3yrs since Dr. O did the original FFS. He (Dr Z) left some screws in, as I just had a pre-op appointment with Dr O and had to get digital x-rays and it showed there were screws left in the bone that he didnt remove. If i knew how to upload a few pics I would. I can go into more detail, but not on an open forum. I can send you pics, which will show the scar I now have that is irregular and the many problems I have had. You can do with what you wish with my experience.
]
im new at this forum i cant send you pvt message u. can you email me? as33L@hotmail.com thanx
ok, i wont quote u. im still waiting for your email. thanx :)
Quote from: Michelle Hayden on December 05, 2012, 04:11:57 AM
Please can you remove the quotes? I think it will be better if someone interested in seeing to just pm me and I will email before and after pics so they can see what has happened. I do not want to highjack this poster's thread. I will email you.
Michelle I have been following your posts and I think you are persuing perfection. The thing is that you can always look better no matter what do you look like. In general people like you believe that their life will change after they accomplish a certain looks. The truth is that the same things will be happening to you no matter what do you look like, only the way you see yourself will change. Undergoing revisions always holds higher risk then the original surgery. I think that you are already stunning and you should talk to your therapist about your surgery obsession. This is meant to be a very constructive comment and please take it that way.
Hugs,
Anna
Michelle,
I wish you a smooth recovery. I didn't mean to offend you in any way, but my point was what you said yourself. You are a perfectionist, and this complication is because of it. You are a beautiful woman so stop here.
The result is shocking really. I am sorry this has happened to you. I hope this surgery fixes it.
Hugs,
Anna
wow. im glad you are doing fine now. i wish you a happy and speedy recovery
Hello again!
Been nosing around in real life quite often, busying myself with the violin and trying to gain some weight. I supposed that since fat grafting was to be involved I may actually need to stock up on fat, as it were. The nutritionist agrees and 140lbs is the current goal. Bring on the chubs...
I'd appreciate hearing anything about your surgeries, Michelle!
So I just got my packet today in the mail from the Zukowksi center. Let me tell you, this packet is freaking beautiful. I remember opening the parcel and BAM! Red, gold, and thick as a book. Amazement aside it's full of extremely comforting information such as a curriculum vitae, a welcome letter, as well as the dreaded DVD (which I've not yet watched.) There is more within yet I am too tired at 4:40am to function properly! Keep in mind I also haven't actually scheduled surgery yet, even though they sent me this likely expensive bundle of mind ease, which I verily appreciate.
Lately I've been bouncing back and forth between wanting to go in for the full treatment or doing some things now / later. I think I stated before that my ears weren't too big of an issue for me and truth be told I don't dislike my big honking nose as much as I let on. Maybe it would be best to wait and see afterwards if I'd like to alter my snozzle? It'd be six months or more recovery in addition to having to pay for another trip / surgery / anesthetics fee to see how everything sits. Also, I'd at least be able to breath fairly well post-op without you know... packing shoved all up in my nosebits. Small comforts!
In other news, I had to get glasses. Now I can be smart and look like I know things.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeNHSk.jpg&hash=c433ed5c63d568719b99a9d79928c5f188bdb50e)
Harmon, your FFS will be amazing and you will be more beautiful than you are now!... I did Dr z too... my before and after is the last one on his website. if you have Amy questions, id be happy to help and GOOD LUCK!
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on November 21, 2012, 01:21:14 PM
Optional doomaflitchies:
- Cheeks.
Now I am waiting for the god awful DVD I keep hearing about to arrive in my mail bin
I've watched this 'it's about time' DVD too and I was quite shocked to see several post FFS faces had turned into 'wooden' faces.
Barely able to move when animated and restricted mouth movements when speaking because of the cheekimplants, which seem to 'obstruct' facial muscle movements.
A 'wooden face' when animated draws unwanted attention too because it looks strange and unnatural.
Thanks for responding, everyone!
I've read what you've posted Michelle and I am very sorry for your troubles. I hope things turn out for you.
Very awesome, oZma! And I thank you deeply for your inspiring words! Also, you look absolutely STUNNING and I am so glad for you! I'd definitely like to hear more from you!
I've not gotten around to that DVD still, Dahlia. I feel like a student putting off homework. As far as wooden faces, isn't it normal to have some lack of facial mobility due to swelling as well as nerves needed to mend? A friend of mine went to Dr Spiegel and wasn't able to smile properly for something like six months, it was a bit of a joke between she and I.
Alrighty, and now time for some pictures.
Here is the glamourously crimson folder, gilded and shiny in all the right places. I almost felt as though I were receiving a personal invitation from a Tzimisce primogen (for anyone that knows what I am talking about, I love you) save for it wasn't made out of flesh. And it wasn't trying to strangle me. Unattractive facial expression for maximum effect as follows.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fs8hPH.jpg&hash=37b7967fa16f182ba67c036a3bd3cbbcdcd9963f)
Many things are included inside to the wonderment of many. Accreditation for the anesthetics, board of plastic surgery information, curriculum vitae (vitae, you say? I'm really on a vampire trip today. also, rhymes) as well as other bits I cannot find proper adjectives for. Oh, and the DVD. I'm pointing at it with determination to watch it that will surely falter after I fall asleep the first few times.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fdc07T.jpg&hash=f6c1e7615533de4de51828db86395d9e7e715e20)
Lastly, while the folder is extremely delightful and pretty to gander upon it is not, in fact, good for eating. Sorry I am just not funny today!
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fvqxn5.jpg&hash=401657426a457857020d15d8ce8e2865f61469e4)
That's all for today as it is now time for daily practice. I did have a question for everyone today that is interested or willing, seeing as I am rather helpless in the face of styling and fashion. I've had several lady friends try to interest me in getting my hair styled, however I haven't a clue as to which style would fit my mug. Where does one learn such a thing? :X
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FRUGcw.jpg&hash=2522c21ce0d204fc95894ec626c6a74fc788c971)
My, those glasses really do make your look professorial. ;)
When I was coaching baseball, I had a player named Timmy on the team, who showed up one day wearing glasses he had not had before. His mom told me he was upset he had to wear them. The kids were about 13 years old at the time.
Because I had worn glasses or contact lenses since I was in the fourth grade, I knew Timmy's feeling on the subject. So I took him aside and asked him, holding my glasses, "What are these?"
"Ah, glasses," he said.
"That's what most people think, Tim But I am going to let you in a on a closely held secret. These are really 'babe magnets'."
He smiled and seemed not to have a problem after that.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on December 17, 2012, 10:32:10 AM
Is it the glasses or the silly faces? :>
The glasses, definitely. Very sexy.
How did the red packet taste, by the way?
I would blush but I am too busy being pale and cold!
The red packet tasted like failed hopes and aspirations, though that might've been some of the bow rosin that got on it from earlier.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on December 17, 2012, 10:38:24 AM
I would blush but I am too busy being pale and cold!
The red packet tasted like failed hopes and aspirations, though that might've been some of the bow rosin that got on it from earlier.
Bah!
I have tasted red packets before, and they taste like oatmeal. And everyone knows that oatmeal is good for you, and will stick to your ribs.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on December 17, 2012, 10:22:28 AM
I almost felt as though I were receiving a personal invitation from a Tzimisce primogen (for anyone that knows what I am talking about, I love you) save for it wasn't made out of flesh. And it wasn't trying to strangle me.
I've LONG fantasized about going to a doctor with Vicissitude! As long as I didn't get crafted into a szlachta...
Best of luck on your journey!
I could deal with a szlachta manservant or two, all dressed up in a suit and tie! If I find a doctor with vicissitude I will be the first to let you know, provided I don't get turned into meaty furniture!
I have a funny feeling there is some code talking going on here, and I don't know the code! >:(
I know the feeling Jame D but then most people think i talk in gibberish half the time....is it my fault they do not know my personal language?
PS: Really mus get to work writing up a translation for it for future reference.
Might I just say Harmonic you look ever so cute in those pictures.
Quote from: Jamie D on December 17, 2012, 11:23:01 AM
I have a funny feeling there is some code talking going on here, and I don't know the code! >:(
Don't feel bad - only the truly gifted can 'see' the code. Just ask Keanu Reeves... :D
So if i have it right they wish to see a doctor that has a mutation or is changing and Harmonic wants a polish manservant of nobility but Emma doesn't want to be turned into a polish person of nobility.
Wait what?
Hehe. We're making reference to Vampire: the Masquerade, a pen & paper roleplaying game. In it, there are a clan of vampires called the Tzimisce who have the ability to shape flesh and bone through a vampiric power called Vicissitude. The Tzimisce have nightmarish servants named szlachta, which are created by twisting unwilling humans into horrific forms.
Ah okay, well I played Vampire The Masquerade: Bloodlines on PC and do not recall those terms although it was quite a few years ago now that I played it lol
Also I wonder of the makers know the real world meaning of those words? As I am confused by them lol
Sorry to bump this but I am curious as to how everything went and is going Harmonic any updates?
Awesome good to hear, glad to see your still around to. Good luck with the urologist consultation.
Either way best of luck, hope it all goes well. :)
Harmonic, I skimmed through the thread seeing the pics wondering where you posted the 'before' pics then realizing you are pre-surgery :o You already look incredible; best wishes with Dr. Z (I'm really leaning to him or Dr. Cardenas when my time arrives.)
Good to see you're still around, hope it goes well for you and the time goes by as quick as reasonably possible.
Wow, I see some similarites with me. Well I look differently in some aspects but in others maybe similar and I have similar feelings and comment. People just tell me that I pass fine and some say it even looks attractive, just like with you in the regular pictures :) . I made some "mug shots" myself and I cannot bring myself to see me as female in most of them and it bothers me a lot. Regular pictures can be ok actually and then people will say "you need no FFS". I sent them to Dr Maggio and may send them to Dr Z as well to see what they say. Maggio recommended actually quite a few procedures, so I guess Dr Z would do so too. I also consider two more local surgeons for consulation - Dr Bart (anyone know him?) In Belgium and Dr Funk in Munich as I can get to them in person easily. My ideal would be that it is like it was posted in one post here - that all I reall yneed to do to get over with this is something small like a nose job or a lip lift, but I am not sure. I have a frontal similar to yours and wonder what could be done in that case as there is no brow ridge there, but still it feels odd (and it was actually Dr Maggios prime suggestion). What I like about Dr Z is that he does the frontal/orbital stuff with an endoscope if there is not much to do, is that the case in your case? It is said to be much less damaging to nerves. I have not yet seen this described by other surgeons.
Greetings and all the best.
You look alot like my friend's girlfriend ie I do not think you have that big of a chin but it is about how you feel and if you feel you need to sort it than more power to you and I hope it all goes well.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on October 17, 2013, 10:34:02 PM
Dr Z pretty much does everything you can imagine with an endoscope.
He plans to do my forehead with one! My nasal cavities are already terrified.
He does that through the nose?
QuoteThe biggest thing I am worried about is my ginormous freakin' chin, as seen below. If I am not mistaken he makes an incision in the mouth(?) or under the chin in the soft spot to get to the bone with basically a dremel. A dremel. An endoscopic dremel. -horror-
Well I could definitely benefit from somthing like that as my chin is rather big and protudes in an odd way. But I heard the risks with this one are bigger than with the frontal or nose stuff. Most seem to get numbness that goes away later, with some it stays. I am the type that has this sort of thing staying so Ian a freind of doing everything in a way that minimizes nerve damage to the max. I think your chin is not too bad in size on the pics, but I guess it is a bit angular. With me it is also like that but it is kind of covered behind a layer of fat or two and my face overall is rather round from front.
Do you know if Dr Z is the only one using this endoscopic approach ? I checked out some other webistes of the famous people and they do not mention that. Maybe they feel that everyone benefits from a hairline correction anyways so they dont bother - I dont know. I'd prefer implants for the hairline though. The thought of having a circular cut from ear to ear freaks me out much more than endoscopic dremels...
Quote from: anjaq on October 18, 2013, 06:45:24 AM
He does that through the nose?
He does the chin, trachea, and any forehead area (forehead, orbitals, etc) bone work with the endoscope. The nose is done with good old scalpels, hammers and chisels.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on October 17, 2013, 10:34:02 PM
The biggest thing I am worried about is my ginormous freakin' chin, as seen below. If I am not mistaken he makes an incision in the mouth(?) or under the chin in the soft spot to get to the bone with basically a dremel. A dremel. An endoscopic dremel. -horror-
Worry not about your chin. ~Cough~ (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,127068.msg1239329.html#msg1239329) Sorry, hair ball. Hazards of being a cat.
He makes an incision under your lower jaw (the area parallel to the floor) to do the chin and trachea work. I believe the only time he uses intra-oral incisions is for jaw and mandible work.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on October 17, 2013, 10:34:02 PM
Hihi!
Sorry for the long time to respond and the short reply.
Dr Z pretty much does everything you can imagine with an endoscope.
He plans to do my forehead with one! My nasal cavities are already terrified.
The biggest thing I am worried about is my ginormous freakin' chin, as seen below. If I am not mistaken he makes an incision in the mouth(?) or under the chin in the soft spot to get to the bone with basically a dremel. A dremel. An endoscopic dremel. -horror-
(https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/1003770_201367746697033_860320140_n.jpg)
To me, nothing about you is a "tell." And I don't see your chin as a problem - but I also recognize you have a mental image of your ideal self. It's your journey!!
So glad to hear from you again. :)
I am glad things went well for you during the conversations.
It is a pretty well-known fact that we red-headed freckled somethings are more susceptible to pain, and don't do as well with anesthetics.
WebMD: What is your pain tolerance (http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/features/whats-your-pain-tolerance)
Another surprising factor is that hair color may reflect pain tolerance. In 2009, researchers reported in the Journal of the American Dental Association showed that redheads were more sensitive to pain and may need more anesthesia for dental procedures.
Why redheads in particular? Redheads, the researchers say, tend to have a mutation in a gene called melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), which is what helps make their hair red. MC1R belongs to a group of receptors that include pain receptors in the brain. The researchers suggest that a mutation in this particular gene appears to influence sensitivity to pain.
"We have different receptors for pain in our body, and those receptors respond differently, whether you're taking aspirin or acetaminophen," Stelian Serban, MD, director of acute and chronic inpatient pain service and an assistant professor of anesthesiology at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, tells WebMD.
This is so sad :(
Best of luck with the countdown, also merry holidays to you also.
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on December 23, 2013, 11:25:57 AM
Hello pretty people.
With a month down until my surgery I decided to start making some videos.
Of course my first is a fun one about experiencing my first ice storm with lots of silly video game references.
Please enjoy!
I'll be uploading videos leading up to my surgery, specifically answering questions anyone might have.
If I don't get enough questions, no videos. Sad face!
But anywho, things are still up and running, surgery coming up, and I am at full speed.
Murreh holidays and stuffs.
Thank you for that video. I only get to see snow from a distance, up on the mountains of Southern California. It was 86F yesterday. And very windy. It blew Santa to Nevada last night. :(
Quote from: harmonic_dissonance on December 25, 2013, 11:45:56 AM
Yay and stuff!
Alright, so tomorrow I mail off my half-payment to le Zukowski.
It was a tad unreal writing a check for $11,500.
Imagine how many candy bars that's worth.
MURR CHRIMUS
(https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1544333_240042746162866_2027083524_n.jpg)
(because I am an evil krampus elf)
Candy :eusa_drool:
That pic is so cute.
What happened to the latest video upload? :'(
[q
Harmonic, I can't seem to respond to your pm. I would really like to share my recent visit with the amazing Dr z.
uote author=harmonic_dissonance link=topic=130172.msg1045621#msg1045621 date=1355651878]
Hello again!
Been nosing around in real life quite often, busying myself with the violin and trying to gain some weight. I supposed that since fat grafting was to be involved I may actually need to stock up on fat, as it were. The nutritionist agrees and 140lbs is the current goal. Bring on the chubs...
I'd appreciate hearing anything about your surgeries, Michelle!
So I just got my packet today in the mail from the Zukowksi center. Let me tell you, this packet is freaking beautiful. I remember opening the parcel and BAM! Red, gold, and thick as a book. Amazement aside it's full of extremely comforting information such as a curriculum vitae, a welcome letter, as well as the dreaded DVD (which I've not yet watched.) There is more within yet I am too tired at 4:40am to function properly! Keep in mind I also haven't actually scheduled surgery yet, even though they sent me this likely expensive bundle of mind ease, which I verily appreciate.
Lately I've been bouncing back and forth between wanting to go in for the full treatment or doing some things now / later. I think I stated before that my ears weren't too big of an issue for me and truth be told I don't dislike my big honking nose as much as I let on. Maybe it would be best to wait and see afterwards if I'd like to alter my snozzle? It'd be six months or more recovery in addition to having to pay for another trip / surgery / anesthetics fee to see how everything sits. Also, I'd at least be able to breath fairly well post-op without you know... packing shoved all up in my nosebits. Small comforts!
In other news, I had to get glasses. Now I can be smart and look like I know things.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeNHSk.jpg&hash=c433ed5c63d568719b99a9d79928c5f188bdb50e)
[/quote]
Unfortunately, harmonic_dissonance deleted their account a couple of days ago.
She was a sweetheart. I really liked her. Hopefully, some day she will come back.
Aww that sad - she seemed not like she was disliking posting her stories here.
That would explain why I couldn't respond to her. I thought it was just because I wasn't finding the correct button. Thanks for letting me know :)
Quote from: Jamie D on January 11, 2014, 09:24:11 PM
Unfortunately, harmonic_dissonance deleted their account a couple of days ago.
She was a sweetheart. I really liked her. Hopefully, some day she will come back.
Quote from: Jamie D on January 11, 2014, 09:24:11 PM
Unfortunately, harmonic_dissonance deleted their account a couple of days ago.
She was a sweetheart. I really liked her. Hopefully, some day she will come back.
I'm going to miss reading her posts too, she was lovely to read :(
x x
Hey sweethearts, I am back. This is Harmonic Dissonance.
I have a new thread up at https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,159193.0.html (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,159193.0.html) with several of my recovery videos coming up.
I have a couple more I will be uploading through the week, mostly instructional bits, so I'd love it if you would drop by and check it out.
Thank you for thinking about me girls.
Hey, is that link bad for anyone else? I'd love to follow her progress as I'm also getting ffs with Zukowski.
The thread has been dead for almost 4 years and the member has deleted their account. When the only thing showing is the name, the account has been deleted.