I have to admit I wasn't going to do this because many have done it before probably allot better than I ever could. The thing is though after so long waiting for it to happen I have a really strong desire to record what's coming somewhere that it can be seen and maybe help some others. As many of you have said we're all different so what others felt may be the same for some and not others and the same applies to how I go I think. I don't know how things will work out once I get to Bangkok but if I record it then maybe I will understand more what is happening :)
So to get the story up to date I'll include some details. Back in August 2014 I contacted Dr Chett for some prices, My original plan was to get body contouring so I lose the weight that has twice prevented me from getting SRS then in a couple of years finally get my op. I also thought one day I'd need a trach shave maybe a spot of FFS and of course my SRS so being thorough I asked about them all. When Som replied she asked for my medical details as they would need them for SRS. I replied explaining I am too much overweight but if she could let me know what weight I'd need to get to then maybe in time I'll be able to get SRS. (Since arriving in Australia in November 2013 I've lost 24 kilo's which is about 52lbs) I was asked for my weight and what dates I had in mind for the surgery. This was when things started getting exciting. My partner said well you have to decide if you're ready to go for it. Still believing I was too heavy I sent an e mail to Som saying late March or April 2015 would work. These dates best fitted with my partners work schedule and I decided right then I'm not going there alone unless I had to. I had to wait 4 days for a reply but I think when I read it the initial scream of excitement was heard 1000 miles away :icon_biggrin: :icon_biggrin: I think that was followed by disbelief that I'd done it, After 2 surgeons refusing me surgery to finally be approved seemed unreal. The next issue came over the hotel, I originally chose the Dusit Princess because I wanted the extra luxury and I wanted a Junior Suite rather than the standard room Som booked me but there were considerable differences between the rate quoted by the hotel and what I can book it for online so that put me off going there, I am now going to be in Bankok Rama Cottages.
The next issue for me is visa's. Being an exiled Irishwoman who's lived most of her life in UK and who doesn't yet have Permanent Residence in Australia I need a visa to leave Australia :o It's true Australia has as much interest in who is leaving the country as it does on who's trying to enter. ;D Don't get me wrong I think it's admirable that security is taken seriously but it does complicate things for me. My current visa doesn't allow travel overseas, I have joked to friends in UK that the Aussies love me so much that they don't want me to leave or maybe the British are so relieved I left that they have asked Australia to make sure I don't try and go back. ;D ;D Then we have Thailand, Because my date was moved by one day and I was too excited to realise this I will now be in Bangkok 31 days meaning I need a Tourist Visa. I know I can pay 500 baht a day as a fine instead but I don't want to be an overstayer. Because I'm not a Permanent Resident here and my Visa doesn't allow travel the Thai's won't issue a visa until I have an Australian visa that will let me return if I leave.
The current situation is I've done all the medical tests and have been given the all clear on them all. I am just waiting for the disc with my X Ray images on to arrive by post then I can put everything in a file and e mail it to Dr Chett. Now all I have to do is manage the excitement and get the 2 visa's and then get ready to finally achieve my goal in one of my favourite cities in the world :) The next 6 weeks are going to be wonderful but I'm not sure my nerves will stand the excitement which grows every day :) I can honestly say I have no concerns over the op or anything else surrounding it. Maybe my biggest issue post op is going to be filling the void in my thinking once I've done this. I've not been one to fixate on getting the op during my transition but the last 5-6 months of planning and reading other peoples accounts of how it went for them has filled allot of my time. Maybe dilation will replace that and then building my new life here in Aus which did kind of stall once this was scheduled.
I will post anything relevant that occurs before and during the whole trip but in the meantime feel free to ask anything that springs to mind. I know there has been a few similar threads so I am not likely to offer any earth shattering insights but who knows what will actually happen? :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
And already an update :) They issued my visa to leave Australia earlier today. I have an e mail copy of it so that's one more thing covered :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
All sounds well. I wish you a successful surgery
Quote from: possessed on February 12, 2015, 05:07:33 AM
All sounds well. I wish you a successful surgery
Thank you Possessed :) Also welcome to Susan's, I see you are new :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hi Sorcha,
Thanks for starting this thread. I am booked with Dr Chet for late November, will be staying at the Rama cottages too so you are certain of at least 1 avid reader. I am thinking of getting a tourist visa anyway just in case something goes wrong and I go over the 30-day limit. As an exiled Kiwi, I don't have your visa issues but I got citizenship about 13 years ago anyway. I can just imagine Tony packing you off to Manus Island as an illegal asylum seeker on your way back!
All the very best in March and I look forward to your updates.
Emma
Hi Emma :)
Firstly congratulations on the date, The wait will soon be over but I hope you have things to distract you between now and then or you may go crazy, I am close to being crazy already and I've got 6 weeks to wait :) Some cruel people say I've always been crazy but I ignore them ;D
Quote from: EmmaD on February 12, 2015, 01:38:43 PM
I am thinking of getting a tourist visa anyway just in case something goes wrong and I go over the 30-day limit.
I was always dubious about whether or not I needed a visa even before I realised my error. The thing is there are alternatives to a visa, ( Pay a fine in airport or pay for an extension ) The fine itself isn't huge at 500 baht a day but then I cannot ever answer no when Aussie Immigration ask me Have you ever overstayed a visa? That makes them nervous and as you said Manus Island or Villawood could be welcoming me :( Immigration have been wonderful with me ever since I first contacted them so I'm wanting that to stay in my favour. For the extension you need to attend an office and that may not be possible if things aren't healing quickly enough so for $45 I can take away that stress and have 60 days which will be plenty. I booked a flexible return flight so if I am delayed I only have to ring Qantas and that's easily fixed.
Speaking of flying, I'm not a wealthy woman but I am only doing this once, My partner insisted that I fly home in Business Class so that I can sleep in a bed for the 10 hour trip. Economy seats don't allow allot of room and it would be a shame to destroy Chets magic by trying to save a few hundred dollars. There is also the Business lounge while you wait in the airport so if you haven't yet booked your flights I'd consider this.
I'll keep the updates coming and hope they help.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
I have more work to do between now and November than I can possibly get through. With only being full time since the beginning of the year, that novelty will take a while to wear off. Also volunteering at a community radio station and learning all about producing and presenting radio. So, if I end up crazy, its because I started that way!
The business class trip home is well worth it. I did that back from Mexico last year. 16 hour flight! Dropped all my frequent flyer points to upgrade. Just as well as my face still felt like crap. I don't sleep well on planes anyway but in Economy? Nah!
Keep the updates coming. I am pretty certain a different perspective on things will be hugely valuable.
Congratulations. I'm looking forward to hearing so much more.
If you don't want to write the same as everyone else, do you have an unusual viewpoints or interests in things? For example, if it were me I might write about how you can plug your computer into the TV and how long the cable has to be to reach it from bed. Strange stuff, I know.
I'd not risk overstaying the visa, but then I don't risk just about anything. It almost certainly won't matter but what if it did? I'd be worrying about it until I got home again.
This site is a legal firm, not the Thai government
You may be asked to show your flight ticket on entering Thailand. If you do not possess a flight ticket to show you will be exiting Thailand within 30 or 15 days of entry you will be most likely to be refused entry.
http://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/changes-visa-exempt.php
The Consequences of Overstaying in Thailand
http://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/overstay-visa-thailand.php
This is the government
Visa processing time: All visa applicants are strongly advised to apply at least 4 - 5 weeks in advance of their anticipated travel, especially during holiday seasons.
http://www.thaiconsulatesydney.org/english/visa
So just enough time.
Hi Emma,
Do you mean work as in profession or work on yourself ? It's good to feel busy as long as there is time to be yourself :)
Being crazy is a prerequisite to transition I thought ;D ;D
Aren't Frequent Flyer points brilliant? I don't have many but I know somebody who does ;D Those I do have I like to use for my traveling and this trip is worth a few to me :) My favourite pastime is travel and my favourite form of travel is a plane so this trip is full of many bonus's for me being as I love flying and Bangkok :) I've never managed a sleep on a plane in all my years of flying not even my 3 trips to or from Aus to UK each over 22 hours of flying. Sleeping in a bed on a plane will be a new experience :)
More to come I promise
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hi AnonyMs :)
Thank you for the links :) Really valuable although allot of the info I was aware of, You took time to find them so thank you for that :) The problem with a visa on arrival is it is subject to the whim of whichever Immigration Officer deals with you at the time, Also my return flight is booked for 31 days after arrival so if asked to produce a return ticket I would immediately encounter a problem and I am not really going to be in a fit state to undertake a visa run to get another 30 days like so many do.
I really believe that the recovery has been covered, People can find really detailed accounts of the whole Chettawut experience on this forum and elsewhere online so by re writing it again I am not going to provide any new material. I will of course post updates on my recovery but I want to offer an alternative Chettawut experience with heaps of humour thrown in. I used to listen to a radio DJ who's catchphrase was you're never fully dressed without your smile :) Thailand is known as The land of smiles so to be anything less than enjoying myself seems to me to be a betrayal of my hosts :)
Quote from: AnonyMs on February 13, 2015, 03:52:21 AM
If you don't want to write the same as everyone else, do you have an unusual viewpoints or interests in things? For example, if it were me I might write about how you can plug your computer into the TV and how long the cable has to be to reach it from bed. Strange stuff, I know.
I like the question and I'll be sure to find you an answer :) Maybe you and others have questions about the hotel or other parts of the experience that haven't been answered. I cannot ask Chett about individual people or scenario's but if anyone has a burning question they want an answer to I'll try and produce an answer. Further to this, I know they charge a hire fee for the use of a Microwave, Is there anybody from here due in Bangkok Rama around the end of my stay?
I am certainly different than allot of people in my outlook. I've been in the depth of despair and I'm not going there again, I have already decided I am going to recover quickly and I am going to enjoy throwing water over the Thai's 2 weeks after my op. This is not a sign of disrespect. I love Thai people please see this link
http://www.songkran2015.com/ (http://www.songkran2015.com/)
I am positive in my outlook and convinced this is going to be a really good experience that finalises everything I've worked for over the last 8 years :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: SorchaC on February 13, 2015, 04:44:23 AM
Hi Emma,
Do you mean work as in profession or work on yourself ? It's good to feel busy as long as there is time to be yourself :)
Being crazy is a prerequisite to transition I thought ;D ;D
Profession work unfortunately. That, transitioning and the radio stuff is probably too much at the moment and I feel a bit overwhelmed. Just breathe....
QuoteIs there anybody from here due in Bangkok Rama around the end of my stay?
My date has moved up from September to May. I arrive there on May 18th now. You will probably have been gone a couple weeks by then.
Come to think of it, there's one thing I'd really like to know about Thailand.
What is Thai food is like?
I love Thai food, but I'm not sure I've ever actually eaten it. I've mostly had it in Australia. How does it compare?
And I like hot food as well. Really really hot. And you've lived in the UK where I've found Indian food is far hotter than in Sydney.
I could almost go to Thailand for the food and have SRS as a bonus. It's possibly my favorite food, although its a hard call with Indian. Vietnamese is wonderful too in its own way. British food I can live without. I wonder if I could go a month only eating Thai food? I'd like to give it a go.
Do restaurants do delivery when your stuck in your room? And what about the range and quality of foreign food?
Not many people mention the food, and half the time it's how they don't like it.
I can see SRS is going to be dangerous for me. I got to be careful with the weight.
I'm hoping you like hot and spicy food and can tell me all about it.
Hi AnonyMs :)
I think part of the reason for the lack of food info could be because you are only allowed clear liquid for 3 days before and maybe 10 days after. I do like Thai food and on previous visits to Bangkok I have sampled some but not the really hot stuff. I've tried Thai food in Australia and NZ as well as Thailand, The difference for me was the flavour seems stronger in Thailand, That could be the quality of the chef or that you're on holiday and so things seem better :) I love Indian food as well and have managed to learn a few recipes I can do a fairly decent job of making. My partner will be in charge of food in Bangkok so I'm sure there will be some info I can pass on for you :)
I think a food trip with a bit of surgery is a good reason to visit Thailand. Sadly the surgery has allot of requirements and they disrupt the eating ;D
Please keep the questions coming and we really will have an alternative view of Chett
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: treeLB on February 13, 2015, 10:13:12 AM
My date has moved up from September to May. I arrive there on May 18th now. You will probably have been gone a couple weeks by then.
Yes I should be home and recovering, I fly home April 25th unless something goes wrong :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: EmmaD on February 13, 2015, 06:27:30 AM
Profession work unfortunately. That, transitioning and the radio stuff is probably too much at the moment and I feel a bit overwhelmed. Just breathe....
Yes great advice, I'm sure you're used to pressure and will cope well.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: SorchaC on February 13, 2015, 05:39:35 PM
I think part of the reason for the lack of food info could be because you are only allowed clear liquid for 3 days before and maybe 10 days after.
That would be really bad, but its the first I've heard of it. I'm not really following Dr Chettawut but I think there's no restrictions with Suporn except the more you eat the worse time you'll have with the enema and it can be difficult to eat much for immediately post-op.
Quote from: AnonyMs on February 13, 2015, 09:45:05 PM
That would be really bad, but its the first I've heard of it. I'm not really following Dr Chettawut but I think there's no restrictions with Suporn except the more you eat the worse time you'll have with the enema and it can be difficult to eat much for immediately post-op.
As I've stated before I was twice refused SRS because of my weight. Both surgeons did however tell me some of their requirements. Basically you take a substance to clear you out the day before the op, For whatever reason an enema isn't used. Post op I was told no food for 5 days by Tim Terry and Chett says clear liquids until the catheter comes out for the same reason. They want to make sure you have no bowel movements to give the surgery time to heal a bit. I don't really know what Suporn does but it obviously works for him so clearly isn't wrong :)
I'll definitely include food stuff as I will be eating as soon as I can :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Congrats. Wish you all the best!
Jen
Quote from: JenJen2011 on February 13, 2015, 11:52:20 PM
Congrats. Wish you all the best!
Jen
Thanks Jen for taking time from your recovery to wish me well, Can you answer AnonyMs regarding the Suporn method of food after the op please
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: SorchaC on February 14, 2015, 12:16:45 AM
Thanks Jen for taking time from your recovery to wish me well, Can you answer AnonyMs regarding the Suporn method of food after the op please
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
You're welcome. I'm not sure what you are referring to. If you can reference to it that'd be great.
Quote from: AnonyMs on February 13, 2015, 09:45:05 PM
That would be really bad, but its the first I've heard of it. I'm not really following Dr Chettawut but I think there's no restrictions with Suporn except the more you eat the worse time you'll have with the enema and it can be difficult to eat much for immediately post-op.
Can you explain what you were asked to do regarding your eating before and immediately after your op?
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Sorcha, I looked up the enema and food thing.
Look for these (alhough the entire post is interesting)
"10pm rolls around and up comes by far the worst part of the trip. The enema."
"Unlike other surgeons, Dr Suporn doesn't impose any dietary restrictions, so I was free to choose whatever I wanted to eat."
http://geektogirl.com/2013/08/06/the-suporn-experience/
This is more the kind of thing I'd write about - the hospital menu. I like the look of that.
http://helena10101.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/tailandia.html
Quote from: SorchaC on February 14, 2015, 04:14:31 AM
Can you explain what you were asked to do regarding your eating before and immediately after your op?
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
No restrictions or even talks about it before surgery. Dr. Suporn did tell me to eat soft foods for several days and drink lots of water post-op.
Quote from: JenJen2011 on February 14, 2015, 06:14:33 PM
No restrictions or even talks about it before surgery. Dr. Suporn did tell me to eat soft foods for several days and drink lots of water post-op.
Thanks Jen ;D Hope you're recpvery is going well :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: AnonyMs on February 14, 2015, 06:59:40 AM
This is more the kind of thing I'd write about - the hospital menu. I like the look of that.
http://helena10101.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/tailandia.html
When I can eat it will either be prepared by my partner or ordered from the local restaurant as a take away. I'm sure for a few Bht I can have it delivered. The Bangkok Rama does room service as well so that's an option ;D There will be full reports
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Just thought I'd do an update, Dr Chett has approved my test results so that's another hurdle out the way, Just need to may final payment, Get my Thai Visa and send my 2nd Letter for approval, I'm sure it will be approved and for that I have to thank the readers of this thread for their help in getting that letter.
More posts as we get closer so until then bye y'all ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: SorchaC on February 21, 2015, 07:40:34 PM
Just thought I'd do an update, Dr Chett has approved my test results so that's another hurdle out the way, Just need to may final payment, Get my Thai Visa and send my 2nd Letter for approval, I'm sure it will be approved and for that I have to thank the readers of this thread for their help in getting that letter.
More posts as we get closer so until then bye y'all ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Cool. It will be here in no time :)
Quote from: JenJen2011 on February 22, 2015, 01:46:36 AM
Cool. It will be here in no time :)
Yes it will be, I have arranged some trips to distract myself from the excitement, I'm off to Brisbane on Wednesday and Canberra on March 3rd to watch Ireland play World Cup Cricket and then the week after to Melbourne for the week. After that I'll need drugs to stay calm ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Another update, Dr Chett has approved my 2nd Letter so that's now also sorted out Yay :)
I thought I'd include some info for those either planning to go to Thailand for Surgery or those who have already booked. Please remember to get your travel vaccinations. Hep A and B will be needed as well as Typhoid, You should also be sure you've had the booster for polio and maybe check your own countries travel advice for Avian Influenza. I'm not trying to sound like a know all but in all the things we have to get done before we go sometimes vaccinations can be forgotten.
More news soon
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Thanks Sorcha, I had not even thought about vaccinations. I hope you keep posting while you are there, I will be right behind you.
Thanks for the reminder. I had not thought of vaccinations either. Add it to the list though I have lots of time (famous last words!!)
Quote from: SorchaC on February 24, 2015, 04:16:36 PM
Another update, Dr Chett has approved my 2nd Letter so that's now also sorted out Yay :)
I thought I'd include some info for those either planning to go to Thailand for Surgery or those who have already booked. Please remember to get your travel vaccinations. Hep A and B will be needed as well as Typhoid, You should also be sure you've had the booster for polio and maybe check your own countries travel advice for Avian Influenza.
Sorcha ;D
Congratulations!
I don't think you need polio vaccination for Thailand, the last case was in 1997 and the WHO declared it polio free last year.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6342a2.htm
Quote from: treeLB on February 24, 2015, 05:30:00 PM
Thanks Sorcha, I had not even thought about vaccinations. I hope you keep posting while you are there, I will be right behind you.
Aww thanks :) I will post as often as I can so that there is a record of all that goes on. I definitely do not plan on doing this again in y life but there will be many who do it after me and something i write could be of use to them
Quote from: EmmaD on February 25, 2015, 04:04:28 AM
Thanks for the reminder. I had not thought of vaccinations either. Add it to the list though I have lots of time (famous last words!!)
I'm sure you'll be really organised when the time comes :)
Quote from: AnonyMs on February 25, 2015, 07:15:21 AM
Congratulations!
I don't think you need polio vaccination for Thailand, the last case was in 1997 and the WHO declared it polio free last year.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6342a2.htm
Thanks AnonyMs, I didn't need it because I had the booster in 1992 for my first trip to Bangkok and Burma. Typhoid you need every 3 years and the Hep A and B are really important to everyone no matter how long you stay
While on the subject of my letter, I had an appointment with Michael Scott in Sydney who wrote it for me. I know a few on here have commented about Patrick Toohey in a negative way, Michael was really sweet and seemed to know his stuff, He likes people with a sense of humour which is just as well because i carry mine in my handbag to unleash it on unsuspecting people when I feel the need ;D Could be an option for any Sydney based girls who need some Psychiatric assistance and are not too happy seeing others who have been criticised
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
So folks time for more updates :) Thai Visa was issued Wednesday although I didn't collect it until Thursday because I was in Brisbane. I finally made the final payment for the op today so now I only have to concentrate on what I actually take with me.
I will do a post when I pack my cases exactly what I decide to take then we can see just how much I take that i don't actually need and what I don't take that I do :)
Apart from obvious items like clothing, if you think of anything i should need please post here and I'll see if I've thought of it :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Wow, I can't wait, and I'm not even going.
Hi Sorcha,
I hope everything is under control BUT given you ship out on Thursday, it is time to bring this one back to the top.
All the best and I will be thinking of you.
Hugs
Emma
Quote from: EmmaD on March 21, 2015, 07:07:17 PM
Hi Sorcha,
I hope everything is under control BUT given you ship out on Thursday, it is time to bring this one back to the top.
All the best and I will be thinking of you.
Hugs
Emma
Hi Emma,
Thanks for the bump, Things have gone well so far and apart from delirious excitement overtaking me I cannot think of anything going wrong thus far (fingers crossed and touch wood) ;D
I will post on Thursday night Thai time how the initial meet at the airport went and some impressions of the hotel and nearby places and hope everyone enjoys my account of the experience :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Well today i traveled to Bangkok in readiness for the big day next Tuesday, The collection and delivery to my hotel by Dr Chetts driver was efficient and friendly, I will caution that there won't be allot of chat with the driver unless you can speak Thai, I have a few phrases of spoken Thai and we got by so no complaints on that part :)
Initial impressions of Bangkok Rama Hotel have been favourable, the room is clean and everything seems to work. The staff are very friendly and seem to be willing to help you all they can. From the minute I was collected at the airport I wasn't allowed to touch my luggage, At the hotel they took it onto a little golf buggy and drove me to my cottage.
One observation from my excursion into downtown Bangkok tonight. I don't think any house in Bangkok has a kitchen, I say this because I've never seem so many restaurants of all types and size in all my life. Surrounding the Rama is more types of food than I could ever sample even if i wasn't about to be banned from eating for 2 weeks or so.
I have an appointment to meet Chett tomorrow when I will finally get a proper description of what he plans. I know we're all different so logically all our surgeries will be different, I'm eally looking forward to tomorrow so for now I'll say goodnight and please feel free to ask me things you want to know.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Glad you are there and getting this done :) Very exciting!
Thank you for the update. I am looking forward to reading more about your experience as I am leaving in just 6 weeks now myself....starting to sink it!
Good luck Sorcha!!
It's amazing how each girl here about to get her SRS serves as an inspiration to the girls who are soon to have their turn. We'll be thinking of you, and look forward to your posts.
Major hugs from Spain :D
Julia
Good luck Sorcha!
Let us know how it goes! :)
Thank you Julia and Sarah for the nice wishes :) I know as the day gets closer my nerves will grow although right now I don't seem to have them.
I finally got to see Dr Chett today The driver who collected me arrived very punctually at 0900 and he had reasonable English as well which was nice. Once the formalities of checking over the paperwork and settling the final 100 baht outstanding had been completed I was taken upstairs to meet Chett and let him explain the procedure, I was impressed by how detailed his description was and his explanation of everything. I was given the laxatives and swiff I'll need for the bowel cleansing and then I had to pay for my skin graft before being driven back to the hotel,
One disappointment I've encountered is with Tesco Lotus. The store layout could be vastly improved, I bought a pineapple but the check out girl couldn't scan it because there wasn't a bar code. It took 3 people to finally get it through. The locals stuck waiting smilled allot while the girl ran about the store looking for a code which was nice of them :)
So tomorrow I start bowel cleansing and I think I'll go exploring again and try to find a few items for cooking I've not found yet. I bought a microwave as the cost to buy was nearly the same as the hotel will charge for 1 weeks rent on their one. We can let someone who's newly arrived have it when we leave.
I'll pass on more thoughts or events as I have them so for those reading I hope it is an enjoyable read once the main event happens.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
We'll be listening!! :-*
Good luck, Sorcha! I'll be there to see Dr. Chettawut myself in late July!
Quote from: LizMarie on March 27, 2015, 11:26:20 AM
Good luck, Sorcha! I'll be there to see Dr. Chettawut myself in late July!
It will be here in no time and I'm sure you'll have a wonderful experience. :)
It's time for my daily update brought to you in association with Tourism Authority of Thailand ;D We finally have the kitchen set up so my partner can keep me supplied with recovery food once Chett lets me eat again :)
On the subject of food, I'm starving after a day without food. Tomorrow I have to start the laxatives and the enema. Not allot else has happened today. One of the problems with having cupboards full of food is it makes you even more hungry when you see it ;D
One problem I've encountered that others coming may want to bear in mind, Chett requires that you have no nail polish on your nails a day before your op because they put sensors to monitor the amount of Oxygen in your blood on the index and middle fingers of both hands. I have acryllic nails and cannot find anywhere to remove them for me. I also cannot find any acetone to do it myself. This is my task for tomorrow before the laxatives are needed.. Could be something to think of before comming here.
Anyway folks. Thanks for reading so far, I shall add anything else as it happens
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hi Sorcha,
All the very best on Tuesday. I will be thinking of you all day.
Hugs
Emma
Quote from: EmmaD on March 30, 2015, 03:27:13 AM
Hi Sorcha,
All the very best on Tuesday. I will be thinking of you all day.
Hugs
Emma
Hi Emma,
My op should start about 1900 your time and will be finished sometime in the early hours of Wednesday morning. I am not sure if you'll hear my yelp of joy when I wake up but if you do then you know it all went well ;D
I should give some form of update as to how days 2 and 3 of the bowel cleansing went. The enema and the 2 little pills that went before it worked pretty well. Then came the swiff on day 3. It tastes foul as many have said. It also is fairly fast acting and very effective. I have been busy in the toilet for over 24 hours now and am hoping I've now finally run out of things to pass out. I was given 5 packets of oral rehydration powder to keep me hydrated but I only used one because there was very little difference between the taste of it and the swiff ;D Chett told me I was allowed isotonic drinks like Lucozade or Gatorade so I drank some of that instead. i am still really hungry but can say it's not long to wait until I am off to get my op and then Chett will feed me yay.
I took a trip over to the Dusit Princess tonight to visit a friend staying there and can offer some thoughts on the place. It looks quite nice, If you've ever stayed in a modern 4* star hotel anywhere in the world I'd say a comparison with the Dusit would be very favourable. The room I saw was not overly large but was comfortabe if you are alone or have a companion who will get out a fair bit. Because my partner prefers to cook rather than eat out the cottage at the Rama was better for us but if you have no help and don't want to be cooking then the Dusit certainly has many things in it's favour.
it's 12 hours until I am collected by Chetts driver and my big day begins so I best try and get some rest. Thanks for all the best wishes and thoughts ;D I will post updates from the recovery room as long as I can sneak my phone into the bed with me ;D
See you all on the other side ;D ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Sorcha, we are holding thumbs this side of the water!
Major hugs from Madrid!!
Julia
I wish you a successful surgery. Fingers crossed.
I am out of surgery and as far as I know I'm doing well. Op took 8 hours but that's fine. I'll post more later when my computer is up and running.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Welcome back Sorcha!!
A big welcome back from Melbourne too!
Here is a biased second opinion.
I am fortunate enough to be Sorcha's partner. I visited her this afternoon and I was thoroughly impressed by how well she was coping so soon after the 7hr+ of serious surgery. I doubt I would be able to do so well when its my turn in 2 or 3 years time.
Thanks everyone for all the kind words - I am sure its helped keep Sorcha (and me) cheered up which always helps with the healing process.
Hi all,
m
Thanks Julia and Emma :) It's really good to be back and a postie.
Here's an update to follow on from Bernadettes, The day started with a bed bath and some soya milk and hot chocolate. I was given my morning meds and a morphine jab then I moved room which wasn't really what I'd have asked for 7 hours after my op but the lovely nurses helped me down the stairs.
The room itself is nice. well equiped and cool.The nurses are brilliant and take care to make sure you're as comfortable and settled as you can be, Dr Chett came to see me at about 11am to discus how it went. My op wasn't a simple easy one. It lasted nearly 8 hours and was complicated by a shortage of material to work with and a lack of internal space.He expects I'll have 4-5 inches of depth but that's plenty for me. Most people would consider Chett to be one of the best SRS surgeons around and he said I got the best work he could do so you cannot ask for any more than that.
The rest of the day was spent online or watching TV as well as my 1 hour visit from Bernadette. More meds and Soya Milk and hot chocolate. Nurses are marvellous and I feel good. I'm going to sleep now so will offer more news tomorrow
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hi folks.
Here is today's offering from the bowels of Chetts empire. It's been a fairly routine day. My drip was removed at 3am and the leg pumps went after breakfast. I finally got something that wasn't liquid. Some biscuits. First ever taste of Miso Soup too. It wasn't bad and I had it 3 times today. Chett popped in and inspected his work. He refuses to say he's happy with it just that he did his best. From my perspective, There's no bleeding all my vitals are good and the best one is there's no pain They gave me morphine yesterday before I walked downstairs but since then when they've asked about pain I've had none. Maybe I'm lucky or maybe all my nerves are dead but whatever way it works I'd still advise people to expect some pain.
I am struggling with being on my back so long and sleep is hard for me. The nursing staff deserve lot's and lot's of praise. They are always smiling and have cheerful greetings ready. I have been having Thai lessons off Noi to pass the time. She loves that I am making an effort.
Chett is considering removing the outer bandages tomorrow night in preparation for me going to the hotel on Saturday morning
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hi Sorcha,
Thank you so much for the updates (Bernadette too). It is all very helpful and reassuring. I wondered about how much material the surgeon needs to work with (a surgeon in Melbourne thought I have plenty but I am a bit.........small :icon_redface:) but I hadn't come across the lottery of internal space limitations. Not much you can do about that but awareness at least means if it does happen, you aren't surprised. I am also very pleased the care is so good.
Anyway, its so nice to hear you are doing well. Just rest and endure the lying down for a little bit longer.
Hugs and stuff
Emma
Hi Emma,
Sorry it's taken a couple of days to reply. I had a rough night Thursday, No matter what I tried I couldn't sleep and when I had breakfast I was sick for a few hours.
Chett told me I was very small but the skin in the graft area was good he said. If a surgeon has told you there's enough skin then I'm sure there will be.
Last night (Friday) Chett and the nurses removed the outer packaging. Most of it came off without any pain until they got to the drains. Nurse warned me it would feel like a mild burning but it was allot worse, Noi who has been my main nurse took to crunching my toes to distract me and in a few seconds it was all over. Then Chett had his chance to see how it all went. I saw it in a mirror and to me it looked red and very angry. Chett didn't seem happy with the result, He assured me he spent the whole 8 hours doing his very best which I believe but the lack of skin to work with was very restricting. He showed me where he thought the clitoral hood was bigger on one side than the other. He said he hopes it will recover properly before I'm due to go home. I am not disappointed because healing will alter the appearance allot but clearly I don"t have the Miss World of vaginas
This morning early I was transferred to my hotel to rest up until Monday when Noi will return and check out how I am. Packing is scheduled to be removed Tuesday and I'm sure that won't hurt ;D I'm not in any pain now which is always a good thing.
I'm happy to give further info if anyone has any specific requests
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hey Sorcha
Here's hoping you have a good and relaxing weekend!
I am impressed with your attitude regarding your result, and it's early days yet so there's a lot of healing to be done. Whatever the result, I am sure it will work great!
In any event, I think that the number of guys (mostly) who would want to go exploring down there with a flashlight and a sketchbook is virtually zero, regardless of how pretty we are! ;D. Which is why I'm sure it will be an excellent result overall.
When I started with the woman who is doing my perineum electro, not only did I find out that it's pretty common among women to want that area hairless, but she also commented that the variety of vaginas she saw made her realise that there was no such thing as a normal one. Yours , therefore, will be as normal as any other!
Hugs from España!
Julia
Thank you Julia and Monamtb, ;D It is good to hear opinions from other people because clearly I've never done this before. I agree there isn't really a model vagina upon which we can base a judgement of our results. Chett has pointed out where he feels a better result could have been achieved if he'd had more material to work with and I see that as honesty. When all the healing is done I am sure my result will compare well with anybody else's but if it doesn't then what does it matter? I'm not planning on entering it into a beautiful vagina contest.
I should give some updates on the last couple pf days since being returned to the hotel. All throughout this since having surgery I have struggled with sleeping on my back. while in Chetts place the bed was comfortable because the nurses kept adjusting it. Last night sleeping back in Rama Cottages was absolute torture. My back was hurting more than any Surgery. Bernadette was sent to Tesco Lotus on a mission to secure me a more comfortable sleeping arrangement which she seems to have done by buying a Picnic Mattress and pillow as well as a Queen sized quilt. Trapped wind was also an issue last night and unlike when I was at Chetts there wasn't any medication to ease it so once again I had it order in supplies during the daily Tesco run.
Now for the actual surgery site. When I got my first view Friday night it looked really angry and red even my thighs and buttocks close to the site. I had Bernadette take a photo earlier and it has calmed down quite allot. Two things I expected allot of were bleeding and pain and I haven't really had any of either. There has obviously been some discomfort when moving but nothing bad enough to make me run for meds. The bed pad and my panty pad were clear this morning and my vagina seems to be healing well.
I am hoping these updates are giving an honest appraisal of how I am coping or not with this whole experience, We are all different and all feel things differently so my thoughts are just an example.
Well folk more from the front line in the morning
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Day 6 update from the post op side of the world. Cee and Noi came by earlier and I am recovering well, The plan is to remove my packing tomorrow and then I can get a shower (yayyy) I was under the misapprehension that you needed your catheter removed before they let you have showers but I'm not complaining ;D
Yesterday I was a bit naughty and went out into our Soi and did my bit for international relations and conversed with a group of lovely Americans ;D I had been in bed too long and needed the 20 yard (60ft) walk. All in all, Since Bernadette sourced a proper Mattress early yesterday I have felt wonderful ;D
Further updates once the packing has gone
Hugs
Sorcha ;D ;D ;D
Hey Sorcha.... you've got a bit of mobility, at least!
I wanted to ask you - dd you find it adequately comfortable sleeping in the ward on your back with the epidural also plugged in via your back?
I don't have trouble sleeping face up, but being immobile for a few days... let's say that I've got almost no padding!!
By the way, I wanted to ask you where you're from? Clearly your last post indicates you're not American :D ....
Hugs
Julia
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 06, 2015, 06:34:46 AM
I wanted to ask you - dd you find it adequately comfortable sleeping in the ward on your back with the epidural also plugged in via your back?
I don't have trouble sleeping face up, but being immobile for a few days... let's say that I've got almost no paddimg
Hey Julia ;D
Yes I can at least move which is a relief
I know I had an epidural because I found the 2 balls of cotton wool and a plaster they used to cover the puncture wound but when I woke up on the first morning I couldn't feel it still in me. I was going to ask that they never gave me an epidural for the same reason as you mention but I completely forgot in all the excitement.
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 06, 2015, 06:34:46 AM
By the way, I wanted to ask you where you're from? Clearly your last post indicates you're not American :D ....
I originate from County Waterford Ireland but grew up in Liverpool UK. I emigrated to Australia last year. I do like Americans but not as much as I like Thai's ;D ;D ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Again, thank you for your updates. It helps to know what I might expect next month.
:)
Quote from: treeLB on April 06, 2015, 10:22:57 AM
Again, thank you for your updates. It helps to know what I might expect next month.
There will be a first internal view update in a few hours when the packing gets removed and we know for sure what my depth is. I've decided to expect really small and then every inch over will be a bonus. So more than 3 inches will cheer me greatly. ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D ;D
The nurses have been and removed all my packing. It was a weird feeling while they removed it. There was allot more in there than I expected. Once that was done Cee inspected my skin graft and reported it is healing well. She then used a finger to get some lube in place before placing my first dilation wand in there and measured the depth. Folks who are coming here for surgery with Chett in the next week should be prepared for delays while he recovers from the shock when Cee reports I have nearly 6 inches I'm in deep shock too. :o :o :o It says allot about Chetts ability and technique that the first UK surgeon who refused me surgery said I'd be lucky to get 2 inches and would likely end up with a cosmetic operation and as Chett himself only expected me to have 4-5 if we're lucky.
I was told my Catheter will be removed Thursday but I am allowed to eat what I want from now on and even shower which is not supposed to happen until 1 day after Catheter removal, Clearly I must stink and they figured for their comfort they would allow me to break that rule ;D ;D ;D As for moving about, I have permission to go into the soi outside and communicate with our international guests across the way. Going for breakfast will have to wait for up to a week but apart from that things seem to be going better than expected.
My task for this week is to plan a way of getting the nurses to agree to a Songkran Party next week. I have warned then I plan on throwing water on them and Noi seems up for a good time as she was practicing the water throwing this morning while Cee was cleaning my vagina.
Please feel free to ask anything you want to know. I am feeling really good this morning and recovery is going really well but I'm not there yet, Things can always still go wrong so I have to remain careful and do as the nurses advise me.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Wow, Sorcha, just wow!
Chet's best is very very good, isn't it? And to think all he would say is he did his best. I am feeling better and better with my decision to book with him every day. You also seem to be healing really well too.
Start having a bit of fun. You guys deserve it.
Hugs
Emma
Quote from: EmmaD on April 07, 2015, 05:29:34 AM
Wow, Sorcha, just wow!
That was my thinking as Cee told me, She must have seen my shock as she insisted I look for myself using a mirror. Cee and Noi were both in the operating theatre when the op was done so will have been aware that Chett was worried about the quality of the result.
I know that we trans are well known for feeling an affinity to our surgeon and I am determined to not make out Chett is good just because I chose him, There are 4 or 5 surgeons in the world who on their day are the best there is. Chett promised me his best and he delivered it and then some. so I am extremely impressed by him and would say to all who choose him, If you get his best work you'll have a really good result.
I am going to be guided by his nurses and sneak in as much fun as can be had. ;D ;D ;D
You will love it here Emma I'm sure :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hiya Sorcha
That is some absolutely darn marvelous news. Gee, you must be one happy girl tonight! It really is good to know that even if Chett is muttering about limitations he can still perform minor miracles.
Those of us who are living vicariously through your experience are indeed hopeful that we'll be equally lucky!
How are you finding the dilations?
Hugs
Julia
Hi Sorcha,
Huge congrats on your surgery :) It is good to read the experience from someone that is so close to my own surgery date which is May 22nd. I do have questions if you don't mind me asking.
Here are some of my questions:
How many days of cleansing did you have to go through? From your posts it seems it was more than one day. How many days where you unable to eat prior to surgery?
Did Dr. Chettawut see you just prior to surgery?
Did you meet the anesthesiologist before being put under?
How is the post op care in the clinic? Is the clinic clean and well managed in your opinion?
When back at your hotel are you able to communicate with Chettawuts staff when needed and are they attentive to any concerns you have?
Are the nurses that see you at the Rama attentive to you - able to answer questions and able to address any concerns that you have?
Thank you for any information you are able to provide. i just want to know what to expect during my time there.
Hey Julia :)
Happy doesn't even begin to cover the emotion I felt all day :) I knew he was being cautious but had decided he must have seen something that maybe I should be careful of. His nurses seemed shocked too. I am amazed this was possible so would advise anybody to just reserve judgement until the packing comes out. He's better than he thinks ;D
The first real dilation is today and it still scares me some. Cee has said she will demonstrate today and I doubt I'll get a go until tomorrow but we'll see. He expects us to dilate for 2 hours every day for 2 years and gives you a printed schedule to adhere to. It seems allot to me but then he does ask you at your consultation if you agree to it. He says it's an agreement we make. For his side of the bargain he promises you he'll do his best for you. I think he's already broken part of it by doing better than his best :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D ;D
Quote from: treeLB on April 07, 2015, 06:02:47 PM
Huge congrats on your surgery :) It is good to read the experience from someone that is so close to my own surgery date which is May 22nd. I do have questions if you don't mind me asking.
Here are some of my questions:
How many days of cleansing did you have to go through? From your posts it seems it was more than one day. How many days where you unable to eat prior to surgery?
Did Dr. Chettawut see you just prior to surgery?
Did you meet the anesthesiologist before being put under?
How is the post op care in the clinic? Is the clinic clean and well managed in your opinion?
When back at your hotel are you able to communicate with Chettawuts staff when needed and are they attentive to any concerns you have?
Are the nurses that see you at the Rama attentive to you - able to answer questions and able to address any concerns that you have?
Hugs TreeLB
Thanks for the congratulations. I am really pleased to be recovering as well as I am because there is nothing worse than feeling ill and not being able to get out. At least I am feeling good and unable to get out :)
The bowel cleansing is officially 3 days, I had 4 clear days before the op so on consultation day Chett asked if I would only eat a light evening meal. What I did was eat a large lunch and a snack for dinner.
Day one. You must take only clear liquids such as soup, juice, soda, syrup, coffee or tea, You cannot have milk, bread/toast, rice/noodle, vegetable, meats, fruits. I think the definition of clear liquid is a liquid that contains no other item rather than a transparent liquid.
Day two. Same food restrictions as day one plus at
1700hrs (5pm) you take 2 Dulcolax pills and at
2000hrs (8pm) you have an enema both provided by Dr Chett at your consultation.
Day three. Same food restrictions as previous 2 days plus
0900 (9am) 45cc dose of Swiff and at
1700hrs (5pm) 2nd 45cc dose of swiff. Swiff tastes disgusting but you mix it in a drink of your choice, I used Coca Cola in a huge glass and it was bearable. You are provided with an oral re-hydration powder but I found this to have an even worse taste than the swiff so used Gatorade which had Chetts approval. Although this all sounds horrible and a chore others don't require it was allot more bearable than it sounds and a few days fasting is worth it to have a good result. He wants to ensure your bowel is empty because of the technique he uses. An early bowel movement would be disastrous.
Dr Chett came in and said hi while I was in the recovery room which is where you wait for them to be ready for you. You will be collected from your hotel at 1300 (1pm) and your surgery will be 1500 (3pm) Once you arrive they take you upstairs undress you and put a gown on you then put you in recovery room. This is where you will meet the nurses. They will want you to relax and you will be shaved in the surgery region. This is when Chett popped in and said hi. I have an allergy to Atropine and he wanted to know what happened if I came into contact with it because it is generally used to slow your heart rate during surgery. As allergies go it's not serious unless you are in surgery or attacked by chemical weapons ;D
I saw the anesthetist when they were ready for me. you walk into a room where he will chat to you before knocking you out.
The clinic is very clean. Once you go through reception you are in a clean area where no shoes are allowed. There was always 2 nurses on duty at night. If you are the only patient staying they will sleep in your room on the floor or one will. You are given 2 bed baths a day and provided with toothpaste and a brush at these times. I made an effort to speak Thai so Noi taught me some phrases to make it possible for me to say things like I have some pain or turn the light on or off. English isn't largely spoken but they try. The staff seem very professional but being Thai they won't miss a chance to have some fun if they think you'll join in. Being Irish I started most of it ;D I really enjoyed my time in the clinic.
I have the clinics phone number if I need them and they would know who I am if I called. You get a visit each morning except Sunday. Cee understands enough English to answer any questions and while she seems serious which I think her job requires, Given a chance she'll join in the joking. I certainly made her laugh yesterday. Overall English isn't widely used but then as long as they know what they're doing then which they seem to
I hope this has helped you
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Thanks for the update! It's really great information to have, speaking as someone who is going to go throught it in the near future!
I'm glad your depth turned out ok. Good luck in your recovery! :D
Quote from: SarahSchilling on April 07, 2015, 10:26:17 PM
Thanks for the update! It's really great information to have, speaking as someone who is going to go throught it in the near future!
I'm glad your depth turned out ok. Good luck in your recovery! :D
Thank you Sarah, I hope all goes well for you as well when the time comes :)
Hugs
Sorcha :)
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 07, 2015, 03:46:08 PM
How are you finding the dilations?
Simple answer is it was a painful introduction to dilation. I was too tense and so as they inserted the dilator I clamped my vagina on it and made it impossible for Cee to get it in. Noi was smart though and attacked my feet and toes which was a distraction. Cee eventually managed to relax me and get very slightly more depth than yesterday. Noi gave my feet and legs a massage while I kept the wand in for 15 minutes. Cee then showed me how to clean up and said I'm not to try it myself tomorrow until they arrive :)
I am not going to worry so much tomorrow because I get rid of the catheter and then I am free from things that have followed me around for over a week. :) I've christened tomorrow Incontinence Day as it seems many post ops have issues with their bladder for a while once the catheter is removed. I have some Pants from Tesco Lotus to buy me some time just in case. I don't want to wet my new mattress ;D ;D
More tomorrow
Hugs
Sorcha ;D ;D
Thank you Sorcha (hugs)
Yes, it is all very helpful to know what to expect.
Are there many other patients at the Rama villas and is it easy to connect with them? Do the women help each other out do you you know?
I will be traveling alone and my biggest worry is being able to take care of myself and loneliness after being moved out of the clinic.
me too I will be going there in Oct and solo!! I'm so nervous
Quote from: SorchaC on April 08, 2015, 03:16:44 AM
Noi was smart though and attacked my feet and toes which was a distraction.
The image of someone tickling your feet to distract you definitely made me chuckle... It will get easier, I'm sure!
Hugs
Julia
Hi TreeLB :)
There are a few other trans here right now. You see them at breakfast in the days leading up to your surgery and can always connect then and once you can get out into the Soi you will see them as the hotel tend to keep all Dr Chetts patients together to make it easier on Cee and Noi. I am sure some who are here when both you and Bootifulone are here will have partners with them who can do shopping runs if needed like my partner is doing and would happily do for others if they needed it. I can understand the potential lonliness of being alone and the nurses being a welcome visitor just for the company but you will get to know others because after all you're all in the same boat.
I am sure once you get here and settle in you will feel right at home. The nurses are very good at knowing when someone needs help and I am fairly certain they would ask one of the other patients who is fit to maybe look in and make friends if they thought you needed it.
What you really shouldn't do is stress too much about it. If you make the plans before leaving home and then put them in place during the 3 days you have before the op then you will definitely get through. The only thing you need to bring from home is yourself and the medical things for Chett everything else can be gotten here. This is a really quiet part of Bangkok and the cottages are even more quiet because of the surrounding trees. If you want to see the craziness that is the tourist areas of Bangkok you can get a taxi to either Hua Mak ART station or On Nut BTS station and then make your way from either. I did a couple of excursions into the center while setting up the room and I am determined to get a nice photo of downtown Bangkok all light up before I leave.
keep thinking of the questions as I will happily answer them.
Hugs
Sorcha :)
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 08, 2015, 04:53:32 PM
The image of someone tickling your feet to distract you definitely made me chuckle... It will get easier, I'm sure!
Hugs Julia,
The initial assault was slightly more violent than a tickle but she eased off once she had my attention ;D ;D I have been shocked by Noi having a thing for attacking feet because one of the big no no's here is to point the sole of your feet at someone because the sole of the foot is considered unclean but Noi has certainly not been put off when she needed to distract me.
Today's update is one of interest. Last night I had my first bowel movement and apart from some initial discomfort from it needing assistance to come out as it was stuck there seems to be no damage to me or my lovely new vagina.
Cee removed the catheter earlier and I am surprised to be able to report it didn't hurt. There was a sensation like I was having a pee but they had me doing deep breathing exercises before and during and that did it.
I did my first dilation where I inserted the wand myself, I wasn't too good at it and it took a bit of time before I got it to full depth and now I have to have a go at it tonight all on my own. I can see I am going to have to find a relaxation technique and pretty quickly. I have to start 3 times a day tomorrow. Noi taught me 2 new Thai words today, Von which is hot and Lon which is is very. She said Sorcha is Lon Von. If I needed a confidence boost being called very hot did it. Being honest she was referring to me profusely sweating whilst trying to dilate. i am still going to remember what Noi said next time I feel a bit low.
More tomorrow
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hey very hot Sorcha
OH wow, so a full on assault on your feeties - my heavens. I guess these nurses have an enormous experience of dealing with people who are rather concerned with their new anatomy, and this is evidence of it. Personally I think it shows a dedication that is more than praiseworthy!
Brilliant to hear that all bodily functions have resumed adequately enough for now.
Apart from some horrendously sore physio when I broke my wrist last year, I've not experienced deliberately putting myself in pain, even if this cause is good. But if my wrist was anything to go by, dilation will be pretty similar on the scale of sweating and trembling. The things we put ourselves through.... And in my case there will also be massages to newly implanted breasties to add to the dilation. I must be nuts.
You're doing exceptionally well, and I look forward to tomorrow's "Letter from Bangkok".
Hugs
Julia
Thank you Sorcha
Aside from the beds being uncomfortable are is room alright? Does it have good internet? Does house keeping come daily? Are the staff at the hotel friendly and helpful?
Sorry for so many questions.
Your posts are awesome and helping so much to ease my mind about this trip.
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 09, 2015, 09:49:33 AM
Hey very hot Sorcha
OH wow, so a full on assault on your feeties - my heavens. I guess these nurses have an enormous experience of dealing with people who are rather concerned with their new anatomy, and this is evidence of it. Personally I think it shows a dedication that is more than praiseworthy!
I agree Julia, They are very dedicated and want to help you do well. Thai's don't like shows of unhappiness or anger and this could also include you being in pain, That could also be why Noi seems to want to distract me from being noisy when pain strikes. :o :o They love hearing you laugh and tell jokes. I was just chatting to a lovely Trans girl who is over at Dusit Princess and rang me. I am informed Noi is planning a party here on Thursday next week for Songkran and she intends following the usual Thai custom of throwing water at us. :o :o I remember threatening her with a soaking next week and saying she is allowed to soak me as long as it's not when I'm in bed so it seems she has decided to make a party of it. >:-) >:-) My friend in Dusit Princess has been given permission to come here and be soaked too ;D ;D I am sure if I were the type to complain allot or was always too serious with them then they wouldn't be planning to come and have fun. ;D
Today's Letter from Bangkok has to include an update on the water works. So far my passing water has gone really well with no signs of incontinence. I won't claim I'm free of it until I've gone 2 nights without any accidents. Dilation is now all in my hands. I needed some alcohol last night to relax me but this mornings effort I did without anything to relax me. One of our lovely American friends here has offered to come and assist me if I really struggle as she is a couple ahead of me in recovery I thought that was a lovely offer. There is a thriving community of friends growing here and I have to feel sorry for a group of Asian Guys who have just been billeted in Trans Alley because I'm sure they never asked to be surrounded by a group of recovering SRS patients some of whom have their partners with them.
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 09, 2015, 09:49:33 AM
You're doing exceptionally well, and I look forward to tomorrow's "Letter from Bangkok".
Bernadette seems to think I'm doing well so maybe I am. I feel great and am getting stronger each day. Cee has said everything looks good. I showed a photo to my friend at Dusit and she said it looks like a porn stars vagina ;D ;D I am wounded by such comments as I don't have a porn stars body to go with it >:-) >:-)
Tomorrows Letter from Bangkok will include details of my 6am wake up call for an early nurses visit. Until then take care and remember. Those of us who are currently keeping Chett busy hope y'all come over soon
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: treeLB on April 09, 2015, 12:10:19 PM
Aside from the beds being uncomfortable are is room alright? Does it have good internet? Does house keeping come daily? Are the staff at the hotel friendly and helpful?
There are 3 reasonably fast internet channels you can log onto. It will depend on where you are which is the strongest. We also bought a Thai sim card for Bernadettes old phone and an add on package which gave us 30 days 3G internet, The packages came from DTAC in Bangkok Airport but they have stores inside most Tesco Lotus. You get 12GB at up to 42mbps and then once you've used the 12Gb you can carry on using the internet until your 30 days expire at 384kbps. The cost is 49 baht for the card and 1040 Baht for the internet. That works out at just over $US30 for the pair.
House keeping comes every morning. There is a card in the Patio Doors that you change from do not disturb to Please make up my room when you want them in and they will be around until 2 pm if you want a lie in or you are dilating.
The hotel staff are very nice when you approach them. There is a guard on the door to reception who will open the door as you approach. Reception speak reasonable English and are very friendly. The gaurd can get you a taxi and there are other security guards around in their own huts who are always friendly.
This is a great place to recover and the other patients will always want some company just as you will so you will make friends as well :)
Hope this helps. if you need any further help please ask
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
It's time for an update ;D We have had the daily visits except yesterday because they don't call Sundays. I've passed the 48 hour test for learning to pee as I can report that I had no issues with that. I didn't suffer with incontinence even at night. Dilation is becoming easier and I am doing it 3 times a day for 30 minutes per session. I have christened number 1 Tiny Tim because it's the smallest of my 4 boyfriends ;D ;D ;D ;D
We come to Saturday ;D A rare night in my stay here and those others that came over to chat. Jenna who was the SRS patient Dr Chett did before me who kept the bed warm for me in the clinic visited from Dusit Princess, It was her first excursion from her room made by taxi ;D The 2 lovely Americans who are staying nearby and another trans who is here for a revision joined Bernadette and I for an evening of conversation great food which Bernadette provided and a few wee drinkies that I provided. The food did justice to our kitchen. We had Satay Chicken as an entree followed by White Rice, Mung Dal and a stir fry Chicken. The food bill was less than $10 and the drinks without my bottle of Glenmorangie were less than $15. It was one of those nights when all our months of anticipation and years of apprehension were finally able to be released. We'd all finally got free of the past apart from poor Bernadette who has all this to come but she'll have me to nurse her and I'll do as good a job as ever could be done because that's what you do for those you love and Bernadette is a huge reason why I've recovered so well :)
Today is the start of Songkran which is Thai new year. The nurses are visiting family so they won't be here until late afternoon. They are planning a water ceremony like most Thais have but we have armed ourselves with water pistols and we are planning for the water fight at Trans Alley ;D ;D ;D some time Thursday
More later folks on how recovery is going. Once I can get out fully I'll do a review of London Street which is a nearby restaurant complex and include info on dinning options whilst recovering
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: SorchaC on April 13, 2015, 12:48:18 AM
More later folks on how recovery is going. Once I can get out fully I'll do a review of London Street which is a nearby restaurant complex and include info on dinning options whilst recovering
Now this is going to be really useful, so please don't stint - try everything :D
I do like the sound of a wee dram of Glenmorangie too...
Hugs
Julia
Congratulations Sorcha. You must be so happy with the choices you've made to get where you are now.
Quote from: AnonyMs on April 13, 2015, 02:22:53 AM
Congratulations Sorcha. You must be so happy with the choices you've made to get where you are now.
Thank you AnonyMs :) Yes the choices have worked out really well. Healing has gone well so far apart from the sudden nerve pains as they are reconnecting. Dilation is also a pain literally ;D
The nurses came and soaked our hands in the traditional manner, Then Noi took my water pistol and because I was wearing a white T Shirt she soaked me on the breast area ;D ;D We then had a water fight in the room with both nurses
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hi folks,
I haven't forgotten you I promise ;D Most of the gang I was hanging out with have now gone home :( The Dusty Princess being the last to go yesterday. During this trip I've met 6 of Dr Chetts SRS patients if you include me and none of us have a complaint about the outcome of our ops. I hope that gives some confidence to those who are reading this and are going to be here in the future.
Tomorrow is a big day as I get to see Chett for my follow up appointment. I am expecting him to want to do a revision on a minor cosmetic appearance issue but otherwise he will be pleased with his work as I am as well. It will be the last time I see Noi as well as she goes on vacation tomorrow. I will miss her but as I am donating all the stuff we bought for the kitchen to her she won't forget me ;D Cee told me today if I come back to Bangkok I am to contact them and they will arrange for us all to go out to dinner and Chett will inspect the work he did which I thought was lovely. ;D
I am still compiling a report on food outlets nearby so that I will post next week when I'm home. Overall the experience has been wonderful and very beneficial to my lovely Bernadette. It has inspired her so much she's telling me to go and get FFS done this year but that I must go without her :o :o I'm not sure if she just wants a break from me or of she thinks I look bad but I do love a nice trip ;D
More after seeing Chett
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hey Sorcha
We kind of guessed that you were having a great social life out there... meantime the rest of us are at our desks, rowing away... looking longingly out of the window from time to time ... ;)
Hugs
J
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 21, 2015, 01:56:39 AM
Hey Sorcha
We kind of guessed that you were having a great social life out there... meantime the rest of us are at our desks, rowing away... looking longingly out of the window from time to time ... ;)
I did have to stop socialising long enough to dilate 3 times a day except the couple of times we had communal dilations when Dusty Princess came over :)
It will be your turn soon Julia and I'm looking forward to your thread :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
I'm so glad everything's going well for you Sorcha! :)
Really hoping no one tries to tickle my feet when i'm there in a little over a month though. I would trash violently lol.
Hi Sorcha,
Sounds like you are doing really well. I am so pleased for you. You have also put my mind at ease somewhat.
As a matter of interest for me, how long is your stay and are you happy with the amount of time you have spent recuperating or would you rather have had more or less time?
Also, you have had Saint Bernadette waiting on you hand and foot ( ;)). What would you have changed about anything had you been on your own?
Just thinking .....
Emma
Quote from: SarahSchilling on April 21, 2015, 02:48:26 AM
I'm so glad everything's going well for you Sorcha! :)
Really hoping no one tries to tickle my feet when i'm there in a little over a month though. I would trash violently lol.
Thank you Sarah, I also understand you Sarah :) Noi is fairly rough on toes. If you've ever had a Thai foot massage you'll know how rough it can be. She seems to want to cause pain enough to distract you from whatever pain you're feeling from what Cee is doing. Then she massages your calf to soothe you but maybe if she touches your feet let her know right away you don't like it ;D
Thanks Emma ;D
Saint Bernadette, hmmm I'm not sure she's a saint but you definitely made her smile :)
I have now been here 21 days post op with 4 more left until we head home, For me it is about the right amount of time due to how hard it is to sit for long periods. I would not enjoy sitting in economy on a plane for nearly 10 hours if I was flying home today but that doesn't mean I cannot get around fairly easily for short durations. You really need to find distractions though as being alone and staying in your room for long periods would be hard. I am grateful Bernadette insisted on us returning home Business Class because I can lie virtually flat out all the way home.
If I hadn't had pricing problems with Dusit Princess we would have stayed there. Based on what I knew before coming here I would have advised people coming alone to stay at the Dusit as getting food would be easier post op. We visited our friend at the Dusit last week and sampled the food there in the buffet restaurant and once they saw my donut I was not allowed to do anything, The staff ran around getting me food and drink and anything else I needed. If I were doing this alone with what I know now I would have to weigh up what was more important to me. Socialising is easier here at The Rama but the Dusit is more comfortable. If I am required to have a revision I am going to use Dr Chetts 3rd hotel, The Vertical Suites which is located about 300m from Dusit Princess on the opposite side of the road from Paradise Park Shopping Center. They have 1 and 2 bedroom Suites with fully equipped kitchens including washing machine. Being so close to Seacon Square means you can easily stock up on supplies. I can see benefits in being here alone but would still advise people where they can to bring a friend or family member as that really makes recovery allot easier.
More soon
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Well folks going home day is upon me.
At my post op consultation Dr Chett was in fine form. ;D He excitedly declared that mine was the best result he'd ever achieved. I don't think aesthetically it looks so good as I have loose skin that will need a revision but in terms of what he had to work with at the start to have got the result he did is what pleased him so much. All the nurses wanted a hug especially Noi who was going on vacation that day. Dr Chett posed for photo's then asked for a hug after doing an FFS consultation on me. Cee or it could be Sri even :o :o said "If I come to Thailand again we can all go for dinner including Dr Chett." :o As for the revision it was not important to have it done so he didn't think it needs a special trip but if I come back he will do it maybe at the same time as FFS. I'm thinking mid November while Bernadette is away with work, ;D ;D
I've got loads of info which will be included with my next post after I'm home about shopping and dinning options ;D so please keep an eye out for that. I shall miss the attention and the daily nurse visits but I came to collect a vagina and I have one now. I said before leaving Australia I counted success as surviving the op as well as getting some depth and then being recovered enough I could walk to my plane unaided and I've achieved all 3 I think so I'm returning hoe happy knowing I get to come back in a few months ;D ;D ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Safe trip back, Sorcha. We're looking forward to your post-trip report!
Hugs
Julia
Thank you Sorcha and very happy it has all gone well for you. Have a safe trip home and I will look forward to any more information you have to share. My PM's here seem to have been messed up and lost, it says I have a new one but nothing is there so if you have tried to pm again that is why I have not answered. Best to you hugs
Well I got home. There is allot I want to write so that will have to wait until tomorrow. Cee asked me on her final visit yesterday could the driver collect me early to take us the airport so I agreed as I like to be helpful however it wrecked the whole plan for the day and cost me a dilation which I certainly felt the affects of this morning. I was supposed to dilate at 12.30pm before being collected at 3pm but he came at 1pm meaning a mad dash to be packed and no dilation. We were also in the airport for 5 hours before departure and sitting even on my donut became hard so I give thanks to Bernadette for insisting on Business Class as I couldn't have sat a further 10 hours in economy then dealt with Customs and the chaotic way things were organised at Sydney Airport this morning.
I've managed 2 dilations so far today and after initial pain getting number 1 in 1st time things seem to have gone back to normal after a very long 1st session.
I have things for everyone in a pretty long post I'll try and do tomorrow but for now i thank Julia and Tree for the good wishes and I hope you solve your pm issues Tree ;D It's not that I want to delay writing but I want to properly construct the post so it doesn't turn into a long rambling mess.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D ;D
Welcome home, both of you. I am so glad things are going OK for you Sorcha and you navigated the travel problem OK. I am looking forward to reading more of your reflections. In the meantime, take good care of yourself.
Hugs
Emma
Welcome home girl. I hope you have a good post-op . It's a delicate surgery and you should be relaxed.
Hugs
OK folks today I moved up to number 3 dilator exactly 4 weeks since the op. I'm not usually one to swear or use foul language but I did today. It took me 20 minutes to get 4 inches of depth and it wasn't a nice experience but then I had heard more than one story of how bad it was, Maybe that made relaxing a problem. I'm also struggling to get a nice dilation position here at home. I am preparing the spare bedroom as a dilation room in the hope that helps. That's also why my previously mention reflections post is delayed.
Bernadette has banned me from all housework for at least 2 weeks meaning she spent all yesterday doing post trip washing and making a supply of food for the week as she is back in work today and away for the weekend with work. I'm being abandoned :o :o
The post will be up within 24 hours but for now back to work getting my dilation room ready
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Reflections on a wonderful month in Bangkok,
One of the most common complaints about going to Thailand with any surgeon is the lack of English spoken and while I agree there isn't allot I never found a time where I couldn't get my point across if I made a bit of an effort. Chett certainly manages to make himself understood and the nurses that visit the hotel are understandable. Noi will try and teach you Thai phrases because Fan and Dan are not as good as the others so the phrases come in handy. While on the subject of English, If you're bringing a friend with you it is advisable that they obtain a card from reception and Chetts place giving the location and address in Thai because very few Thai taxi Drivers have good English and you don't want to miss out on precious visits due to Taxi's getting lost. Chetts drivers know what they are doing and while there won't be a running chat throughout the journey that is probably a good thing considering the way Thai's drive.
THE SURGERY CENTER
Apart from the obvious reason why this is an important part of your stay in Bangkok (The op). This is also somewhere you'll live for almost 5 days. The biggest concern for me about this is the walk down stairs post op most patients seem to have to do. For me it was about 8 hours after coming out of surgery, I was woken up at 0600 for some checks but then fell back to sleep only to be woken up at 0700 and I was told I needed a morphine shot which was news to me as I had no pain at all. No sooner had they done that and a pulse and BP check than they told me it was time to change rooms. 3 nurses helped me out of bed and to the top of the stairs and Rose the admin lady was stood at the bottom of the stairs to catch me if I fell. The smallest of the nurses Dan was stood a stair below me and with the best will in the world if I'd fallen being about twice her weight and about a foot taller the end result was going to be both of us landing on Rose with a strong possibility of the 2 behind me landing on us all leaving Chett without a nursing team. This is definitely a potential danger that Chett should find a solution to until his planned Hospital is completed and open. Once in your new home you can expect to be mainly left alone. The TV works with mostly Thai channels so bring your own entertainment. You will be given 2 bed baths a day which is probably why you are left naked all the time you're in bed. They will provide a toothbrush and paste twice a day also. The nursing staff are excellent and one of them will sleep either in your room or just outside the door each night you're there. You could get lucky and have 2 of them in your room. The journey back to my hotel was about the most painful experience I had because the car was too small for me to easily get into. This was partly due to the seat being in the wrong position and partly because I was rather tender. Noi fixed that and distracted me with a shoulder and neck massage all the way there. I think Chett should get a mini van with seats in that we could lie on and that would be more comfortable.
THE HOTEL
Overall Bangkok Rama was an adequate location for recovery but a few notes about this for them due there soon. The advertised 80 channels of cable TV isn't operational, Most rooms have had their boxes removed. You can still get Thai Channels but nothing on the list left in the room. The internet will have drop outs in service but overall is quite fast. On a speed test we got 35mbps download and nearly 4mbps upload speed which is faster than we currently have at home. Currently the spa and beauty salon are closed due to ongoing work on the main hotel building. There is a gym but it isn't air conditioned so most people seemed to find having a work out too hard. The pool looks lovely but I cannot say how nice swimming in it was as I never had a go.
The advantage Bangkok Rama has over Dusit Princess is the ability to mix with others in your Soi, The commonly termed Trans Alley. Those travelling alone could find this extremely useful as a way of meeting like minded people who you can share your experience with and maybe later in recovery offer assistance to. If you are looking for a bit of luxury then Dusit Princess wins. Depending upon what you have decided to do for food this could also make a difference as to which hotel you choose. If you plan on cooking your own then Bangkok Rama is the place as you have a kitchen which you can add equipment too. The hotel will hire you a microwave for 2000 Baht a week if you're staying a month but we bought one for 2190 and cheaper ones are available. I will get to food later in the post. The hotel give you for free 2 bottles of drinking water as well as 2 small bottles of soda (Sprite and Coca Cola) per day for free after that you have to purchase your own.
FOOD AND SHOPPING
The nearest station to the Rama is Hua Mak which takes you towards city. There you can join BTS Skytrain to Siam where there are a few rather large and busy Shopping malls. A Taxi to Hua Mak will cost 40-50 Baht depending upon traffic. The nearest BTS station is On Nut which will also take you to Siam or if you're feeling really adventurous Chattachuk where the weekend market is and if you haggle many bargains await. A taxi to On Nut is about 90 Baht. Tesco Lotus stock allot of goods but if you're stocking a kitchen in one shopping trip it could be worth spending the 60-70 Baht taxi fare each way and visit Seacon Square which is near Dusit Princess. You'' find most things anybody could want and a few things you likely won't want.
For food. Tesco Lotus offer most food needed to make a meal but they seem rather slow at re stocking the shelves so items may not be available when you want them. They do however have ready to cook meals made fresh each day that cost 1-=20 Baht each and can easily be heated up in a microwave. Then we have the food available around the hotel. The hotel restaurant will offer room service but the price quoted in the room menu doesn't include service charge and tax (17%) and a 20% delivery fee unless you can negotiate with them to deliver free as you're a Chett patient unable to leave your room. I know some have done this successfully. There is every kind of street food available all along Pattanakarn Road but I was warned off trying it by Bernadette who grew up in Sri Lanka and learnt to not trust most food cooked. There are a number of restaurants close by mostly catering to locals which looked pretty unappealing in my opinion. Cleanliness was an issue for me as food seemed to be left uncovered leaving me concerned about hygiene. Across Pattanakarn Road the newly opened London Street complex boasts 2 Japanese, A Thai and Korean Restaurant. We tried the Korean and the food was wholesome if not spectacular but the English spoken was really poor so you have to be confident to order. The menu does contain English translations of the names which is a help. I also enjoyed the Thai place. They do better with English but both places have friendly staff who are attentive. Again you have English translations on the menu. What I found odd about London Street was it is a building made on the outside to resemble the UK Houses of Parliament and has a replica London Bus and taxi but no English type food outlet. Maybe that's planed for a future expansion. Near Tesco Lotus is a 24 hour KFC and further along the road is a McDonalds for those not wanting local cusine.
Well folks I could write more but Susan may ban me for posting a huge post so I'll stop here. Please ask any questions you want but if I've said something you disagree with please be nice, These are my personal opinions not based on any loyalty or favour and I may like different things to you or others.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D ;D
Thanks for the information, Sorcha.
I'm glad everything went well for you!
The trip down the stairs sounds rather interesting lol....especially on morphine. :P
Quote from: SarahSchilling on April 28, 2015, 11:46:49 PM
Thanks for the information, Sorcha.
I'm glad everything went well for you!
The trip down the stairs sounds rather interesting lol....especially on morphine. :P
Pleasure Sarah ;D I decided I was safer if they all let go of me and I held the hand rail so I made them all move once i had the rail and wa on the 2nd top stair. Slow walk one step at a time then let them grab you at the bottom. I've heard from one girl she woke up downstairs but she was very slender so maybe they walk you if they don't fancy carrying you or don't think they could cary you.. Some unlucky girls have to walk to their cottage on the way back from the clinic if the buggy is busy, I got a lift but was very uncomfortable
Good luck for your surgery Sarah
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Thanks! I wonder if they'll carry me. I'm pretty slender (5'9'' 125 lbs).
Everything of mine has been approved and my surgeries paid for so I'm just in waiting mode for another month! lol
Quote from: SarahSchilling on April 29, 2015, 12:18:40 AM
Everything of mine has been approved and my surgeries paid for so I'm just in waiting mode for another month! lol
It will soon pass and then you'll be a postie :)
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hey Sorcha
Thanks so much for your nice long "practicalities" email. It will definitely help me, no doubt.
How are you evolving since getting home?
Hugs
Julia
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 29, 2015, 01:54:02 AM
Thanks so much for your nice long "practicalities" email. It will definitely help me, no doubt.
How are you evolving since getting home?
It's a pleasure Julia,
I am settling in at home although I miss the attention and the friends I made in Bangkok :) I am finding dilation to be a struggle when number 3 comes out the case. I think Chett gave me one that soaks up the lube and expands ;D I have managed to get it to 5.5 inches but then I couldn't walk for 10 minutes :o
Overall I think my progress is good, I have an appointment to see my GP on Monday and as she's had a few patients go through the operation she will have a good idea how I am progressing. I will report on that on Monday.
Hope you are doing well in your preparations?
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Hi Sorcha
That's reasonable progress then for you :D
I'm progressing nicely... The Soul Source dilators are on their way (I'm being an optimist ha ha); and the only things still to do are get my second recommendation letter and a couple of medical tests. Ah, and the visa - what a pain that you need one if the visit exceeds 30 days, which mine does by a couple of days!
Hugs
Julia
Quote from: Julia-Madrid on April 29, 2015, 09:33:02 AM
I'm progressing nicely... The Soul Source dilators are on their way (I'm being an optimist ha ha); and the only things still to do are get my second recommendation letter and a couple of medical tests. Ah, and the visa - what a pain that you need one if the visit exceeds 30 days, which mine does by a couple of days!
I think getting the 2nd letter from Home works out cheaper for most people, 9500 Baht is rather allot of money for a short trip to a psyche. :)
The visa is a complication I'd sooner have not had but having it made entry to Bangkok allot easier. Most people arriving don't have a visa so the visa on arrival queue is longer than the one for people with visa's and they don't take long to obtain. I'd also strongly advise that you don't hang around when getting off the plane. Depending upon your airline and the time of arrival the fewer people that are ahead of you from your flight the better. As I was walking from the plane I saw a Thai Airways A380 opening the doors and thought I best get a hurry on that thing has over 400 seats. Poor Bernadette said she had to almost fly to keep up with me ;D
You'll love it once you get there because then you can relax, if you've forgotten anything it can be bought there, Apart from that once you've seen Chett and got your instructions for bowel cleaning you have 3 full days to do whatever you want ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Ok then folks I have reached 3 months and thought I should post an update and let you all know how I found the recovery since my last post.
Well the first and probably only issue I faced was lube. I found the lubes on offer here to be a bit too watery, I had followed a few threads on here where folks discussed lube and tried 3 I found in the local Chemist Warehouse, I even tried the Sweet Almond Oil I used for massage as that was mentioned on here as well. While they all worked I wasn't finding dilation a pleasant experience at all. Undeterred I contacted Som and explained I was struggling and didn't really feel able to move on to number 4 as Dr Chett said I should be at the start of my 9th week. I received a message from Chett excusing me from moving up until I am ready but also informing me that Thai Post Office won't ship Q-C as it's a gel. He said KY Jelly which I tried but to no avail. Number 1 and 2 were ok but 3 was hard and I was by this time viewing number 4 as a scary vagina breaking accident I didn't want to have. I found a supplier of Q-C in Singapore who used a courier to ship me 10kgs or 117 tubes of Q-C without any issues. First go at using number 4 and I got full depth with very little pain so I viewed it all as a success. My recommendation to all those going there is take samples of the lube with you so that you can decide before heading home if you can do it with what's available locally. it is not just a case of stopping potential pain but also economics. Q-C can be bought from Chett for 60 baht (AU$2.25) a 50g tube. KY Jelly here is $5 for 50g tube and $8.95 an 84g tube. If I'd paid Qantas $122 for 5kgs of excess luggage and bought 59 tubes from Chett It would still have worked out cheaper ($4.31) per tube than buying KY locally. I actually only had 28kgs of luggage and as I flew business class as did Bernadette we could have brought Chetts entire stock home without any excess charges ;D
All my stitches fell out in about week 7 but as I never bled at any point since my op I can only assume that I was healed enough at this point. Not sure why they all fell out overnight, I thought here we go I will suffer now but thankfully I never. Just shows the skill Chett has I suppose.
Dilation has become pretty much a pest, I am not having any issues with the dilation just the frequency, As I'm not currently working I have the time for it but it does get repetitive. I decided that while I have the time to devote I should as it will help my healing to use the time. I have a couple of friends who have suffered from missing out on dilations so I would advise all who can to stick to the routine where possible.
Just as a 3 months present I believe or maybe it was a thank you for being nice and taking care from my vagina ;D I managed quite by accident (I insist) ;D ;D to orgasm a few days back. Thankfully I was all alone at the time or I'd have been slightly embarrassed by it all. It wasn't earth shattering and I hope it gets better with healing but it does prove that Chett put everything in the right places and also means I've passed the final test to making the whole surgical outcome successful.
I do need a small revision but that will happen when I can get there to have it done, (fingers crossed for November) Overall I am extremely pleased with what Chett did and how well I've recovered. The sitting pain was the last thing to go but it did by week 10 unless I sat in the wrong position but then I should have known better.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Really glad to hear you are doing so well..and holly crap you had an orgasm already? I'm still hurting so bad I have not been able to imagine having any kind of pleasure down there but you give me hope!
Quote from: SorchaC on July 01, 2015, 09:49:59 PM
I found a supplier of Q-C in Singapore who used a courier to ship me 10kgs or 117 tubes of Q-C without any issues. First go at using number 4 and I got full depth with very little pain so I viewed it all as a success.
Hi Sorcha, could you post a link to the supplier so others can find it.
You could have a look here:
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,190515.msg1697107.html#msg1697107
concerning douche some docs say its not necessary...
and here:
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,68720.msg463356.html#msg463356
I then got from a health food store a probioitic designed for the vagina and is inserted into the vagina. It will fix the vagina flora. You'll get some discharge after from the pill dissolving, and you'll use it for a few days, laying down and inserting it at night.
That pill made a huge difference. I smell and taste amazing. I feel healthier down there and all over. I self-lube better. And I haven't had any re-occurring yeast infections or BV. I swear by this product! I've read on other forms about it, which other people also swear by -- I've read stories of women having problems for 10 years and taking a vaginal probiotic stopped it.
quite a few people dilate with pure organic coconut oil, it has antiviral properties... and some say it helps with keeping tissue soft...
and many people use the probiotic pessaries...
just talk it through with your doc...
hugs
Quote from: Laura_7 on July 02, 2015, 10:00:12 AM
quite a few people dilate with pure organic coconut oil, it has antiviral properties... and some say it helps with keeping tissue soft...
I thought you're not supposed to use that kind of thing in the early days after surgery?
Quote from: AnonyMs on July 02, 2015, 10:34:19 AM
I thought you're not supposed to use that kind of thing in the early days after surgery?
Docs have different specifications... often they specify for the first days or weeks after surgery...
afterwards some people ask med personnel close to their home, if possible aquainted with tg issues, as in the first link above...
"My gynecologist who is experienced with transgenders with srs instructed me to use neosporin, coconut oil to dilate, and cicaplast as well as vitamin E oil/serum. So far my healing is going phenomenally faster than I ever imagined."
There are quite a few others who also use coconut oil... as said, they say it softens the tissue...
well 3 months imo is quite a few days from surgery...
as said, talk it all through with your doc...
Quote from: AnonyMs on July 02, 2015, 09:25:59 AM
Hi Sorcha, could you post a link to the supplier so others can find it.
I am not sure if I'm allowed to post a link because it would be advertising but I'll risk breaking a rule and name the company, Rehab Mart is their name. If anyone wants a link they can pm me and I'll be glad to give them the nice lady's name :)
Thanks Laura for the info, I am not sure what my GP would make of the products mentioned but I can ask. Last time she inspected me she told me "Whatever you're doing to protect the wound, Keep doing it because it looks great" I should have a 3 month check up as well and may do that next week. I will ask her to also check the flora and internal healing. Chett doesn't need a photo until 6 months post op and from viewing my timeline of recovery photo's I can see why he says that as I am still pretty red in parts down there so allot more healing has to be done.
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: treeLB on July 01, 2015, 10:59:57 PM
Really glad to hear you are doing so well..and holly crap you had an orgasm already? I'm still hurting so bad I have not been able to imagine having any kind of pleasure down there but you give me hope!
Hi Tree :)
You know where i am if you need me and I am really sure you have gotten through the worst of it all now. Things will start improving and you'll see just how amazing what you have is ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
If you are still looking for lube in Australia, try this place https://www.paralogic.com.au/lubricating-jelly/
Is the same as the QC stuff
Quote from: Katekate on December 29, 2015, 03:10:47 PM
If you are still looking for lube in Australia, try this place https://www.paralogic.com.au/lubricating-jelly/
Is the same as the QC stuff
Thank you :) I may give it a try, I have a pretty large supply of Q-C from my last trip to Bangkok when I bought 150 tubes and put them in my luggage ;D I am going back next year and have an even bigger luggage allowance this time so will hopefully get more ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Quote from: SorchaC on December 29, 2015, 03:39:52 PM
Thank you :) I may give it a try, I have a pretty large supply of Q-C from my last trip to Bangkok when I bought 150 tubes and put them in my luggage ;D I am going back next year and have an even bigger luggage allowance this time so will hopefully get more ;D
Hugs
Sorcha ;D
Have you tried coconut oil, pure, organic ?
Many people use it... it has antiviral and antibacterial properties...
just latex free condoms should be used in case then...
hugs
Hey Sorcha,
thank you for your recovery thread. It really helps me. :)
If you are still around, may I ask what the revision was for?
Thank you again, hope you're still doing fine. :)