The time for my FFS is fast approaching. I fly to Bangkok a week on Monday with surgery scheduled a fortnight Friday with Dr Sutin from the Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI) performing at Piyvate Hospital.
I was wondering if people have any tips for me? I'm thinking before and particularly after surgery? Any creams etc? Do ice packs work? How active can you be? And a million other questions!
The procedures I'm having are:
1. Hair advance and full brow lift with orbital rim shave
2. Tipplasty and alarplasty
3. Full face lift
I may also ask in my pre-op consultation if Dr Sutin can put in a small upper lip lift which I believe is a very simple procedure.
Any thoughts gratefully received. Thank you :) xx
I can't offer any advise but good luck i go to thailand often so i look forward to hearing of your progress ☺
I thought this was today, not in two weeks -- my mistake!
First of all, when it comes to aftercare, follow your surgeon's instructions -- and you might want to check in ahead of time with him as what those instructions will be, so you can have everything prepared. I was given compression garments and icepacks for my head, but I had the full gamut of bone work done; Dr Sutin might have you on a different regimen. He might recommend particular products and mini-massages to minimize your scars, for example. And definitely follow his instructions as far as when to get up and about, and how much to push yourself (or not, as the case may be).
With the scalp advancement, be prepared for numbness on the top of your head, from the crown to the forehead incision. It feels a bit weird, but it's not unpleasant. It takes months for sensation to return.
The brow work may lead to swelling in your eyelids, which can start a couple days after surgery and last for a couple days. Again, this is normal -- fluid builds up in the forehead, and slowly drains down thanks to gravity.
Your nose work (good idea doing a lip lift at the same time, I think, the usual minimum is 3MM) may leave you congested for several days. So you might find you're breathing a lot through your mouth. Make sure you've got good lip balm or Vaseline to keep your lips from drying out.
Other than that, the usual "make sure you're not bored in the hospital" stuff -- bring your laptop, books, movies, etc. And definitely bring your makeup -- there will be bruising, so concealer will be your friend when you want to get up and about.
Wishing you the very best!
Sophie
Fabulous Sophia: thank you so much. I've just started a list with your suggestions :)
I think I've probably been shutting it out (despite transferring the money to PAI) because I know it's going to be putting my body through the ringer. Now I need to get active. Good point re. asking Dr Sutin too in advance before I fly: I will do that shortly.
I've been getting fit, running every day. That running will be out of the question for quite a time but I'm hoping to be able to hop onto the hotel exercise bike just to keep everything ticking over. That's partly for fitness and partly to prevent DVT. Hopefully he will let me ;)
Please make sure you have Internet access so you can keep us all up to date!
I can't imagine being stuck in hospital without Internet.
Hi Rachel,
I think you look already great in your picture. They said that about me too, but they don't see the problem areas that others can see. I think you will look good. Your choice for procedures are excellent. Type III forehead was not required? only orbital rim shave? (which I also had, and has an amazing flat result). I had no swelling around the eyes from it.
Icepacks... didn't do much for me. They put a huge one on top of my head, and when I woke up I felt freezing cold. I asked them to remove it, and I felt good again. After that I used it only couple of times, but not much. Didn't like the cold. (water) Ice cream however, was a lifesaver. But maybe because they worked my mouth.
Yes, be careful with exercise after surgery. Best to walk around. Also a few weeks before surgery, don't strain your body too much and don't deplete it. Walking will be best. Recovery will feel for your body like are running half a marathon. It doesn't know the difference. So instead of healing muscle by too much exercise, let it focus on your face with all the assets it can muster.
What else... tissues! lot's of tissues... q-tips, toilet paper, clean fresh (sterile) water. Flashlight, pocket mirror. Pocket radio... I didn't like staring at screens the first day. Could only open my eyes for 20 seconds max. Headphones were annoying, wireless radio/speaker was good. Maybe some sudo cream? I used it when the antibiotics made me run to the toilet fairly often. Sudo cream on the bum, will prevent a host of annoyance. (which I learned through SRS).
And yes, get the Vaseline for the lips/stitches.
Oh fabulous tips 2Cherry. Thank you so much. I've just extended my list with all of those.
No, funny thing is that I had 4 independent consultations with, I guess, some of the most world-renowned FFS surgeons and they all said the same thing: no type III forehead required. I guess that's one thing I'm very lucky over though I bet those who have it like yourself do look absolutely amazing afterwards. It's a bit of a toss-up actually about my orbital rim shaving. Dr Sutin said it's 50:50 whether I want or need it, which ties in with the others. I 'think' I will but the final decision on that can be in my consultation two days before. On balance I'm probably going to because if they're going to peel back my forehead I may as well get it done once and for all ;D
The other big decision really was about the nose. I've opted for tipplaty and alarplasty but could have had (and still could) full rhinoplasty. That's one of the hardest decisions.
The other thing I'm doing which is being a real wuss in some ways, especially compared to you, is that after the night in hospital I'm having a nurse with me for the first five nights.
Thank you so much for your tips which are absolutely invaluable.
AnonyMs, yes absolutely re. the laptop. I will do!
Slightly scared of this one!!!!
xxx
If you can do the nose, and need it, (or hump), I certainly would do it. The rhino is something I don't really like to re-experience again. No pain, just so much annoyance. :)
My inclination is not to have the full rhino. My nose is straight just a bit wide at the bottom and I'd like an upturn. I've read some good reports on alarplasty and tipplasty which is a lot less invasive so at the moment, unless he urges otherwise, that's what I will stick with I think. 60: 40 ;)
That's a really good point about not straining the body in advance. I had a huge sleep last night which I needed. I'll keep the runs fairly scaled back, as if I was tapering for a marathon.
Quote from: 2cherry on November 15, 2016, 08:40:48 AMWhat else... tissues! lot's of tissues... q-tips, toilet paper, clean fresh (sterile) water. Flashlight, pocket mirror. Pocket radio... I didn't like staring at screens the first day. Could only open my eyes for 20 seconds max. Headphones were annoying, wireless radio/speaker was good.
Oh right, yeah, I couldn't look at my laptop screen for the first couple of days without getting a searing headache. I forgot about that.
Looking at your pics, Rachel, I think you've got the right battery of procedures lined up, btw. And actually, I think a straight nose looks more natural on longer faces, so unless you've got a deviated septum I'd be inclined to avoid the full rhinoplasty as well.
Also, thinking about my own experience, depending on your pain tolerance and how you respond to anesthesia, maybe have some anti-anxiety meds on hand? I was prescribed Xanax and it really helped keep me calm for the first few rough days once I was off the morphine.
That's a great idea. Thank you Sophia. I'm seeing my GP before I go so will ask his advice for the prescription.
Sweet comments too: thank you.
x
Good luck to you! That's great you wont need Type III done....and full rhino is pretty tough too. (having gone thru both myself ~ 2 weeks ago).
I second the q-tips thing. I feel like I've stuck more q-tips up my nose over the last 2 weeks than well I ever have I guess cuz I'd never really stuck q-tips up there before this haha.
1 week post-op or so I was walking around with a hairline scar so I ended up getting some fairly loose hair bands to cover it and I've purchased some beanies that should arrive when I get home as well. I'm gonna be looking like a hipster for a while I think haha.
Definitely keep us appraised of how you're recovering and all that =)
Arnica Montana and Bromelain or Arnika Forte (which is both in one pill).
Take a couple days before surgery and for 5 days post surgery. They help reduce swelling and bruising.
Yes Bromelane! It's naturally found in pineapple. They say a cup a day can help with swelling.
Also my ND got me to get something called "First Intentions" which also has bromelain in it. I of course cleared it with my surgeon though too.
Brilliant! Thank you. I will definitely buy some Bromelane. I use Witch Hazel on my electrolysis burns which works well but that might be a bit gloopy for FFS?
xx
Quote from: I Am Jess on November 15, 2016, 04:13:02 PM
Arnica Montana and Bromelain or Arnika Forte (which is both in one pill).
Take a couple days before surgery and for 5 days post surgery. They help reduce swelling and bruising.
Do NOT take Arnica Montana unless you've tried it already and know that it works for you. For some people, it acts as a poison (http://articles.latimes.com/2010/mar/01/health/la-he-0301-in-practice-20100301) and you'll experience severe stomach pain and skin rashes. I took it after a laser skin resurfacing session because I was told that it would help reduce swelling and bruising. It wasn't until after 2 days on it that I finally figured out that it was literally poisoning my body. Try it out first if you want, while you're healthy. Don't take it for the first time while you're recovering from surgery.
Also, stock up on some good post-op foods. My favorites were pre-packaged yogurt and apple sauce. If you buy a bunch of single-serve containers, it's very convenient!
Good luck with your surgery! :)
Audio books. During the first couple of days, just having your eyes open can be tiring. Also, you may spend a lot of time where your primary occupation is moving ice packs from one place to another. Audio books really pass the time. I listened to the Skookie Stackhouse vampire mysteries, and they were perfect, but whatever you like that is fun and not too intellectual.
Good luck girl! This is the best gift that you can give yourself!
Awww thank you and such fabulous advice pouring in here. I'm building a great list. It's little things beyond the obvious that I'd just never think of, like apple sauce! Love it! :)
x
Quote from: Rhonda Lynn on November 16, 2016, 01:07:54 AM
Audio books. During the first couple of days, just having your eyes open can be tiring. Also, you may spend a lot of time where your primary occupation is moving ice packs from one place to another. Audio books really pass the time. I listened to the Skookie Stackhouse vampire mysteries, and they were perfect, but whatever you like that is fun and not too intellectual.
Good luck girl! This is the best gift that you can give yourself!
I listened to: A Short History of Nearly Everything. It's a huge audio book. Didn't even manage to finish it.
Quote from: EmilyMK03 on November 16, 2016, 12:18:56 AM
Do NOT take Arnica Montana unless you've tried it already and know that it works for you. For some people, it acts as a poison (http://articles.latimes.com/2010/mar/01/health/la-he-0301-in-practice-20100301) and you'll experience severe stomach pain and skin rashes. I took it after a laser skin resurfacing session because I was told that it would help reduce swelling and bruising. It wasn't until after 2 days on it that I finally figured out that it was literally poisoning my body. Try it out first if you want, while you're healthy. Don't take it for the first time while you're recovering from surgery.
wow I'd never heard of that. I've had doctors and surgeons alike recommend it and had great results with both the gel and the oral/sublingual tablets. Good to know it's not for everyone.
Hi sweetie,
I am sorry for my late reply, I just noticed this topic. First of all congratulations on your surgery date. I really hope it goes smooth and i wish you a very successful surgery. My thoughts and positive energy will be with you. I am very much looking forward to your experience and please keep us updated. I don't have any specific advice for what to bring, just remember to stock enough food to last you for the first few days in the hotel as you will no0t look human after the surgery. It takes time before you can get out of your hotel room.
xxxx
That's so lovely of you reborn: thank you. The point about stocking up on food (and water) is vital. It was a mistake I made for my orchiectomy.
I'll keep you posted, promise :)
xxx
Hi everyone,
I'm airside and about to board my flight for Bangkok. It's both exciting but also scary!
A close friend announced that she is coming out later in the week to be with me for some days, both through the op and after. So lovely :)
So it's all systems go!
xxx
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on November 28, 2016, 07:57:48 AM
Hi everyone,
I'm airside and about to board my flight for Bangkok. It's both exciting but also scary!
A close friend announced that she is coming out later in the week to be with me for some days, both through the op and after. So lovely :)
So it's all systems go!
xxx
Yay good luck!!!
Hi everyone,
All tests completed and I have the all-clear for Friday. I also had an excellent consultation with Dr Sutin but this leaves me with one, as yet undecided, choice. I'd love your help with this decision.
Here's what I am definitely having:
Hair advance
Brow lift
Tipplasty (pointing and upturn)
Alarplasty (nose width reduction)
Full face lift including neck liposuction and neck lift
6-7 hours of surgery
The one decision I'm not sure on is my orbital rims. Back in July Dr Sutin thought it was marginal as to whether it was necessary. This has since been confirmed by three other top world facial surgery centres. My forehead generally is flat. At today's consultation Dr Sutin said he thought that 'as a man' I have a very flat orbital brow rim. But that 'as a woman' I would have a 'slightly above average' one. And there's the dilemma. It's $2400 extra for the orbital rim shave and some extra recovery time etc. Is it necessary? Is it advisable? Should I do it? The decision cannot be made for financial reasons and I will never again have my face peeled back so it's now or never.
Argh tough decision! :)
I'd do the extra surgery as long as it didn't have any significant extra risk.
If you don't you'll always wonder if you should have. If you do and it makes no difference, well its only time and money, and pain.
Do it. With the scalp advancement and brow lift, the skin on your forehead will be pulled taut, making the underlying shape of your orbits that much more prominent.
Our eyes are so very important, and opening them up makes a world of difference.
:)
I agree. Do it. Youre forehead/skin/nose is already being worked on so you might as well do that while they're in there working anyway.
I would say: shave the orbital rims. My surgeon also said I would not "really" need it, but I am happy that I did. The flatter the better, as it opens up the eyes so much. And light then falls into your eyes from above, making them brighter. And brightness is feminine. (teeth show, cheeks, eyes)
Recovery is negligible, I don't feel anything from that procedure.
I wish you good luck sweetheart! can't wait to read your post-op story! ;)
Unless the money is really a big deal to you, I don't know why you would regret going ahead with shaving the orbital rims. I think it very likely that you be glad that you did. As others have said, if it were my decision, I would go for it.
Thank you so much girls.
Decision made. $2400 paid an hour ago. Orbital rim shave is duly added to the surgery.
Thank you
;) 8)
xxx
Hi honey,
I think that you made the right decision regarding the orbital rims shave. It will open your eyes making you more feminine. I wish you a very successful surgery. I will be following your progress. Good luck with the surgery again.
Hugs
Awww thank you :) I'm heading to the hospital in an hour.
xx
Well, I hope it all went according to plan... my guess is that you're operated by now? I send you all my well wishing for a speedy recovery. I know it is hard to look at screens when you're just out, and the exhaustion of such surgery. But don't worry, take your time!
Welcome back, new Rachel! :icon_flower: :icon_bunch: :icon_wave: :icon_walk: :icon_joy: :icon_boogy: :eusa_clap:
Hello everyone. Well I am back! 7 hours in theatre and I was pretty mangled afterwards. It was mainly sickness which lasted nearly 24 hours. Pain was ok-ish but it was more discomfort and particularly swelling. This is the first time I can see out of my eyes in any meaningful way.
Dr Sutin held a mirror up to me yesterday and the result is AMAZING. I am completely bowled over and had no idea it would be so dramatic.
Lots of pics to follow I promise but just wanted to tell you that I am okay :)
But, wow, FFS is serious surgery!!!!! I couldn't believe how wiped I would be by it. Felt pretty grotty for 36 hours. But I'm slowly picking up, and hour by hour people could see improvements.
much love to you all and thanks for such a sweet message 2Cherry.
xx
Hi, Rachel (Mk II)! Its good to hear that you made it OK. Thanks for the update.
I was just thinking, all the stuff involved in FFS, the impact on the facial bone structure, the incisions, tugging, suturing... It's like a very structured form of being beaten severely, and our bodies react to the surgery the same way they'd react to any other violence to the face. Ow! No wonder almost everyone seems to feel wiped out by it.
Makes me nervous... I know I'll need it, but am a long ways from scheduling it.
Thank you for the update. I am sending you my positive thoughts and energy and I am wishing you a speedy recovery. With every day that passes you will be feeling better. The first few days are the worst. Keep us updated
Thank you so much. Am still very weak. I had no idea it would wipe me this much but then I guess it's still less than 72 hours since I went into theatre.
Day 1 (Friday surgery began at 1pm)
The operation itself was that bizarre blur you get with General Anaesthetic. They say good night and the next thing you know they are trying to wake you up from mass grogginess. My op was just shy of 7 hours and I believe Dr Sutin performed them in this order:
Orbital rim shave
Hair advance / forehead reduction
Brow lift
[c. 3.5 hours]
Neck liposuction
Neck lift
Full face lift
[c. 2.5 hours]
Nose alarplasty
Nose tippplasty
[c. 1 hour]
The first hours in recovery were pretty horrible. Piyavate hospital tried to prevent my partner who had flown from the UK from being with me on the critical care ward. They said it 'wasn't hospital policy' though from about 3 am this seemed to be more so that the nurses could go to sleep. I kept asking them to phone my friend to come down and she had begged them to let her stay. I'm not impressed by Piyavate CCU on that. I was very sick so it was a grim, grim, experience. I threw up loads for the first 18 hours out of theatre.
Day 2 (Saturday)
Felt pretty grim for much of the time. It's more discomfort than actual pain as such but it did feel like I've been beaten and battered. Face was extremely swollen, especially around the eyes. No appetite so it was a case of forcing myself to eat for energy. In the end I asked to come off the morphine and my vomiting stopped at 2 pm. We had an extra night in hospital.
Day 3 (Sunday)
Gradual energy return. Eyes still very swollen. That evening we came back to the hotel. I used ice packs a lot and this did help reduce swelling. Peppermint tea was fabulous and Bune from PAI had given me some birds nest soup which was delicious and a well known Chinese healing custom.
Day 4 (Monday - today)
Felt like sh t this morning to be honest but loads of sleep and I now feel a lot better. This is the first time I've put on my glasses or felt like writing this up.
So ...
I've been riven with doubts for 3 days wondering if I did the right thing. I know that's only because it has been so bloody tough. And I will love it when I'm through this grim phase. I know Dr Sutin has done a stunning job, truly, it's just that at first when you look in the mirror be prepared for the halloween pumpkin that stares back at you :D You really do see a different person staring out the glass. When you're physically battered that's another level to contend with. But he really has done a superb job: my forehead looks flat and smooth and he achieved virtually 2cms of hair advance which was one of the most important factors in terms of my face shape. My nose is still wrapped up so I'm looking forward to seeing it. The neck and full face lift look incredible. I'd totally forgotten that a side-effect of FFS is that it can make you look younger.
When I'm feeling strong again and the swelling subsides there will doubtless be positive posts. And I've got loads of pics, including before and after. But, make no mistake, FFS is bloody huge surgery on many levels, not just the physical mauling. If you can, make sure you have someone with you. I have found this very tough going.
Love to all
xx
Do you get the option of not looking in a mirror for a few days? I'm not sure how well I'd handle that.
Haha good point! The bed in my hotel room has a mirror opposite so we've actually propped up the service menu to block it. That may sound weird to those who are desperate to have FFS procedures. But, believe me, the first few days are not a pretty sight :)
Having said that, today for the first time I have begun studying my face and looking at Dr Sutin's handicraft.
Looks like you are doing fine right now. ;)
Oh yes, the first few days... but soon you forget those. Just a distant memory... then the sounds of a tranquil river near a rain forest will emerge, and the sun will rise and shine on your beautiful face. That day will come, and it is worth the wait...
Take it easy Rachel. the next few weeks can be exhausting as all healing energy is being sent to your face. And please don't exert yourself, I know you like to be physical/sports but be very careful the first two weeks. Anything that raises your blood pressure will be bad, as it increases swelling. Especially in the nose.
Such wise and lovely words 2Cherry: thank you! Small steps. I will take it very easy. I still feel wiped out by it but then it's only 72 hours since I came out of theatre. I think your point about exertion is absolutely spot on.
xx
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Rachel!
Yes, it's a lot, and even more so when they do the chin and jaw. I was on the table for 12 hours for mine, and it was... well, it was the most brutal pain I ever went through, the first couple of days. At the time, I wished to take it back, it hurt so much. But within a few weeks, I realized how lucky I was that such wishes are never granted.
Anyways, take care of yourself, rest and heal, and remember that every day is a bonus day.
Yours,
Sophie
Wow Sophia, 12 hours is a lot and from what you and everyone says, jaw and chin work are particularly abrasive on the body.
This morning is Day 5 and I am way better than yesterday. Swelling is diminishing. I have used masses of ice pack compressions and they have made a big difference.
Mentally I'm firing back up. For the first 48 hours after surgery I was all, 'what the hell have I gone and done?' Now I'm looking into the mirror and smiling and mentally feeling very happy. I still think though that I underestimated just how brutal FFS is.
x
Just awoke from a big sleep and the swelling is really reducing.
Here are some random thoughts for others, based on my experiences. Not everyone will by any means agree with these and I might not myself in a couple of weeks when the immediate aftermath fades ;)
1. Consider having your procedures spread out. I'm not sure doing it all in one go is really always wise. I didn't even have as much as some people on here (e.g. I had no chin or jaw shaving). FFS is brutal.
2. Try and have someone with you. It makes the world of difference.
3. Have as many nights in hospital as you can: a minimum of two
4. Use ice packs: keep a supply in the freezer and change them over all the time. They really help reduce the swelling.
5. For the first time in my life I've taken sleeping tabs at night: the ones I was prescribed are ALPRAZolam which are an anti-anxiety pill. They just helped me to switch off and relax for sleep but didn't knock me out.
6. Food is the last thing I felt like until about 12 hours ago so you have to force yourself to eat: even better if someone is with you to ensure you do. I found sweet things worked e.g. putting some sugar into peppermint teas. Peppermint tea and back rubs also help clear wind, which is something you'll have a lot of.
I'll think of some more ;)
xx
Excellent advice, especially the minimum of 2 hospital days. Cannot imagine I would have to pack my things after just one day... I think I would be unable to.
Yeah, having someone with you would be very nice. Wasn't an option for me, so that was kind of sad. Being alone does nothing for the morale. But it is what it is...
If you can afford to have procedures spread out, then yes, it makes sense. But each trip to the operating theater, and the subsequent nights in hospital, can be costly all on their own. And, of course, some of us just can't wait. All that said, splitting the work into two parts is definitely the wiser course.
I was in hospital for a week, and it really made it easier on everyone -- I had my mom and my partner at the time with me, so they also got a break. Xanax was prescribed to keep my anxiety in check, and the good pain meds were readily available. The staff made sure I had cold-packs regularly strapped to my chin and forehead -- the soft ones, with a layer of gauze in between to protect the skin.
The only transitioner I recall meeting while there was a man who'd just gotten his balls and metoidioplasty. He'd been on T for years and years: full beard, deep voice, even his hairline had begun to recede. He was about ten years older than I was. Felt like a mentor, actually. I was complaining about the pain, and he pointed out that this was nothing compared to dysphoria, and that we were simply trading a life-long pain for a short-term pain, which would then be over and forgotten. Great guy -- wish I'd remembered his name.
I recall that pain I was in, the second night after surgery. Not just brutal -- it was excruciating, and I wanted to die (in came the Xanax and Oxy), and an angel of a nurse helped talk me down. "You're going to be so beautiful!" she said, and I held onto those words. Today, it's all a distant memory. No longer sharp. Rather fuzzy, in fact, or perhaps foggy... but I still retain an understanding of what 10 out of 10 on the pain scale means now.
Such wise words Sophia: a fabulous post from you.
I was very fortunate, 2Cherry, about having a friend with me. It was a last minute decision taken by her. With a week until I flew she just said, 'I've got to be there with you.' So she booked the flight. My first memory as I came round from the GA was holding her hand.
I'm feeling stacks better. Coffee hmmmm .... yum. It has taken five days for my body to feel like wanting it again, even though it's normally my one vice. That probably means it's pretty bad for the body as I think we go back to basics and natural products first.
I still think I walked a little naively into this surgery. It's just brutal on your body and, as you say Sophia, excuciating. But Dr Sutin has done an exceptional job. I'll post up the first pics soon: probably at the end of the week when I've had my checkup with him.
By the way, my stress on the hospitalisation is because they had me on oxygen for 48 hours and with me being so sick they needed to adjust medications. Having that proper care in place was so important. There are a few well-known places who don't do this: they send you back to hotel rooms or to their own hostels. After what I've been through I'm really disapproving of that. I think this kind of surgery means you really should stay in hospital for a minimum of 2 nights post-op.
Okay here are some images from Days 1-5, the before and after. http://imgur.com/gallery/p4Cyl
The latest pics are before swelling subsides and stitches are removed. There's no makeup either. So this is raw stuff :)
http://imgur.com/gallery/p4Cyl
xxx
You are very lucky and blessed with such a good friend Rachel! :)
Oh my, the photo's!!! :o In the last few pictures you look absolutely great! what a difference! it's like day and night... the forehead also looks very smooth and rounded. Especially in the breakfast pictures, they are amazing. :D
The results are already amazing. What a difference. You look like a different person. I love your new hairline.
xxxx
Those are two such lovely messages: thank you so much. I am absolutely thrilled by the hairline: I keep looking at it in wonder :)
Thank you. Getting there day by day
xxxx
I have to agree, your result is already striking. The scalp advancement was most important, followed by the nose work. The brow shaving makes the transition between the two oh so smooth and integrated. This is really nice.
A girl from the facebook ffs group just had surgery there and looks amazing
https://www.facebook.com/groups/FacialFeminizationSurgery/
I've just had my one week checkup with some stitches removed and, especially, my nose unwrapped. I'm totally bowled over by it. I really think Dr Sutin is incredible: he has done my nose exactly how I asked and that's even before the swelling reduces. I'm so pleased.
Will post up some more pics but am sorting out my flight back to the UK.
xx
My checkup went well. Dr Sutin removed some stitches and I had a clean up including my nose which I absolutely love. Considering it's still majorly swollen I'm over the moon about his shape creation. Because there is still a fair bit of swelling, Dr Sutin decided to leave in the remaining stitches for one more week so I'm on my way back home :) They will come out at my GP's end of next week.
Here are a few pics from today :)
http://imgur.com/a/I951r
xx
p.s. I'm flying something I've never done before: Business Class. Just felt like the right moment for being a little pampered ;)
I wish you a nice flight :) Enjoy yourself as much as you can on the flight. You look stunning. I love your new looks. Your nose looks perfect and very natural. In fact it all looks very natural. I can see the difference in your orbital rims as well. Your eyes are more opened and more feminine.
Wow....! look at you! 7 days already! time really does fly. :)
Half way back i.e. stopover in Abu Dhabi. The sides of my face were so uncomfortable on the descent: I know there's still a lot of swelling around the ears so that was quite hard. Otherwise it went really well after my initial nerves about whether I was really fit to fly wore off. The cabin crew were brilliant. My attendant said, 'you'll be absolutely fine' and I believed her. They do have lots of Arabs travelling to Thailand for medical treatment of course. Both Bumrungrad and Piyavate hospitals have huge Arabic clientele and even staff.
Safely back at home where I slept all morning. The flight was brilliant apart from the two descents which made my face feel like they were exploding. I still have a lot of swelling around the sides and, it seems, affecting my inner ears.
Everything else is good apart from my 25 year old daughter who says she cannot cope with me changing and needs a long time to get her head round things. Everyone else has been so supportive, it's really tough to hear from her :(
Thank you all for your fantastic messages of support. This place is awesome. I'm going to take it super steady for a few weeks and will post up some links, as well as a review of Dr Sutin who I currently have raised to demigod status :)
I think I can guess where you'll be getting SRS...
:D :D :D
I keep looking at my new forehead and nose. I was very specific re. the latter, giving Dr Sutin some particular pictures and we discussed at length what I was after. I wanted more of a point and an upturn but without a Miss Piggy flare (hence the alarplasty). He has exceeded all expectations and that's despite the swelling I still have. I think the man's a genius.
I'm going to compile a proper before and after series of photos which I will leave up as public. I have a public profile anyway (quite well known in the UK) so there's no point my hiding anything. I just think that PAI deserve more recognition in the west for their work which I consider to be outstanding. Not everything is perfect: I found some of the staff at Piyavate hospital tricky this time e.g. with my carer and their English is awful there (but not at PAI) but generally I cannot praise the place too highly.
And, yes, apparently Dr Sutin is fantastic down below too :)
xx
The incredible thing is that for the first three days I literally thought 'what the f have I done?' No kidding.
Now I'm over the moon.
I'm not sure if or how I'd have made it through without my friend flying out.
I've just changed my profile pic to an unedited selfie I took in the back of the taxi yesterday on the way to the airport. That's not even 7 days after FFS. Very very happy bunny :)
xx
Your new picture look great. Do you still have bruising? I don't see any in the picture.
Awww thanks. Mainly around my neck which is where the liposuction happened. That bruising only began about day 5. There's some still under the eyes and across my cheek bones but it's diminishing fast. The main swelling is now my nose and the sides of my face.
I still have in loads of stitches as they won't be removed for another week. That makes my face feel pretty taut.
It's covered with makeup?
Looking at pictures FFS always scared me more than SRS.
How do you feel about the orbital rim work? Good decision?
Looking good Rachel! :) and each day it will get better. That's the nice thing about healing...
Thank you 2Cherry - yes so true.
AnonyMs, yes I put on a little makeup in the back of the cab: some around the eyes, eyebrows and a little foundation and rouge in areas where there were no cuts. My thinking was that I'm a woman and I'm travelling as a woman through the UAE, including their female loos, so don't want any hassles. It felt great though. It's now come off, of course and I won't be putting on makeup for a while I suspect. Need to heal.
The orbital rim work was a fantastic decision so thank you for the encouragement on here. I think I'd have regretted it ever after if I didn't bite the bullet at the time.
Having said that, it's that which must have also contributed to the terrible eye swelling. FFS is so so brutal.
I think I'll have to have a consult with them sometime.
Wish you a peaceful and blissful day... time will heal.
(https://media.giphy.com/media/3oz8xLgrr41Hqq5BsI/source.gif)
Hi everyone,
I've had a tough few days. It's nothing about the FFS surgery itself, with which I continue to be mesmerised.
However ... when I went for my check up last Friday Dr Sutin said the sides of my face, esp the left, were still swollen and sore so the stitches couldn't come out for a week. I was given a choice: fly back to the UK and have them removed or stay in Thailand another week. I chose the former and flew back. The flight was okay but quite a big strain on the body. Soon after landing I developed a sharp pain inside my left calf and I was rushed to hospital to check on possible DVT. My d-Dimer level was sky high (>1000 ng/mL). That's the test used for clotting and DVT risk so I was given immediate heparin subcutaneous injection.
For the past week I have had a horrible cough, bringing up phlegm and I was diagnosed today with a post-operative chest infection. In addition the left side of my face is infected around the stitches at the lower ear so I was given antibiotics to treat both.
I felt dreadful earlier but I'm starting to pick up again.
I'm not apportioning any blame but I will say that healthcare professionals here are 'surprised' I wasn't given heparin post op in Thailand as well as compression socks. It's normal procedure now in the UK to be given heparin for at least 7 days after major surgery and I was also informed today that after that length of surgery they would advise against long haul flying for 3 months. That seems excessive, but one week was pushing it in my case.
The good news is that I think the facial surgery is fantastic. If that wasn't the case I'd be very down. I continue to think Dr Sutin performed a wonderful near-miracle on my face.
xx
That's bad... :( the long flight maybe triggered it? take care and I hope you'll recover!
Thanks gorgeous. Yes, it may well have done I think :(
x
Here in the states they put the air operated socks on you after any surgery and they don't take them off until you are on your feet. Even my voice surgery which was pretty quick and I was walking within hours was enough for the socks.
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on December 13, 2016, 12:45:08 PM
I'm not apportioning any blame but I will say that healthcare professionals here are 'surprised' I wasn't given heparin post op in Thailand as well as compression socks. It's normal procedure now in the UK to be given heparin for at least 7 days after major surgery and I was also informed today that after that length of surgery they would advise against long haul flying for 3 months. That seems excessive, but one week was pushing it in my case.
I've not heard of anyone getting heparin for surgery in Thailand, and people routinely fly back within a month or so of surgery. I guess most don't come back quite so quickly though. It could be that you're susceptible to blood clots and just never had a problem with it before. I found this article which also mentions surgery within 3 months as a risk factor, age over 40, and estrogen...
Long Distance Travel and Blood Clots
http://patientblog.clotconnect.org/2010/11/22/long-distance-travel-and-blood-clots/
I guess you should look into this next time you have surgery, but perhaps you're also at increased risk of DVT when flying normally. I think I'd look into that and see if its anything worth worrying about, and if so what you can do about it.
Wow sorry to hear about the complications. Hope you can get through them ok and quickly.
Hi, thanks all. The heparin seems to have cleared the left calf pain. The chest infection and left wound site infection are also now definitely responding to the antibiotics.
I'm feeling a lot better. I didn't realise quite how unwell I was yesterday :(
xx
Glad you're on the mend!
Keep taking your rest.
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on December 14, 2016, 05:53:33 AM
Hi, thanks all. The heparin seems to have cleared the left calf pain. The chest infection and left wound site infection are also now definitely responding to the antibiotics.
I'm feeling a lot better. I didn't realise quite how unwell I was yesterday :(
xx
Good to see you are doing fine!
Does this mean you now have no new disease to worry about? like increased risk of clotting? was it an incident?
It seems like I was very vigilant about the DVT so they zapped it very early with the heparin.
The two things wiping me out at the moment on top of the surgery are a chest infection, picked up in hospital, and the left side of my face where the stitch line is a bit infected. I 'think' both are responding to treatment although I've felt pretty wiped this afternoon.
Hell, FFS is tough :(
Hi sweetie,
Things go wrong with surgeries. All it matters is the end result. Be careful with the wounds. Wash the wounds with soap and water several times per day. That prevents infection. Chest infection is very uncommon after FFS. It is good that the antibiotics are working. Regarding heparin it is good to know after your SRS. I have never had heparin after a surgery. Some doctors give it as prevention. Everything is good when it ends well like in your case. How is the swelling going? Are you still happy with the results?
Thanks for that Reborn and other lovely comments.
I feel so much better today. The chest has cleared and the wound infection is following suit. A high dose of Clarithromycin is doing the trick. I really did feel grotty.
I think with hindsight that the post-operative process was a bit iffy. Some of that is probably my fault.
Anyway, the actual surgery continues to mesmerise me. I think Dr Sutin has done a stunning job. I'm looking forward to the stitches coming out on Monday and then I can allow my face to settle down. It's fab what he has done though.
OMG! I just read the news...I'm so sorry you are going through that! If I was there I'd give ya a hug! Please keep us posted and know that you are in my prayers.
Thank you KarmaGirl and others above. I love the support on here. Wow. x
Okay, exactly two weeks since I came out of theatre and what do I feel?
I stood in front of the mirror this afternoon and had a big smile. I do think Dr Sutin has done a stunning job. I particularly like the fact I look feminine without makeup, at least so I think and so does my good friend.
On the downside, the post-surgery experience has been pretty tough. Apart from the 'normal' FFS mauling, I found the triple whammy really difficult: DVT, chest infection and left side site wound infection. I was pretty ill a few days ago. They're all under control now. I caught the DVT very early and they zapped it with heparin. The chest and other infection are gradually coming under control thanks to strong antibiotics.
I have some feeling returning but large swathes of my face remain numb, especially down the sides and on top. The tip of my nose is also very tender still (stunning job by Dr Sutin on my nose imho).
I do think the result is fantastic. I'm over the moon and I promise some more pictures will come when I've had the stitches out on Monday. I'll continue updating for a few weeks and then I'll do a proper review of the whole process once healing is complete, with before and after pics.
Just before my FFS I went public with my transitioning. I have a minor profile in the UK so I thought it was the right time. That means I have no issues about publishing my photos online. In fact, my agency have updated things and my wikipedia entry is now altered too :)
The support on here has been fantastic. It makes such a big difference. I still somehow managed to walk into this a bit blind and had little idea of the hammering I would take. I'm not sure I'd have gone ahead if I'd known. But then I look in the mirror ... and smile ;)
xx
I'm glad to hear how pleased you are with the results! As always I'm sure you will continue to notice changes and like it even more as it heals.
I have two more consultations this month for FFS elsewhere but PAI is still in the back of my mind!
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on December 16, 2016, 02:01:28 PM
I do think the result is fantastic. I'm over the moon and I promise some more pictures will come when I've had the stitches out on Monday. I'll continue updating for a few weeks and then I'll do a proper review of the whole process once healing is complete, with before and after pics.
xx
I'm waiting for it! ;D would love to see and read your results so far. :angel:
Aww thank you and I will do. I just had nearly ten hours sleep and feel so much better. xx
So yesterday I was pretty down. The chest infection took a long time to clear. It just about now has. The DVT scare wasn't brilliant and shook me up. It also means I'm more susceptible in the future which is a bummer.
Some family friends of my partner came around and I had so little energy: after a few hours I was flagging. Then when I looked in the mirror I began to wonder if I should have had some chin work. I do think that way madness lies: I'm not going to tinker around with my face. The Pete Burns / Michael Jackson look is not a good one.
Anyway, I slept for over nine hours and feel much better today. The chest is almost totally clear. I also realise I haven't taken any pain killers overnight: I've been popping paracetamols at night because the stitches are still pretty uncomfortable for lying down and I get sinus pain.
FFS is no picnic, that's for sure.
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on December 15, 2016, 01:09:44 AM
I think with hindsight that the post-operative process was a bit iffy. Some of that is probably my fault.
Would you mind elaborating on that?
Hi Richenda, Sorry to had you had a few problems, I was a bit concerned that you left so soon after surgery and I am suprised that that Sutin agree to let you fly. Hope you fully recover soon.
Yep, I really shouldn't have boarded that plane. Plus it meant I missed catching up with you after the op :(
I've got away with it and I'm much better now. I'm also thrilled with the results so, fingers crossed, all's well that ends well.
I've just posted a thread specifically about tip-pasty and alar-plasty but these pics also give an overall idea of how things are going. I'm thrilled about the nose work and my forehead looks noticeably flatter.
There is no editing at all on these pics, except to blur out the background of the profile photo to focus on the nose.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/145930757@N08/shares/0F40bY
Here's the new thread specifically on the subject of noses: https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,217651.0.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/145930757@N08/shares/0F40bY
Okay I'm switching to flikr to disable comments. There were some very silly ones which appeared!
xx
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi671.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fvv71%2Fmycircleoflife%2FWhistle.gif&hash=b78d83686616f5b15a2486d8a122af7312958e9f) wheet whew! pretty lady! :icon_female: :icon_cute: :icon_biggrin:
Profile also looks amazing! wow! what a difference... it looks like two different people. It's very successful. I'd say you pass 100% now.
OMG wow what a change. You look so different. Just looked at the pic we took togethet, you look 100 pct female
That's so lovely, thank you :)
And yours too, 2Cherry.
I'm thrilled with the results. It's been a tough couple of weeks but I'm over the moon with Dr Sutin's handicraft. Brilliant surgeon.
xx
I'm actually having trouble believing your the same person!
:D :) :)
Awwww, wow. Thank you. I think my mother feels the same :)
xx
Quote
Then when I looked in the mirror I began to wonder if I should have had some chin work. I do think that way madness lies: I'm not going to tinker around with my face. The Pete Burns / Michael Jackson look is not a good one.
I think this can be said about any surgery really. It can get addicting if we don't stop and try to be ok with what we have. There will always be something else to fix.
Quote
FFS is no picnic, that's for sure.
Very much agreed. Glad you're feeling better and hope your recovery continues to get better.
And you are looking great! =)
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on December 18, 2016, 04:27:49 AMwhen I looked in the mirror I began to wonder if I should have had some chin work. I do think that way madness lies: I'm not going to tinker around with my face. The Pete Burns / Michael Jackson look is not a good one.
Our faces are not piecemeal parts; they are gestalts. It makes sense that having adjusted your nose and forehead that the chin might seem a little incongruous now. This doesn't mean your chin needs work. Nor does it mean that, should you choose to adjust it, madness awaits.
I am most impressed by the forehead results, btw, they are excellent. But that's what usually gets me -- I do think it's the most important part of the face when it comes to how we read each other. Because we look into each other's eyes.
Well it's difficult to be objective but I too am absolutely blown away by the forehead work, as well as my nose. Dr Sutin told me he managed to advance the hairline by 2cms which is a great result. In fact, I cannot fault Dr Sutin for the whole surgery. Bearing in mind I didn't have chin or jaw shaving, nor forehead reconstruction (only the orbital rim shaving), I think it's incredible to be honest. All the procedures cost me $14,900 which I think has been a fantastic decision.
I've just had my stitches removed. It took the practice nurse about 40 minutes as there were a lot, though all tucked into the hairline. The nurse said she thought the surgery was stunning: she kept saying how neatly the stitching was done.
I'm always a bit wary of being too sycophantic about a particular surgeon. No-one is perfect and things can go wrong anywhere. I also think the after-care was a bit slack, to be honest, which was partly the fault of Piyavate hospital. However, having put those caveats, in my estimation PAI in general and Dr Sutin in particular are quite outstanding. I would thoroughly recommend people to consider them on their global shortlists for surgery. Dr Sutin is a craftsman who really knows how to feminise your face. He's also a really lovely, modest, man. Top marks from me :)
Quote from: Debra on December 18, 2016, 10:26:39 AM
I think this can be said about any surgery really. It can get addicting if we don't stop and try to be ok with what we have. There will always be something else to fix.
Yeah... very much so. I think we are very critical of ourselves, and any hint that resembles our "male" face must be eradicated. While, if you look at another woman, and imagine for a moment how she would look like if she was born male, you can see some "maleness" in (m)any woman. That is the same trap we fall into when we look at ourselves: since I wasn't born female, my only frame of reference is my old face. And that same reference is the wrong starting point, which makes me super critical when I aim to eradicate that reference... but then again, it's the only reference I have. So I can't blame myself for being overly critical.
That shot of you in the taxi looks beautiful ....and to think thats just after the surgery
Really is a nice photo shows how much change is evident
Awww how sweet of you. I've decided to make it my profile pic now as it was also a significant moment for me :)
x
You look so beautiful Richenda!!!
It really was worth while : )
I,m off to thailand today maybe i might go visit Pai for a consult , the work is so impressive : )
Thank you for the lovely comments. I hope you do get to see them Markie. Please let me know if you do x
you are most welcome Rachel : )
yes i will i just have to summon up the nerve to do it
but then again the thai people are so.respectful
so theres nothing to worry about really bangkok is.only an.hr from.here.
It's nearly 5 weeks since my operation so I thought I'd post a quick update. Healing continues to go well. There are still some scabs in my head and I've discovered stitches in there which I pull out as the healing continues apace. I've been using bio oil to help my scalp heal.
I'm out for electrolysis today: it has taken me this long to feel up to having it.
As for my face shape, I'm thrilled with the results. They're subtle but clear. My forehead is a really noticeable reduction and my nose is narrower, upturned and with a slightly more pointy aspect. The orbital rim shave and overall lifts are a major change.
Once all swelling has truly abated, the scars are healed and feeling in my nose fully returns I will post up a full report with before and after pics. But for now:
in short: I go outside without wearing makeup and for me that's a decisive clincher.
So glad to hear you're healing well and good!
Quote from: Rachel Richenda on January 05, 2017, 02:26:18 AMin short: I go outside without wearing makeup and for me that's a decisive clincher.
Mm hmm.
;)
Wow Rachel! I'm keeping tabs, very interested in your results. ;)