Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Quick trip from Seattle to Scottsdale.  Arrived in the evening, perfect weather (this ain't August), nice dinner with Mariah (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=50957) and her spouse Jamie.  The connection between Mariah and Jamie is like an incredibly powerful magnet that immediately drags everything across a room and impossible to pull apart.  And they are warm like Arizona. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/krwy2m0rjg2bb1o/2017-10-31%2021.19.10-1.jpg?raw=1)
Left to right: Kendra, Jamie, Mariah

Yeah that's a big heap of broccoli on my plate.  Indulging my fetish for exotic food.

Next morning, 9:30am appointment at Toby Meltzer's clinic (http://www.tmeltzer.com/).  Starbucks is one building away so I'm already liking the place.  Lots of parking, quiet, clean.  Inside is super nice, comfortable waiting area, everyone I met was pleasant and professional. 

The exam room was the nicest I've ever seen - had all the standard medical equipment but the colors and finishes are more like a designer kitchen.  An assistant came in, for about 20 minutes we went over questions and topics to save time for the exam. 

Dr. Ley was next.  I could tell she had already gone over everything I had just discussed with the assistant, didn't need to repeat anything.  First impression is a scientist not a salesperson... she started out seeming a bit shy, but after those first few minutes she switched gears and became warmer and easier to connect with. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/t1t53vzxnxl7vix/Dr.%20Meltzer%20and%20Dr.%20Ley.jpeg?raw=1)
Left to right: Dr. Meltzer and Dr. Ley, photo from their web site

I was surprised at the amount of detail and amount of time Dr. Ley talked - I feel like I've had a crash course in vaginoplasty.  She covered the procedure, risks, desired outcome and results her patients have had.  She does a two-stage GRS with labiaplasty 3+ months later, same process as Dr. Meltzer and other surgeons Meltzer has trained.  Every question I asked, she immediately answered in detail with average reported outcomes and the percentage outcomes of her patients, and an explanation of what causes what (for example granulation).  She mentioned she will be presenting her findings at a surgical profession conference later in the month.  I also brought up BA (Breast Augmentation) and we went over that as well. 

The exam itself went pretty fast but I never felt rushed.  She had concerns I've only been on HRT 3 months but that was initial confusion because most patients start HRT before electrolysis and I did the opposite.  I've had electrolysis 2x/month down there starting eight months ago and laser the previous year.  Based on Dr. Ley's exam I am done with that, although to be 100% certain I'll continue getting that area zapped just for the fun of it until end of this year.  She mentioned there shouldn't be any electrolysis two weeks prior to surgery. 

Time there was two hours start to finish.  Main surgery will require 4 hours with 9 days in the hospital & recovery center. 

Based on our meeting I completely trust Dr. Ley's experience and knowledge.  I made this appointment based on Dr. Ley working directly with Dr. Meltzer for more than a year, and based on chats I've had with others from Susan's who have gone to Dr. Ley or have helped patients here. 

She said I am medically ready.  I went back to the lobby, paid the deposit and confirmed my surgery date for GRS: January 18, 2018.  All the way to the airport and on the way home I couldn't stop smiling.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/cmt61rzu9n0355e/2017-11-01%2011.33.01.jpg?raw=1)
I had a pretty funny experience at the airport.  TSA and everyone was fine (I've never had any issues).  I received my replacement US Passport last week with updated gender marker and name, but my drivers license had my old name and marker so I made this flight reservation under my previous name.  The Alaska Airlines gate agent was greeting everyone by their first name as they scanned their ticket... I realized oh this will get interesting.  She scanned my ticket and stopped.  Looked at me, looked at her screen, looked at me, completely baffled.  She couldn't comprehend how my name could be Ken.  So I said "yeah I need to update my ID!"  She nodded and politely said "okay..." and I walked onto the plane.

I've told others the best way to get passable is to smile, and I couldn't stop smiling with my surgery date in my hands. 

Congrads, sounds like you had a great trip.  Your visit with Dr. Ley sounds so reassuring that you have selected the right dr for you.  There record at Scottdale is great, only thing one has to understand that they do a two-stage procedure which has its pros and cons.  Good luck to you in January.

Congratulations Kendra, January is not that far off! I am glad that you and Dr Ley got off to a good start. I very much enjoyed my interactions with her and trust her abilities completely. FYI, I am just under 2 months post op and healing without complications, she did good work. - Tia Anne

Tia Anne, you are one of the reasons I set up an evaluation with Dr. Ley - and made my decision.  Sharing your experience has helped many others. 

Yeah, the weather has cooled down here in the last couple weeks. It'll be even nicer when you come back in January. Glad it all worked out well and good luck with the procedure.


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Kendra, I am so happy for you. Awesome news :)

That's wonderful news I'm very excited for you! Hopefully some day soon I'll have my surgery date set too [emoji4]


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Congratulations Kendra.  Jan is just around the corner.  As I am across the water let me know if there is anything I can help with.

Thank you!  So nice of you to offer - and the support from everyone is so appreciated.  I got it covered but knowing everyone here makes this all so much easier. 

Wow that's is so great Kendra...January is mere weeks away...Congradulations

I am back in Scottsdale now.  Pre-surgery meeting tomorrow morning.  Surgery is January 18. 

Kendra, this must be so exciting for you, such a big and long awaited for step. Go do wonders girl! And of course, we want lots of stories when you feel up to communications again.

Take care sister and enjoy the ride,
Tia Anne

Wish I could be there with you.

Quote from: Kendra on January 16, 2018, 10:44:26 PM
I am back in Scottsdale now.  Pre-surgery meeting tomorrow morning.  Surgery is January 18.

Kendra, I am so excited for you! Take it easy, and when you feel up to it, please let us know how things are going. I'll be thinking of you all day on Thursday, and watching closely for updates.

Love you, sister.

Stephanie

Quote from: Kendra on January 16, 2018, 10:44:26 PM
I am back in Scottsdale now.  Pre-surgery meeting tomorrow morning.  Surgery is January 18.

Wow.  Just...wow.  Quite the week for you.

May everything go smoothly.

Good luck with the pre surgery appointment. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Kendra on January 16, 2018, 10:44:26 PM
I am back in Scottsdale now.  Pre-surgery meeting tomorrow morning.  Surgery is January 18.

Thank you!

I'll update later today - heading to the pre-surgery meeting now.

Good luck to you and keep us updated when you can.

Kendra, Best wishes and lots of hugz
Katie

Pre-surgery meeting was 90 minutes, half of that with Dr. Ley.  She went over everything in detail, answered every question I had, never felt rushed.  Before seeing Dr. Ley I was handed a "goodie bag", I checked and it weighs more than 9 pounds (4 kilograms). 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/h1qplu5dar2p0dr/2018-01-17%2011.36.01.jpg?raw=1)

I am getting two procedures tomorrow - in addition to GCS I want a teeny amount of stomach fat removed, liposuction.  I figure might as well during the remodel.  Total time for surgeries is estimated at 6 hours.

I'm good to go for tomorrow! 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/75isf0d1mq2qudb/2018-01-17%2010.03.44.jpg?raw=1)

Quote from: Kendra on January 17, 2018, 01:21:01 PM
Pre-surgery meeting was 90 minutes, half of that with Dr. Ley.  She went over everything in detail, answered every question I had, never felt rushed.  Before seeing Dr. Ley I was handed a "goodie bag", I checked and it weighs more than 9 pounds (4 kilograms). 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/h1qplu5dar2p0dr/2018-01-17%2011.36.01.jpg?raw=1)

I am getting two procedures tomorrow - in addition to GCS I want a teeny amount of stomach fat removed, liposuction.  I figure might as well during the remodel.  Total time for surgeries is estimated at 6 hours.

I'm good to go for tomorrow! 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/75isf0d1mq2qudb/2018-01-17%2010.03.44.jpg?raw=1)

Smile smile smile!!!! I'm smiling with you!

Stephanie

Wheee!  Ah, the "goodie bag". Didja unroll that lumpy white bundle at the upper left yet?  You'll become more familiar with that in a week or so. [emoji6]

It's exciting and tummy-butterfly making, I know. I'm happy for you, and know you are in a good place.

May you be well.


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I was offline much of today because I drove from Scottsdale Arizona to Mexico and back.  Nice drive, saw an area I hadn't seen before.  At the US side I parked the rental car, walked across the border.  The walkway to Mexico was obviously a border but nobody asked to see my passport - I went through a second gate expecting to be asked a few questions and was surprised to discover I was already past the border and was now wandering around Nogales.  Lots of pharmacies, dentists, and more pharmacies.  I didn't take a very good picture of the area but here is Nogales on a nice 70 degree Fahrenheit (21c) January day:

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/nv4wix8ibt74zpt/2018-01-17%2015.38.12.jpg?raw=1)

I walked back to the US side where they had a formal customs/border line as expected.  When it was my turn I handed the border agent my passport.  He looked at it, handed it back and said "okay" in a polite tone and that was all.  No questions.  I guess I don't look very threatening in a pink shirt and white pants.  Wish I could have spent more time in Mexico but I needed to pick my boyfriend Saha up at Phoenix airport, I made it there right after he landed.  My girlfriend Beth (she is Saha's wife) arrives tomorrow evening. 

Quote from: Michelle_P on January 17, 2018, 03:18:01 PM
> Didja unroll that lumpy white bundle at the upper left yet? 

After reading Michelle's post I decided it was time to look at the dilators.  I assumed they were in random washcloths to keep things tidy but I was wrong - it's a nice terrycloth holder designed for the set of five.  I was surprised to find the dilators are transparent and actually quite beautiful. 

And thank you all for the comments and support - this place really is an amazing group of individuals as we each support each other.  My first surgery is a few hours from now.

I wish you the best of luck.

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Congratulations! Best of luck!

"Remodel"  lol  ;D  I've been referring to it as "upcycling" but I might have to steal your line.

Good luck today!

Congrats, Kendra. :)  Have fun today!

Sister, enjoy this step in your awesome journey. Have a nice nap.

Tia Anne

Hi all,

     The GCS is complete, they are now doing the liposuction.

Thank you Saha. I'm so relieved.

Stephanie

Woohoo! Thanks for the update!

Hugs, Devlyn

Good news, ty. X

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You are all most welcome

So glad to hear that. Thank you for keeping us updated. Hugs
Mariah

She is in recovery now, Dr Ley said it went well  :)

Ok, I can breathe now. [emoji28]

Stephanie

I know what you mean Stephanie.  A very important day!   Glad this part is done

So happy it went well!

For whatever reason some of the images were not displaying well even though they did show when using tapatalk. I have since updated the links coding so they now display properly regardless of how one is viewing the site. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Saha on January 18, 2018, 02:32:40 PM
She is in recovery now, Dr Ley said it went well  :)

Thank you for the update,  wonderful news. X

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You are welcome Megan

Great news, and I am totally jealous.

Thank you for the updates, Saha.

We all know the surgeries are now pretty routine and safe, but still there is that "heart in the throat" worry when someone we know is in the OR.

I'm glad to read Kendra is in recovery now.

Heal quickly and be well, Kendra!


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You are all very welcome!

I got to see her, and all is well

Hi Saha;
Thanks for keeping us all informed. I have been thinking about Kendra all the last 24 hours. Today in Victoria Australia as Robin Williams said in Good Morning Vietnam...its going to be HOT DAMN HOT... . That is we are expecting 42C thats 107.6F at midday; so I will be in my pool with a glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc (but wearing a hat)

PS I am so glad everything is going well.

Pls give her my best wishes!

JudithLynn

Thanks for the updates Saha, when the time is right please pass on my congratulation's and best wishes for a beautiful recovery and look forward to her next posts.
Hugz Katie

:angel: :angel: :angel: :angel: >:-) :angel: :angel: :angel: :angel:

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/tdu90sdl9euug80/File%20Jan%2018%2C%204%2012%2004%20PM.png?raw=1)

Quote from: Kendra on January 18, 2018, 09:11:30 PM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/tdu90sdl9euug80/File%20Jan%2018%2C%204%2012%2004%20PM.png?raw=1)

joy

noun\ˈjȯi\

1 a : the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires : delight

b : the expression or exhibition of such emotion : gaiety

2 : a state of happiness or felicity : bliss

3 : a source or cause of delight

Quote from: Kendra on January 18, 2018, 09:11:30 PM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/tdu90sdl9euug80/File%20Jan%2018%2C%204%2012%2004%20PM.png?raw=1)

  Yes, definitely JOY!  I know that smile from three months ago.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180119/c5f4b1969b3cb18af7ea3a4bd0e198f8.jpg)

We should start an album of post-GCS selfies. I bet they all have something in common. [emoji848]

Congratulations, girl!  You made it, totally affirming!


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Geez Kendra, I was asleep at the wheel with Laurie. I missed this entire thread, waiting anxiously for others to update me on how you are. I'm glad the surgery went well. That smile on your face says a lot. Congratulations on this momentous occasion. I wish you a speedy recovery.

Jayne

What a happy smile! Congratulations Kendra. X

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Woohoo!!! Let the recovery begin!!!

(https://www.susans.org/forums/gallery/0/13844-080817062808.jpeg)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/32o7iqmcvh5to8d/2018-01-19%2007.34.45.jpg?raw=1)

Quote from: Kendra on January 19, 2018, 11:19:17 AM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/32o7iqmcvh5to8d/2018-01-19%2007.34.45.jpg?raw=1)

Oh cool! A Borg implant on your finger! You have been assimilated.  Resistant is futile.

Stephanie

I'm with the others on missing this thread. The title led me to believe it was about whether the DR was worth going to, not an actual progress thread.

I read each post in turn and I am so happy for you. My eyes are all out of focus for some reason.

Quote from: Kendra on January 19, 2018, 11:19:17 AM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/32o7iqmcvh5to8d/2018-01-19%2007.34.45.jpg?raw=1)

I thought you were having GCS not a light up finger! Did I miss something? I think being upside down all the time has got me seeing red.

A light in your finger is pretty cool though. Where do the batteries go?

Jayne

The light-up finger is a nice touch. I hear all the girls are doing it now, although I can think of more useful places to have a light installed...

Quote from: Michelle_P on January 19, 2018, 02:21:44 PM
The light-up finger is a nice touch. I hear all the girls are doing it now, although I can think of more useful places to have a light installed...

That's her heartlight. Elllliottttt.

[emoji362]

Kendra,
    Yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Congratulations! So happy for you. Bet you didn't even break a sweat doing it. lol You look amazing too. Moni

Yay, congratulations!!  I love the smile.  And the finger light: note the colour is pink!

What a beaming smile Kendra  :) :) :) Now rest up and recover well.

Peace and love and all that good stuff,

Sadie

Quote from: Laurie on January 16, 2018, 11:08:08 PM
Wish I could be there with you.

I could, but I didn't know she's here.


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Quote from: Kendra on January 19, 2018, 11:19:17 AM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/32o7iqmcvh5to8d/2018-01-19%2007.34.45.jpg?raw=1)

Good for you. I'm in the town over. If you need anything, let me know.


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You are beautiful and look so filled with Joy! Dr. Ley is amazing, I am now 14 days post op with her. The only advice I can and will offer is get up and walk around, take small trips get use to riding in a car. Ok there is a second and third piece... The Warmed blankets are amazing and if you need an amazing Burger Rehab burgers across the street is the place to go.

So glad to see your are doing so well.


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Mariah, Kendra, Jamie!
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/4o7gim90fs1z4wm/2018-01-19%2018.16.55.jpg?raw=1)

Comments on the finger light thingie are so funny you have me in stitches.

This is day one post-surgery so I'm still on bed rest. Yesterday was literally a blur - I woke up in the recovery center room with Saha there, and Beth arrived yesterday evening.  Almost no pain at all if I didn't move, so I quickly learned what not to move and move carefully.  All sorts of gizmos attached everywhere, a pain control button attached to the hospital gown.  I spent less time online than I thought I would.  I'd read a comment and another, and wanted to reply to each individual but it took a surprising amount of energy to focus - so I just read and didn't type as much.  I cannot fully express how grateful I am for all of us here, supporting each other.  You are all incredible and so appreciated.

At midnight the pain started to increase and at 1am I realized I needed to push the button for additional medication.  I did that and within 10 minutes I was very close to vomiting all over these stylin' hospital clothes and my ears were ringing.  Wrong kinda earrings.  I held my eyes shut trying my best to not puke - and I didn't puke, but it wasn't easy.  Another 5 minutes and the pain completely washed away or I didn't care, I was no longer aware of time.  The pain started back up, clock said 2:30am and I'm thinking do I want to press the puke button, I didn't want to, the nausea from that first button press was pretty intense.  At 3:30am I realized I was being an idiot, I should have asked a nurse for advice - so I hit the nurse call button.  The nurse was so helpful, she added an additional compound to the intravenous drip to reduce nausea and then I pressed the drug button.  She asked if any nausea started - a few minutes in I started to feel queasy, she waved an alcohol wipe near my nose and the nausea immediately stopped.  She said an odd smell will confuse the brain and distracts from nausea until the anti-nausea medication can kick in.  She also said if the nausea continued they can apply a shot in the arm which will definitely stop the nausea but that requires 40 minutes to kick in.  I didn't need it - I was able to hit the pain-med button every 60-90 minutes until morning.

I talked to my parents by phone this morning.  They are in Thailand until April, we will be spending a week together in Japan in early April and returning to Seattle together.  They were both surprised how well I sound.

At 9am the nurses removed all the liquid medications and a couple of the extra gizmos and I took 5 pills.  They told me what they are but I don't remember or really care - I'm not a doctor.  :)  Okay I think one pill was Flitzrubpf, one was Gltydrdlx, etc.  It's now 13 hours later, there is some pain and discomfort but not a huge amount - it's quite bearable.  My queasy stomach is more bothersome than the pain and that's better than the opposite.

Dr. Ley came over today, she was between surgeries.  I really like her.  We chatted, she said my procedures went as planned without any complications.

A surprise.  My electrologist in Seattle had flowers delivered to the hospital with a note of congratulations.  Yes I did cry a bit when I saw that - happy tears.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/tyvs9am6wgq84tl/2018-01-19%2016.27.13.jpg?raw=1)

I'm so happy for you Kendra.  Best wishes from another gal born in your neck of the woods.

Soft hugs, Jessica

I am very happy for you Kendra. Thank you for the update. I'm glad your pain is subsiding and it's good to see your sense of humour is still intact. Now get some rest and recover.

Jayne

*
Kendra:

Congratulations!

Well done!

Your goody bag awaits in a week or so.  Your diligence to your 'duty' will reward you well.

Commit your experiences to memory - never let them fade.

I enjoyed reading your thread.  It is a pleasure to read how the process is far superior to the 'old days'.

For  you who are waiting, your time will arrive soon enough.  Cherish your journey as much as your destination.

*

Kendra, It was amazing being able to visit you yesterday and see that your doing so very well. The first day being a blur is totally normal. Everyone who was there with me remembers more than I do about my first day and I'm sure that is true for you. How tired we are and how quickly really does surprise you, however it gets a lot better over time. From each day on this week you will gradually have things to look forward to as you heal. Congrats. Hugs
Mariah

As I start day two I realize - while this definitely isn't a walk in the park and I remain on bed rest until later today, I am no longer on any pain medications.  I feel a bit banged up but not that bad, although earlier (12 hours after surgery) the pain did get my attention.  Not even aspirin now, and I can carefully move my legs without too much pain in the surgical areas.  5-1/2 hours of surgery ended 40 hours ago.

And although this is major surgery and requires careful consideration of risks, in a way it's trivial.  The inconvenience of not being able to get out of bed or reach completely across the table is nothing compared to what many face on a long term or permanent basis with various disabilities.  I made the decision to become disabled for a few days and hours and deal with recovery - for reasons that are so worth it, like electrolysis and other things I would do again without hesitation.  My admiration for people who face challenges far greater than mine is less abstract now. 

OMG!!! I feel awful for completely missing this until now!!
Congratulations Kendra!!!! I'm beyond happy for you! (and jealous!!)

Wait, Scottsdale AZ?! I think my sister lives there!

Yes Scottsdale - I think of as MeltzerVille  ;) 
I just saw Dr. Ley, and might briefly see Dr. Meltzer tomorrow.

I spoke too soon about being able to avoid pain meds.  10 hours after the last pill a bit much pain started creeping back so I requested another.  Really glad I did that, as a nurse showed helped me take my first steps out of bed and across the room.

I know this is a major procedure and people said my first time walking would be difficult, but I didn't comprehend just how difficult and painful those first steps are - a completely different type of pain from the main surgical area.  The nurse said I should walk today but stay in the room.  I told her no worries, I'm not gonna go running for awhile.  I'm glad I have decent upper body strength to carefully maneuver into an armchair without plopping down.  The pleasant surprise is, sitting doesn't hurt much although I was told it would. 

Beth, Kendra, Saha:
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/72r3u5652swshcr/2018-01-20%2011.19.45.jpg?raw=1)

Beth & Saha have returned to Seattle.  I'm here until Jan 27.

Here's my schedule:

Day -1: Pre-surgery meeting with assistants and with Dr. Ley.  Quick exam, mainly a very detailed explanation of what would follow during the next ten days. 

Day 0: Day of surgery.  Strict bed rest, compression socks on legs hooked to a strange machine that squeezed each leg with air pressure a few times per minute to help avoid blood clots.  Drain tubes connected to surgery area to handle standard blood discharge.  Catheter connecter to bladder bag, intravenous tube, couple electrodes, and a trendy pink LED on one fingertip.  Intravenous saline solution also used for liquid medicines.  Compression garment (medical corset) around the sculpting (lipo) I added to the procedure. Liquid foods only - broth, apple juice.  Bag of ice applied to GCS area at all times.

Day 1: Strict bed rest.  Intravenous disconnected, switch to pills (5 on the first morning).  Switch to solid foods. 

Day 2: Compression stockings removed (the strange air-driven pulsing sensation every few seconds on each leg).  Assisted out of bed for first walk across room.  Yay!  Ouch.  But still smiling.  Encouraged to walk around room to get those parts working again but don't leave room.  Bladder bag removed, catheter tube has a plug - shown how to use this in the bathroom.  Can carefully take a shower.  5 pills plus a shot in the arm - blood thinner as a precaution against clotting.

Day 3: Drain tubes removed from surgical area (these have medium-size bulbs to collect blood - normal recovery).  Can leave hospital for brief walks or short trips.  5 pill and a shot of blood thinner.  Can resume hormone therapy, yay! 

Day 4-5: Increase walking around.  Last day receiving a shot of blood thinner.

Day 6: Labial stitches and packing removed.  Taught how to dilate.

Day 7: Dilate 4 times per day.

Day 9: Catheter removal. 

Day 9: Leave hospital.

After 10 days at the hospital, the following 30 days are recovery.  Don't lift anything heavier than 12 pounds (5.5kg), walking is good, dilate 4 times per day for the first month after leaving. 

I just found this thread too! Congratulations Kendra, your smile says it all! I wish you a speedy and uneventful recovery. Hopefully sometime next year I will also cross to the other side.

Hey Girl,

  I know about most of the paraphernalia. Not the corset, blood catch tubing or packing stuff of course but I think all the rest . Let me tell ya you haven't lived until you've tried to use an adult sized potty chair beside the bed with all those tubes, hoses and electrodes still attached including the catheter because they won't let you walk anywhere. Or how about after the catheter is removed you have to call for a spotter before being allowed to stand by the bed to pee in a bottle because all fluids going in and out have to be measured. And oh oh having to be on 6/ Lpm of oxygen and they are complaining your oxygen level need to be higher. And then the special joy of being puffed up like a balloon from the edema cause by the regular poisonings they been giving you for weeks.  LOL yep you just haven't lived yet girl. Heck what's a little packing and drain tubes? Quit your complaining girl. Like I did, you asked for this. Congrats again Kendra. Heal quickly but don't push it.

Hugs,
  Laurie

Did you have an additional procedure to surgically attach a smile to your face? You haven't stopped smiling, that is fantastic! I can't help but smile with you.

I'm glad to hear the recovery is going smoothly so far. Thank you for sharing your happiness with us.

Oh, and that pink finger light thingy is cool. Do you get to keep it? That is a new trend, it's all the rage these days!

Jayne

So happy for you Kendra! Congrats and it sounds like your first couple of days are going well.

I look forward to hearing of your happy recovery :-)

Very happy for you girl! Congrats

Day three after surgery.  Gizmo tubing shindig will be removed from main surgical area today.  I bet that isn't the correct medical terminology.  I'll be able to leave this room for short walks, haven't done so yet.  Feels like I experienced teleportation... woke up in this room and have no clue what the hallway looks like.  This is the nicest hospital room I've ever seen, although I haven't seen a lot of them - private room, several nice armchairs and a recliner, view of Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale. 

Took a shower on my own early this morning and - wow that felt great.  Best.  Shower.  Ever.  And makes me appreciate what people go through who can't do that on a long term or permanent basis.  As someone who has run 3 miles in 21 minutes for a decade it's a bit surprising to have to walk across the room so carefully.  But well worth it. 

Although I haven't stepped outside this room I have never felt so free in my life.  It's not just the GCS, it's everything so far - the transition to who I am. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0W1v0kOELA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0W1v0kOELA)

Yes Laurie, the bird has definitely flown the coop. Or is it a dog? Hmmm! I always pictured it as a dog. Don't be surprised Kendra if she shows up one day to collect the remains. lol I get the feeling that you are truly enjoying and appreciating this moment Kendra. It is more than just a surgery. It is a culmination if that makes sense. To me, a mental pivot point. I hope you will give in to resting as you need to. Overdoing won't do, you know. You have quite the schedule laid out for yourself, Girl, so behave at least a little. Long distance hug.
Moni

Quote from: Kendra on January 21, 2018, 10:45:43 AM
Day three after surgery.  Gizmo tubing shindig will be removed from main surgical area today.  I bet that isn't the correct medical terminology.  I'll be able to leave this room for short walks, haven't done so yet.  Feels like I experienced teleportation... woke up in this room and have no clue what the hallway looks like.  This is the nicest hospital room I've ever seen, although I haven't seen a lot of them - private room, several nice armchairs and a recliner, view of Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale. 

Took a shower on my own early this morning and - wow that felt great.  Best.  Shower.  Ever.  And makes me appreciate what people go through who can't do that on a long term or permanent basis.  As someone who routinely has run 3 miles in 21 minutes for the past decade it's a bit surprising to have to walk across the room so carefully.  But well worth it. 

Although I haven't stepped outside this room I have never felt so free in my life.  It's not just the GCS, it's everything so far - the transition to who I am.

I'm sooooo incredibly happy for you Kendra!  From day one, you have intrigued and amazed me.  You still do!!  Thanks for being part of my life, I'm incredibly grateful for you.

And to everyone who has written support and/or visited Kendra, thank you so much!  It's amazing to see so much support and love for Kendra.

The view of the mountain was something I enjoyed when I was in for mine. It is a freeing experience and liberating because you're finally getting everything in place to be fully your authentic self. Congrats. Hugs
Mariah


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

So good to hear that your dreams are coming true. Can't wait to meet you. Looking forward to Roslyn in March. I got stuck in a hospital room for a month. Unfortunately Tacoma is not as scenic as Scotsdale.

Happiness all around!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/542b42c1edc586790385413a1da589b9.jpg)

Tia Anne, Kendra, Stephanie, and Cassie.

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 21, 2018, 03:09:57 PM
Happiness all around!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/542b42c1edc586790385413a1da589b9.jpg)

Tia Anne, Kendra, Stephanie, and Cassie.

There's are happy bunch of friends. I wish I could also be there.

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 21, 2018, 03:09:57 PM
Happiness all around!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/542b42c1edc586790385413a1da589b9.jpg)

Tia Anne, Kendra, Stephanie, and Cassie.

Woo-hoo!  Good one, ladies!

Congrats ( sorry missed this thread) BTW had your CD on as I was cooking again , reminds me of some thing but cant place it. Any ways well done you , speedy recovery XXXXXXX

Quote from: davina61 on January 21, 2018, 03:28:59 PM
Congrats ( sorry missed this thread) BTW had your CD on as I was cooking again , reminds me of some thing but cant place it. Any ways well done you , speedy recovery XXXXXXX

If you're playing the CD, you'll understand this:

We had two tickets for the road...

Stephanie

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 21, 2018, 03:09:57 PM
Happiness all around!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/542b42c1edc586790385413a1da589b9.jpg)

Tia Anne, Kendra, Stephanie, and Cassie.

Our virgin, clad in white!  >:-)

Looking great, ladies!

Hugs, Devlyn

Me and Cassie after landing in Phoenix.

Crashing a party. I wonder what Kendra will say?

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/13b6ebcfed97cc35d862183bfd5e1c2a.jpg)

Thank you so much to those who helped me with this surprise. Here's the card with your greetings.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/6885226315c5344ddcc33c3df8a8166e.jpg)

Stephanie

I loves me a good stalking/invasion force!  ;D

You can just feel the love there in that picture and the others on this thread, all gorgeous girls as well, Speedy recovery Kendra
Hugz
Katie
:angel: :angel: :angel: :angel: :angel: :angel: >:-) :angel:

Quote from: Devlyn Marie on January 21, 2018, 03:38:28 PM
Our virgin, clad in white!  >:-)

Looking great, ladies!

Hugs, Devlyn

Let's not sacrifice the virgin in this case. I'm more wondering when the swimsuit competition starts with you beautiful ladies. Woo Who!
Moni

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 21, 2018, 03:09:57 PM
Happiness all around!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/542b42c1edc586790385413a1da589b9.jpg)

Tia Anne, Kendra, Stephanie, and Cassie.

This is awesome....and I managed to keep my big trap shut!!!

That makes two of especially since Jamie and I had been in to see Kendra earlier in the day.

(https://i.imgur.com/7k7Mdfg.jpg)

Quote from: bethanyz on January 21, 2018, 05:20:39 PM
This is awesome....and I managed to keep my big trap shut!!!

Hi Kendra, I just saw this thread, caught up... congratulations!!! So happy for you! Wishing you a speedy joyful recovery... Hugs and warm wishes from the lush rainy Northwest, Ashley :)

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 21, 2018, 03:09:57 PM
Happiness all around!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180121/542b42c1edc586790385413a1da589b9.jpg)

Tia Anne, Kendra, Stephanie, and Cassie.

And big smiles!

Quote from: Kendra on January 18, 2018, 09:11:30 PM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/tdu90sdl9euug80/File%20Jan%2018%2C%204%2012%2004%20PM.png?raw=1)

You look so happy! This photo literally just made my day.  ;D

Thank you for sharing your experience, and congratulations!!!

  Hi there Kendra. Sorry I haven't commented on the visits today. I've been fighting with my computer most of the day after downloading and installing the latest Nvdia video driver. It messed up my messenger and would work with my 2nd nvidia card so I lost half my displays.
  It is nice seeing you out of bed with Mariah and Jamie it is nice to see those pictures of then.  Oh yeah right of you too. I also like the one of (S)tep(ha(ni)ie), Cassie, you and Tia. I'm getting used to seeing them 2 southern gals. You all are looking good. I am really impressed with how Tia looks now GCS really does suite her well.
  Keep resting and healing girl. I need you back up here so I can go visit Beth and Saha and collect on that home cooked meal.

Hugs,
   Laurie

So... today it's medically ok if I walk outside the room, down the hall, out of the building briefly.  But first it's best if I get the gizmo tubing shindig removed from the main surgical area.  Didn't get to that until early afternoon.  My girlfriend from 15 years ago (serious relationship) now lives in Scottsdale - she is wonderful - set a time for her to drop by.  She couldn't find the weekend entrance to the building, texted me for help, I went outside the room for the first time to find the building entrance.  This was quite confusing because I was teleported to my room (I think it's called anesthesia) and have no clue which way is what in this building.  I wandered around, found a nurse and they said the weekend entrance is open and pointed where it was, people outside can just hit the button.  Started walking in that direction, down a long hall, turned another corner. And three ladies turned the same corner at the same time.  They stopped. 

And I am standing in front of Stephanie from Florida.  I had crashed her New Years' party in Florida 3 weeks ago.  After staring slack-jawed for I don't know how long, I realize next to her is Cassie from Florida who helped me sneak into Steph's neighborhood coming-out party.  And can that possibly be Tia Anne from Colorado?  Tia Anne's GCS thread (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,227704.msg2024787.html#msg2024787) is one of the reasons I decided to arrive here when I was shopping for a GCS surgeon. 

I have never been so surprised in my life, and I've done a few things.  I have no idea how long I stood there completely stunned, but I definitely remember one of the three reminding me to breathe.  I literally had to wipe drool off my mouth.  Twice.  Yeah I'll admit that.  I still cannot believe what just happened.  Obviously we hugged but I don't remember what I babbled.  Good thing all the sensors and wires were removed a couple days ago, I'm sure all sorts of loud buzzers would have gone off.

As pure coincidence my friend from Scottsdale was let into the building by Cassie from Florida.  Cassie apparently walked up to the building, found the door just worked and let her in.  She texted she had made it to the room while I was standing down the hallway, stunned by the impossible.

Dena showed up, and then Mariah and Jamie came back over.  Steph handed me this incredible card - filled with notes and wishes from people here.  Of course I cried - things like this just don't happen.  I will cherish this forever. 

So that's how my first steps outside this room went. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/e6k01u9boxi7taf/Jamie%20Mariah%20Cassie%20Dena%20Kendra%20TiaAnne%20Steph.jpg?raw=1)

Jamie (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=45593), Mariah (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=50957), Cassie (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=57397), Dena (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=42503), Kendra (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=51614), Tia Anne (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=50075), Stephanie (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=54919).
Arizona, Arizona, Florida, Arizona, Seattle, Colorado, Florida.

Wow, nice surprise everyone!!! I'm glad you're up and about Kendra!

Now you've made me cry! Look at all those smiling faces. What an amazing group of friends!

Those first steps out are always the best!   Congratulations, Kendra!

I do love the pic with all of the gang from here surrounding you.   What a great re-christening for your life!

 Looks like a great bunch of girls there. Damn it I should have been one of them too.

Pouting,
   Laurie

Quote from: Laurie on January 21, 2018, 10:38:40 PM
Looks like a great bunch of girls there. Damn it I should have been one of them too.

Pouting,
   Laurie

I feel the same way, Laurie. I am millions of miles away, but I am right there with the group in spirit. For some reason the camera made me invisible.

Jayne

Kendra!!! You look radiant!!! Congrats again dear sister and kudos to The SSSSSSSSS... (Steph's Super Sneaky Surprise Scottsdale Sex Surgery Support Sisters)... for a successful post op mission completed seamlessly!!!

Hugs and Love!!!

A😀❤️🌻

Thank you all - and Ashley your Steph's Super Sneaky Surprise Scottsdale Sex Surgery Support Sisters comment has me laughing so much.

I walked quite a bit inside the building today.  Took a nap and when I woke up there was Tia Anne!  A good dream.  We walked to Old Town Scottsdale.  Since this is my first day walking outside the building (Day 4 after surgery), I wouldn't have walked that distance without Tia Anne or someone else along just in case.  And Dena is here now. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/kazu5f5nhp21njk/2018-01-22%2014.57.59.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/1na5gs5wy85rsms/2018-01-22%2014.40.58.jpg?raw=1)

Quote from: Laurie on January 21, 2018, 10:38:40 PM
Looks like a great bunch of girls there. Damn it I should have been one of them too.

Pouting,
   Laurie

But we are all with you in our hearts 💕

I'm sorry, but Pouting Laurie sounds like it belongs in the food forum with the other English recipes!  :laugh: :laugh:

Congratulations! you look sooo happy! Speedy recovery!

Quote from: Kendra on January 22, 2018, 07:13:29 PM
Thank you all - and Ashley your Steph's Super Sneaky Surprise Scottsdale Sex Surgery Support Sisters comment has me laughing so much.

I walked quite a bit inside the building today.  Took a nap and when I woke up there was Tia Anne!  A good dream.  We walked to Old Town Scottsdale.  Since this is my first day walking outside the building (Day 4 after surgery), I wouldn't have walked that distance without Tia Anne or someone else along just in case.  And Dena is here now. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/kazu5f5nhp21njk/2018-01-22%2014.57.59.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/1na5gs5wy85rsms/2018-01-22%2014.40.58.jpg?raw=1)

Quote from: tgirlamc on January 22, 2018, 12:35:36 AM
Kendra!!! You look radiant!!! Congrats again dear sister and kudos to The SSSSSSSSS... (Steph's Super Sneaky Surprise Scottsdale Sex Surgery Support Sisters)... for a successful post op mission completed seamlessly!!!

Hugs and Love!!!

A[emoji3]❤️[emoji258]

Whoa! I see t-shirts in our future!

The Steph in SSSSSSSSS.

Went for another walk today further into Old Town Scottsdale.  Had a really great walk - enjoyed every minute with Dena and Tia Anne.  As we walked past an ice cream store, Dena mentioned she went there when she was ten years old and the place is almost identical today. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/mcaxhh97gv6mt47/2018-01-22%2018.57.02.jpg?raw=1)
Dena, Kendra, Tia Anne
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/l4xyj77heam8kxl/2018-01-22%2018.57.22.jpg?raw=1)

According to Google Maps the round trip walk was 2 miles (3km).  That's definitely my limit for walking distance at this point (Day 4 after surgery).  I am not ridiculously sore and walking is good, but I don't want to over-do it.  I'm about to log off for the day - my energy level is fine but I am taking several naps and getting extra sleep now - easier to do without all the robo-wires and shindigs connected everywhere. 

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 22, 2018, 07:50:54 PM
Whoa! I see t-shirts in our future!

The Steph in SSSSSSSSS.

Steph!!!... Perhaps a snake logo would be appropriate?... It could be going down a gopher hole as an homage to penile inversion while uttering the trademark SSSSSSSSS! ( Btw... I get $.05 on every T-Shirt ) 😀!!!!!

Kendra!!!... For goodness sakes girl... You are only 4 days post op... I know you are excited but you don't need to keep posting pics of you summiting Mt. Everest and swimming the English Channel!!!... Get some rest and start your mantra ... Dialate.... Dialate .... Dialate!!!

Love To You All 😀

A 😀💗🌻

Kendrs, you rock girl! Thank you for letting me share in your journey.

I can't believe you're up and about outside already! Don't push yourself!

Kendra, I can't believe you are only 4 days out of surgery! You look great, but geeez! Take it easy!

Jayne

Quote from: Sarah_P on January 22, 2018, 10:17:52 PM
I can't believe you're up and about outside already! Don't push yourself!

I gotta stay in shape so I can outrun Laurie's truck.  Or a lorry as those vehicles are called in more civlised places - Laurie's Lorry.

Quote from: Kendra on January 23, 2018, 10:06:47 AM
I gotta stay in shape so I can outrun Laurie's truck.  Or a lorry as those vehicles are called in more civlised places - Laurie's Lorry.

  Yeah you better get back in shape Girl. That lorrie of Laurie's is in the shop getting fixed up for the race. We'll see if you can stay ahead of it.

Hugs,
   Laurie

Hey!  No chasing my girlfriend with a lorry!  I don't care who's driving it!    ;D

  But but but She suggested it. I'm innocent.

Uhuh    grinning

Armed with my handy portable post-op seat cushion, spotted a cheap rental bike on a beautiful day in Arizona, and...  noooo, everyone said that would be a really bad idea five days after surgery.  Don't worry, I didn't. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/iqbwaf63pzf6f37/2018-01-23%2012.56.45.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/tavns5bkaczdd1s/2018-01-23%2012.56.49.jpg?raw=1)

Cassie and I are leaving town before Laurie's Lorry gets here.  On the way back to Tampa. [emoji52]

We had a nice meal at The Breakfast Club on the other side of Old Town Scottsdale.  I thought the small metal cup of ketchup at each plate was for my oatmeal but Steph stopped me in time, said that had something to do with Laurie. 

The food was good but the main point was being able to spend more time with three incredible women - Tia Anne (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=50075) (Colorado), Cassie (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=57397) (Florida), and Stephanie (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=54919) (Florida) before they headed back to the airport.  We had a relaxing walk comparing our journeys through transition, challenges we have each faced and others have faced, good days and bad.  Some moments in life are so precious.
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/wawb8mj51vvibii/2018-01-23%2010.17.08.jpg?raw=1)

They are in the air right now on the way back to their homes. 
I will always remember my time in Scottsdale - and not quite the way I imagined. 
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/7os7fd34dimm8aq/2018-01-23%2013.52.17.jpg?raw=1)

Hi Kendra...great to see you looking so well....I can only hope that I am looking as well as you 5 days post op...I think you are very brave to be even contemplating a bike...OUCH!!

You do need to get fit although at Laurie's tender age she won't be too difficult to out run, you better give her a head start to give her a sporting chance  I suggest you distract her first, let me know if you need a list of buttons to push  ;D I am sure I can think of a few.

Lovely to see you ladies enjoying each other company and some good food.

Hope your recovery continues at the pace it is, which is so great!!

Take Care

Liz

Okay I give up. What was in the cups? And what does it have to do with me?

I must say that is a nice bunch of gals there at the table.

Hugs,
  Laurie

Quote from: Laurie on January 23, 2018, 10:32:59 PM
Okay I give up. What was in the cups? And what does it have to do with me?

Just for you, Laurie, I had the waitress bring us all something special to put on our breakfasts:

Ketchup!

[emoji16]

Stephanie

Kendra, I at first thought that our visit to Scottsdale was about supporting and encouraging you but I had that all wrong. This has been one of the most amazing and emotionally awesome three days I can remember (ok, I have done a lot of things that have limited my memory a bit). Spending time with three such amazing women was a rare gem in life. Thank you for being open to sharing a small part of your journey with us.

Laurie, why the red stuff was ketchup. We were told that you consider it to be an essential part of every breakfast.

Tia Anne

Nooooooooooo!!  Salsa I can see  Ketchup no. Ketchup has it's uses and it's place but I can't think of a single use for it during breakfast. ewwww

Quote from: Laurie on January 23, 2018, 10:44:45 PM
Nooooooooooo!!  Salsa I can see  Ketchup no. Ketchup has it's uses and it's place but I can't think of a single use for it during breakfast. ewwww

The rest of us rode an emotional roller coaster this weekend, so I thought I'd give you a reason to get emotional, too.

You're welcome.

Stephanieheeheehee!

Day 6 post-op.  Today is anticipated to be quite great but potentially rough as surgical packing is removed and dilation begins.  I'm thinking of this as a mid-point in my stay at the hospital - not in days but for beginning an important stage. 

Dr. Ley and several nurses have commented my swelling is going down faster than average.  I don't think that has anything to do with luck - I have been careful to keep a fresh ice pack on the main surgery area most of the time I'm in this room.  If I wake up in the middle of the night I immediately replace the ice pack (nurses are quick to bring it if you're not up and about).  Sometimes it isn't pleasant as I have figured out ice is cold, but I keep hearing this is essential to initial recovery.

Dr. Ley stopped by yesterday and said they will offer pain meds prior to packing removal.  Although I try to minimize the use of pain meds I've learned to take just enough to bring pain down to a tolerable level.  Even with pain meds there are moments when I gasp but I don't add more - and then the pain goes away.  I have seen others get by on ibuprofen a couple days after GCS but I haven't been able to do that.  I can tell when the meds wear off as the somewhat random pain changes from yeah it's there to spikes of holy smoke.  I told Dr. Ley about the long walks and she said that's fine and has some benefits - they encourage walking at this stage but do not over-do it.  I feel comfortable with the amount I have walked and it's wise to bring someone along in case help is needed for the first few walks outside.  I want to remind everyone: we each have different health backgrounds and other characteristics and we each need to set our own pace, just like with transition itself.  The right answer needs to fit you.  I'm a runner, and this week I've been using all available upper body strength for things that appear simple like sitting down in a chair.  I wish for everyone considering this: please get in the best possible health before this surgery.

After packing is removed later this morning they will show me how to dilate and I need to do that five times today, and assume each time will initially take about an hour.  I'll be dilating 4 times per day tomorrow through the end of February and then the frequency can drop.

Hi all

Kendra has asked us to do an update for her.  She is sleeping, but plans to post tomorrow

The packing and stitches were removed, and she has been shown how to dilate.  Surgery results are optimal.

Kendra, I'm so happy to hear your surgery has gone so well. Whatever it is you are doing, it's a winning formula. It's really working for you so stick to it.

Jayne

YAY!!! That's great news!

And I agree with Laurie, ketchup is NOT a breakfast food.

Quote from: Sarah_P on January 24, 2018, 09:30:22 PM
YAY!!! That's great news!

And I agree with Laurie, ketchup is NOT a breakfast food.

Now Sarah, don't gang up on me. It's not just for breakfast anymore. Ok, I'll go back to calling it a savory tomato-based relish-condiment. [emoji849]


- Stephanie

let me see .. topic ketchup .. ketchup is for, umm, .... nothing. Weelll, I have been known to use it (lightly) on my veggie-burgers along with some mustard. I don't eat regular hamburgers any more and hamburgers didn't get ketchup on them (they'd get mayonnaise, of course)

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 24, 2018, 09:41:05 PM
Now Sarah, don't gang up on me. It's not just for breakfast anymore. Ok, I'll go back to calling it a savory tomato-based relish-condiment. [emoji849]

- Stephanie

Or Catsup. Makes it sound more exotic.  ;)

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 16, 2018, 11:47:15 PM
Kendra, I am so excited for you! Take it easy, and when you feel up to it, please let us know how things are going. I'll be thinking of you all day on Thursday, and watching closely for updates.

Told you I'd be watching closely. [emoji56]


- Stephanie

Tomatoes are a fruit, ketchup is a smoothy!

Quote from: Sarah_P on January 25, 2018, 07:17:16 AM
Or Catsup. Makes it sound more exotic.  ;)

I dunno. Cassie and other Perfectly Sane Cat Ladies might take offense. Have to clarify that cat isn't really an ingredient.

A scene jumped into my strange mind of two cats passing each other on the street, bumping fists and going, "CatsUUUUPP?"


- Stephanie

Quote from: Saha on January 25, 2018, 07:19:01 AM
Tomatoes are a fruit, ketchup is a smoothy!

Mmmmm. Tomato smoothy. 🤤

You may all disrespect the Big K all you like, but it lets you experience both sweet and umami in one condiment. And it was on the list of foods Mark Twain craved the most in A Tramp Abroad.

I know why everyone's hating on it. It's ordinary. And every here is extraordinary.


- Stephanie

QuoteTomatoes are a fruit, ketchup is a smoothy!

I thought ketchup was a food group.   ;)

Oh by the way I wonder how (St)ep.. uh Cas.., Ti.. Den.. Jam.. Mari.. oh heck, I wonder how she is doing... It's time to stop all the condimenting on ketchup and get back to what's her name..... oh yeah Kendra.

Hugs,
  Laurie

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 25, 2018, 07:22:14 AM
I dunno. Cassie and other Perfectly Sane Cat Ladies might take offense. Have to clarify that cat isn't really an ingredient.

A scene jumped into my strange mind of two cats passing each other on the street, bumping fists and going, "CatsUUUUPP?"

Try as I might, I have never been able to get a cat to sup on that stuff.

Oh, and for the record, you three may have had ketchup in your little cups but mine had super-mild sauce in it, despite the fact that I asked for hot sauce. (Hey, I've lived in the South for 37 years!)

Quote from: Laurie on January 25, 2018, 10:16:08 AM
Oh by the way I wonder how (St)ep.. uh Cas.., Ti.. Den.. Jam.. Mari.. oh heck, I wonder how she is doing... It's time to stop all the condimenting on ketchup and get back to what's her name..... oh yeah Kendra.

Yes, and speaking of the lovely Miss Kendra, she and I shared a moment on the bridge while we were out walking after breakfast that morning. In honor of her convalescence, I shared something with her - a bit of a spoiler of my story, which held significance to this period in her life. It was one of those milestones many of us have to face, even though we all take different paths to get there.

That's all I'll say on the matter. The rest of you fine folks will just have to wait for that chapter in the story. That is, unless Steph and I happen to pull another surprise hospital visit in the near future! ;)

I thought it was time to ketchup on this thread as I thought I might be beHeinz on it. I'll wait another couple of days and Hunts it up again, my precious. Now don't be Gollumble.

Steak with ketchup yummy. A1 blows.

Oh yeah, I am happy to see you up and about Kendra, Laurie didn't even wait til I was out of my hospital bed before she attacked me and put me in the hospital. So happy for you. With all the lovely crazies who have been around you, I hope it doesn't hurt when you laugh. lol
Moni

Quote from: HappyMoni on January 25, 2018, 06:07:35 PM
Steak with ketchup yummy. A1 blows.

If the steak is made right it doesn't need any sauce!
Except BBQ sauce. EVERYTHING is better with a little Sweet Baby Ray's. Well, maybe not ice cream. Ice cream is really hard to cook on a grill.

Oh yeah.... how's Kendra doing?

Kendra, while you're in AZ are you at least going to grab some decent Mexican food?

Actually when are you headed home?  I'll be in Phoenix next Thursday.

Quote from: Steph2.0 on January 25, 2018, 07:18:04 AM
Told you I'd be watching closely. [emoji56]

- Stephanie

Yeah you sure were!  First time I walked out of my room, there you are along with Cassie and Tia Anne.  Since I don't remember the surgery at all, now I gotta wonder.

Post-Op Day 7.  Yesterday and today went great with one exception - I tried making the switch from industrial-grade pain meds to ibuprofen.  By yesterday afternoon I was one hurtin' unit (oh wait, I don't have one of those).  The pain wasn't specific, not from the surgical area - hit everywhere to the point I couldn't focus or think clearly.  I mistakenly assumed that was caused by some sort of withdrawal from stopping the stronger meds.  I hadn't improved by this morning so I talked to one of the nurses and a doctor, they said based on my description to go back on the stronger stuff I'd been taking all week.  Took awhile to kick in and now I feel fine. 

So with my day of pain from an attempted switch to ibuprofen, how can I call that great?  Because the surgical results are excellent.  I am dilating at exactly the depth Dr. Ley said was the goal during the physical exam in November.   Swelling in the main surgical area is expected but mine has definitely improved - I have been careful to apply ice any time I can.

The whiteboard shows why I didn't get a full nights sleep last night.  Took several naps and now I feel rested.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ilmggmm8hq061cd/2018-01-25%2008.24.07.jpg?raw=1)

Went for a nice walk this evening in Old Town Scottsdale - explored a different area with art galleries.  I stopped to admire some of the art.  A few galleries contain things I don't understand unless it really was caused by random paint explosions sprinkled with ketchup or salsa. 

Couple more nights here, return to Seattle this Saturday.

It'll be good to be home. 

But if you get a chance, try the green corn tamales at Macayo's.  Es bueno.

Before experiencing the results of coming out to my parents (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,226090.0.html) six months ago, I didn't think I would ever receive an email like this - not in my lifetime.

---

From: (Kendra's mother)
To: Kendra F0wles
Thursday, January 25, 2018 9:36 PM

We just came home from Friday market
I bought shrimp and vegetable てんぷら for そばlunch
The shrimp てんぷらare very small shrimp, about '.5"'size,
They are good source of iron

I really appreciate thoughtful friend you have
This time, this operation to you are very important to you
Your friends came to you right after the operation and stayed with you
I am in tears
Please, thank to your friends for me

I knew you are recovering more than average
Because, you are healthy

I love you, kendra

Very nice and touching letter Kendra.

Hugs,
  Laurie

Quote from: Kendra on January 25, 2018, 11:31:02 PM
Before experiencing the results of coming out to my parents (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,226090.0.html) six months ago, I didn't think I would ever receive an email like this - not in my lifetime.

---

From: (Kendra's mother)
To: Kendra F0wles
Thursday, January 25, 2018 9:36 PM

We just came home from Friday market
I bought shrimp and vegetable てんぷら for そばlunch
The shrimp てんぷらare very small shrimp, about '.5"'size,
They are good source of iron

I really appreciate thoughtful friend you have
This time, this operation to you are very important to you
Your friends came to you right after the operation and stayed with you
I am in tears
Please, thank to your friends for me

I knew you are recovering more than average
Because, you are healthy

I love you, kendra

That's so wonderful, Kendra. My tears are flowing freely, too. I bow low to your mother. Please thank her for her kind words. I hope she will some day allow me the honor of giving her a big hug.

Your sister,

Stephanie

Quote from: Kendra on January 25, 2018, 11:31:02 PM
Before experiencing the results of coming out to my parents (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,226090.0.html) six months ago, I didn't think I would ever receive an email like this - not in my lifetime.

A gift to Kendra
Love between parents and child
No wall can block it

Quote from: Kendra on January 25, 2018, 11:31:02 PM
Before experiencing the results of coming out to my parents (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,226090.0.html) six months ago, I didn't think I would ever receive an email like this - not in my lifetime.

---

From: (Kendra's mother)
To: Kendra F0wles
Thursday, January 25, 2018 9:36 PM

We just came home from Friday market
I bought shrimp and vegetable てんぷら for そばlunch
The shrimp てんぷらare very small shrimp, about '.5"'size,
They are good source of iron

I really appreciate thoughtful friend you have
This time, this operation to you are very important to you
Your friends came to you right after the operation and stayed with you
I am in tears
Please, thank to your friends for me

I knew you are recovering more than average
Because, you are healthy

I love you, kendra

I'm speechless - truly I am!

The level of understanding and acceptance evidenced by your mom has got to be lifting some of that weight off of your shoulders.

It'll be okay, sister. Everything's going to work out fine.

Quote from: Kendra on January 25, 2018, 11:31:02 PM
Before experiencing the results of coming out to my parents (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,226090.0.html) six months ago, I didn't think I would ever receive an email like this - not in my lifetime.

---

From: (Kendra's mother)
To: Kendra F0wles
Thursday, January 25, 2018 9:36 PM

We just came home from Friday market
I bought shrimp and vegetable てんぷら for そばlunch
The shrimp てんぷらare very small shrimp, about '.5"'size,
They are good source of iron

I really appreciate thoughtful friend you have
This time, this operation to you are very important to you
Your friends came to you right after the operation and stayed with you
I am in tears
Please, thank to your friends for me

I knew you are recovering more than average
Because, you are healthy

I love you, kendra

Reading this make me cry for happiness.  What a beautiful letter!

No words Kendra... Just an Awwwwwww and a tear!

Hugs!!!

A 😀❤️🌻

Wow, your mom is awesome

Yes she is.

And my father is sincerely supportive.  So much misunderstanding until six months ago, pushed aside with love as it should be.  I am very thankful.

I wanted to post earlier today but didn't have time.  So many incredible moments meeting people I never expected, and far more time than expected with those I was hoping to meet.  And of course all of us sharing online - that's what literally brought me here in so many ways, and brings us all together.  I can't believe how many times Dena stopped by, caring about every detail and wanting to make sure everything is going as planned - and got to see Mariah and Jamie again.  I was able to meet Gertrude (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=45030) today (yay!).  I went for a very nice walk with Denise, girlfriend and partner from 15 years ago who had moved from Seattle to Arizona.  We have ridden Harleys half way across the US but she agreed this wasn't the time to be doing that.

Post-Op Day 8, my last night here.  Started the morning with catheter removal, time to learn to be a whiz at something.  The surgery suddenly looks less abstract with the last bit of medical tubing removed.  No need to mentally block anything off, other than wait for swelling to go down and some fine-tuning a few months from now.  Continued recovery from swelling will take time, that's why they call us patients.

I have seen Dr. Ley or Dr. Meltzer every day.  I wasn't expecting that.  Both care deeply about their patients and it shows.  Deb is one of their patient coordinators to help reassure and explain essential processes in detail including dilation - saw her several times this week.  I am so glad to have met her, we swapped a few stories.  The hospital where Dr. Ley and Meltzer operate is nothing less than first class.  And it's more than facilities - the most important part is having the right people. 

Speaking of first class I noticed something after I woke up from anesthesia.  (Disclaimer: if I'm paying the tab I almost always fly coach - that's how I'm gettin' to South Korea a month from now).  Take a long nap, wake up somewhere new.  Buttons to adjust back angle - the little motors in the fold-flat bed even sound the same.  Press the call button and a super polite person shows up with whatever is needed.  Coincidence?

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/usfrdn0go2hkhp9/2018-01-26%2009.22.18.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ehh30e8c4gdc11w/alitaliaB777.jpg?raw=1)

  Have a good flight Home.

Hugs,
  Laurie

I believe it Kendra. Dena was a huge help during my stay in that clinic. Your post reminded me again of just how much of a huge help she was for me as well. Kendra is amazing getting to visit you while you were here. I can't wait to here how your recovery progresses. One change that actually resulted in my asking the staff a question was the fact they gave you that little container for your water when we had the liter containers when I had my surgery. Even the staff doesn't know why. Your dilation schedule for that first day reminded me of mine because I had to start right around that t time for my first dilation too. Anyways all the best. Hugs
Mariah

(https://i.imgur.com/5ZiE6KY.jpg)

Yes those business/first class recliners do look amazing.  (especially when I'm shuffling past with the rest of the lemmings into steerage class)  My company is a bunch of cheapskates, and wow does intercontinental really get old in a hurry when you're in the cheap seats.

My recommendation is benadryl.  You'll be too comatose to be jealous of the nice seats, lol.

Hi , I was wondering how you able to get a reply from that office I made many attempts and never even a return call, txt or email
Laura

I would try calling again Laura. When the office is open someone generally picks up the phone. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Laura Micheal on January 27, 2018, 09:00:58 AM
Hi , I was wondering how you able to get a reply from that office I made many attempts and never even a return call, txt or email
Laura

Hello Laura Micheal,

Thank you for joining Susan's Place and for posting.  I'll add information we provide to new members to help with initial navigation, and guidelines for the site.

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,2.0.html)	Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,54369.0.htm)	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar) (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,114.0.html.)
Reputation rules (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,18960.0.html)	Cautionary Note (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,82221.0.html)	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,59974.msg383866.html#msg383866)

When you get a chance it would be great if you can introduce yourself in the Introductions Forum (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/board,8.0.html).  We would all like to meet you!

Kendra

Welcome to Susan's Place Laura. I use the office for HRT and I have never had difficulty contacting anybody. They have two people working the desk during normal office hours and if I couldn't talk to who I needed, they took a message and it was followed up on. As for Texting, those are land lines so your text messages ended up in the bit bucket. You can only text to another cell phone and in some cases that will be transferred to a computer.

  Are you home yet? huh? huh? are you home yet?

She isn't going to get home until early evening. She had a afternoon flight and she even was allowed to stay past the 11AM checkout time so  she could squeeze an extra dilation in before her fight. She seem to be flying first class so I suspect she may drop in during her flight.

Remember this is a pretty exhausting experience so nap time is pretty inviting after wandering around the airport.

...just woke up at Phoenix airport (no anesthesia involved).  Arrived early since I'm not in shape to be sprinting to the gate, and the only shoes I packed were comfy flip flops.  Found a quiet corner not far from the gate, next to a window in the Arizona sunshine, and Zzzzzz.  I set an alarm 30 minutes before departure just in case.  3 hour nonstop flight, no worries.

Between routine medical checks and dilation schedule I found a few minutes to walk across the street.  Scottsdale has a Farmers Market every Saturday morning.  I enjoyed wandering around, bought a tray of Baklava made by a local family (http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/restaurants/syrian-refugee-exchange-bakers-baklava-farmers-markets-scottsdale-9766254), refugees from Syria.  Other vendors had an amazing variety of food for sale - not all of it my style (I am somewhat sorta vegan when I can be) but I arrived back at the hospital quite hungry for the first time.  Food aromatherapy.

I said goodbye to Dr. Ley.  I will see her in July for a revision, and she will be in Seattle this August for the Gender Odyssey  (http://www.genderodyssey.org/seattle/)conference.
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/qsyki43hgfndvc6/2018-01-27%2014.14.51.jpg?raw=1)

Beth & Saha plan to be waiting at SeaTac airport, they will handle the luggage.  No heavy lifting for awhile.  I can walk just fine but bathrooms are still a timed event... certain things I can't ignore during initial healing.  Their house is 20-30 minutes from the airport.  After I gain a bit more mobility I'll move back to my house but I am not in a hurry.

...and it's time to get on the plane at the Arizona side.  Quite the week and a half! 
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/3q98ylnr9tw35va/2018-01-27%201.51.52.jpg?raw=1)

It was great to meet Kendra yesterday. I can't believe how well she's doing. She's an inspiration to me! I wish I had more time to spend with her. When she's back in town, I'd like to hang.

Just got caught up on this thread. Kendra, your family is amazing! Get some rest, will ya?  :laugh:

Hugs, Devlyn

Kendra is home safe and sound

Quote from: Saha on January 27, 2018, 11:13:42 PM
Kendra is home safe and sound

Thank you for the update, Saha. I hope the trip wasn't too stressful and Kendra is getting enough rest. I know you and Bethany will take good care of her.

Stephanie

Trip back was fine, no stress.  That did cause a time gap in dilation and it showed - first one after arrival was difficult but I managed to push through.  No more gaps of that type until end of February when dilation schedule drops from 4x/day to 2x/day.

Yay!

Glad you're home and doing well!

Kendra, I'm so glad you're home safe and well, you take it easy now,  no pogo-sticking, bungee-jumping, or trampolining!

Beth/Saha, you take care of that special lady! I know you will because it's clear how much you all love each other; but there's a bunch of people here who do too.

X.

Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk

I am glad that you are back home safely Kendra and that things appear to be going very well for you.


Chrissy

Kendra, a day (10 days) late and a dollar short, that's me.  I just found this thread so let me add my congratulations to all the others.  I'm so happy for you, hon.

Kendra, glad you are home safe and recovering well.

Jayne

Home, and safe with Saha and Bethany.  I'm so glad you have such loving folks to care for you in recovery.  I know you're strong, but don't be tempted to push things just yet. That's some serious surgery that takes time to heal properly.

Be safe, and heal well!

Michelle

Awwww - thank you all!  Or i should say us all, we are connected in so many ways and experiences.

Here's the Baklava from the farmer's market near the hospital.  I bought them from a very nice lady, and was then curious about the "Syrian Sweets Exchange" sign at her booth.  At the airport I found a news article (http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/restaurants/syrian-refugee-exchange-bakers-baklava-farmers-markets-scottsdale-9766254) and immediately recognized the lady I had purchased these from.  At her original home town, a rocket hit her family's car (not everyone survived) and bullets went through their family home.  Some people's journeys through life contain incredibly tragic moments followed with such courage.  Much as I admire people here who have fought far more than I have to get closer to a life as our true selves in our own ways.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/v7odncybj40m4t6/2018-01-28%2008.52.05.jpg?raw=1)

Dear Megan,

   Have no fear or concern, she is precious to us.

Quote from: Saha on January 28, 2018, 12:44:29 PM
Dear Megan,

   Have no fear or concern, she is precious to us.

I've no doubt, ty. X

Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk

Hope they had the ticker tape and bunting out, sorry not been following but a bit over tired here. Glad its all going well and there's nothing like being in your own place to feel comfy.

No ticker tape, but 2 big smiles greeted her

Laurie, please do come up

Better than being home, I am staying with Beth & Saha for awhile.  I'll return home after I have enough strength to outrun Laurie and her truck at least in first gear.

Hi Kendra,

Greetings from (currently) damp and rainy Florida!

I'm glad to hear that you made it home safe and sound and are being taken care of. It seems like such a long road to recovery from something like this but with only a few exceptions, our lives are just full of long roads, aren't they?

I'm with the other folks on here - please don't overdo it or push yourself too hard. In the short time I've had to get to know you, I know your personality isn't the type that likes to sit still, so this has got to be a bit maddening but have patience.

Who knows? Maybe you'll shave a little time off of your 3-mile run now that you're carrying a bit less mass.  ;D

Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Glad that you made it back and have friends to help you out! Having support sure makes life easier! I know that life for the next while will be schedule driven. Patience is the word! I know that was easier said than done for me. We all heal/ recover at different rates so listen to you body. For me it was pretty easy going, as long as I followed the protocols.

All the Best! Hugs
Kelly

Quote from: Michelle_P on January 28, 2018, 10:38:57 AM
Home, and safe with Saha and Bethany.  I'm so glad you have such loving folks to care for you in recovery.  I know you're strong, but don't be tempted to push things just yet. That's some serious surgery that takes time to heal properly.

Be safe, and heal well!

Michelle

Been trying to tell her that since she got back.  There is no holding Kendra back, she is truly Wonder Woman!!

Quote from: islandgirl on January 29, 2018, 04:19:54 PM
Glad that you made it back and have friends to help you out! Having support sure makes life easier! I know that life for the next while will be schedule driven. Patience is the word! I know that was easier said than done for me. We all heal/ recover at different rates so listen to you body. For me it was pretty easy going, as long as I followed the protocols.

All the Best! Hugs
Kelly

there seems to be a theme here.....

Quote from: SassyCassie on January 29, 2018, 08:02:50 AM
Hi Kendra,

Greetings from (currently) damp and rainy Florida!

I'm glad to hear that you made it home safe and sound and are being taken care of. It seems like such a long road to recovery from something like this but with only a few exceptions, our lives are just full of long roads, aren't they?

I'm with the other folks on here - please don't overdo it or push yourself too hard. In the short time I've had to get to know you, I know your personality isn't the type that likes to sit still, so this has got to be a bit maddening but have patience.

Who knows? Maybe you'll shave a little time off of your 3-mile run now that you're carrying a bit less mass.  ;D

Wishing you a speedy recovery!

a coincidence?  giggles, i think not.....

I was out walking the city of Winter Park, Florida after doing lunch with Cassie, and suddenly got the inexplicable urge to know how you're feeling...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180131/d4352af451ece9a5ccfc13f80c2fbf86.jpg)

Stephanie

Hi Kendra

Just managed to catch up on your thread...Oh wow sounds like you have been looked after really well. Great to see you making such good progress. I envy you being able to catch up with all these amazing ladies here. Hope you keep improving and quickly enough...when Laurie finally gets her truck going right you might have a job getting away

Take care

Liz

I am doing great, far better than I expected at this point in time.  But I must also say GCS has its challenges and unavoidable pain.  And then there is dilation, and the first month in particular.

I just drove to Eastern Washington State and back to run a few errands (170 mile / 275km round trip) - Saha went along.  I hate to admit getting my own car briefly stuck in my other driveway in deep snow a few hours ago but I did... keys to my 4WD truck were at a different property a ten minute walk away, roads clear but snow everywhere else.  Saha stopped me from using the snow shovel.  Neighbor gave my car a quick pull with his truck, problem quickly solved.  I'm back at Beth & Saha's now.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/h8trr9eew8a0hhw/2018-01-31%2014.48.50.jpg?raw=1)
Kendra & Saha

I was driving my old Audi although I'll have to rename it - as of Jan 18 my audi changed to an innie. 

I'll write a larger post in the next day or two with the list of exactly what I brought for the GCS trip and found essential or not, and what's needed at home on return.  And things I found helpful to do while there.  Many others before me have done this (Moni, Michelle, Tia Anne) and I'd like to pass along similar information in case this can help anyone else.

Kendra,

Remember that old song, "There's no business like snow business like no business...ugh... for people who have had vaginoplasty. Na na na na na na na..." Don't make me sing it. It ain't pretty.

Moni

Quote
I was driving my old Audi although I'll have to rename it - as of Jan 18 my audi changed to an innie. 

I was laughing at this and told Deb you said you would have to change the name of your Audi.  She looked up and immediately said, "Innie?"  LOL

I was away from Susan's for a while but was wondering how it was going.  Now I have read the whole threat, shed a few tears, and am so happy for you.  In every picture you look ecstatic.  Glad you didn't use that snow shovel, you could end up undoing something.  Charge ahead--slowly!

Today is two weeks post-op.

What have I learned and would like to share?  I learned that, much like electrolysis, some pain is unavoidable but absolutely worth it to reach goals.  I learned the support and compassion here on Susan's is incomparable - beyond anything I imagined possible.  In our own ways we are each climbing mountains regardless of surgery or other details.  I wish the achievement of happiness for all of us. 

And... there is dilation.  Nine days into that, 4 times per day.  A few friends (not on Susan's) have joked that's a prescription for "I want what she's having" several times per day and let me tell ya that is definitely not pleasurable yet.  At all.  Dilation at this stage is more like cramming a carrot all the way into your ear every few hours, if your ear was a recent surgical site trying to heal.  I'm confident that will be enjoyable in a few months but for now it's purely a medical procedure and I am following those directions exactly.  Too much work went into this to cut corners now.

The first day of dilation in the hospital was okay, some pain but I managed.  I barely hit the full desired depth and have maintained that since.  The next couple days I was a bit alarmed with increasing pain during dilation - to the point where it was really bad but I heard very clearly this is extremely important - it must be completed each time.  I described details to Dr. Ley and she confirmed I'm doing this correctly and will very gradually get better with time.  She was right.  But in the meantime, when I returned to Seattle (10 days post-op) dilation was heart-pounding bad.  The following morning was worse so I started thinking about the math... 4 times per day, 24 hours per day, but overnight was 9pm and then at 7am.  My morning dilation was the worst because things had 10 hours to settle in.  I'd rather trade a loss of sleep for excruciating pain so I started dilating at exactly 6 hours day or night.  Problem solved.  By setting an 11pm alarm and waking up at 5am, dilation immediately became easier.  Today, dilation has progressed to the point it goes fairly quickly and it's not that bad.  I won't go back to a normal sleep schedule until I'm certain I can dilate without excessive pain. 

And here's my lists. 

Things I brought to Arizona:
- Any prescriptions including HRT (don't re-start until talking to the doctor at the hospital).
- Medical insurance card if you have one (you'll have a few take-home prescriptions to fill).
- Comfortable flip-flop sandals.  GOOD DECISION.  This enabled me to walk across the room without bending over to put socks on.  I wore the same sandals out in Scottsdale and for the flight home.
- Laptop & phone of course, and chargers.  I found 6 foot (2 metre) charger cords were barely long enough... 10 foot would have been better, to reach the bed or table from wall outlets. 
- Skirts or dresses.  I didn't bring a dress, but a skirt or two is essential for going outside and the trip home - along with comfortable shirts.  I didn't pack a jacket (this is Arizona) but an over-wrap is nice for colder evenings outside.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo/conditioner etc.
- Lotion.  I found the hospital's lotion was icky.
- Passport (crazy quick drive to Mexico the day before surgery)

Details to make things go easier (in addition to instructions provided by the clinic):
- Order 3 meals at a time.  Greenbaum Hospital requires you call each meal in by a deadline.  So I'd call a bit early to avoid rush and order the next 3 meals, less chance of forgetting.
- Double-up the hospital underwear.  They provide ugly but very comfortable soft cotton panties, so comfortable that's all I wore - and continued to a couple days after returning to Seattle.  I found during the first few days post-op, standard healing discharge would get around the sanitary pad and soak through the underwear (sorry if that sounds gross, just a medical fact).  Doubling-up the underwear solved that problem (avoided getting anything on clothes or bed), and gave me the confidence to go for long walks. 
- Order prune juice with every meal.  It's a small amount, but adding that allowed me to avoid harsher medications and I never experienced problems in this department.  Constipation right after GCS would be more than painful, it can cause risk to the surgical area.
- Cut back on coffee before arriving for surgery.  (I didn't do this and wish I had).  I had been consuming 2-3 "Grande" coffees per day.  A single "serving" of coffee is 6 ounces... so I had been slammin' 5-7 servings per day.  The day before surgery has a strict diet (clear liquids only), no coffee the day of surgery or the day after.  Nurses confirmed what I already knew: although coffee is available and allowed when you can go back on solid foods, caffeine is not your friend when you're trying to manage pain.  I had already learned to skip coffee the morning of electrolysis.  Day One post-op I had a very intense caffeine headache in my forehead - strong enough to feel through morphine.  My advice is: don't make recovery more difficult... cut caffeine to a very low level several days before surgery. 

Things I did not need to bring:
- Bathrobe.  Meltzer/Ley provides an awesome spa-type bathrobe.  But if they didn't, I woulda wished I had brought one.
- Snacks.  Greenbaum hospital has a stash of simple snacks, and post-surgery my appetite was not much - I ate because I knew it's good to during recovery.  And I gotta say those graham crackers rock when you are first starting on solid food. 
- Sanitary pads.  You will definitely need these at home but the hospital provides all that's needed while there.
- Extra underwear/panties.  Same as with the pads - the hospital provides these, not stylish but very comfortable.
- Extra socks.  The hospital provided socks with traction pads on the bottom (standard socks are a slip hazard on a smooth floor).  By bringing flip-flops I was able to avoid socks once I was able to get out of bed.
- Ibuprofen, etc.  All pain relief medicines including ibuprofen are provided by the hospital while on site.
- Jeans or any tight pants.  No way, not for awhile after GCS... leave those home. 
...and overall, don't bring stuff you do not need.  For the return trip you will have additional luggage because of the post-op kit they hand you (a small hand bag) - and you won't be as strong.  This isn't a good time to be hauling unnecessary luggage to the airport. 

Things to have ready at home:
- Handheld showerhead on your shower.  I have to emphasize this... if your shower does not have a handheld spray, add one before you have this surgery.  There are many times you will need this.  This one works great: Moen Magnetix six-function handheld shower head. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DVS40TE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage)
- Great big bottle of ibuprofen, with a spare in the car.  You will eat a lot of these. 
- Prune juice.  Mainly a precaution to avoid pain and risk from constipation at this point in time.
- Always Brand maxi pads (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0029NYQ6A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00).  I bought these with wings but not sure the wings were necessary.  A week later I am about to switch to the super-thin type without wings  (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XQEOTMC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1)- even with dilation the need for these has diminished. 
- McKesson brand lubricating jelly (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZQFQP08/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage) (4 ounce tubes, sold by the case).  This is what they start you out with for dilation, and everyone says don't mess with other types at first - just use McKesson at first.  They also sell this stuff in small packets (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MBQAPGU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage) (4 ounces / 118ml is too large for airline carry-on luggage regulations).
- Bed pads for dilation.  McKesson UPHV3036 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BE5D2FA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1) are good quality.  I found some cheap discount bed pads are much smaller and thinner, not worth the risk.
- Small mirror.  Everything Meltzer/Ley provides in their post-op kit is top quality with one exception: they include a huge mirror I wouldn't want to travel with.  I bought the one (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07848ZLSJ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage) in middle of the photo below, easier to fold up into the dilation kit.
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ej2db2ttoa3grg2/2018-01-31%2006.39.08.jpg?raw=1)
Left to right: mirror provided with post-op kit, illuminated folding mirror from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07848ZLSJ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage), iPhone 5 for comparison.

:-)

<August 2018 edit: The illuminated folding mirror quit working, was thicker and more complex than necessary. 
A basic compact folding travel mirror (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073MBF487/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage) is easier to carry and more durable>

One additional trick. If you don't want the expense of the bed pads, use old bath towels and fold them at least 4 layers thick. Don't use your good ones at first because some of the discharge could be bloody.

Thanks for the information, Kendra! I'm hoping I may be needing to check back here in the next 2 years or so.

Great to hear you are progressing well post op. Cramming a carrot all the way into your ear gave me a humorous, yet painful visual in my mind. I can only relate to the electrolysis pain, which I found I almost enjoy, because it is for a good cause. Thank you also for the detailed list, I may need to refer to it at some stage.

Is it strange that I became envious of needing sanitary pads? I think it is a little strange, but somehow affirming because it is a very feminine thing to need.

I'm aborted to go for a run in the hotel fitness centre now, need to work off all the desserts I keep eating.

Jayne

I wasn't found of that huge mirror either Kendra and use the one I used to carry in my purse for dilation now. The idea Dena mentioned really is handy Kendra. I have been using towels ever since I ran out of the pads I got from Greenbaum ran out. Hugs
Mariah

For the first few days of dilation a disposable bed pad was nice, but I can see where a bath towel would work well after the first couple weeks and is much more cost effective. 

Kendra,
   I wonder if you experienced any chaffing from the pads. I got really sore on the bigger pads from the rubbing. I found that if I varied the type of pad some, it lessened the concentration of the rub. There  are thong pads that I use now and they are very comfortable.
Moni

That was the reason that Dena recommend that idea to me right after SRS. Now I just have a stack of towels I use for dilation although they could be used for everything now. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Kendra on February 03, 2018, 01:21:10 PM
For the first few days of dilation a disposable bed pad was nice, but I can see where a bath towel would work well after the first couple weeks and is much more cost effective.

As usual you are all so inspiring and informative!   I have heard so many good things about Meltzer's practice and this is very validating for that.   Kendra, I have a tremendous amount of admiration for how you approached and handled all of this.  Your advice and documenting all of this will help me tremendously I think.

It sounds like I need to get going on electrolysis at least 8 months prior to GCS, right?
What other preparations are needed?     I have been on HRT 9 months now.

I am also in Seattle and looking to get FFS before GCS but first I am trying to find a new job/team so I can go full time @ work (Microsoft).   

Take care and keep us posted!   

Quote from: HappyMoni on February 03, 2018, 01:23:44 PM
> I wonder if you experienced any chaffing from the pads.

I haven't had that problem but wish I'd purchased fewer of the "heavy flow" pads.  Those probably did help in the initial days (nothing embarrassing has happened) but the large size is uncomfortable in a sensitive area, okay after a few minutes as they re-shape to fit.  The thin/light ones I've ordered should help.  In the meantime I have resorted to cutting the pad-wings off with scissors. 

Quote from: SnoBrittany on February 03, 2018, 06:14:38 PM
> It sounds like I need to get going on electrolysis at least 8 months prior to GCS, right?
What other preparations are needed?     I have been on HRT 9 months now.

Some surgeons don't require hair removal, but the alternative of hair-follicle scraping requires additional minutes under anesthesia while in a position that can cause people to be quite sore during initial recovery.  Electrolysis in that area obviously isn't fun but I kept at it knowing each additional treatment was slightly reducing surgery time and reducing the risk of unwanted hair.

I have heard of success with less time for hair removal, but my recommendation is get rid of hair asap to get ahead of the random growth cycle.  You will want to enjoy future benefits from this surgery with the least risk of complications.  At the time I started electrolysis in that area I had not made the decision to get GCS, it was just a strong possibility. 

As for other preparations, nothing specific other than anything you can do to be in the best health possible.  During the initial days of recovery I was thankful for having good strength, able to slowly lower myself into a chair using just my arms.  Before surgery go on long high-speed walks or run a bit if possible, so those post-surgery walks are more like resuming an activity instead of starting an activity. 

Surgery was three weeks ago.  Saha (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,231131.msg2054834.html#msg2054834) was going through photos on his phone and found some I hadn't seen until today.

Early morning January 18 right before being rolled into surgery.  I remember Saha taking this photo.
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/4aa6zlil2781t2o/IMG_0343.JPG?raw=1)

Saha snapped the following two photos right after I woke up from anesthesia. 
I have no memory of this moment but the camera does.
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/3xjkftkq98zejdl/IMG_0345.JPG?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/pbqodvxknuf8t9t/IMG_0346.JPG?raw=1)

Look at that smile! Hope all is going well with your recovery.

Hugs
Kelly

Zero complications.  Dilation is a part time job but gotta do that the right way.  Recovery is going very well (notice I didn't say swell).

Yes that first dilation schedule was more like work! Everything worked around it. Now, at ten  months post surgery, the one a days are not far from being done. All is good.

Swell will come!
Hugs
Kelly

Kendra, I am sorry I missed your GCS thread until now. Congratulations:) I am so happy for you. From your pics you look so happy.

Five weeks post-op.  I moved up to the #3 dilator earlier this week, equivalent to green color (Meltzer/Ley provide custom manufactured clear lucite dilators).  Each time moving up in size has been a bit like starting over with holy-smoke pain for a few days, gradually becomes sort of okay.  I've been careful to maintain full depth even when that hurts like hell.  I can be very stubborn when I have a goal.  Many of us are that way out of necessity. 

And then something absolutely wonderful. 

I did something last night I cannot detail here (TOS requirement) but dilated a couple hours after that and... wow.  Something clicked.  Really.  Sensations even better than what I thought were possible are already there on the other side of that dilator.  I know things are just developing and healing.  I know this is just a start, but to experience even a bit of that sensation already rocks my world knowing there is more.  All the hassles, the pain, the inconvenience have completely vanished with what I have confirmed is there.

Tnx for sharing, and very happy for your very 'positive' experience [emoji4]. X

Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk

Quote from: Kendra on February 24, 2018, 03:01:11 PM
Five weeks post-op.  I moved up to the #3 dilator earlier this week, equivalent to green color (Meltzer/Ley provide custom manufactured clear lucite dilators).  Each time moving up in size has been a bit like starting over with holy-smoke pain for a few days, gradually becomes sort of okay.  I've been careful to maintain full depth even when that hurts like hell.  I can be very stubborn when I have a goal.  Many of us are that way out of necessity. 

And then something absolutely wonderful. 

I did something last night I cannot detail here (TOS requirement) but dilated a couple hours after that and... wow.  Something clicked.  Really.  Sensations even better than what I thought were possible are already there on the other side of that dilator.  I know things are just developing and healing.  I know this is just a start, but to experience even a bit of that sensation already rocks my world knowing there is more.  All the hassles, the pain, the inconvenience have completely vanished with what I have confirmed is there.

And it only gets better! I am over 10 months in and over the last few days, WOW! Add a touch of the clit and upward pressure of tip of dilator and oh my goodness! 

Have fun! Hugs

Kendra

Go Girl!

You are doing amazingly well. 

This thread is what lead to me finally registering!

Hearing all of this about Dr. Ley, their staff, and the hospital/recovery team is such a nice thing to hear. As well as your helpful list of things Kendra :) I have added that to my growing list of information to have.

Depending on when your BA is in July, maybe we will meet! :D I will arrive on the 17th

Hi Tris, best wishes for your procedure in July.  Unfortunately my July visit is quick, the entire trip including labiaplasty and BA will be a half week - I'm returning home July 11.

The thread that caused me to join Susan's is this one: MTF in need of help (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,133631.0/topicseen.html).  That particular thread covers 5 years of transition, took two evenings to read - and then I went back and re-read it all and started to think about my future from a different perspective.  Although not identical to my situation, seeing Rachel (early transition name Cynthia) question who they are and then watching them find and claw their way to a much happier life is so inspiring.  I have met many amazing people here since then.  I am so glad you joined!

Kendra

Returned to Scottsdale for surgery later today.  Two procedures, breast augmentation and 2nd stage GCS.  Or does that count as three (left, right, center).  ;)

Weather here was excellent in January but I cannot say the same in July.  102F/39C at 11:17pm.  I couldn't believe the reading on my phone so I stepped outside and yep, that's a blast furnace.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/5o336yl6jpmertg/2018-07-06%2023.17.09.png?raw=1)
Temperature near midnight

Glad the rental car has air conditioning.  Cars didn't always have that button - my 1970 Ford truck at home has what's called 2/70 air conditioning.  Two windows down, 70 miles an hour. 

In spite of the heat I wanted to see Frank Lloyd Wright's winter architecture studio.  He knew something about weather and used Scottsdale/Phoenix's comfortable winters to offset his other studio in Wisconsin.  Located just 20 minutes from Meltzer/Ley's office, Taliesin West was established in 1937 and developed during the following two decades.  I was curious about Taliesin West but didn't realize the depth of innovation in its design.  Definitely recommend if you're in Scottsdale and have any interest in architecture.  I've been an architecture fan most of my life and have visited several other properties Frank Lloyd Wright designed.  My mom's job title was engineering draftsman and she designed houses in her spare time.  I was able to see my mom's drawings get built into several homes north of Seattle, including the house I lived in from grade school until college.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ewtikaqc7efp15e/2018-07-07%2010.18.32.jpg?raw=1)
Taliesin West drafting studio can be toured during summer (in use during winter).  Other Taliesin West interiors can be visited all year.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ppd3zm4wzk574sy/2018-07-07%2009.31.26.jpg?raw=1)
Taliesin is Welsh for "shining brow" or hillside.  This is 6 weeks after having my brow bossing removed (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,230933.msg2141364.html#msg2141364).

Then drove north to Sedona,
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/vi08o0ugydjryd7/2018-07-07%2013.38.08.jpg?raw=1)

South to Mexico,
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/0qv39xtbxmzg6uw/2018-07-08%2013.07.30.jpg?raw=1)

And a pre-surgery meeting in Scottsdale at 8:30am.  I have a great solution to the weather this afternoon, it's called anesthesia!

All the best to you on your updates, Kendra. You're looking absolutely fantastic! Can't wait to see all the improvements (we'll maybe not all of them) in August!


Stephanie

Good luck on your surgery, Kendra!

Quote from: Kendra on July 09, 2018, 07:24:33 AM
Returned to Scottsdale for surgery later today.  Two procedures, breast augmentation and 2nd stage GCS.  Or does that count as three (left, right, center).  ;)

Weather here was excellent in January but I cannot say the same in July.  102F/39C at 11:17pm.  I couldn't believe the reading on my phone so I stepped outside and yep, that's a blast furnace.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/5o336yl6jpmertg/2018-07-06%2023.17.09.png?raw=1)
Temperature near midnight

Glad the rental car has air conditioning.  Cars didn't always have that button - my 1970 Ford truck at home has what's called 2/70 air conditioning.  Two windows down, 70 miles an hour. 

In spite of the heat I wanted to see Frank Lloyd Wright's winter architecture studio.  He knew something about weather and located his other Taliesin studio in Wisconsin.  Located just 20 minutes from Meltzer/Ley's office, Taliesin West was established in 1937 and developed during the following two decades.  I was curious about Taliesin West but didn't realize the depth of innovation in its design.  Definitely recommend if you're in Scottsdale and have any interest in architecture.  I've been an architecture fan most of my life and have visited several other properties Frank Lloyd Wright designed.  My mom's job title was engineering draftsman and she designed houses in her spare time.  I was able to see my mom's drawings get built into several homes north of Seattle, including the house I lived in from grade school until college.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ewtikaqc7efp15e/2018-07-07%2010.18.32.jpg?raw=1)
Taliesin West drafting studio can be toured during summer (in use during winter).  Other Taliesin West interiors can be visited all year.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ppd3zm4wzk574sy/2018-07-07%2009.31.26.jpg?raw=1)
Taliesin is Welsh for "shining brow" or hillside.  This is 6 weeks after having my brow bossing removed (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,230933.msg2141364.html#msg2141364).

Then drove north to Sedona,
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/vi08o0ugydjryd7/2018-07-07%2013.38.08.jpg?raw=1)

South to Mexico,
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/0qv39xtbxmzg6uw/2018-07-08%2013.07.30.jpg?raw=1)

And a pre-surgery meeting in Scottsdale at 8:30am.  I have a great solution to the weather this afternoon, it's called anesthesia!

It's actually cooled down today and it will continue to do so this week, which is welcome. I live 10 minutes from taliesin west, to the east.


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All the best Kendra. Thinking of you.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/iwkj80z7hx36z5t/2018-07-09%2008.24.38.jpg?raw=1)

Quote from: Kendra on July 09, 2018, 01:52:58 PM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/iwkj80z7hx36z5t/2018-07-09%2008.24.38.jpg?raw=1)

Ahhhahahahaha! Kendra, you're incorrigible!

Good luck Kendra!

Soft hugs, Jess

I wish you a successful surgery

Good luck Kendra.

I hope your surgery went well.

You look awesome :)

Kendra;

I hope that at this point you are in recovery and all has gone well.  You've been in our thoughts, and we hope that all will be well for you.

M&L

Hope it all went well.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Quote from: Kendra on July 09, 2018, 01:52:58 PM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/iwkj80z7hx36z5t/2018-07-09%2008.24.38.jpg?raw=1)

Hi Everyone!! Kendra is out of surgery/ recovery and doing really well. She will upload some pictures as soon as she can! All I can say is that she looks freaking amazing!!!!

Quote from: bethanyz on July 09, 2018, 11:24:39 PM
Hi Everyone!! Kendra is out of surgery/ recovery and doing really well. She will upload some pictures as soon as she can! All I can say is that she looks freaking amazing!!!!

Thank you for the update, Beth! I've been thinking about her all afternoon.

Stephanie

Glad things are going well and look forward to seeing some pics....

The pre-op meeting was well organized just like the first one in January, not rushed and efficiently covered a large amount of information. 

And another goodie bag!
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/5dlhvx11eewm1ht/2018-07-09%2010.06.00.jpg?raw=1)
Clockwise from center: probiotic, Arnica, antibacterial cream, stool softener (optional), squeeze/spray bottle for cleansing, ice-pack bag, written instructions, manufacturer's information for breast implants, disposable underwear, chux pads, panty pads. 

Prescriptions to use after hospital discharge: pain meds, antibiotic.

Assistant summarized instructions, she is very knowledgeable (I didn't catch her name - I will later as she will be making follow-up phone calls).  She also asked if I had any questions and I had a list of four.  Each item I brought up was automatically communicated to Dr. Ley, and my questions regarding anesthesiology were automatically confirmed by the anesthesiologist when I met him. 

1. I've found urinating is directionally a hit or miss event.  When people ask if I prefer to be called Miss, Ms. or Mrs. I don't go into this detail but let's just say I am not just a different gender compared to Ichiro the baseball player.  I miss.  This isn't uncommon as shown in this informative topic by Moni (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,238106.msg2142084.html#msg2142084).  Dr. Ley confirmed this is routine to permanently adjust during labiaplasty and she will. 

2. I developed granulation, a fairly common occurrence during the GCS healing process and can involve discomfort or pain.  I have been carefully applying silver nitrate under Meg Bergeson's  (http://www.tmeltzer.com/meg-bio.html)direction (she is awesome and a Doctorate of Nursing).  Dr. Ley will work on this while I'm under anesthesia. 

3. Breast implant size.  I learned something today... size is not simply affected by each breast being resized.  They're installed as a pair ;) and the distance between each nipple is important.  Dr. Ley measured this distance to help determines a realistic minimum and maximum implant size range - to narrow this down (so to speak) involves a discussion of patient preference: small/medium/large.  Depending on decision there may or may not be cleavage, but either way Dr. Ley aims to minimize the gap between breasts.  HRT timing, existing results and other factors are also considered.   I'd never considered nipple distance but this can be an important characteristic of ribcage development after post-puberty testosterone sets in.  Now I understand why many have recommended go with a surgeon familiar with transgender physiology... I had previously assumed this was just due to over/under muscle placement.

4. Anesthesia breathing tube size (intubation).  I had VFS 4 months ago (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,234768.msg2131867.html#msg2131867) and that doctor requested I use a 5.5 tube size to help avoid potential damage to an area that's still healing.  Dr. Ley is glad I mentioned this as their standard tube is size 6.0.  Right before getting wheeled in for my innie tune-up and bump job the anesthesiologist confirmed they would do even better, skip the breathing tube and use a breathing mask.

I also told Dr. Ley about the occasionally pleasurable experiences I had with dilation starting very early (week five), certainly not every time but there were a few 2 to 3 months in that were so amazing I cried myself to sleep.  I forgot to mention to her I've additionally gained strong sensation since then in the areas that don't involve dilation.

And here's a couple photos this evening right after surgery.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/syocfab41dlcf9z/2018-07-09%2020.26.40.jpg?raw=1)
8:30pm July 9, 2018

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/20r1js0go00h7nn/2018-07-09%2020.34.34.jpg?raw=1)
Kendra and Beth (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=55278)

You star Kendra...thanks for posting...you look really happy!! I hope the recovery is as smooth.  :D

Kendra, you look really good. Congratulations!

Im so happy things went so well Kendra.  You look so happy!

Congratulations Kendra.  You look happy and that is all that matters!
Judi

Thank you all of us!  Part of my joy is knowing so many great people here. 

6am, catheter removed.  Intravenous line and leg compression (anti-clotting) remain connected for now.

The ace bandage from lower 3/4 of breasts has been removed.  And what I am looking at right now is great!!  The size is exactly what I wanted, anticipating some continued growth from HRT.  I took a known risk not waiting 2 or 3 years but have the benefit of avoiding an additional anesthesia unless the estimate is waay off.  Based on what I'm looking at this will be fine.  Normal swelling from surgery will cause them to reduce a bit in size during recovery, and HRT will likely bring them back over the next year or two. 

Breast massage sounds a bit wild and does hurt (and will continue to), but is medically necessary at first to help permanently move the implants down and closer together. 

There's a surgical compression band around my upper breasts/chest for the next 6 weeks.  I forgot to pack a shirt this trip to cover that area of my chest - the compression band will show higher than a necklace would sit, looks a bit odd but I'll find clothes at home to at least cover the bottom edge of the band.  I'll post a photo after I change from this hospital gown into a shirt.

Congratulations, Kendra!  You look great!

Kendra,

I am following your journey with passion. I didn't comment much but I must say YOU ARE AN AMAZING WOMAN. Your boobs size looks perfect for your body frame from what I can see. I wish you a speedy recovery

Congrats Kendra! Tha smile tells it all! How come you always look so good in recovery! Hope your recovery is smooth and speedy as possible!

Hugs,
Kelly

Congrats Kendra I hope things continue to he4al nicely for you and the result you get is just what you want.

Take care

Liz

Hi Kendra, you are looking amazing! Congratulations on the desired surgery outcomes. Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Hugs,
Jayne

Congratulations, Kendra!  You look very happy. You are a remarkable woman.

Michelle Paquette


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Kendra looks amazing. She is amazing.


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Kendra,
I have followed you since I joined Susan's. 

Having had several major surgeries myself, you purely amaze me with your resilience and your positive outlook over the past year.

I hope that the healing is quick and all that you have hoped for.

The comments here are making me blush... and thank you.

Pain levels last night were not bad, manageable when I pressed the magic button.  I did that five times overnight after waking up from surgery.  No feeling of nausea unlike my first night in January.  I had discussed this with the anesthesiologist and he may have added an anti-nausea medication or adjusted dosage.  Another factor is this surgery is less intense compared to initial GCS.

Really enjoyed visiting today with Dena (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=42503), Gertrude (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=45030), Mariah (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=50957) & Jamie (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=45593). 

Had a great talk with Dr. Ley.  We chatted a bit before going into details from yesterday's surgery.  She will be presenting at Gender Odyssey in Seattle (http://www.genderodyssey.org/seattle/), August 9-12. 

Labiaplasty (GCS-2) went well and was routine.  There's a thin amount of packing on each side between the newly formed inner and outer labia, packing will fall out as swelling diminishes.  A hood has been built over the clitoris. Everything is held together with self-dissolving stitches.  She found the source of my urethra (pee-angle) issue and corrected that - thinning out some material in that area allowed the urethra to point downward.  While working inside, confirmed there is granulation (common with full-depth vaginoplasty), removed quite a bit by scraping but one area will require follow-up treatment with silver nitrate.  Dilation resumes 3 days post-op.  For the next couple days the most important thing is keep an ice bag on it when possible.  I have no visible external scars from first stage GCS, and from what I can see there won't be any scars after GCS-2 heals. 

For breast augmentation we were aiming for small size within my range and the implants are 350cc.  The incision is a small arc under each areola, not very visible.  Over the next few days I need to manually press the breasts together and downward fairly often so they settle correctly, and then every few hours for 3 months.  I'll wear a surgical band for 6 weeks to help apply downward pressure.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/gz723iej9caxhpu/2018-07-10%2009.11.33.jpg?raw=1)
July 10, 2018: morning after GCS-2 and Breast Augmentation

I am super happy with the results and done with major surgeries.  We each need to determine and set our own plans but if I were to start over I would do this all exactly the same way.  In my particular case, I am glad to have completed permanent facial/body hair removal before starting surgeries or HRT. 

Glad we can make you blush. Great to hear you reach such a milestone...congratulations.

As usual you seem to have things well under control and coping well. Thanks for the pics and I hope all the work you are doing pays off and puts the girls where they should be.

Good to hear the Labiaplasty went well and it sounds like your other "adjustments" have gone well also so hopefully you will be on the mend there as well.


Great to see such a happy lady smiling out at us


Take care

Liz

Kendra, how do you look so great so soon after surgery?  It's unnatural I say!

yes, you look amazing for having surgery and no sleep!   :o goals!

Did you have your makeup and hair done for that photo?  Or are you just naturally radiant?  You look lovely and very happy.  Congratulations.
Judi

Awww thank you.  ;)  My makeup routine is pretty light.  Liquid eyeliner (https://www.maccosmetics.com/product/13838/898/products/makeup/eyes/liner/pro-longwear-fluidline#/shade/Blacktrack) above, touch of Garnier Anti-Circle (https://www.amazon.com/Garnier-Anti-Dark-Circle-Roller-Medium/dp/B00778LVGA/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1531326065&sr=8-4&keywords=garnier+anti-dark+circle+eye+roller) under eyes, lip liner (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00433P7HG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&th=1) and lipstick (https://www.maccosmetics.com/product/13854/52595/products/makeup/lips/lipstick/frost-lipstick#/shade/CB_96).  No foundation.  I forgot to remove makeup before this surgery, didn't touch it up until later the following day.

I occasionally add eye shadow and maybe blush powder but didn't for this. 

Congrats Kendra!!! 😀❤️🌻

July 11, 2018 - 3 days after GCS-2 and BA. 

GCS-2 bleeding is minor now - much less each day.  First two days I had to use cotton hospital underwear (I've found doubling those up into 2 layers works best).  And of course a pad - went through a huge number in the first two days.
With reduced bleeding I can now use standard underwear plus a thin pad, same type I use after dilation.  Pain levels are dropping but still catch up here and there, now is much better than the 2nd night.

BA looks similar shape as morning after surgery.  Bruise on chest between lower breast area.  I won't be able to wear a bra for awhile and white tops are not a good idea - a tiny amount of bleeding shows, not much but enough to make a smudge on a white shirt. 

Nichole from Meltzer Clinic called yesterday to answer potential questions, get a status update, and go over post-op instructions that were also provided in writing.  A few details weren't on the written guide, one thing I didn't realize earlier is the pressure/massage required to train breasts for correct placement needs to be 5 minutes each.  Six time/day for 3 months.

I registered my new breasts for a warranty - each side has serial number.  A brochure had been provided, I got a chuckle out of that... reminded me of a warranty for car tires but for longer terms.  I was surprised how good the included coverage is: lifetime replacement if it ruptures and 10 year warranty for other conditions.  I almost never purchase extended warranties but I added one here to gain coverage for surgical labor reimbursement up to $3,500 USD. 

I am still super happy when I see how the BA proportions worked in my case.  Yeah there is some pain and inconvenience right now but I don't care, I'm hitting long term goals.

Pain from GCS-2 is dropping much faster than it did from the first GCS and no longer feels like an intense paper cut.

Kendra,
So glad you are healing so quickly. I am a curious about the breast message. Have you started that already? I go back Tuesday for post-op visit. No one has mentioned massage yet as something that I need to start. I know we have very different sizes, but I never seem to get doctors  who stress this massaging. I get the feeling they want things to settle on their own to start with at least. I will call today. I was not expecting to be unconscious  for the post-op instructions. I feel like I am missing something, or maybe nothing at all.
Heal up.
Moni :)

Quote from: HappyMoni on July 13, 2018, 04:27:49 AM
Kendra,
So glad you are healing so quickly. I am a curious about the breast message. Have you started that already? I go back Tuesday for post-op visit. No one has mentioned massage yet as something that I need to start. I know we have very different sizes, but I never seem to get doctors  who stress this massaging. I get the feeling they want things to settle on their own to start with at least. I will call today. I was not expecting to be unconscious  for the post-op instructions. I feel like I am missing something, or maybe nothing at all.
Heal up.
Moni :)

In most cases the breasts will drop on its own after BA. Most of the doctors advice to massage them though. I don't think it is mandatory. The main thing is how the pocket is created and which size and shape of the implant is used. The massage maybe helps. Anyway follow the instructions of your doctor.

Thank you @Reborn! I think I will just feel better knowing that I am doing what the doctor is directing and that nothing was lost in the shuffle. My doctor did call after the surgery but I had phone off to rest, so I missed him.

I started breast massage the first day post-op.  I've always thought of massage as a circular or kneading motion but that's not how this is done - the goal is to firmly push them together and downward, not too gentle, and hold them there for 5 minutes.  I was told to expect this type of massage will hurt and it does.  Not terrible but not exactly pleasant.  With arms a bit weaker, applying pressure to the breasts for 5 continuous minutes involves a surprising amount of muscle strain.  So my boyfriend Saha (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=56498) has been very glad to help me out.  ;)

Surgeons have different ways of locating these puppies under muscle, and different implant manufacturers may have surface textures and other factors that affect how this all settles in.  Size might be another factor - with a smaller implant I'm at risk of having a larger gap between breasts and massage may help reduce that during the healing process.  It's possible massage isn't good for one patient and is essential for another. 

Quote from: Kendra on July 13, 2018, 12:36:44 PM
> So my boyfriend Saha (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=56498) has been very glad to help me out.  ;)

Heh, heh!

Quote from: Saha on July 13, 2018, 12:40:09 PM
Heh, heh!

Cheeky!!

Kendra, so happy for you both, and Saha..!!

Luv n hugz
Katie

  >:-)

:angel: :angel:

Thanks Katie

Great to hear you are progressing nicely. The massage sounds pretty logical when you put it in the terms you have. I guess its not forever and there will come a time when "massaging" the girls will actually be a fun and totally voluntary pass time  ;) ...Hope the recovery continues to go well.  :D

Take care

Liz

Kendra, congratulations, I am happy for you. You do look fantastic :)

I got a card for my wallet with the mentor information on it. I did not need to do any massage.

Good luck on the healing.

This goes under the heading of "If only:"

If only, we lived closer together and I needed to massage too and you didn't have a boyfriend massaging yours, we could  get together and help each other out, Kendra! lol
Thank you for your post on massage. I hear someone doing something and I think I should be doing it too. Maybe, instead of massaging mine, I will message mine and tell them to loosen up and not be so sore.
Moni
Have you treated yours  to a night on the town yet?

Today is 6 days post-op from the latest round.  Was that a pun.  No Moni I haven't treated my new breasts to a night on the town but walked around a street fair in Seattle yesterday and dinner with Beth & Saha.  Compression band stays on 6 weeks, for now that takes the fun out of any cleavage I might end up with.

The labiaplasty goes ouch and I've figured out the ice pack is cold.  I have a fairly large but light area of discoloration on each side of my waist and bottom/center area of ribcage - I think this is just stuff draining down, no big deal.  I had similar discoloration in my neck a week after FFS, looked like I had been doing really weird things with makeup. 

Time to remove the one set of stitches that aren't self-dissolving.  Mine were installed using a small incision under each areola - not posting that but I can PM photos to anyone considering this type of surgery.  I can also PM photos of exactly how I removed the thread/line holding the sutures together.  Fingers might have worked but I found pliers were easier to grip.  The sutures are actually still in place and will now self-dissolve - this non-dissolving line is what held them together the first week. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/eiomxb3macxmb39/2018-07-15%2011.56.34.jpg?raw=1)
Monofilament line attached to pliers, removed today from under each areola (click photo to enlarge)

Is it as barbaric as it looks? Glad there is no lug nut wrench, ouch.
Moni

Quote from: Kendra on July 15, 2018, 04:43:56 PM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/eiomxb3macxmb39/2018-07-15%2011.56.34.jpg?raw=1)
Monofilament line attached to pliers, removed today from under each areola (click photo to enlarge)

Yikes!  OK, I guess I'm just fine with an A-cup, thank you!  :o

Glad your recovery is going well, Kendra!

I would have been terrified my whole boob would unravel   :icon_yikes: :icon_builder:

Quote from: Kendra on July 15, 2018, 04:43:56 PM
Today is 6 days post-op from the latest round.  Was that a pun.  No Moni I haven't treated my new breasts to a night on the town but walked around a street fair in Seattle yesterday and dinner with Beth & Saha.  Compression band stays on 6 weeks, for now that takes the fun out of any cleavage I might end up with.

The labiaplasty goes ouch and I've figured out the ice pack is cold.  I have a fairly large but light area of discoloration on each side of my waist and bottom/center area of ribcage - I think this is just stuff draining down, no big deal.  I had similar discoloration in my neck a week after FFS, looked like I had been doing really weird things with makeup. 

Time to remove the one set of stitches that aren't self-dissolving.  Mine were installed using a small incision under each areola - not posting that but I can PM photos to anyone considering this type of surgery.  I can also PM photos of exactly how I removed the thread/line holding the sutures together.  Fingers might have worked but I found pliers were easier to grip.  The sutures are actually still in place and will now self-dissolve - this non-dissolving line is what held them together the first week. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/eiomxb3macxmb39/2018-07-15%2011.56.34.jpg?raw=1)
Monofilament line attached to pliers, removed today from under each areola (click photo to enlarge)

Channel locks are a little extreme. :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

Always use the correct tool for the job!  Is that a medical grade tool?  The channel locks in my tool box are not that clean. 

Instructions from Dr. Ley's office assume you'll use fingers to pull this suture out.  After the line slipped a couple times I probably should have grabbed tweezers, but pliers worked fine.

I've used an oil filter wrench to open some jars in the kitchen...

"I've used an oil filter wrench to open some jars in the kitchen..."

Me too!

Quote from: Kendra on July 15, 2018, 10:03:58 PM
Instructions from Dr. Ley's office assume you'll use fingers to pull this suture out.  After the line slipped a couple times I probably should have grabbed tweezers, but pliers worked fine.

I've used an oil filter wrench to open some jars in the kitchen...

I showed my wife the "surgical instrument" you were intending on tugging on your stiches with and she, as a scout nurse working in a sterile theatre, was suitably horrified and said...I hope she dips that in some alcohol...so cheers  ;)

It seems over the last 6 months my strength has diminished substantially and recently for the first time I had to "employ Mechanical intervention" to open the lid to an old jar of jam.

Liz

One uses the best tool that is close to hand and will do the job.  In this case sterile is not that important.  Just don't use those hammer pliers to knock the suture loose if it sticks.

You are looking great.  So glad your healing is going so well.  I still find it amazing how quickly you are healing from each surgery.

Have you started singing again?

Quote from: Briah on July 24, 2018, 08:17:28 AM
One uses the best tool that is close to hand and will do the job.  In this case sterile is not that important.  Just don't use those hammer pliers to knock the suture loose if it sticks.

You are looking great.  So glad your healing is going so well.  I still find it amazing how quickly you are healing from each surgery.

Have you started singing again?

I have automotive tools and Youtube, but glad I had professionals handle all the surgeries. 

VFS was March 1, 2018 (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,234768.msg2131867.html#msg2131867) but I have not tried singing.  I've never seriously tried singing... hated my own voice since puberty and I am frankly a bit afraid to try now, but will be thrilled if I end up able to sing.  I'm not expecting full post-VFS voice development to settle until end of this year based on that surgeon's estimate. 

I am now 6 months post-op from GCS-1 and two weeks post-op from GCS-2 and BA.  How is it? 

The rough part is... sort of starting over on dilation and many reminders of the hassles and pain from the original vaginoplasty.  Not as intense but it's there - sitting down is often a "whoa that hurt momentarily" and then I'm ok.  I'm not concerned because it's just a couple weeks after having things taken apart again, within 2 or 3 months that will once again be just a memory.

The great part is... even though I'm just starting on re-healing down there the results so far look awesome.  I have no visible scar at all from the GCS-1 vaginoplasty, and it looks like I won't have any scar from the GCS-2 labiaplasty.  It just looks right. 

Internal sensations are, well let's just say beyond what I thought was possible.  External sensations have been re-set with the recent surgery, but based on GCS-1 I'm confident where GCS-2 will be in a few months.  I love my kitty!

And it looks like I won't have any detectable scar from the breast augmentation.  Two weeks post-op and I can barely find the incision.  I am amazed they can shoehorn a big blob of squishy plastic (nontechnical term) through such a tiny spot. 

No scarring would be absolutely amazing.  That's fantastic to hear.

WOW!!!!

I couldn't tell. Ley is an artist.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

I showed left & right, not center.  ;)   But it's all great - very happy. 

Awesome news. I am glad you are healing well and have great results.

I had a mechanic at work remove a few left over FFS staples with pliers. The first one was pulled out and it really hurt. The second one was cut in half the each half removed. Then a few stiches were removed. I had another person do the stiches.

Quote from: Rachel on July 25, 2018, 06:02:25 PM
Awesome news. I am glad you are healing well and have great results.

I had a mechanic at work remove a few left over FFS staples with pliers. The first one was pulled out and it really hurt. The second one was cut in half the each half removed. Then a few stiches were removed. I had another person do the stiches.

Hi Rachel,                    25 July 2018

"I had a mechanic at work remove a few left over FFS staples with pliers. The first one was pulled out and it really hurt. The second one was cut in half the each half removed. Then a few stiches were removed. I had another person do the stiches"

I sure hope you were joking; this sounds like stuff I have done. If I can get to them, I remove my own sutures and staples.

Best Always, Love,
Christine

Sounds to me like a fantastic result for you, Full and nice sensation in all the right bits does make for a happy kitty.

Glad to hear you are healing so well.

Take care

Liz

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/iybdy8rsua9dt7n/2018-08-10%2012.33.04.jpg?raw=1)
One month after Labiaplasty and Breast Augmentation

Holy heck girl, looking fab. X

Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk

Quote from: Kendra on August 10, 2018, 04:50:00 PM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/iybdy8rsua9dt7n/2018-08-10%2012.33.04.jpg?raw=1)
One month after Labiaplasty and Breast Augmentation

OH wow
OH wow
OH wow  :o

Wow Kendra! You look wonderful! A real beach babe!

Hugs,
Kelly

Damn girl! You're looking mighty fine!
WOW!!!

Your smile says it all!  Looking good!!!
Judi

I was lucky enough to see and talk with Kendra via skype the other night and she looks, sounds and exudes fabulousness...and most of all you can see how perfectly happy and content she it. The top surgery looks balanced and suits her beautifully.  :) and just a really nice person to chat too. I enjoyed our conversation immensely.

Take care
Liz

Looking good,  Kendra, keep us updated on how your recovery is doing for you.

Thank you so much! 

Quote from: LizK on August 14, 2018, 05:52:51 AM
I was lucky enough to see and talk with Kendra via skype the other night and she looks, sounds and exudes fabulousness...and most of all you can see how perfectly happy and content she it. The top surgery looks balanced and suits her beautifully.  :) and just a really nice person to chat too. I enjoyed our conversation immensely.

Take care
Liz

And it's not just on Skype.  In person she is a happy and wonderfully open woman.  She looks very nice, and was rather inspirational for me.  (I finally broke down and asked for a surgeon's consult after realizing that mammary feminization procedures could correct my severe "East-west" appearance without overdoing the cup size, as I prefer to be a bit smaller than what I often see done.)

Chatting with Kendra and some of the other gals was the best part of my weekend at Pleiades House. 

Michelle "Merope" P.

I am blushing... and I have been inspired by many here on Susan's.  This is where I researched and decided which surgeries and surgeons fit my goals and background.  If I needed to I'd do this again the same way without hesitation.  I can't help but be happy!

Quote from: Kendra on August 14, 2018, 05:41:38 PM
I am blushing... and I have been inspired by many here on Susan's.  This is where I researched and decided which surgeries and surgeons fit my goals and background.  If I needed to I'd do this again the same way without hesitation.  I can't help but be happy!

Hi Kendra,                           14 August 2018

You look fantastic. A key element, often over looked by many, is research and more research. Your diligence has paid off beautifully. Best wishes for a life filled with love and happiness.

Best Always, Love
Christine

I will keep it simple

WOW!!

I agree with Michelle completely, Kendra is both an inspiration and a really wonderful and pleasant woman as well.  I had the really good fortune to be able to spend the weekend with her in London in May, just prior to her flying off to Marbella for FFS and having the great fortune to catch up with Emma F the same weekend as she too was in London and the three of us meeting at Simpsons in the Strand - great food, wonderful and beautiful company and great conversation too. What a great time we had. That was also the day Megan & Harry got married. Wow I loved her wedding dress.

Oh! i just wish I was still in my twenties!
JudithLynn

Thank you all so much!  Sorry I didn't get back here more quickly but I was in Bogotá for a 3 day weekend seeing the city, hittin' clubs at crazy hours with new friends and also visited smaller towns in the foothills.  Really enjoying life now that I'm somewhat healed from surgeries.  I am still not at 100% but close enough for rounding error. 

Quote from: Kendra on August 21, 2018, 05:35:47 PM
Thank you all so much!  Sorry I didn't get back here more quickly but I was in Bogotá for a 3 day weekend seeing the city, hittin' clubs at crazy hours with new friends and also visited smaller towns in the foothills.  Really enjoying life now that I'm somewhat healed from surgeries.  I am still not at 100% but close enough for rounding error.

I've seen zero errors in your rounding so far.


Stephanie

Quote from: Kendra on August 21, 2018, 05:35:47 PM
Thank you all so much!  Sorry I didn't get back here more quickly but I was in Bogotá for a 3 day weekend seeing the city, hittin' clubs at crazy hours with new friends and also visited smaller towns in the foothills.  Really enjoying life now that I'm somewhat healed from surgeries.  I am still not at 100% but close enough for rounding error.

Kendra you have been 100% for me from the first day I chatted with you!  I know we all have our 100% DREAMS OF WHO WE ARE BUT I THINK YOU ARE AMAZING AND WONDERFUL AND I AM SO GLAD YOU HAVE GOTTEN TO THIS PLACE!  I can only hope to be there someday soon. If you ever get to the Mid Atlantic US look me up!

Love and hugs Marcie.

Oh my gosh Marcie you know how to make a girl blush... yeah I did identify and chase down some dreams but in many ways simply realized what is possible by seeing what others have done.  Surgeries, HRT and other details definitely helped, but the most important changes came from within and a decision to start truly enjoying life.

Quote from: Kendra on September 14, 2018, 03:48:04 PM
Oh my gosh Marcie you know how to make a girl blush... yeah I did identify and chase down some dreams but in many ways simply realized what is possible by seeing what others have done.  Surgeries, HRT and other details definitely helped, but the most important changes came from within and a decision to start truly enjoying life.

Happy to brighten your day!  Love and hugs

Out on a boat last night.  Really looking forward to next summer... might have to go distract some truck drivers from my convertible.  ;)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/5i6qbrqtbmykj1a/2018-12-23%2020.23.53.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/m6krfly7opafpby/2018-12-23%2020.23.52.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/omvneuwkzeaz8lg/2018-12-23%2020.22.49.jpg?raw=1)
Showing a 700cc v-twin to Seattle's Finest (350cc per side)

And I thought it was a double overhead cam??

Looks like there was more flashing than the police lights.

Kendra,

I cannot help to admire and smile. 
Thanks for thinking of Seattle's best!
I am sure they were busting out in appreciation.

Merry Christmas!

Chrissy

Hey girl, you knew what you wanted and went after it with a passion...you got it so flaunt it! By the way, I love your new avatar.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you!

Tia Anne

Quote from: Kendra on December 24, 2018, 12:20:37 PM
Out on a boat last night.  Really looking forward to next summer... might have to go distract some truck drivers from my convertible.  ;)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/5i6qbrqtbmykj1a/2018-12-23%2020.23.53.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/m6krfly7opafpby/2018-12-23%2020.23.52.jpg?raw=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/omvneuwkzeaz8lg/2018-12-23%2020.22.49.jpg?raw=1)
Showing a 700cc v-twin to Seattle's Finest (350cc per side)

If I knew this was that kind of thread, I would have been here sooner. Looking good, Kendra. I suddenly have the urge to watch reruns of Twin Peaks. Now, where did that come from?

Yup. There's that high level of 'body confidence.' 

"Doctor, the surgery appears to have been successful."

This weekend is a year since my outie became an innie.  I have the license plate to prove it. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/mz5z3d2hkkqqjgj/2018-12-10%2009.58.52.jpg?raw=1)

For my particular situation if I was just starting out would I do this all the same way?  Absolutely with no hesitation.  The surgeries, the surgeons, and the timing.  Tackling permanent facial and body hair removal years before any surgery (before I made the decision to transition) was a great decision.

Looking back on this a year later, the only detail I'd do differently is follow Dena's advice and schedule a follow-up exam 60-90 days after GCS to check for granulation and other things that may occur post-op.  Granulation is quite common, an inevitable part of healing with many people but can interfere with dilation.  I think I've about solved the granulation that developed last year, will have a better answer after a quick medical exam tomorrow.

Hello Kendra, The license plate is plate is precious. I am happy for you that things are progressing well and you are happy with your decisions.

May I ask how your voice is progressing? Are you satisfied? What is your base HZ and is your timber light or heavier than you like? How is your phone gendering? Do you speak without trying to raise your pitch?

Thanks,
Rachel

Quote from: Kendra on January 20, 2019, 03:26:21 PM
This weekend is a year since my outie became an innie.  I have the license plate to prove it. 

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/mz5z3d2hkkqqjgj/2018-12-10%2009.58.52.jpg?raw=1)

For my particular situation if I was just starting out would I do this all the same way?  Absolutely with no hesitation.  The surgeries, the surgeons, and the timing.  Tackling permanent facial and body hair removal years before any surgery (before I made the decision to transition) was a great decision.

Looking back on this a year later, the only detail I'd do differently is follow Dena's advice and schedule a follow-up exam 60-90 days after GCS to check for granulation and other things that may occur post-op.  Granulation is quite common, an inevitable part of healing with many people but can interfere with dilation.  I think I've about solved the granulation that developed last year, will have a better answer after a quick medical exam tomorrow.

Hi Kendra,                               20 January 2019

Seems my <Tab> key works as a <Send> key. That's why they have the edit function.

Congratulations young lady. Yes, Dena does give great advice.

Just wondering what all that cotton is doing lying all over the ground. Is it difficult to drive in?

Best Always, Love
Christine