Hi All,
I will be going for SRS on 5th April with Dr. Chet.
Finally a closure to a part of my long struggle with my gender identity.
Its hard struggling thru the past 30odd years trying to find unity between my body and soul, in another couple of weeks, i can finally find some solace to this.
My surgery is with Dr. Chet. Scheduled on 5th April 2018 and i will be flying over on 1st April (yup not an April fool joke.). Be staying in BBk till 29th April for the recovery.
I have pretty been much a loner with not much interaction hence this trip will be only me flying there alone.
Hopefully i can get thru this alone.
If any ladies are also scheduled during this period. I would love to get in touch. Hopefully you will not find me disrupting your plans.
Also for those whom have been thru, any kind advises that can share with me? Such as what to buy and should isolate myself in the room due to lack of energy?
As my body is not generally in good health, currently i have dropped 10kg due to fatigue to 50kg. Presently at 1.68m. Still ok i figure.
For info, i will be bringing only the daily necessities such as clothes rest will get at the mall nearby. Oh i will be staying at the Vertical Suite during my stay in BBk.
Thanks for all your kind advises in advance.
I will try to put in my experiences here during this period.
Cheers,
Brenda
Congratulations, and have a safe journey, and a speedy recovery!😊
Hello Brenda,
I don't have specific advice regarding SRS in Thailand - my SRS was in the US and a different method. I want to congratulate you on a very important decision and a milestone you will soon reach.
A search on Susan's for Chettawut brings up several threads. I prefer to hit a "blank" for the search function, the site then brings up an option for Advanced search you can sort by date, etc. Here is a thread from Carrie Liz GRS With Dr. Chettawut, 8/9/16 (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,212861.0.html) - one of several detailed descriptions.
You have been a member for several years (thank you for joining) but it looks like we didn't get a chance to send information to help with navigation and site guidelines. I'll add it here for you.
Things that you should read
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Brenda, best wishes on your adventure in April and your new future!
Kendra
Quote from: kitchentablepotpourri on February 11, 2018, 12:27:33 PM
Congratulations, and have a safe journey, and a speedy recovery!😊
Thank you for the well wishes. :)
Quote from: Kendra on February 12, 2018, 12:34:32 AM
Hello Brenda,
I don't have specific advice regarding SRS in Thailand - my SRS was in the US and a different method. I want to congratulate you on a very important decision and a milestone you will soon reach.
A search on Susan's for Chettawut brings up several threads. I prefer to hit a "blank" for the search function, the site then brings up an option for Advanced search you can sort by date, etc. Here is a thread from Carrie Liz GRS With Dr. Chettawut, 8/9/16 (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,212861.0.html) - one of several detailed descriptions.
You have been a member for several years (thank you for joining) but it looks like we didn't get a chance to send information to help with navigation and site guidelines. I'll add it here for you.
Things that you should read
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) |
Brenda, best wishes on your adventure in April and your new future!
Kendra
Thank you Kendra.
Its like finally finding solace and peace within myself after so many years.
Susan's have been a great help in aiding my transitioning. Well of course it does not stop there.
Apologies i didnt participate much as i am have a pretty shy persona.
Will check out the searches. Many thanks. :)
Cheers,
Brenda
Have you seen Bambi's Guide? It's looks very useful for Chettawut.
Quote from: AnonyMs on February 21, 2018, 11:23:52 AM
Have you seen Bambi's Guide? It's looks very useful for Chettawut.
Erm. No. Can you direct me the link?
I try searching for the above, nothing comes up.
Many thanks.
http://bambi.atspace.org
Hi All,
I will be penning some updates here and dictating the activities and what I did and preparation from my arrival till post op. (I try to update as frequent as I can.) Apologies if my account is not detailed enough as I seldom write diaries....
Updates -
1st April 2018
Took the morning flight bound for Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport.
Touched down at BKK time 10am.
Dr. Chettawut driver was already tasked to pick me up from the airport at Gate 3. Do keep a lookout as it seems that Gate 3 is a popular spot for meeting and picking up.
Oh prior to walking to Gate 3, you will see a few telco booths selling SIM cards for foreigners.
You can choose the data plan accordance to the stay you are in Thailand.
Naturally I took the 30days Sim Card with 20GB and a 12GB for 30days as well. I took the SIM from one of the biggest telco provider in Thailand DTAC.
Reason is I need one for my Ipad and phone. (Heavily reliance on emails and correspondence thru WhatsApp for work during these period. Haha.) Of course if you are ok, there are surely wifi everywhere and also at your accommodation surely so you can opt to go for lower data plan or without. Total cost is THB2000 for both SIM card with some call credit and they will help you install and setup. Took about 25mins for the whole process.
Perhaps I landed early, the driver arrive about 10mins after I reach the Gate. He was polite and helped with my luggage guiding me towards the carpark and to the pickup car. A Nissan Sunny, quite spacious at the back. (I learned later it seems that Chettawut have more than one driver and a few cars.)
Once in the car, the driver passed me an envelope with information on the schedule and appointment to meet with Dr. Chettawut for the consultation as well as the accommodation reservation.
Ok, some info on the accommodation that I will be staying at during this period.
Chettawut has 3 accommodations that he can arranged. I did some research on Google and decided that a service apartment will be the most appropriate due to having an individual bedroom with fully equipments ammenities such as washing machine, kitchen and homely feel.
I took the Vertical Suite Service Apartment (cost at THB1800/day with breakfast).
As my surgery was scheduled on 5th April 2018, but for me I have to arrive earlier due to arrangement for the 2nd psychiatrict letter which Chettawut arranged for as well as you will probably need 3days to clear out your system with the laxatives and douche that Chettawut will provide.
Ok back to the letter schedule, Chettawut will meet me on 3rd April supposedly at 10am. Later in the day, I received a call from one of his nurse commenting that my appointment is scheduled earlier to be at 2nd April, which naturally makes sense as I will need 3 days prior to clear out my bowels in preparation for the surgery.
So 1st April basically ended with no activities with Chettawut side.
I unpacked and went to one of the biggest mall in BKK - Seacon Square. The mall is very big but I was not in the mood for shopping, main aim was to get some groceries which I will need during my recovery. I went to Tesco Lotus, the hypermart there. Has 2 big levels selling almost everything you can get.
Basically advice to get -
Water - I got about 60litres of water those 1.5 bottle each kind
Milo, Black coffee, instant noodles, lots and lots of fruits, veggies, dozen eggs, fruit juice (get those without pulps!!) and some sour preserve fruits (I am a sucker for very sour stuff. Haha)
Pails which you will surely need for hygienie purpose later during cleaning postop
Washing bag for putting those clothes that require delicate washing
Detergents and washing fluids. Note you need to buy on your own as the apartment does not provide. Plates, bowls, pans, pots, cutlery are all provided.
Brand's Chicken Essence after post op for recovery.
Seasoning if you intend to cook something light if you don't intend to eat out. (I do advise to get some as at least 2 weeks during recovery it is advisable to rest in the room as what Chettawut recommended.
Spend about THB6400 on such, well I may overspend a bit so procure at your own discretion.
Unlikely you will spend as much as I think I may be a bit on the splurging side... haha.
Ok, the issue after which is how to bring back so many stuff...... that is something I had issues with.... Tesco does not help to deliver!!!! Oh god, with so many stuff I was in a panic.
The staff suggested me to get a taxi. I was thinking Gosh just across the road, will the taxi fetch me?
Never mind I tried my luck and headed to the entrance hopping to get one kind enough to fetch..... well at the entrance there was no taxi available!! The taxi happens to be outside along the main road, well it was an impossible to push the cart all the way there as need to cross a road and with Kerb to cross!!
Luckily I recalled that I had the residence number and I called the service desk for help. Thankfully the manager arranged the security to come and find me. Thank heavens.
Took about 5mins, the security guy assisted to get a cab in and directed the cab to the suite. Ride cost about THB40 but I gave THB50 and ask him to keep the change for the trouble.
Then at the apartment, the security helped me to bring all the stuff to my room. So happy that I tipped him THB100 for his troubles.
The rest of the day was spend sorting out the stuff and doing some work and in preparation for meeting Chettawut on 2nd April 10am.
Knock out at about 1am.
2nd April
Ok today meeting Chettawut at 10am, driver picking me at about 930am.
So I woke up at 6am and some washing up, went for breakfast at 730am provided as part of the package of stay at the service apartment.
Ok, not really a fantastic spread but it was adequate.
I am not a fussy eater and morning I usually skip breakfast, so I went with some coffee and some plan porridge or congee. Took some ginger with boiled fish some sort.
There are eggs, salads, fruits, and quite a few others which I few is generally quite ok, perhaps a 6 rating?
After done with headed back to room, changed and do some work while waiting for Chettawut driver to arrive.
Finally at 930am sharp, the driver arrive and I was taken to his clinic. As many mentioned, the clinic is generally not very big. It seems small from appearance. It has 2 floors.
So upon arrival, I had to submit my original documents of blood test, x-rays, urine test, Psy letter as well as passport for verification. I had paid the amount in full for the surgery as well as the skin graft additional cost required. The only yet to pay was for the 2nd Psy arrangement which cost THB10,000. Note if you pay by credit card, additional 4percent applies.
You will be asked to sign an acknowledgement of the consequences of the surgeries, the consent for surgery as well as check and verify a cert which will be issued to you post op.
Oh they will ask when you stop hormones, note to stop 2 weeks prior to your surgery. Any other medications need to highlight if you are still taking, for me none basically just health supplements for hair and skin which no issues to continue taking.
So once I was cleared with all the documentations, I waited for about 10minutes and the nurse whisked me up to the 2nd floor to meet the one that will change my life to normal, Dr. Chettawut.
Well as most have mentioned earlier, he is indeed soft spoken and very gentle. He took my portrait as well as examine my privates to confirm on the skin graft requirements. Yes if you are on prolong hormones for a Long time, chances are you might need as the scrotum required may not provide enough skin for the depth construction it seems.
So Chettawut ask me for my expectations and explain what will be done and he will try his best to achieve maximum depth but he cannot guarantee 7 or deeper, he will do his best as it depends on the rectum distance as well as clearance available for the depth. Hair wise he will remove so that internally there will be no hair. The rest is the assistance nurse explaining what's needed to be done from 3rd April onwards till op and what is required to be prepared and also when you leave the consultation, you will bringing an douching solution, 2 pills of laxative to take on 3rd April night, one bottle of strong laxative to finish on the 4th April as well as some salt solution which you can choose to take optional or not. The nurse mentioned that the taste could be unpleasant so better mix with some soda. Well I think I opt for not taking instead in my mind. Haha.
Anyway the consultation overall at Chettawut took about an hour perhaps. After which the driver drop me back at the apartment and the day was spend doing work and knocking out.
Oh lunch and dinner basically was some clear miso soup and some green mangoes.
Side note - please start taking plenty of water!!! I usually down 5bottles of 1.5litres of water per day.
Knock out at 130am.
3rd April -
Today arrangement to meet the Psy for the second letter.
Oh today need to start liquid diet. And liquid diet from Chettawut means no solid food at all, also includes milk and fruit juices without pulp.
Clear soup and coffee no milk or tea fine.
The breakfast at the vertical suite is just fine for such arrangement, they have clear soups available and I took some bitter melon soup as well as a cup of black coffee.
The meeting for the Psy was at 130pm the driver will be picking me up at 1pm.
Anyway the journey there took nearly an hour due to horrible traffic jam. I actually feel asleep during the ride. Haha.
The Psy is located at some quite grand private hospital it seems. Forgot the name. The consultation is quite fast but the waiting time took about 30minutes even thou there was no one waiting ahead. The Psy ask the usual questions as well as my history and also plans about my family, financial and career aspects.
Oh forget to mention, the Psy is located in the Mind Center of the hospital.
After which the nurse in charge passed the lady from Chettawut accompanying me the letter.
There are 2 copies one of which she will pass to you to keep.
After which the driver send me back to the apartment and same usual routine, do some work and only take black coffee, some fruit juice and English tea.
That's how the day went out.
Will update on 4th April next.
4th April 2018
Nothing pretty much happening today.
Pretty slow day.
Surgery is scheduled on 5th April.
Well morning, as per instruction have to down half bottle of Swiff Solution (45ml), to clear the bowels. Recommend for you to have a cup of coffee on standby as the taste is not something pleasant.
Then 2hours later you will be having to make frequent trips to the toilet and I do mean frequent.
So avoid going out during this period and run errands the day before will be ideal.
I had basically only coffee and tea the entire day, basically similar to days when I feel that I need a diet.
Evening about 5pm took the other half and proceed to clear again the bowels.
Meanwhile did some work and prep some stuff to bring along.
Basically the stuff that I will be bringing along -
Ipad, Phone, power bank and charger
Facial cleanser, Essence, serum and moisturiser
Wet wipes (I know that Chettawut side will provide but Guess I like to standby some.)
A cotton jacket as I am terribly scared of cold.
Hand cream
Of course minimum amount of money and passport.
Well that's that and will await for Chettawut's driver to pick me up on 5th April at 1pm where my surgery will be scheduled at 2pm.
Kindly of reflecting on my past experiences and what went thru for the past 30odd years.
Plenty of flashbacks on emotions as well as reflections on how difficult the path took to finally get to where I am.
Its hard to explain as the flood of emotions that comes thru, but getting to the new life ahead and moving forward towards having something that seems normalised to me brings that great sense of comfort and peace thereafter.
I Guess today was a good day where you have to stayed grounded and start compartmenting your lift and sorting out the past and moving onwards to a new one. As I am going alone for this trip, the peace and quietness certainly allows me to reflect on the ongoing of the past and future.
Ok, its time to wait for the day that a new life emerges.
i'm closely following your thread since Dr Chett is at the top of my list. i hope your surgery went well.
keep us posted!! :)
Thought that this particular topic was not generating interest...
Ok, where did I left off.
Oh... Surgery....
Day 0 - 5th April
On the particular day morning, the day came where life was to be changed.
Dr. Chettawut arranged the driver to come over at about 1pm to pick me from my apartment.
Well that leaves me some time to do some packing and last minute mental preparation as I was pretty terrified of surgery.
I was kind of exhausted as I was tossing and turning in bed the night before, part of my mind was reflecting on how tough this journey was and part of it was giving my eyes a wash with my tears.
Well todays the day, I decided to choose a black dress which was easy to wear and kind of mourning for the departure of my terrible manhood...
The items generally taken -
Passport (actually not required)
Power bank (well the recovery ward do have power plugs so may not be required)
2 Phones with earpiece (definitely a must)
Hair moisturiser spray (a must for me as I cant shower....)
Face mist spray (aircon will dry the skin)
A credit card and some about 50,000THB (feel safer with some money)
A cardigan (in case I am cold)
Small compact Mirror (thank god I brought, don't think they have one... perhaps can request)
Lip Balm (for dryness)
International plug for charging phone with cables (A must)
Depends on yourself you can bring along others but generally I would say 50percent of the time you will be dozing off.
So fast forward, everything pack and finally the driver arrived.
Oh just for info, you cant take any liquid at all prior to the surgery at least from the evening 6pm onwards. So please remember to take plenty of water earlier before that to prevent dehydration.
At 1pm sharp, the driver came to pick me up and the nurse usher me to the changing room to change into a white surgical gown in a small changing room on the 2nd floor and then brought me into a private room beside to lie down and wait. The room was so called a pre-operation room. The nurse came to check my vitals and shave me at my genital areas but as I have not much hair since I did electrolysis some time back it was pretty quick. I read about the experiences that shaving was quite painful? But to me it was pretty ok.
Afterwhich the nurse ask me if I wish to watch some Internet TV or videos, but I decline as I just wish for some peace. The wait was actually quite awhile, I would say about an hour plus perhaps to Ensure that my physique was stable or something. In fact I fell asleep during the time while waiting.
I was nudged awake by the nurse whom told me that its time to go to the operating theatre.
The operating room was just beside the pre-operation room. I saw 2 other people inside, one presumably was the one whom will inject anaesthesia and the other was a nurse I figure will assist Chettawut? Anyway I was brought to the surgical table and ask to lie down with my legs spread apart high. Chettawut came into and spoke to me and told me that everything was alright, and just go ahead to have a good sleep and leave it to him. Well his words do bring some level of comfort for me and as gentle as he was certainly made me feel reassured that I was in safe hands.
The general anaesthesia was administered and I felt a cold fluid running thru the vein in my hand and I blacked out......
I was awaken at about 930pm (plus minus could be longer cant recall), the nurse gently shook my body and I was back lying on the pre-operative room. My mind was still blur and cant really seem to focus on anything and as soon as I awoken I seem to doze off again. She shook my again gently and this time I tried to keep focused. She mentioned to me that the surgery went extremely well and told me not to worry. I only realised then that I could feel like a big packing at my genital area. However there was no pain. Surprisingly I was not that thirsty which I seem to read that most will have a dried throat. Well she did brought water to me I figured 3 hours later? Anyway I had to stayed in the pre-operation room (well can call it post-operative room now perhaps) for the night before transferring to the ward below.
To be honest, I dozed off pretty much of the time perhaps due to the effects of the General Anesthesia still cruising thru my body. Pain Level I would say 0 or 1, cant really feel much or perhaps the effects of the GA still not worn off.
Oh the only thing that I felt discomfort was due to the thought of wanting to peel constantly but well generally nothing really happens. There was a catheter tube coming from the packing to the urine bag well that is the purpose for the urine I suppose. A drip was also put on me.
At around 2plus or so, the nurse came with the water and some medication (I Guess it was the antibiotics, anti swelling and painkillers) for me and after gulping it down, I was out pretty fast again.
Post Op Day 1, 2 and 3
Well next morning about 9plus, the nurse woke me up and brought me breakfast.
Oh forgot to mention, the nurse will ask you about what you wish to have for breakfast, lunch and dinner the next day. She will pass you a paper where you can pick from the list.
for drinks the available options are Milk (Warm), Soy Milk and Horlicks (Can't recall the third one)
Main course available options are cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, vegetable egg soup and crackers.
My suggestion - Drink wise up to your preference. But I recommend crackers or the vegetable soup cause the rest was a tat salty for me. Well coupled with poor appetite I Guess.
Well not to worry, you have 3 days to choose which is your favourite.
Anyway after breakfast, I was given the same medication after and told to rest awhile while they got the ward ready. Oh I forgot to mention, Chettawut also have compression massages at the lower half of your leg which will compress and release periodically to allow blood circulation.
An hour later, I was assisted by the nurse to get up, to make my way down the single flight of stairs to the ward below. 2 nurse assisted me slowly making the way down. All I can say is that I need some assistance as my body was really weak, momentarily I blacked out when I first got off the bed. Thankfully the nurse that assisted me was strong and I can lean onto her as I made my way down the stairs.
The ward that I was brought to was just 5meters away from the stairs (thank God) and I was brought onto the bed immediately after.
At this stage, I had already broke out in cold sweat.
Pain level well 1 I would say. Perhaps the painkillers work well. Trimodol I Guess.
I fell asleep pretty much of the time except for meal times or the peeing feeling that comes every once in awhile.
The ward is slightly larger than the pre/post operative room and seems more comfy kind. There is available PowerPoints beside your bed where you can charge your phone and internet tv where you can watch if you are bored. Most of the time I watched youtube on my phone and communicated on WhatsApp. Yes, there is Wifi available.
Periodically nurse will come and take your vitals and replace the drips. The compression belts on the leg was turned on all this while. The nurse will come and clean you with a wet towel while asking you to shift left and right. Don't worry she will help you adjust and place a pillow between your legs when you shift to the left and right.
The process repeats constantly for the next 2days and well generally pain level was always between 1 and 2 max. Not really that bad.
The only thing is the discomfort of the packing and the ever constant feeling of wanting to pee but nothing happens.
Post-op Day 4 9th April
Finally I can discharge.
Yup after breakfast I was told by the nurse that I am able to go back before noon.
The nurse did some cleaning for me and then I was changed into the clothes that I came with.
The nurse assisted me to the car and followed me back to the apartment. Honestly the process of going back to the apartment totally drained me out. I feel asleep due to tiredness immediately when the nurse lay me down on my bed. She brought some items for dilation I presume and after putting my personnel belongings on the table beside she left. Honestly I did not even know that she left as I was just too tired.
I woke up at about 5pm I Guess, due to the same feeling of wanting to pee. The packing was still there with the catheter tube sticking out. Movement was awkward and I went to immediately take some Milo or energy drink.
Take note of the instructions for the medication, every six hours you are required to take the antibiotic which is like an orange and grey pill moderate size and one orange pill which is for the anti swelling. Chettawut also provided 2 kinds of painkillers which to be taken if there is intolerable pain. One strong and one mild.
2 things that came into me mind that I wanted to do was
(1) wash my hair
(2) clean and do facial
Well I can only do point (2) as washing my hair will take massive effort. I basically took some Milo some juices in the evening as I still have to be on soft diet and then went back to bed again.
do remember to set your alarm every 6 hours to Ensure that your medication is taken and do remember to take some warm drinks (recommend either Milo or Horlicks) prior to taking the medication.
I slept thru except for taking the medication.
Oh apart from the medication, the nurse also brought along
(1)one packet of bed padding/ or lining? Don't know what its called. 6 pieces within.
(2)half dozen of lubricant
(3)One numbing gel
(4)one case of dilators ranging from size 0 to 4
(5) wet wipes
(6)mirror
Well I believe those will be the presents for coming dilation when the packing is remove.
Pain Level 1 to 2 max so far.
More of uncomfortable due to same peeing feel and the packing.
I might have forgotten something in my previous posts, if you have any queries please feel free to ask, I try to answer as much as I can remember.
Apologies for the poor language used in my posts.
Brenda this is excellent, detailed information - and glad your pain levels sound very manageable, that is great news. Sounds like your surgery results are on track so far and you are doing very well.
Quote from: Kendra on May 08, 2018, 01:16:14 AM
Brenda this is excellent, detailed information - and glad your pain levels sound very manageable, that is great news. Sounds like your surgery results are on track so far and you are doing very well.
Erm.. not really so... later I will describe my recovery days after and you will see...
Pardon my poor English. If there is something that you all don't understand on the gibberish that I am talking about, please correct me or ask me.
Post-op Day 5/6 10th April and 11th April
Woke up pretty much the same, made some effort and wash my hair. Finally feeling much better.
Energy seems to be slowly coming back.
My diet consist of morning - Cup of hot Milo and Brand's Chicken of Essence
Noon - Cup of hot Milo and Kiwi Juice
Evening - Horlicks and some cheese crackers
intermediate if hungry took some instant seaweed soup.
Medication is every 6 hours. Do set alarm to give you reminders.
Honestly I did not wear anything below my waist as the packing is just well too massive.
Basically apart from meals and washing my face, I was lying in bed and watching videos on my Ipad. The TV channels basically non interest me.
Oh do remember to take lots of water (I drank about 3 bottles of 1.5l of mineral water daily.) do remember to stock up accordingly during your stay as you will not have the energy to go buy then later. Housekeeping also provides 2 bottles of 500l or so of water daily as well.
Anyway in my condition, I prefer not to be disturbed.
There is some smell, yes coming from the packing. Not pleasant. Well the nurse mentioned that there will be, will be gone about 7 days after removal of the packing.
Pain Level 1 and 2 max (thankfully not much pain. In fact I took only the mild painkillers).
The only problems that I faced generally are discomfort (as per mentioned in my earlier post) as well as lying on the bed too Long.
Do remember to flip to the side once in awhile to allow your back to breathe.
Post-op Day 7 12th April
Well today as per informed on the piece of schedule sheet provided, the nurse will be coming today. Today she will be removing my packing.
The nurse came at about 1pm, note if you are not able to move around, she will inform the Housekeeping to assist to open the door on behalf.
The packing was finally removed. However the catheter still remains. The catheter as mentioned in the schedule will be removed on the 17th April.
Anyway upon removing the packing, she started pulling up the gaze which was supposedly stuff into my vag. Chettawut already knows the depth that I can hit and the nurse mentioned to me.
She then demostrate to me the dilation procedure and how to perform it.
Basically the bed pad will be laid first where your butt is to avoid staining the bed.
Then you got to clean the dilator (starting with size 0) with a wet wipe.
Apply the numbing gel at your vag opening and perimeter.
Apply the lubricant to the dilator. Depending on your depth, the lubricant will be applied an inch half more shorter than your depth.
Your legs will be slightly raised at a comfortable position using the pillows.
Honestly after removal of the packing, I finally get to see my new genitals for the first time. It was still swollen but generally its seems pretty ok with the stitches holding it in place.
The nurse reminded me repeatedly that I should not move around so much so that the stitches will not tear.
Then the dilation will begin. It will usually start at 30mins for the first time. First time is not today but rather the next day.
The following days, the nurse will visit you repeatedly to see on your recovery and progress.
Honestly with the removal of the packing, movement seems much easier, well also the smell become stronger. You can wear underwear and pads as per normal with shorts. She mentioned that I can start consuming solid food from today onwards as well.
For dinner - Took Apples/Grapes and some miso soup.
Pain Level 2 to 3. Reason being, the stitches are exposed and not cushioned by the packing, so leaving you with more vulnerable stress on the stitches area and any movement will cause sore and some sharp pain. Still taking the mild painkillers.
Yes, upon wearing the underwear with pad, I can start feeling certain sensations, not generally bad... perhaps its the nerve reconnecting or healing of the nerves after the surgery.
Oh for info, I have yet to pass a stool yet since Day 1. Thank God. Hopefully tomorrow I can.
Quote from: Brenda80 on May 08, 2018, 02:09:57 AM
well also the smell become stronger.
I am surprised of this. I did not have any smell either before unpacking or after.
Post-op Day 8 13th April
Slowly gaining some energy back.
Finally able to take some solid food.
As the Vertical Suite Apartment that I am staying in provided breakfast, I woke up at about 8am and headed down for breakfast after some washing up.
The breakfast i will say was ok, not fabulous but it provided me the required stuff that I needed.
Actually I had taken breakfast on the 2nd day when I arrived as I came about 4 days earlier ahead of my surgery.
*if you are coming alone, do come few days earlier before your liquid diet commence so as to go to the mall to procure your daily necessities. Else it will be difficult to get assistance to procure items like water and stuff as it is a distance away.
Breakfast generally I took 4 eggs (Only egg white as I needed the proteins), veggies and cut fruits.
Took the unsweeten soy milk as well.
Sometimes they will serve fish which is also a good source of protein which helps in the recovery.
Breakfast is buffet style.
Actually I didn't really need the nurse instruction to get the staff at the hotel to deliver the food as I prefer to check out the varieties. The nurse actually has good intentions as during this recovery stage, it will be good to move around less so that the wounds can heal and not tear the stiches. Well I didn't really think that it matters as I move around pretty slow and took small steps.
Oh forgot to mentioned. Chett does provide the donut cushion or rather not donut but rather a U-snap cushion which allows you to sit so as not to affect the stiches and of course generally it is sore as well even if you sit on the couch. Remember to bring it along where you go else sitting will be a pain in the arse.
After breakfast I slowly went back to the room and rest.
Saw a few other chett gals whom was staying at this apartment. Well basically this apartment is one of the 3 that chett will require you to choose from during your recovery as the nurse will be easier to visit you.
Didn't communicated with them as they seem to have their own circle of friends.
Was noon when the nurse came by and it was my first dilation.
Seriously the first attempt was horrible. Not easy.
You basically start with Size 0 which was the preliminary size.
First time was about 30mins.
As mentioned earlier, my depth was informed by the nurse so she expect you to be able to achieve the depth required.
I could not get it to the depth. Short of half inch. And the nurse will take push hard, which will certainly hurt. This is mainly due to the muscles and bone which is not easy to overcome in the last inch..
The ordeal certainly was not enjoyable.
I felt exhausted and sore from the first dilation. Put a mental block on me to go thru that again.
The nurse mentioned to try and relax but honestly it's not easy.
I guess it will take lots of practise to achieve that depth created.
I was breaking out in cold sweat after the first dilation and felt like I had just finished a marathon.
The thing that came out in my mind was, could I possibly enjoy penetration?
Well guess have to keep on trying then.
Oh one thing. She mentioned that I can finally shower.
That is certainly the one piece of good news that I gotten today.
I rested for like 3hours before climbing out of bed and proceed for shower.
Phew that is like such a relief.
But do remember to use a hair dryer to blow dry your new equipment as instructed by the nurse.
Just use the normal blower without temp during the blow drying process.
Dinner took some fruits, miso soup and milo hoping to replenish some energy.
Tomorrow will begin the process of another round of dilation... hopefully I will have better luck then.
Quote from: Lucie on May 08, 2018, 10:21:12 AM
I am surprised of this. I did not have any smell either before unpacking or after.
Some sort of fishy smell I guess. But as what the nurse mentioned after a week the smell is gone.
Just need to keep the hygenie at all times.
Guess with more ventilation after the packing is remove, the stench will also fade away.
love your diary. thank you so much for sharing your detailed experience with us. how much depth was the Dr able to achieve if you don't mind me asking?
Quote from: jenn90210 on May 10, 2018, 12:50:27 AM
love your diary. thank you so much for sharing your detailed experience with us. how much depth was the Dr able to achieve if you don't mind me asking?
Thanks, pardon my poor language.
Depth wise as I am Asian, can achieve 6plus. Well partly also attribute to my body frame as I am not that tall and pretty size size. The allowable space that Chett can go is limited. Also my scrotal areas for the skin graft is also limited as prolong hormones have shrink the skin so I have little to go with for the extended length I think.
It's not the same for all I guess. Hope this helps.
Very well documented journey. Very informative. Thank you
Post-op Day 9 14th April
Set my alarm to ring early in the morning at 6am to commence my first morning dilation.
As per instructed, suppose to commence once 45mins in the morning and once 45mins in the evening.
Here are a general guideline that you need to prepare prior to the dilation -
(1) Laid the protection linen
(2) place tissues where your butt will be so that the excessive fluid or discharge will not stain the linen and can be reused.
(3) Remember to get more pillows so that your legs can rest comfortable above on it. I gotten 6 pillows.
(4) Do note to keep the materials that you required near your reach. Items like mirror, lube, stent, numbing gel, wet wipes and tissues are generally items that you have to keep within reach as it will be impossible to disrupt the dilation once you commence.
Do also keep your remote or ipad or phone within reach as well to keep you entertained.
I also keep a glass of water in case i do get thirsty.
Once done, I tried to maintain a comfortable position as per instructed by the nurse previously and note that laid your head Low preferably with one pillow instead of 2 for the stent to adjust in much easier. Next the legs to be spread not just slight wide allowing the stent to go in.
After which apply the numbing gel, and then apply the lubricant onto the stent.
Use the mirror to check the entrance of your vagina and slowly push the stent inside.
For this time, I am still unable to achieve the required depth. Failing short of an inch.
I realised that as I push deeper initially, the first hurdle to cross are my muscles. That gradually over practised I learned that relaxing helps.
The next hurdle is harder, which is like a bone which prevents your stent from proceeding further. I took awhile to overcome this, you need to tweak the stent downwards to 'go under' this bone. Gradually I managed to overcome this. However ultimately I still fall short of half inch.
Well I Guess that first attempt will always be difficult.
I Guess coupled with the above as well as this is one of the first virgin times that my vagina is experiencing penetration so the body naturally will resist.
So apart from the muscles and bone, once overcome, the key factor that I need to do is to maintain the depth that i managed to push to. That is the hardest part.
As the stent is of uniform width thru out, it is extremely difficult to hold the stent in position using the fingers (likely only 2 fingers) as you will require some strength to keep the stent in position.
Ok one thing to note, everyone's anatomy is different, the nurse guide may not be applicable to you in the ease of shoving the stent in, you need to explore yourself to find out what is the comfortable position, the resistance of muscle at which point and how to tweak to overcome when you hit the bone. Only you know yourself how to explore the stent and how to tweak to go further.
The attempt to reach depth (*still short of half inch) took me 25mins in my first attempt and to tell you the truth I was nearly half exhausted and broke out in sweat just to get it in as much as possible. I maintain the depth about an hour before taking out and proceeding with the cleaning process. Do remember to wash the stent with soft soap and wipe clean before keeping.
As there are still lubricant within, do note to wear a pad so that the excess lubricant within the vagina will not stain your underwear.
After the dilation, I was totally half dead. Could not muster much energy to do anything.
I just laid stoned in bed for 45mins before dragging myself out to clean and wash up my face.
Did a quick change before heading down for breakfast at 9am.
Ok, wonder how I managed to hide the urine bag?
I wore a Long skirt, I kept the urine bag within hook onto the inside of the skirt so basically its not visible. Of course, the urine bag is drained before I stepped out.
I brought along my cushion as well.
Breakfast as per the usual items the day before.
Following which head up to take my medication and rest on the bed.
Now the above is actually not recommended by Chettawut. His advise is not to move around and remain as much as possible in bed. This is to allow the incisions to heal and not to tear the stitches. Please do follow, if you need breakfast please call room service.
The nurse came at noon time to inspect my stitches and ask about my dilation, which I commented that it was tough and I tried, she mentioned to take a photo for the depth to show her tomorrow... well generally that is challenging, its hard if you are alone to take a photo with one hand and holding the stent in the other. And more so to capture the correct angle. Basically it requires many attempts of trial and error. She did some cleaning and applied the medication.
There is one piece of bad news - the nurse upon cleaning and inspection mentioned that one side of my scars on the outer has necrosis and the skin is not healing. Need to monitor and see. If required, will need revision to trim the dead skin and restitch!!!!!!
Ok gals, another rule that I flouted, I started smoking the day I came back when I was discharged from Chettawut's clinic.
Honestly I am a heavy smoker and I cannot live pass an hour without lighting up. I smoke at least 20sticks a day. Yes smoking affects the healing process and necrosis I believe was due to smoking. Well what's done can be undone. So seems like revision was in the schedule for me.
Lunch was generally 2 apples and some Kiwi juice.
Late afternoon, being a little adventurous, I decided to do a quick shower. Yes finally I can shower! The nurse told me that I can finally hit the shower to clean myself. Yippie.
Oh let me elaborate a bit, yes, you can shower with the urine bag, but take note that the urine bag must alway be placed at a level lower than your vagina to allow flow so please find a good spot to hang it.
Showering as per instructed, just shower as per normal except your genital areas where just let the water run thru and not applied direct flow. Do not rub the area or apply soap. Let gravity of the water do the job.
Once showered, note do use the hair dryer using normal wind without temp and blow dry about 5mins before putting on your underwear, with pad of course.
Then I flouted another rule... I went out.
I went to the 7-11 just beside to grab some drinks and ciggies....
Sidetrack, do go to 7-11 to grab their iced coffee if you have the chance, its really addictive.
When I was there, hmm I was thinking the mall was just across the road, why not I take the chance to go there and check out the mall. So I went to the mall and walk around, bought some dinner there and headed back. I reckon I spent about 3hours in the mall maybe?
I was exhausted when I came back. Note I still have the urine bag on me.
Well I had to pay a price for this disobedience as I will explain later!
Once back I laid on my bed and fell asleep.
The alarm woke me up at 6pm as I had set it for the next dilation. Same 45mins.
The whole process repeats itself, well no luck still cant cross that half inch.
Did washing up and grab dinner.
Dinner was papaya salad. I am addicted to this as well. Took this almost daily in Thailand.
Did some work in the evening and generally took to bed almost 1am.
Pain level today well 2 or 3 (max during shower, perhaps the wounds are still not fully heal?)
But pain is still ok, the soreness due to straining the muscles during dilation is much worse I would say. Sore rating well perhaps a 5?
Quote from: Brenda80 on May 11, 2018, 12:53:12 AM
Then I flouted another rule... I went out.
[...]
Well I had to pay a price for this disobedience as I will explain later!
What a suspense !
Thank you for sharing. It's unvaluable for girls who are going to have their SRS with Dr Chettawut.
Post-op Day 10 15th April
Can't seem to sleep well the night before... was tossing and turning in bed the whole night.
In and out of sleep, well decided to start dilating at 530am.
Today tried to get into a more relax position, placed the legs on a pillow. The rest preparation as per earlier post.
Initially I faced the same issue, half inch or more stuck when coming to this bone obstruction.
After half an hour attempt, I realised that I need to adjust accordingly myself to shift it below the bone. It's basically something that one needs to explore as I can't say what works for me is suitable for others as I Guess it depends largely on one's anatomy. The nurse also echoes what I had mentioned later when I told her that I finally got deeper. Honestly I am not sure if I bridged that GAP but it certainly went deeper than earlier attempts. Was I relief about it.
Took an overall of 1 and half hours in total.
Went down for breakfast after some washing up.
Same usual egg and fruits before going to 7-11 for some tidbits and coffee. Yes this is not advisable and certainly not allowed by Chettawut. Ok, my bad...
Went back to room after that and managed to fell asleep for an hour or so.
Well noon came quickly and the nurse came to check on me.
Generally not good, seems like one side of the labia folds at the stitch area seems not healing well usually term as necrosis. Chances are revision will be required. Will observe a few days more, she a photo after cleaning with some solvent went off. But before she left she reminded me to smoke less, well Guess she can smell the smoke in the room.. haha
Note - smoking slows down healing process so take note to restrict smoking 14days before and after..
Well this is the issue with not complying to the doc's instruction I Guess.
Pain wise generally ok, I would say about 0 to 1. Not relying on the painkillers unless prior to sleeping.
Soreness, yes especially after the dilation.
I noticed my diet might be a contributing factor for my slow recovery as well.
Apart from breakfast, generally lunch was salad and Milo or fruit juice.
Dinner usually liquid such as Milo or some fruits.
My weight went from 52kg prior to surgery to 47kg during the recovery phase...
Well not that I am complaining of the weight but it compromises the recovery in some sense.
Yes, the apartment does provide a weighing scale.
Energy wise, well at this stage, I noticed that my energy has cut significantly to a third of the energy that I had. I seem to be zapped out of energy doing simple task such as hanging out the clothes or showering. Hormones deficiency? Not sure.
Some observations during the recovery phase.
My appetite seems much poorer. Explains by my weight loss.
My tiredness and breathlessness quite evident doing simple task.
Lack of enthusiasm to get myself up for doing task.
Skin generally drier (even thou I applied moisturiser.)
Loss of attention span in doing things.
Frustration with simple issues.
Generally the above are some things I noticed that deviated prior to the surgery.