Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

2,848 topics in this forum

I had a first consult this week and would like to hear other peoples views. Any thoughts on what this stuff should cost?

Has anyone been approved for a breast reduction with Cinga? My family doc seems to think it will be not problem for me to get approved. I started at a 44G and have lost 60 pounds wilt 60 to go and they are now between a 38 DDD and 38 F. I called Cinga to see what the guidelines were and she really didn't want to tell me. She said just because they were big and I experience pain didn't mean anything. She said they would require pictures and all sorts of stuff. So, if you have Cigna and was approved for a breast reduction I would really appreciate knowing what you had to do to get approved.

Has anyone been to Dr. Shuster in Hollywood, FL for plastic surgery? Happy? Results? Thanks!

Hi all--I am planning on having plastic surgery with Dr. Schulman. I know he's the best, leved the before/after pics he showed me, etc. I am so excited about this! Just wondering if anyone on this forum had PS with him and how your overall experience was and how your results are. Thanks so much!!!

Hello everyone, I've lost about 50lbs since my surgery. It came off everywhere except on top. I've been large all along, now i'm just large, droopy and disproportionate. The worst part is that now my back has been bothering me, along with my neck and shoulders and exercising is a challenge and uncomfortable. My primary doc was able to get my insurance to approve an initial consult with a plastic surgeon, who in turn, said I am a perfect candidate for surgery and for insurance to pay for it. I have tri-care and really don't see a problem with them approving this. They've been very easy for me to work with (it's a civilian doc, since there are no military facilit…

Hi: I have a question for those of you who've had a tummy tuck. Did you still have some pain when you laughed hard or sneezed four months after surgery? I've done very well and haven't had any issues (except one dogear), but I am surprised that I still have pain when I sneeze or laugh hard. I don't wear a spanx or anything that compresses, and haven't for two months. I had to switch insurance companies, so going back to the surgeon is out of question because of the cost (laid off from work in April) unless it is urgent. A little bit of pain when I laugh or sneeze is far from urgent. Please just let me know if it's normal. Thanks for your feedback. Sue

I am planning to have breast lift in 2010 and I am currently a 42d. My ps states that I will not need implants, but I feel that I will not be happy with the tops of my breasts. Has anyone had the surgery without implanys and had to go back in or were unhappy with the results. Also how many sizes did you go down after the surgery. The cost of the lift is real cheap as well as the implants and lift, so there is just a minor difference. Please let me know what you think.

I am only 2 1/2 months out from my surgery, however, I am positive I will need PS mainly a tummy tuck, and possibly breast reconstructive surgery. Has anyone been fortunate enough for their insurance company to cover this? As I said I am positive I will need PS however, I really don't think I can afford it. Also, I know it is still too soon to EVEN think about another surgery right now, but I like to look at options for the future.

Hi ... I got my band a year ago and i lost so far around 31 kilo (68 pounds). I went for consultation for PS in order to do it in 6 month, Tummy tuck and breast lift but my lapbanding surgeon thinks it is too soon .... and i should wait another year ... what do you think ? when did you have your PS Thanks Loulou

Hi ... I m planning a Tummy Tuck and a breast lift in early 2010, I went for consultation and the doctor was not encouraged by the scares done by my Lapband surgeory , he can not promise that the wounds of PS will heal without scarring. i m one year past surgeory and still have 2 good scares and 2 healed ones ... did anyone face this ? does anyone know if you have more advanced healing and less scaring procedures in the states than those of us in Middle East.

Hi folks. I am scheduled for a tummy tuck on Sept. 9th and have some questions/concerns for those of you who've been there. I have the usual lower tummy panni, and have an equally large roll over the waist that kind of drapes over my belly button. I am having a full abdominoplasty with muscle repair. I am worried that I will still have the upper roll . . . I know some people have had "anchor" tummy tucks, but the PS didn't mention that. Is it possible for a standard tummy tuck to get rid of the upper roll too? Does anyone know? Also, I am having a breast lift. I have decided NOT to get implants. My mother is currently battling breast cancer and I don't want to …

Anyone heard of this...done this...know someone..... looks promising:thumbup:

DOES ANYONE KNOW OF A CREAM FOR THE NECK TO GET RID OF LOOSE SKIN?:cursing: I SAW ONE AT ULTA 3 BUT IT WAS LIKE 99.00.. THAT IS HIGH, I GUESS I WOULD NOT PAYING THAT, IF I KNEW IT 100% WORKED..HAS ANYONE USED ANYTHING AND IF SO WHAT AND WHERE WOULD I BUY IT. ..ALSO, I HAVE ASKED THIS ONE A FEW TIMES AND NO ONE HAS RESPONDED..HOW DO I POST BEFORE AND AFTER PICS..I AM NEW AT THIS AND NOT REALLY GOOD ON COMPUTER YET. THANKS FOR ANY HELP ANYONE GIVES:thumbup: T-ROSE..(DEE)

I'm sitting in the hospital on my laptop I had a full tummy tuck today and I feel great. This was the easiest surgery I have ever had. Took them 3 hours and they also fixed a hernia, I think most of the time was for them to sew and glue me back together. I should be home tomorrow after Breakfast. I'm sure there is gonna be some bad spots yet to come but I am glad this part is over. I was so scared.

After debating, do I put a thread on here or not, apparently I’ve decided it’s a good idea, so here it is. I’m scheduled for my plastic surgery April 6th. I’m having a lower body lift, a 360 incision and a vertical incision, a mons lift too. I’m having my arms done, and a revision to a breast reduction surgery from years ago. I’m not getting implants. I’m seeing Dr. Kurtis Martin. His staff has been amazing. He makes me feel very confident in his skills. This will take 7 hours of surgery and I’m maxing out the amount of time he will work on one person. It’s good, because I don’t think I’ll need other surgeries. I was kind of apple shaped and didn’t carry a l…

Anyone had more than 1 procedure done at a time? Wanting at least a breast lift and tummy tuck at the same time, and maybe arms if my PS will consider it. Don't want to go under aneasthetic more than I have to. What is the recovery like? Is it possible?

Anybody got the goods on PS in Arkansas or Missouri? Thanks

I started looking around for a PS, because once I lose 20 more pounds I want to pursue a Tummy Tuck. The question is how close are the finished results to the predicted results during the consultation expectation? The Dr did a great presentation showing me what he can do, but is that an accurate expectation? The take a current picture and show how they will remove the skin show an expected results. I guess after having 7 children and being over weight I am having a hard time believing that I could ever look like that with the skin removed. Thank in advance for your answers.

If so, how long did you wait after the procedure to fly back home? My doctor advised me not to fly for a good 4 weeks because apparently flying so soon afterwards can sometimes cause infections, and he said he has no explanation as to why. Anyone else heard of this?

I have included several before and after shots of plastic surgery through the following links. They have not been edited so if you don't want to see them, don't click! They are nude and scarred and may be alot to take but for those who will make the transforamtion, you deserve to see the results and I know I would want to know. These shots are only 2 weeks post op and I am a bit of a bruiser and very fair skinned. I am happy with where I am and know that once the sweeling goes down, I will be even happier. Well, here it goes! http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t65/spydrmac/Plastic%20Surgery/BeforeBreastFront.jpg http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t65/spydrmac/Pl…

How long do most people wait before breast reduction surgery?

I have lost over 260 pounds and quite frankly, I now look like a deflated balloon! When I first started losing weight, I was just so thrilled to be losing, I told everyone that ever mention cosmetic surgery that I didn't ever want it. Well, it's a different story but I don't think my insurance will pay for it and I certainly can't afford it. I have United Health Care. Does anyone know if it would be covered?

i'm having a panniculectomy done on 8/17...i've heard of plastic surgeons asking patients to get unfilled...mine hasnt mentioned yet...does anyone know y the p.s. ask u to be unfilled???????

Hi All, Well I had my band 15 months ago and have lost 120lb and am at goal. Of course I have all the extra skin and some fat in those stubborn areas.... so it is time to take the final step. I booked my airfare for Aug 10th and narrowed down my choices.... any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Everyone gave great advice when I posted for a lapband surgeon and I am sure everyone will again. You can always write me privately if you prefer at myyuppypuppy@yahoo.com 1. A facility ran by Dr. Carlos Allesandrini called cosmetic body and health ie bajanor Hospital. 2. Dr Milla from Face & Body design 3. Dr. Campos 4. Dr. Garcia Any and all…

I'm getting ready for Breast Reduction. I'm having about 350g off each one. My MD says they will take some fill out of my band for the surg. I'm guessing this is because of swelling. I'm a bit worried about going on an eating tear when they remove some fill. How long did it take before they replaced your fill? Were you hungry? Did you eat much while recovering with some of the fill out? Did you gain weight?

I'm looking to have a breast reduction - hopefully to be paid for by my insurance (any tips????) and also a TT. Does anyone have recommendations on a kind, knowledgeable and all around fabulous PS in NYC area?

I'm in my fifties, and depending on the day or my mood, I can argue effectively why having PS would be good or a foolish expenditure for vanity's sake. Having been obese for almost my entire life) there is hanging skin. I do have abdominal tissue hanging, but not enough that it is presenting significant health issues or itching or rashes. It just hangs there. As for my breasts...well, they are soon going to be meeting my toes!!! :sneaky::crying: I would be self-pay for any PS, and therefore I really need to consider the cost of this versus how I might feel after. The psychological benefits versus the time off work, recovery time, any healing issues. Is it pride vers…

I've been banded 5 months, down 48 pounds and probably will need to lose another 50 pounds. In your opinion, do you think that just about everyone who looses 100 pounds or more could use a tummy tuck? I hadn't really thought about needing one because I never thought that I would actually be able to lose that much weight! I'm 49 years old so I don't think my skin has alot of elasticity to it to rebound from being so much overweight for the past 10 years or so. Just wondering if I should start researching plastic surgery so that I'll be ready if and when I need it. Additional info - I carry all of my excess weight in my stomach area and I am very short - 4' 10".

I was just wondering, I am on disability I live in Michigan and I am interested in getting the Bariatric Surgery done. Only thing is though the place I am looking at going to says you have to have all co-pays or deductibles paid in full prior to the surgery. Does anyone know if there would be a co-pay or deductible from Medicare (Primary) and Medicaid (Secondary)? Gastric Surgeon New jersey

Hi folks. I have a question for those who have had their tummies tucked. How long did you have to wear a compression binder? Mine's been 24/7 so far and just wondering how long this goes on. Do they have you wean off of it? It's a pain in the neck, but it's also almost a comfort because it keeps things held so tightly. I'll be following up with doctor tomorrow, just thought I'd ask about it ahead of time so that I know what to expect. Thanks. I love my band! Sue

I am getting more comfortable with my body and especially my sholders and arms. I would love to wear some cute tops with thin straps or something strapless. Can anyone help me out with this? I can't find a strapless bra that is supportive enough. I know I need PS and plan to do it in 5 years when I get my WLS paid off, in the mean time can you help me out?

Hello all, I thought I would start this thread today for my PS journey. I am going today (as long as I can get there in time) to the plastic surgeon. Here is information on my surgeon... http://surgery.med.umich.edu/plastic/clinical/faculty/wkuzon.shtml I am going for a consult on a Tummy Tuck and breast reduction today. Wish me luck all, I am nervous, scared and excited all at the same time! :car: I will post all about what is going on here!

My wife is going to mexico in December for a lower body life and arm surgery. Any suggestions on the dr.'s that she needs to contact for prices. Thanks!!!

I'm really starting to get nervous now. My husband is in London finishing up his training and nobody will be in the hospital with me when I'm getting the procedure done. I will be spending at least five days in the hospital so I'll see him the next day. I'm just really worried about how the healing is going to be. The doctor said that the arm tuck won't be so bad but it's the thigh lift that might bother me because whenever I sit down to use the toilet I'll be stretching the incision. I also have nursing school that begins 2 months afterwards. I absolutely need to be back to normal by the time school starts because every other weekend I have clinicals where I am …

Hi all!!!:w00t: OK, after visiting many plastic surgeons and thinking long and hard about my decision i have come to the final decision. Dr. Leonard Lu, M.D., F.A.C.S (New Horizons Center for Cosmetic Surgery. Skokie, IL) I'm having plastic surgery this year...:thumbup: Actually, my first surgery is scheduled for March 12th and the next one is sometime in June.. My Surgeon it was too much to do in one operation. Surgery # 1: March 12, 2009 Agenda (6 hours) Belt Lipectomy/Lower body lift: This includes: **Lipo of back/stomach/legs/and mons for contouring. **Also in this procedure i will have a mons lift (that area should not be so sad and droop…

I am on BCBS of GA and looking into a breast reduction as well as a tummy tuck. Has anyone had these procedures that were covered by BCBS? If so, I'd love to hear how you went about getting them covered and if you're glad you did it!

Hopefully I get all of my drains out on Friday. With my drains removed, I hope to get back to the gym for some moderate exercise. My only concern is the swelling factor. I have read on several threads that swelling increased when folks over did it. I am terribly swollen as is. The last thing I want to do is make the swelling worse. Any advice? Thanks.

My nose now fits my face. A few people have posted how their nose doesn't shrink with the rest of them....it happened to me too. Had rhinoplasty almost 2 weeks ago and the bandages came off a few days ago. I now look proportinate! I'm under goal weight and have stablized my weight from fluctuating. My hope is I can start my new journey. But the band is always there- it's got my back!

I went for my consult with Dr. Cardenas today and i feel much less fearful than I did. He explained the way he approches cosmetic surgery with primary concern for patients safety and function with esthetics being the third concern. He also explained how he avoids complications by working above the muscle instead of below it. I have seen faces he has done and they are amazing. He showed some before and after digital pics and one of the women's results were miraculous. She was very wrinkled and it was unbelivable the way she turned out. I of course would love to have those results. He promised to give it his best. He will be doing my arms with a visible incision which is ju…

I need the some serious good vibes sent my way...in just 21 days I'm headed under the knife for my lower body lift and breast lift with augmentation. I'm really starting to freak out. I recently separated from my husband and I'm really scared about the recovery. I won't have someone with me 24/7. I hate pain and I know that I will be in some serious, serious pain. YIKES. Send me some good, non painful vibes!!! Thanks everyone.

BR and abdominoplasty went well (just took forever). Relatively little pain just really, really swollen and tired. I also have horrible blisters from dressings and tapes. Did anyone have horrible skin sensitivity? If so, any suggestions? The biggest problem is that they are under the compression garment and when I move it, they become aggravated all over again. Thanks.

hey sue, let us know how you are....... been thinking about you all day josie

I want to have my breast done, a tummy tuck, and lipo from the abs to the knees. Can any of these be combined? THANKS!

Has anybody heard of this or had it done this way? I'm considering it but was curious if there might be any feedback on the board. You are awake through the whole process, they only use local anesthesia. It's kind of cool because they sit you up to look and make sure you're "happy" before they complete it. Plus, it's obviously cheaper with no anesthesiologist (sp?). So, anything you can offer would be appreciated.:crying:

I am close to goal and I will need plastics once I am there. I have a pannis that is causing back pain and bad posture. However I dont have the funds to have it removed. I know that some insurers cover plastics following WLS, especially for tummies. I would like to know how those who've had insurance covered tummy tucks/panni removals proceeded. From the start. Most specifically, how did you prove need? Who compiled the documentation PCP, LB surgeon, Plastic surgeon, Yourself? Please I need details. Feel free to PM me.

This will make or break my decision for this surgery...(I've been approved and been to seminars and all. MD encourages the surgery.) I have 85lbs to lose. I am 5'6" and weigh 250 now. I have terrible back problems, hypertension that's only getting worse, going thru a diabetic scare a while back, yadda, yadda, you guys know the list. My question is this; how many of you have HAD so much excessive skin at a comparable weight and height to my own that you have had to consider PS? Thanks in advance! Anita:unsure:

Here are a few pics that show my progress. Keep in mind that I lost 38 pounds before I was banded, but I don't have any pics from my heaviest. I'm still swollen as I'm only two weeks post op on the tummy tuck, but I think my plastic surgeon did a fabulous job. By the way, she is Dr. Peggy Howrigan, Wellesley, MA. Thanks go to my LapBand Talk friends too! Loving the belly being gone! I love my band!

How do you start the process to even start narrowing down surgeons to use? i have gone to make me heal and besides finding it hard to navigate that site, i have not been able to find many Dr.'s close to me that have enough ratings or high enough ratings to even consider. I'm not sure how far out is too far out to travel (to go back for checkups....traveling back and forth in the begining seems like it would be tiresome and painful to go a couple of hours back and forth) I live close to the Texas border in Louisiana. I have family in New Orleans, but that's about 4 hours away. I'm about 2 hours away from Houston. I still have a ways to go, but want to start do…

Just wondering if a thread to discuss only facial procedures might be helpful.... I had Restylane and Radiesse dermal filler treatments 10 days ago around my mouth and nasolabial folds. The results are just so awesome and I'm very pleased! I had Botox injections on the frown lines between my brows 4 days ago and those results are also very impressive!! I am so glad I had it done and I'm hooked! I have a blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) scheduled for July 3rd and now am more anxious than ever to get that done! At first I considered much more extensive procedures like a brow lift, liposuction in the jowel and chin area, laser resurfacing, etc. But now I'm soooo g…

I have a few before and after pictures up. The quality is not very good because of the flash and resizing of the pictures, but you can get a good idea of the results so far. I am 3 weeks post op as of yesterday. I had a circumferential tt with lipo, fleur de lis, and hernia repair. When you click on the link, you will have to put in a password of tummytuck. http://www.makemeheal.com/pictures/viewAlbum.php?albumid=9049