Melissa’s Blog: No Lifting After Surgery
October 13th, 2010
Dr. Bashioum has given me a very precise course of action to follow and it goes like this, I am not to liftanything exceeding 5 pounds for the next three weeks. I repeat, “No lifting for three whole weeks!” But I have three small children. Precisely. In an effort to help reduce any complication and to ensure a properly healed chest, it’s critical that I abide by my doctor’s orders. So if that means sitting on the floor to console my child rather than picking them up, then up bet that you’ll find me on the kitchen floor singing, “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” Thankfully this is all tmeporary and the finish line is just around the corner.
As a stay-at-home mother of three, to refrain from lifting for three weeks is like asking my little ones not to use the word “no.” It’s going to be a very challenging task, but I understand how important it is. Fortunately, I’m not walking into this situation with my eyes closed. I have booked my mother-in-law an airline ticket out to our house, so she can help with the kids. My husband, thankfully, will be taking a week off from work. As all mothers know, our children depend on us greatly. And to be out of commission for a few weeks, call for a bit of help from family and friends. I’m so lucky to have that support.
Melissa’s Blog: Patient Responsibility
October 11th, 2010
Dr. Bashioum has provided me with an extensive packet of information that covers preparations for surgery, as well as after-care instruction. He does this in an effort to assure the very best surgical results. So I’m very busy preparing for my before and after patient responsibilities.
One of my responsibilities at hand is to schedule a pre-operative physical evaluation. Because Dr. Bashioum’s goal is to provide me with exceptional medical care and in doing so, he insists on having the medical evaluation and report completed by my primary care physician within the two weeks prior to my scheduled surgery. He told me that in his practice, he limits elective cosmetic surgery to healthy patients. So, some of the items that are included in this evaluation are to check my medical history, review and compile a list of any allergies, medications and past surgeries. I can also expect a complete physical exam, a check of vital signs like heart and lungs, etc. Barring any unforeseen health problems. My upcoming blog entries will include video clips that will be filmed on the night before the big day. My very first reflections in the recovery room after my surgery, will also be filmed. Check back to see my results. You’ll have a unique opportunity to watch my surgery, follow my progress and read about the conclusion of my journey!