Melissa’s Blog: 11 and counting!
May 8th, 2009
It’s May and I couldn’t be happier. With only 11 days until my surgery, I’m gladly watching each day go by, but I’m also very busy preparing for my before and after patient responsibilities. 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.
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, I’m on deck for surgery in less than two weeks. My coming blog entries will include video clips that will be filmed on the night before the big day and my very first reflections in the recovery room after my surgery. You’ll have a unique opportunity to follow my progress to the conclusion of my journey!
Psst, did you hear?
May 4th, 2009
“What should I tell my family and friends?” or “I am afraid of what they might think or say.” These are important considerations when contemplating cosmetic surgery. Many cultural, personal, and family factors come to play.
Some patients fear the comment, “You should accept yourself just the way you are.” Unfortunately, life changes including aging, injury, pregnancy or weight loss contribute to the way you are “now,” which may be different from the way you “were.” Both Melissa and Jennifer relate changes which occurred as a result of multiple pregnancies. They wanted to go back to the way they were. It is their prior body image which has persisted in their minds eye, different from the image in the mirror now.
Others hear, “You shouldn’t spend this money for selfish reasons, your family should come first.” They imply that the surgery denies the the family of something. Obviously in Melissa’s case this is not true, as her husband got the flat screen TV before she even considered breast surgery. Arguably, according to Jennifer, her improved feelings of self-confidence and self-esteem helped to improve her interactions with her husband and children.
I always advise patients to be honest with family and friends. Most of the time, supportive comments outweigh negative feedback. Invariably, patients are often surprised by the support regarding their decision to have cosmetic surgery. Jennifer states her husband’s view was, “Whatever makes you happy,” while Melissa’s friends approach her with comments of support and questions to get more information. After all, aren’t the best relationships based on honesty?
On rare occasions, there are family and friends which can be very vocal in their opposition to a patient’s decision. This is unfortunate. Try to understand that they may have the same feelings as you do about themselves (misery loves company). Ironically, friends and family who protest the most, are frequently the first referrals to arrive in my office for similar surgery!
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