Consultation
I chose to pursue abdominoplasty in order to feel like myself again following the birth of my two little girls. I spoke with Dr. Capraro and his PA, Nicole Kenyon, about my concerns regarding my post-baby body during a consultation that got me excited for the procedure! Every question I had was answered in detail and the moment the consultation was over I knew I was ready for surgery. Dr. Capraro provided me with a number of visuals during my appointment that were very helpful when picturing my future results. The experience was not rushed and, above all, was easy and comfortable. I felt very cared for, and I wasn’t even an official patient yet!
Leading Up to Surgery
The entire preparation process was incredible! Nicole was instrumental in making me feel secure, answering my questions, providing a list of items to purchase following my operation, and suggesting medications to fill ahead of time. Everything was just fantastic! I felt very, very prepared and could not have been more ready.
The Procedure
On the big day I was so excited for the results and yet nervous about my recovery. Despite the butterflies, my procedure was smooth sailing! The whole team at Rose Medical Center was kind, helpful, ensured that I was well-prepared, and answered all my day-of questions. They have an amazing group. Above all else, I most appreciated Dr. Capraro’s visit to my prep-room to ask how I was feeling going into surgery. He reassured me of the incredible results that were yet to come and gave me a hug. It put me at ease and was yet another act that made me confident in his level of individualized care for his patients and the process.
Initial Recovery
During the first few days of recovery, I had little to no pain. They injected pain medications into my muscles before leaving the operating table and I am confident that it boosted how I felt following surgery. Any discomfort I did experience was able to be managed by Tylenol alone! While I only had minimal pain, I took my days easily, rested, and took small walks as recommended to keep my blood circulating! From my own experience, I do recommend that upcoming patients stock up on good, fresh foods and have them readily available. I had absolutely NO appetite for my first three days of healing, so I enjoyed fresh fruit and protein-packed smoothies in place of large meals. Having these items on hand was great for keeping my body fueled, hydrated, and healing-ready!
Continued Healing
Nine days following my operation and I feel amazing! I was so relieved to be able to get my drains removed this week, allowing me to stand up fully. Truthfully, the back pain was the most difficult part, but it was nothing that using a heating pad couldn’t tackle! I felt very checked in on by GCPS’ PA, Nicole. She was always available for quick questions, and she cared as deeply about my recovery as I did. Receiving reminders to stay hydrated and take all my recommended medications and vitamins in addition to checking on my drains and pain levels was a huge comfort. I feel as though both my body and my mind are still in recovery mode, but I am so excited to enjoy my final results in a few weeks!
For those considering this procedure, I am more than satisfied with the experience as a whole and could not be happier with my decision!