<rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"><channel><title>drmgirl</title><description>drmgirl</description><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/blog-hidden</link><item><title>Every Journey Starts with a Plan - The Dr Miroshnik Mark Up</title><description><![CDATA[At the start of November I had the absolute privilege of being able to watch the master at work. Thank you so much to this amazing patient, Miss Princess (not her real name....lol) and of course our super generous surgeon for allowing me to film this special moment so that I could share it with others. If you have ever wondered what happened in the room prior to being taken in to surgery with Dr Miroshnik, then here it is. It was so cool to be able to watch this. I remember when I was having my<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/pkD80iKlZ0I/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>@boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/11/17/Every-Journey-Starts-with-a-Plan---The-Dr-Miroshnik-Mark-Up</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/11/17/Every-Journey-Starts-with-a-Plan---The-Dr-Miroshnik-Mark-Up</guid><pubDate>Fri, 17 Nov 2017 02:42:12 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>At the start of November I had the absolute privilege of being able to watch the master at work. Thank you so much to this amazing patient, Miss Princess (not her real name....lol) and of course our super generous surgeon for allowing me to film this special moment so that I could share it with others. </div><div>If you have ever wondered what happened in the room prior to being taken in to surgery with Dr Miroshnik, then here it is. </div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pkD80iKlZ0I"/><div> It was so cool to be able to watch this. I remember when I was having my breast augmentation mark up, I was not paying much attention as I was embarrassed and very anxious about the pending walk in to theater. Then when I had my abdominoplasty mark up done, I was totally mesmerized at the whole process. Dr Miroshnik is absolutely meticulous during his mark ups. I lost count of how many times he would check and recheck his markings with me, all the while just watching him and not really able to speak. </div><div>Just watch how cool and calm Miss Princess is in this video. I loved being part of her special day, I will forever be grateful to them both for allowing me the opportunity.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_88aac89284d04ab690b7d9d1200ff6fc~mv2.jpg"/><div>So much love! </div><div>H xx :) </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Burning needles &amp; needing to pee - post op day 1 abdominoplasty</title><description><![CDATA[I did it! I had a tummy tuck. My god I have waited so long for this...and put it off for so long. I had numerous consults with Dr M in the lead up to this. I was anxious, I was scared. The whole process for me from initial consult to surgery day was about 14 months, The tummy tuck itself, was about 15 years in the making and now here I was on the other side of surgery. My first night was full of broken sleep as the nurses were taking my blood pressure every hour. I always suffer from post op low<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_c44933437b5d4c808404f70deaf747cc%7Emv2_d_2592_1944_s_2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/Burning-Needles-and-Needing-to-Pee</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/Burning-Needles-and-Needing-to-Pee</guid><pubDate>Sat, 29 Jul 2017 03:29:09 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I did it! I had a tummy tuck. My god I have waited so long for this...and put it off for so long. I had numerous consults with Dr M in the lead up to this. I was anxious, I was scared. The whole process for me from initial consult to surgery day was about 14 months, The tummy tuck itself, was about 15 years in the making and now here I was on the other side of surgery. My first night was full of broken sleep as the nurses were taking my blood pressure every hour. I always suffer from post op low blood pressure and this time was no different. The nurses seemed slightly concerned and told me that Dr Miroshnik wanted it to be continually monitored until it became stable again. The nurses kept Dr M updated throughout the night and by early morning it had returned to normal again.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_9012a29aafe44210839ad9dba3829e52~mv2_d_2592_1944_s_2.jpg"/><div>I had woken up in no pain at all, just discomfort from being led in the same position all night, I was afraid to move. I was also super excited that this was it, I had done it.....finally. I had been given one of those pain pumps and had made use of that throughout the night if required. I really think I only used it a few times. It releases a small amount of pain relief directly in to your system and it provides relief for about 5 minutes. So it was really only relevant to use for those short, sharp pains that I may have felt if I had moved the wrong way. The other meds that were fed through my drip did most of the hard work, so I really didn't feel anything at all. I still had my catheter in too, which was fab because there was no way I was getting out of bed to pee. The thought was horrific. having the catheter had proven to be awesome. When I had learnt, pre op, that I was going to have one, I was mortified. Mortified at the fact someone was going to have to actually insert it...lol.., mortified that Dr M would be involved in the process. lol. (ikr) This whole recovery and being vulnerable thing was my main concern regarding this surgery. It wasn't pain, or scarring or anything like that. It was merely that I now had to become vulnerable; something that was very foreign to me.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_948d957ac2f0497e86ca3e835043ebf6~mv2_d_4032_2268_s_2.jpg"/><div>I had two drains in as part of the surgery also, so they were constantly being emptied through the night, It was pretty gross, but nowhere near as awful as I was expecting it to be. They just became a part of me, and a necessary part of recovery. They were inserted at the tops of both my thighs. I didn't feel them at all. They were taken out the day I was discharged, but I will go through that when I reach Day 4. :) </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_0250871fa0504185b0954a4741c16aae~mv2.jpg"/><div>FOOD</div><div>Before I go any further, I just want to make a quick side note about the food and catering service at the hospital and then I don't need to mention it again, because I could go on and on about the food and service all throughout this post....lol. It was seriously like being in a 5 star hotel. The chef would come around prior to each meal and talk about what was on offer for that meal. It was pretty much five courses too, and I could have has much or as little as I wanted. Breakfast would be toast, something warm, a bowl of fruit, some yoghurt and a drink. The same types of options were available for lunch and dinner too; a starter, something warm, a bowl of fruit or salad, some yoghurt or ice cream and a drink. All of which, I might add, was super fresh and tasted delicious. Below is a sample of the food that I had during my 3 night stay. Seriously, how good does it look! I can not fault the service provided by the catering department at ESPH. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_0647ad880c4a44b68b967e0ea1790db0~mv2_d_1564_1564_s_2.jpg"/><div>Dr Miroshnik had previously advised that the physiotherapist would be in at some stage in the morning after surgery to help me get up and get mobile and he would also be in at some point. My mum had arrived first, maybe around 10am. The morning nurses had advised that the catheter needed to be removed before the physio arrived. I was so excited for the physio to be there, but was absolutely dreading the removal of the catheter. I am not sure why. Maybe I thought it was embarrassing, maybe I thought it would hurt. Not sure. lol. But I was told that the physio will not come by until the catheter is removed, for obvious reasons. I also did not want to have it in when Dr Miroshnik came in, and he was due in at any time. The nurses came back in shortly after my mum arrived and said it was time for it to be removed. So, they pretty much just pulled it out. haha. Not sure what I was worried about. It felt weird, but it was a super quick process and certainly wasn't painful. I was getting used to having it in though. There's a certain kind of comfort you get knowing that your bladder will just empty for you. No thought (or movement) required. lol</div><div>It soon dawned on me.....now that the catheter was out, how am I supposed to go to the toilet? </div><div>I still had the drains in too remember, so they were constantly being monitored and emptied too. My output was really good, with not much fluid passing and the colour of the stuff that was passing was 'healthy' the nurses said.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_2c079cac2e464eb9a949641b6f50686c~mv2_d_4032_2268_s_2.jpg"/><div>The physio came by not long after the catheter was removed. I was glad to see her and totally ready and pumped to get out of the bed. After all, I was going to need to soon now that I had no catheter. ;) The physio was lovely. I don't remember her name though. She had a quick chat and was excited to get me up and moving. Although somewhat nervous, I was keen to get moving. The nurse was there for assistance as well. So the physio had me sit up and link in with her arm and told me when I was ready she would just be there as a support for me to use when getting to a standing position. With that, the nurse grabbed my feet (which were still on the bed) and proceeded to swing them (slowly) down towards the floor. I screamed like a child, cursing a little loudly. My mum just watched on in horror I think. I reverted back to my childbirth 'training' and started breathing through the pain. lol. I literally felt like my stomach muscles were being ripped apart. It felt like a million little burning hot needles were fired in to my tummy muscles all at once. It was excruciating. I couldn't move. That was it. I was done. Get me back to my safe place please, stat! ....then the physio was gone. It was over. She wouldn't be back until Monday (it was Saturday), so it was up to me to get myself moving. I felt ill. I was a little traumatised. I also suffered from almost a blackout type experience. It was awful. A result of the general anesthesia as well as being led horizontal in bed for over 24 hours I suppose. I was thankful for the pain meds pump and then I just rested, back in my safe position, until it was time to try again. </div><div>About 30 minutes or so later, Dr Miroshnik came in to see how I was going. I was so pissed that I wasn't able to be up out of bed. He always knew that the recovery was what scared me the most about this surgery. He'd made a point on numerous occasions to remind me that part of his recovery plan is early movement, which is why the physio is booked for the very next day. I was excited to be up and moving by then time he came in so I was bummed that I was still an invalid in bed. :( It was nice to see him though, this time my mum got to meet him too, which was pretty cool. He made the effort to speak with her, and was the ultimate gentleman, of course. He came over to my bed and basically said &quot;Let me see.&quot; He was terribly excited to show me what he had achieved with me. He took my binder off, which I hadn't really done yet...pushed aside the padding that was there, which felt super odd because I was totally numb but sensitive to touch all at the same time, if that makes sense. He placed his hand on my tummy to show me the width of my waist was the same size of the width of his hand (thumb to finger span). He was super excited. lol. I was too. He also told me that he'd given me a very cute belly button. I couldn't wait to see it. (It was still covered over with the dressing. I wouldn't see it until the week one post op mark.)</div><div>He asked me how I was feeling, which I replied &quot;A bit shit today...&quot; I told him what had happened with the physio session and he said it was OK, that I would be up and at it on my own soon. He then reminded me that I just had major surgery and that Day 2 would probably be the worst (which it was), but in the same breath told me how amazing he had me looking. I was pretty excited about that. He asked me how my breathing was going and if I was using the tool they provide me to help with that? lol. I had no idea what he was talking about and then he showed me.....Apparently I should have already been using it. It was my job to get all the balls to the top of the plastic tubes by taking big, deep breaths. I don't know what it was called so I kept calling it the plastic machine thing (technical term) to practice my breathing and exercise my lungs. As a result of the surgery and I guess the general anesthetic, the way your lungs work can be affected. Taking deep breaths and using this machine thingy, really helped bring that back to normal. It also gave me something else to do. Dr M stayed for a bit of a chat and then he was off again. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_be5e2bb59f4e4337a5d971d1cef1213e~mv2_d_2268_4032_s_2.jpg"/><div>The nurse came by at one point and had asked me if I had been able to get up to the toilet yet. When I told her that there was no way I was getting out of bed, she reminded me that if I don't go to the toilet, then they would have to put the catheter back in. Argh! So I avoided drinking anything for the next couple of hours. lol. #rebel I could only do that for so long, then I just had to give in. The nurse kept coming in and checking on the amount of water that I had drunk. I couldn't play this game any longer, the time came for me to get up. I didn't want to wait until I was actually busting for the toilet before getting out of bed, so I started before I actually needed to. With my mum's help, I just took it really slow, remembered what the physio had told me and then just did it. I got out of bed. So relieved. I went for a little walk to the other side of the room and back (drains in hand) and then went to the toilet finally. The hospital toilet had one of those accessible toilet seat frames, which made it easier to sit on, as you were actually sitting on the frame above the toilet, but on the other hand...it also made the toilet bowl a little further away than you would expect...and remember, I was not standing upright...I was totally hunched over. So the whole toilet thing was super weird and slightly awkward. But I must admit, I was glad that bit was over and done with. I guess it was the biggest struggle that I had to overcome. So in the big scheme of things, that wasn't really too bad. Before long I was walking up an down the hall of the ward, albeit super slowly and hunched over like an old lady.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_0c22e6492c6b45e39345f7da170482dd~mv2.jpeg"/><div>All in all my first day in recovery was great, aside from the whole burning needles and needing to pee thing. It was much easier than I had ever imagined it was going to be. I felt great within myself, I felt relieved to finally be on the other side of this 'surgery thing' that I had been so anxious about. Dr Miroshnik was right, I was in the best hands. I flew through the surgery and he was amazing. I am so grateful to him for everything he has done for me. He goes above and beyond the limits of surgical care, he really does. I don't ever take my experience for granted. I know it would be easy to do. I have an amazing husband who made this possible for me too. If he wasn't able to stay in Brisbane and keep the wheels of the house spinning, then I just wouldn't have been able to go through with the surgery. The same goes for my mum as well. Having her there for the first week post op was amazing. It allowed me to just focus on the healing. I also had a visit from a friend too, but I will post about her separately, that deserves it's own page. Just know that I am so appreciative of all of you for making this possible for me. I simply would not have been able to do it without the 4 of you. Much love. </div><img src="http://media2.giphy.com/media/tnivTK2URZm7e/giphy.gif"/><div>Note - I started writing this blog entry on the 21st April. :/ </div><div>I will add the rest of my Sydney recovery story in the next week, so stay tuned and if you're not already, make sure you are subscribed to get updates. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_c44933437b5d4c808404f70deaf747cc~mv2_d_2592_1944_s_2.jpg"/><div>H :) xx</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Abdominoplasty - my first 24 hours</title><description><![CDATA[3rd March 2017 - Surgery day has arrived. I got the call from hospital (East Sydney Private) yesterday advising me to be at admissions at 1045. Eeeek! Super exciting. I woke up early on surgery day, feeling calm, relaxed and excited. I was happy to be awake early as I wanted to get as many pictures and videos that I could of my pre op tummy. I needed something to kill the time too, as there would be no breakfast due to fasting since midnight and I was on my own, so it's not like there was anyone<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_3319ad2562c04a3e8598c5c2e12483b0%7Emv2_d_1512_1314_s_2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/04/19/Abdominoplasty---the-first-24-hours</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/04/19/Abdominoplasty---the-first-24-hours</guid><pubDate>Wed, 19 Apr 2017 01:55:43 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>3rd March 2017 - Surgery day has arrived. I got the call from hospital (East Sydney Private) yesterday advising me to be at admissions at 1045. Eeeek! Super exciting. </div><div>I woke up early on surgery day, feeling calm, relaxed and excited. I was happy to be awake early as I wanted to get as many pictures and videos that I could of my pre op tummy. I needed something to kill the time too, as there would be no breakfast due to fasting since midnight and I was on my own, so it's not like there was anyone to chat to in the lead up. I was messaging friends throughout the morning and as time drew closer for me to leave the Quest, the nerves had really set in. I had to put myself in to robot mode to get me out the door. I ordered an Uber and off I went. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_2c26988824ee44719187378e0dc68449~mv2_d_1376_1368_s_2.jpg"/><div>I arrived at ESPH right on time and made my way to admissions on level 4. I met with Rachel, who I had been speaking with the week before when I made my payment. She's lovely, definitely the face of the hospital and a sign of the service you can expect from ESPH. After completing the admissions paperwork, I took a seat and waiting for the pre op nurse to call me in. I was hoping it wasn't the same nurse as the one I had with my augmentation as she kind of rushed me through last time, and told me I was not to take my phone with me. After about 10 minutes, the door opened and the nurse came out to get her next patient; it was the same nurse. lol. I was not her next patient. Another two patients and about 20 minutes later, it was my turn. My stomach sunk with nerves. The nurse went through all the usual formalities and then it was off to get changed. I ensured I kept my phone with me this time. There was no way I was missing the phot op of my mark up.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_13840a5ca2ce460b88682eb421951884~mv2_d_2342_3348_s_2.jpg"/><div>After the pre op nurse was finished, I was popped in a hospital bed in the waiting area.......and there I stayed for some time. I didn't see or speak to anyone for what felt like about an hour, then a nurse came by and said Dr Miroshnik is taking a bit longer than expected with his previous patient. It must have been another 30 minutes to an hour or so before she came back to take me in to the 'mark up' room. I sat there in anticipation for what was to come. I was so excited about this bit. Watching Dr Miroshnik mark up is literally like watching an artist at work. He's absolutely meticulous about it. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_44bddeae6d5e4018a453514df9fdab1d~mv2.jpg"/><div>Sitting in the 'mark up' room, I was starting to feel really robotic and disconnected. I was listening to the music playing next door. It was some form of cool electronic, lounge music, I really tried to take more notice of the tune as I wanted to be able to recount everything from that day.....lol. All I can remember was that I enjoyed listening to it and found myself almost being able to tune the world out with it's repetition. The door opened and the anaesthetist came in and introduced himself, I had Dr Ean Lim. He was lovely and explained everything that was going to happen. Shortly after Dr Lim left, Dr Miroshnik came in. I was pleased to see him and finally get this all happening, it must be close to about 2pm by now. I had been planning for this day since January 2016 at my initial consult with Dr M, we both briefly chatted about the time finally arriving, but our conversation was pretty much a blur to me. He called out for someone to bring a bed in to the room as there wasn't one in there.....then it was time to get marked up. Dr Miroshnik is such a perfectionist. He must have spent about 10 minutes marking me up, both on the bed, then standing up to check his lines, then back on the bed to make any necessary changes. I was in awe watching him, just like I imagine it would be to watch an artist at work....but I guess that's what I was witnessing. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_3319ad2562c04a3e8598c5c2e12483b0~mv2_d_1512_1314_s_2.jpg"/><div>Then it was show time. He left after warmly wishing me well and reminding me I was in the &quot;best hands&quot;, then I was taken in to theater.</div><div>I tried to take note of everything this time, as during my breast augmentation, I think I could only recall the smell of coffee on Dr M's breath....lol. This time, he wasn't even in the room yet. There were a few people though, I just don't remember how many. lol. I climbed on the theater bed, said &quot;here we go!&quot; and let the anaesthetist and nursing team do their thing.....and I was out. </div><div>As usual, it took me ages to come around from the anaesthetic. I was in and out, and in and out; all the while hearing the calming voices of the recovery nurses. It wasn't until the familiar face and voice of Dr Miroshnik came in to the 'room', that I realised what had actually just happened. He came over and said everything went well and that I was super tiny and that he'd given me a super cute belly button. lol. He held out the palm of his hand and said &quot;that's how small your waist is....tiny!&quot; I was happy to recognise him this time and even remember what he was wearing. My last surgery, this was all such a blur. I asked him what the time was; it was 6:30pm. I am guessing I was in recovery for around 90 minutes, but I can't be entirely sure.</div><div>It was time to be taken to my room on the ward. The hospital wardsman came to wheel me (in my bed) from recovery to the ward. I don't know what floor I was in, nor the floor I was taken to. But when I was in the lift with the nurse and the wardsman, he said to me &quot;You are a Miroshnik patient?&quot; Or something like that....when I said that I was, he said &quot;Yes, I was the one who moved you from the theater bed to this bed. That surgeon is amazing, you look incredible.&quot; I thought what a lovely thing to say. Another ESPH staff member who made me feel so good. They truly are lovely; each and every one of them.</div><div>The rooms are nice and big and they fit two beds in them. To my surprise I was lucky enough to be in my own room, at least for this first night. The nurses got me settled in and then my mum came in. She had flown to Sydney the afternoon of my surgery and was waiting for the call to come in to the hospital. I was pleased to see her. I felt really great, I didn't seem to have any pain or even discomfort at this stage. I know the anaesthetic was still playing a role in that, but I was so awake and aware and super excited to now be out the other side of this surgery that I have wanted for so, so long. I grabbed my phone and saw that Dr Miroshnik had sent me a pic that he took in surgery (I had previously asked him to so that I could add it here). As soon as I saw it I understood exactly what he meant when he said my waist was so tiny. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_1d1463f586a04d0e87118a6e8b3686ad~mv2.png"/><div>I called my husband to let him know I was fine. He was super worried all day. It was nice to hear his voice. Then I called my friend to let her know how everything went too. We had been through our previous surgeries together and I felt like she was the missing link this time. We were super excited together, that this was over and I had actually done it, finally. </div><div>After an hour or so, my mum returned to the hotel and it was just me and the nursing staff. The hospital was so quiet. I felt like I was the only patient there. The nurses started the blood pressure taking. I seem to have low pressure after surgery and this time was no different. The nurses were a little concerned and they kept Dr Miroshnik up to date to make sure everything was ok. I was so surprised at how amazing I felt. I had remembered that I had a catheter in too. lol. I had actually forgotten as you can't feel anything and it's not like you get the need of wanting to go to the toilet. It was a little weird getting used to the sensation as I had never had one before. It's like you need to go to the toilet, but you're just not sure, but then you just realise your bladder is emptied. lol. It was definitely a relief though, as there was no way I could see myself getting out of bed, even if I was able to. I pretty much remained in the same position in the bed all night. The nurse called it a jack knife position, but when googling that I found it wasn't really the same. My back was nearly straight, but on an angle and my knees were elevated by a few pillows under them. With the exception of the nurses coming in every hour, I had a great rest. The blood pressure test continued on the hour, every hour all through the night. Within the early hours of the morning, it started to finally get more in to 'normal' levels. </div><div>I was excited to see what day two post op may bring. :)</div><div>Stay tuned....</div><div>H :) xx</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Phase two begins - Abdominoplasty</title><description><![CDATA[March 1st 1205pm….I'm bound for Sydney…again. Lol. In the last 12 months I've traveled this route four times. I'm growing very found of Sydney, well moreso Bondi. I spent a bit of time there in my late teens and early twenties and being there as an adult gives me a rekindled love for the place. I really do love going back. This time is different though. This time I'm away from home and loved ones for 3 and a half weeks. This will be the longest I've been away from my husband in the 10 years<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_168929a4f3e64d079522e2a7b431f37b%7Emv2_d_4032_3024_s_4_2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/03/02/Phase-two-begins</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/03/02/Phase-two-begins</guid><pubDate>Thu, 02 Mar 2017 10:29:49 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>March 1st 1205pm….I'm bound for Sydney…again. Lol. In the last 12 months I've traveled this route four times. I'm growing very found of Sydney, well moreso Bondi. I spent a bit of time there in my late teens and early twenties and being there as an adult gives me a rekindled love for the place. I really do love going back. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_168929a4f3e64d079522e2a7b431f37b~mv2_d_4032_3024_s_4_2.jpg"/><div>This time is different though. This time I'm away from home and loved ones for 3 and a half weeks. This will be the longest I've been away from my husband in the 10 years we've been together. As I sit on the plane looking out the window, I start contemplating. So much has happened in the lead up to this day that I haven't really thought too much about the result of this next surgery. Up until a few weeks ago, I was super nervous everytime I thought about this surgery and the recovery that was to follow. However in the last couple of weeks, I've become somewhat disconnected from it all: like it's happening to someone else. I feel like that’s a great place to be though. I'm hoping that when I arrive at the hospital on Friday, I'll just go through the motions on autopilot and come out the other side with no recollection….lol. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_47cf4697059b4d4ea68ec6c73610fa66~mv2.jpg"/><div>I’m having my pre op consult with Dr Miroshnik at 5pm today (Wednesday), so I'll go straight to the hotel from the airport and then up to see him. I'm excited to meet with him again and I know he'll again eliminate any fears or anxieties that I may have. I have so many questions to ask him again …lol….I should really keep a list this time. </div><div>I went to two other surgeons after my initial consult with Dr Miroshnik. For many (and somewhat obvious) reasons I settled on him. I had previous experience with Dr M. I am at ease with him. His work is flawless, there's no doubt about that. What if I'd settled on a different surgeon? How much more anxious would I be? How would the results differ? I've seen other people's results with different surgeons and I'm so glad I chose Dr Miroshnik again. I just can't put a price on it.</div><div>I'm super excited to see my results and I do hope I gather enough patience to get me through until I'm all healed and recovered. But first….I’ve got to get through my consult. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_5ce5cab8fc9841c1ba70255bc6b65f65~mv2_d_1640_1640_s_2.jpg"/><div>I land in Sydney and head to the baggage carousel to collect my bag. Seeing as I'm staying 3.5 weeks this time, I have lots of stuff. 😋 So I'm waiting there for what was only a few minutes then I start a messenger chat with my husband, all the while with one eye on the conveyor belt. As time went on I realised that I was the only one there and there were two bags that just kept going around and around with no new bags coming out. I said to my husband &quot;what if they've lost it?&quot; I was only joking....lol. Then my stomach dropped. What if they actually have lost it? I couldn't work out why I was the only one waiting for a bag that was not coming. I had all these thoughts racing through my head. What was I going to do? Everything I had been gathering over the past few weeks in preparation for surgery, recovery and of course being away for 3.5 weeks, was in that bag....like everything! </div><div>I went over to the baggage service desk and explained my situation. They called through to the baggage guys out the back and they confirmed there was no bag there. They took my details, handed me a card and told me they'll trace it and be in touch. I was like &quot;is that it then? I just go now?&quot; ....and off I went. I went back to the baggage carousel and sat down to call my husband. As soon as he answered I burst in to tears. 😢 Of course, he made me feel better and told me everything would be fine and that worst case scenario, I would just go and re-buy everything again tomorrow. So I went to get my uber to the hotel. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_a08f31dd60fa4201b87659ed7e46db35~mv2_d_3024_4032_s_4_2.jpg"/><div>The hotel had given me a larger room, as I am staying so long. It's quite roomy...for a studio. I'll report back in regards to how it treats me for 3.5 weeks though. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_22449553f34640c7b34eeb4c8233bd11~mv2_d_3024_4032_s_4_2.jpg"/><div>I settled myself in and tried to get my head around the fact that I couldn't even freshen myself up for my consult. 😕 No deodorant, no make up and no change of clothes. It was raining in Sydney and I was drenched. Excellent. Lol. Lucky there's a pharmacy just down the road, so I bought some items and headed back to the room to iron my skirt dry. 😂</div><div>5:00pm came and I went upstairs for my consult. I forgot about all the hospital forms I had to fill out....I really should've gone up earlier. For once, it actually turned out that Dr Miroshnik was on time. Whoops. I met with Sasha first who ran through all the formalities etc...then she took me in to Dr M. It's great to see him again. He really does give me so much of his time. We went through what he'd be able to achieve with surgery on Friday and he got me super excited. He drew a line with his finger where the incision would be and I'm impressed at how low it is. It'll go from hip to hip and scoop down a little in a little at the front. I've asked him to go around my hips as far as he possibly can in the hope he can grab some of my skin there. He's hopeful he'll get some and did warn me that the scar would be longer than a normal TT scar he would do. He showed me where my new belly button will be. Even that was exciting. It was originally the movement of the belly button that freaked me out most about this surgery...but now I'm actually excited by it as he says he makes 'cute' ones. 😀😀😀</div><div>At the end of the consult, Dr M said he send me for a blood test in the morning to check my iron levels. Good to know...especially when recovering from surgery. If it's low, he'll organise supplementing it post surgery. </div><div>I left the consult excited about the results he is going to be able to achieve for me. I can not wait to see the new version of me. Bring on Friday. </div><div>H :) xx</div><div>Hoping I'll be able to be coherent enough to write more tomorrow....being Friday...surgery today. 😬😬</div><div>edited to add on the 4th April, Clearly I was no coherent enough as I have only just started writing the update. </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Why I'm getting a tummy tuck.</title><description><![CDATA[A breast augmentation and a tummy tuck have been on my wishlist for over a decade. Both something I never really thought I'd have the courage to go through with. Now that I've had my augmentation (and couldn't be happier), the time has come to fix my tummy. A little history. When I was pregnant with my only child, I put on a significant amount of weight. I didn't take care of myself and certainly did my share of 'eating for two'. After my son was born I just became a mother and didn't think of<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_bbbcd7540e8740e69febf4c96a6bf4b3%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_288%2Ch_222/77ef52_bbbcd7540e8740e69febf4c96a6bf4b3%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/02/12/Why-Im-getting-a-tummy-tuck</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/02/12/Why-Im-getting-a-tummy-tuck</guid><pubDate>Sun, 12 Feb 2017 05:24:39 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>A breast augmentation and a tummy tuck have been on my wishlist for over a decade. Both something I never really thought I'd have the courage to go through with. Now that I've had my augmentation (and couldn't be happier), the time has come to fix my tummy. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_bbbcd7540e8740e69febf4c96a6bf4b3~mv2.jpg"/><div>A little history. </div><div>When I was pregnant with my only child, I put on a significant amount of weight. I didn't take care of myself and certainly did my share of 'eating for two'. After my son was born I just became a mother and didn't think of anything else. I really let myself down in many ways. I was a single mum and while I'm not using it as an excuse, it was why I chose to over compensate and think only of my son. I thought I had to. I thought that putting him first was my duty. After all, I came from a single parent household and that's what my mum did. </div><div>The weight I'd gained while pregnant stayed on for a good few years. I mean it fluctuated a bit, and with that fluctuation came stretch marks and excess skin. It was a cycle of gain - lose - gain - lose - etc. </div><div>Fast forward 7 years and I met and married my husband. ❤ We started our lives out fit and healthy, cycling was our sport. Any weight that I was still carrying just dropped off. We both looked fit and happy. A cycling accident which completely smashed my shoulder meant the end of cycling for me. It really knocked me for six. I reverted back to no exercise and unhealthy eating as a way to cope with recovery I think. I had a while off work as a result of multiple surgeries and never really recovered physically or mentally. The cycle started again; gain - lose - gain - lose etc. It wasn't just a few kilos either, we're talking 10-15kg gains....even as far upwards of 30kg at one point. 😳 </div><div>About five years ago the penny finally dropped. I needed to curb my nutrition and start getting fit and healthy again. Cycling was out of the question. After a few attempts at getting back on the bike, I just couldn't get the confidence back, so for now you'll only ever catch me on a beach bike. I started hiking and walking and trying out boot camp style training. Nothing seemed to click with me. As a last resort, I joined the local gym; a place I used to think only stay at home mums with nothing to do would frequent. This was it. I found my 'thing'. I was right at home at the gym. I met some amazing people there who changed my life forever. They not only taught me about the simple things about being a member of a gym, but I learnt a whole new world of taking care of myself and nourishing my body to get it to perform at it's best. There was no looking back. I've pretty much been gym training now for 5 years and I've never felt (or looked) better. </div><div>The weight dropped off, my body shape changed. I loved it. I looked fit and healthy and I was super strong and toned. But there was just one problem. 🤔 Now I'd lost the fat that was holding up my breasts and the fat that was filling out all that excess tummy skin. So now I was left with deflated boobs and a saggy and stretched tummy. </div><div>In January 2016, I had my first consult with Dr Miroshnik. Aside from my husband, he was going to be the first person to see my breasts and tummy and I was petrified. My expectations of the consult were that he'd recommend a breast lift and augment and a mini tummy tuck. I thought I'd only need the mini tummy tuck as I didn't think there was that much involved....lol. You can read about my consult experience <a href="https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/I-dont-want-to-go-too-big">here</a><a href="https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/I-dont-want-to-go-too-big">and</a><a href="https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/So-I-dont-need-a-breast-lift">here</a>. </div><div>Turns out that he could 'fix' my breasts without requiring a lift (super happy about that), but I was super disheartened that he'd said he wouldn't do the mini tuck on me as the results wouldn't be what I'd hoped for. The 'damage' I'd done was too severe I suppose. So I booked the breast augmentation but couldn't gather enough courage to book the full extended tummy tuck at the same time. Even the day before my surgery I asked him again if he could do the mini...lol. He said &quot;no&quot; ....again. </div><div>Dr M had always said that once I'd had the augmentation, I'd probably find that the tummy wasn't that bad....because I'd keep looking at the boobs. Lol. I wanted so much for that to be true...but to be honest, once they'd settled in to their final position, all I could see was the tummy as it was taking away the fabulousness of my new boobs. </div><div>So I went for a final tummy consult in November 2016. Then I booked the full extended tummy tuck with muscle repair and tightening. 😳</div><div>I get people asking me all the time....or should I say telling me all the time &quot;you don't need a tummy tuck.&quot; Yes, I might not look like the stereotypical tummy tuck patient in that I'm not carrying a huge tummy around, but that is because I've lost the weight that used to fill out the skin. I know I get a lot of judgments all the time about my Instagram pictures from people thinking (and even saying) that I don't need one and why would I do it. In response to all of them I just say that they can't see my tummy as I hide it very well. I wear high waisted gym tights to hide the skin. I wear high waisted underwear under everything, everyday, as it hides it. I can not wait to buy a normal pair of undies and low cut gym tights. Lol. The pictures I post on Instagram are obviously taken in such a way that I don't show my flaws. Trust me....if I didn't need one, Dr Miroshnik wouldn't have offered me one. </div><div>I know most people who contact me about me &quot;not needing a tummy tuck&quot; only mean well....but I'm writing this blog in the hope that I can address the judgments. I do need a tummy tuck. It's just that simple. </div><div>Maybe after surgery, I'll be courageous enough to share some actual before pics so you can see for yourself. Until then though, just take my word for it. Maybe I've even started another Instagram account to document it. 😋</div><div>Feel free to message me if you want any further info. </div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Connecting with Facebook &amp; Instagram</title><description><![CDATA[I started my Instagram account 12 months ago now and have loved connecting with other surgical (and hopeful) patients of Dr Miroshnik's from all over the world. Instagram is a great tool for documenting your surgery 'journey' (not a fan of that word...lol.) as it instantly connects you to hundreds, if not thousands of people in the same situation. These connections were so helpful during my early pre and post op recovery days. It's always reassuring to be able to ask "Is this normal?" and know<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_71f4dabd8dd5427f81775ee345f3abb6%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287%2Ch_295/77ef52_71f4dabd8dd5427f81775ee345f3abb6%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/02/02/Connecting-with-Facebook-Instagram</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2017/02/02/Connecting-with-Facebook-Instagram</guid><pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2017 06:06:08 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I started my Instagram account 12 months ago now and have loved connecting with other surgical (and hopeful) patients of Dr Miroshnik's from all over the world. Instagram is a great tool for documenting your surgery 'journey' (not a fan of that word...lol.) as it instantly connects you to hundreds, if not thousands of people in the same situation. These connections were so helpful during my early pre and post op recovery days. It's always reassuring to be able to ask &quot;Is this normal?&quot; and know that you'll get a bunch of supportive people answering you.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_71f4dabd8dd5427f81775ee345f3abb6~mv2.jpg"/><div>When I was looking to read about other people's experiences with Dr Miroshnik, I found it very difficult to get responses from patients of his who had surgery accounts (known as BA accounts) on Instagram, as those users had set their accounts to private and were only accepting other BA accounts as followers. So if you are just a 'normal person' with a 'normal' Insta account, most of these patients won't accept you as a follower. When I started my account, I chose to keep it public so that other patients (post and future) could connect with me easily. All it takes is for me to comment on one of @drmiroshnik's Instagram posts and it prompts another patient to contact me with questions or asking for advice. All of these contacts led me to start this blog as I found I was getting asked the same questions a lot. (I also created the FAQsection to direct people to for quick reference.) I know starting my Instagram account, and being so public and accessible with it, has helped heaps of other girls in their research or recovery and has even prompted some of them to start their own BA accounts. If you are an Instagram user and are having difficulty getting in contact with 'surgery accounts', I can highly recommend starting your own BA account. It opens up a huge and super supportive community of surgical patients at your fingertips all ready to answer any questions you have. Just search 'Dr Miroshnik' in insta and you will already see over 100 hundred BA accounts. </div><div>A question I get asked a lot is whether there is a Facebook Group for patients to connect and support each other? After all, not everyone uses Instagram. There are forums online, like Real Self and Plastic Surgery Forum, but there was not a specific Facebook Group and not a Dr Miroshnik specific group. After being asked for nearly 12 months, I have now created one. If you would like to be added (it is currently set to 'secret', please message me with your email address and I will send you the invite through Facebook.</div><div>As each surgeon has their own techniques, they also have their own recovery guidelines. I found connecting to patients specifically of Dr Miroshnik's to be super important for this reason. I see a lot of recovery type questions being asked on Instagram (like &quot;When can I train again?&quot; &quot;How long do I have to wear the post op bra?&quot; &quot;When can I start driving?&quot; &quot;When can I start using the scar tape?&quot;) and as each person may have had a different surgeon, I was being given a bunch of different responses. The Facebook Group will alleviate this 'confusion'. :) It's only been live for a few days and it's already full of questions and advice. Hopefully we'll build a great community there.</div><div>If you're not a Facebook user, don't be afraid to connect with Instagram; even try starting your own account. You'll not only have a documented history of your experience, with loads of before and after pictures, you'll also connect to a supportive community that will answer anything you ask. </div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>7 hours makes a difference</title><description><![CDATA[I recently had this picture taken off my Instagram. It was a real shame, as this picture, to me is pure perfection. It shows the happiest boobies I had ever had! (At that point in time anyway.) Below is a copy and paste of the comments I had received. I am glad I kept them all, as it really depicts just how excited and happy I was.This is the difference 7 hours makes. The top picture was taken at 8am on the 6th May, the bottom picture was taken at 7 hours post op, around 8pm on the 6th May. 7<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_d7fc35ad6660431c833031635e0b874e%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287%2Ch_287/77ef52_d7fc35ad6660431c833031635e0b874e%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/12/07/7-hours-makes-a-difference</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/12/07/7-hours-makes-a-difference</guid><pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2016 03:48:22 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I recently had this picture taken off my Instagram. It was a real shame, as this picture, to me is pure perfection. It shows the happiest boobies I had ever had! (At that point in time anyway.) Below is a copy and paste of the comments I had received. I am glad I kept them all, as it really depicts just how excited and happy I was.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_d7fc35ad6660431c833031635e0b874e~mv2.jpg"/><div>This is the difference 7 hours makes. The top picture was taken at 8am on the 6th May, the bottom picture was taken at 7 hours post op, around 8pm on the 6th May. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_caa9e2023c934b359fb5d08b94faf4f1~mv2.jpg"/><div>7 hours post op. They're quite swollen and one is bigger than the other, which was expected (added: this was due to a long term shoulder injury that I have, it's not something that could have been fixed with surgery). I'm so pleased with them. What a roller coaster! He ended up with the 390s which he said are just perfect. 👌😍</div><div>mayy_ba_ they're looking so good doll! All the best with your recovery, can't wait to follow it. You look so great already xxmiroshnik_ba Congratulations lovely! Take care and rest up! 😘😘😘😘 xxxxxbatci_may2016@boobsbydrm what size did you end up going withboobsbydrm@batci_may2016 he went with the 390s, which I am super happy with. Can't wait to see how they settle.batci_may2016@boobsbydrm i can't wait to see the results aswell good luck with the recoveryba_by_drmiroshnik They look fab!! Happy healing Hun xboobsbydrm Thanks so much everyone. I'm loving seeing the changes all the time and it's only day 1.ba_495cc_anatomical_overs_ Why is one bigger than other huni? I had my opp yesterday and right bigger than left 🙈 @boobsbydrmboobsbydrm Pretty sure it's different for everyone. .but my surgeon advised me at my consult that I had lopsided breasts....due to a shoulder injury. I didn't realise they were. 😅 There was always a bit more breast tissue in one than the other...it's not really noticeable now though. Sometimes after a BA it can just be due to your more dominant side too. My more dominant side was swollen for longer. This could be the case with you. Given it was only yesterday, I wouldn't be too concerned just yet. I'm sure they'll even out. If it continues to bother you, maybe contact your surgeon's office.@ba_495cc_anatomical_overs_ba_495cc_anatomical_overs_ My right side is defo my domiant side. I work out 5-6 days a week so maybe its stronger and that's why. Wouldn't of noticed that they are different huni just saw in comments. Hope all is well now @boobsbydrm xx</div><div>For the record, at the time of writing this I am 7 months post op. :) </div><div>I wanted to include this here on my blog for future reference.</div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Is Dr M worth the money?</title><description><![CDATA[I have been asked this question so many times, I have lost count. It's a legitimate question of course; it's a big decision and in most cases, it's a permanent one. Without sounding harsh.....you get what you pay for!When I was doing my 'research' for my breast augmentation, I actually didn't get quotes from any other surgeon. In fact, I never even looked in to any other surgeon. I had known from the beginning who's work I wanted. The cost was really going to be irrelevant in my decision. It's<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_444da1baca5244e7ab59bfcf607d4eb2%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_469%2Ch_420/77ef52_444da1baca5244e7ab59bfcf607d4eb2%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/11/30/Is-Dr-M-worth-the-money</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/11/30/Is-Dr-M-worth-the-money</guid><pubDate>Wed, 30 Nov 2016 04:28:27 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I have been asked this question so many times, I have lost count. It's a legitimate question of course; it's a big decision and in most cases, it's a permanent one. Without sounding harsh.....you get what you pay for!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_444da1baca5244e7ab59bfcf607d4eb2~mv2.jpg"/><div>When I was doing my 'research' for my breast augmentation, I actually didn't get quotes from any other surgeon. In fact, I never even looked in to any other surgeon. I had known from the beginning who's work I wanted. The cost was really going to be irrelevant in my decision. It's only now that I am post op that I think about the cost and whether it was worth it; and that is only because I am asked so often. It's not that I feel the need to justify the expense, not at all. I mean after all, this is a life changing surgery. Cost should almost not be relevant, and if it is it might be something to reconsider.</div><div>At the time of my surgery (May 2016), Dr Miroshnik's fee for a 'straight forward' breast augmentation was $10030, this included his fee, the theater assistant, two post op bras and a roll of scar tape. There is also an anaesthetist fee and of course the hospital fee to pay separately. I travelled from Brisbane, so there was an additional cost involved with flights and accommodation as well. I follow other 'great' surgeons on Instagram and Facebook, who offer breast augmentation surgery (in Brisbane) for $9999. They get good results, don't get me wrong. But I wanted the best. The price difference in fees is actually not that big when you compare a 'good surgeon with good results' to a 'great surgeon with great results'. For me, this was a permanent change to my body and a decision I made with that in mind. Did I want a good result, or did I want a great one!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_08d2f89a8944447ca00572025a47aa82~mv2.png"/><div>So there's the question.....Is it worth the money to get great breasts as opposed to good ones? Hmmm, yeah I think so and here's a bunch of reasons why I say it is.</div><div><div>You are getting the best plastic surgeon in Australasia. (Dr Miroshnik was just awarded with the Best Plastic Surgery Practice in Australasia, for the second year in a row at the recent My Face My Body Awards.) #pointproven</div>You are getting an amazing team who will guide you through your pre and post op care. His nurse responds to any concerns you may have so super quickly. You will be amazed. (He and his team also just won the Best Customer Experience award too.) #pointprovenagain. Can I just point out how relevant this experience is when you are in the first few days of surgery and you are going through all the changes but have no idea whether what you are feeling is normal or not. Not only do you have access to Dr Miroshnik's team for anxiety alleviation, you are given direct access to him. In my mind, this is priceless. You are never brushed off.Dr M uses a technique like no other. It's one that he also teaches to other up and coming surgeons.He is highly regarded by his peers and is frequently asked to talk at industry conferences.Your fee for surgery includes your post op bras and scar tape. You won't need to shop for these, big relief. It also covers all of your consults.Have you seen my scars? I have seen some traumatic incisions on Instagram etc, but Dr Miroshnik's incisions are always flawless. You won't find a more perfect result. #scarmaster His passion for creating natural results is something he is renowned for. He will work with you throughout the whole process and create a custom solution for you; after all not every patient has the same story.Dr Michael Miroshnik would have to be the most humble and passionate man I have ever met. He loves his 'job' and as a patient this is something you will notice from your initial consult. It would be so easy for him to be arrogant. lol. But he's not. Really. This is a surgeon truly motivated by passion and nothing else. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_424267b2bf174ac6a4b539fa5a9c851d~mv2.png"/><div>So ask me again....was Dr M worth the cost? Absolutely! I would pay it again in a heartbeat and even more so now with the hindsight of being a patient of his. I can not fault the experience. I can not fault Dr M or any member of his team. Outstanding! #wortheverycent</div><div>[Edited to add in 2019]</div><div>My experience was so much more than a breast augmentation. It was life changing in many ways. The whole experience with Dr Miroshnik and his team showcased to me what women deserve when they seek plastic surgery. They deserve to be heard, they deserve to be cared for, they deserve the best of everything. This has led me to create a passionate business (<a href="http://www.pureyou.com.au">Pure You</a>) that supports patients during the lead up to and recovery from plastic surgery in Australia. We support patients from all over the world who travel to see top Australian plastic surgeons, of course Dr Miroshnik is one of those. We take care of everything for you, so that all you to do is relax, recover and enjoy the new, pure you. We are super passionate about supporting our clients through their experiences. We partner with some of the countries top plastic surgeons and are committed to sharing education through research. </div><div>If you are in the stages of booking your surgery and want to know more about how we can support you, please send us an email to <a href="mailto:hello@pureyou.com.au?subject=More info please :)">hello@pureyou.com.au</a>. We can organize everything for you, from your accommodation (at reduced rates), and sending post surgical recovery packs directly to your home or hotel to save you from buying it all yourself. We can even organize an in room hair dresser or masseuse to ensure you are feeling relaxed and pampered. Contact us today to find out more. If you are having surgery with Dr Miroshnik be sure to ask how we can support you. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_14f4e9de14b74c239490cd94765b47c6~mv2.png"/><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Review Written @ 8 Weeks PO</title><description><![CDATA[I am now 6 months PO, but this review was posted at 8 weeks PO.There really are no words to describe Dr Michael Miroshnik. They do not call him the breast master for nothing. He has changed my life. I walk taller, I stand taller, I am full of confidence. He has given me a new life. What an amazing man, he is. I am forever grateful. An absolute superstar! Of course there are many plastic surgeons out there, some cheaper and some definitely more local to me....but the one thing you'll find with Dr<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_a141362106d14382ac18e06ee0d442b6%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287%2Ch_285/77ef52_a141362106d14382ac18e06ee0d442b6%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/11/29/Review-Written-8-Weeks-PO</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/11/29/Review-Written-8-Weeks-PO</guid><pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2016 05:22:06 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I am now 6 months PO, but this review was posted at 8 weeks PO.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_a141362106d14382ac18e06ee0d442b6~mv2.jpg"/><div>There really are no words to describe Dr Michael Miroshnik. They do not call him the breast master for nothing. He has changed my life. I walk taller, I stand taller, I am full of confidence. He has given me a new life. What an amazing man, he is. I am forever grateful. An absolute superstar! </div><div>Of course there are many plastic surgeons out there, some cheaper and some definitely more local to me....but the one thing you'll find with Dr M is his consistently amazing results. Just a quick view at his Instagram and you'll see what I mean. His signature, custom cleavage and breast creation is second to none. </div><div>As an interstate patient, I instantly knew I wanted Dr M to perform my surgery no matter the cost or travel. His professionalism in all the pre and post op consults is perfect. He is a kindhearted man who is passionate about his work and takes the utmost care to listen to you and make you feel like you matter more than just a simple number on his patient list. Just an all over amazing experience. Look no further than Dr M.....you will not regret it. Below is my review of the procedure itself. </div><div>I had been following Dr Michael Miroshnik on Facebook and Instagram for a couple of years and loved his natural, feminine results. I had seen other surgeons' work and nothing compared to the results I had seen in Dr Miroshnik's patients. I knew there was no other surgeon I wanted to see. The fact that he is also admired by his peers goes to show the type of surgeon he is. </div><div>After finally gaining the courage to book a consult with Dr M, the wheels were set in motion. Flights were booked and off I went to Sydney. The consultation process was perfect. I was given some options to ponder, the whole process was explained to me. After 16 years of having deflated breasts, I had always assumed that I would require a breast lift as well as implants to bring life back to my breasts. When Dr M had advised a lift was not necessarily required, I was shocked. He measured me up and told me that I had enough skin to work with so long as I was OK having 'larger' breasts than I had first thought. He gave me options of either a breast lift, with nipple relocation and 'smaller' implants that I thought I wanted, or he could fill the skin that I had remaining with whatever implant it took. I had some decisions to make. </div><div>I arrived back in Brisbane and spent the next few days Googling sizes on the internet and seeing what other girls had looked like with the size options that he had given me. (BAD IDEA.) This just left me anxious and confused. I called his office and his fabulous staff booked a phone consult for me with Dr M so that I could go through some additional questions directly with him in order to make my decision on what procedure I was going with; lift &amp; implants or just implants. He called and took the time I needed to answer all my questions. What a relief! He put my mind at ease and explained how the implant sizing works and more importantly how very different the same size and profile implant can look on somebody else. Note to self - STAY AWAY FROM GOOGLE! If you want to know about sizing for you, stay away from rice sizers and Google. They really are so different on everyone. Your body shape is taken in to account, your chest wall size, what you have to work with in the beginning, there are so many variables. If you trust your surgeon, then know that he (or she) will give you the options that are right for you. If you have any doubts that they are not able to help you with, then it's possible that you've picked the wrong surgeon. Dr M knew that I didn't want out of proportion breasts and assured me that the implant options he had in mind for me (even though they were bigger than I had thought), would 100% give me proportionate results. (He was totally correct, of course.) ......and with that surgery was booked. </div><div>I opted for just the implants. So excited! My surgery date fast approached and I flew to Sydney for my post op consult with Dr M 2 days before my surgery was scheduled. This consult was perfect. He explained what was going to happen, advised of the implant options that he would try in theater to create the look that we had spoken about and most importantly made me feel completely at ease (even though I was petrified inside). I walked out of this consult and left my anxiety behind. It is surgery day! 16 years in the making, basically. I was so excited! I arrived at the East Sydney Private Hospital at 8.15, I was in pre op at my scheduled time of 8.30 and there was no turning back. I met the anaesthetist, who was lovely and caring. Then Dr M came in and drew me up. He's so kind and attentive. There was no anxiety at all. He just dissolves it immediately with his manner. </div><div>This was it, I was in the theater. It was finally my turn. So excited, slightly nervous, but certainly not anxious about the decisions I had made. The next thing I knew I was being woken up.....it took them a while. lol. I finally had the breasts I had wanted for so long....and they were Dr M breasts....even better! </div><div>Recovery was amazing! There really wasn't any pain, it was more discomfort and stiffness. I was back at my hotel (The Meriton @ Bondi Junction) by 2.30 the same day. The hospital sent me home with all the necessary drugs and Dr M provides 2 post op compression bras for recovery as well. These bras are the most comfortable item you will ever wear. I am still in mine nearly 24/7, 2 months on. The next few days were spent resting, sleeping and slow walks around the local area. I wasn't really expecting the recovery to be so easy. Dr M - you are a star! </div><div>On the 4th day I had my post op consult with Dr M's nurse. Everything was as it should be, swelling was subsiding and I felt great. I flew home to Brisbane on the 5th day and continued my recovery at home. At week 3 I had a post op consult with Dr M's nurse and was able to remove the dressings covering the incisions. This was probably the most painful of the whole experience. lol. It killed removing the tape, I thought I was going to faint. When I finally got them off and saw the incisions I was completely gobsmacked. Incisions? What incisions? You could barely see them at all. They are perfectly situated in my crease and much smaller than I was expecting them to be, they healed so well....no wonder he leaves the dressings on for so long. #scarmaster </div><div>I am now 8 weeks post op and nearly back to normal. I have started back at the gym with very light activity, but I don't feel any discomfort at all, just loss of strength which was to be expected. I would do it all again in a heartbeat! The whole process was seamless and Dr Miroshnik is everything you read about and more. He is one in a million. The best in the business. He has changed my life! Thank you forever Dr M. xx </div><div>If you're thinking about breast augmentation and are in a position to travel to Sydney, seriously look no further than Dr Michael Miroshnik, Plastic &amp; Cosmetic Surgeon. If you're thinking about breast augmentation and can not travel to Sydney then please, please do your research, ask questions, don't Google sizes and be sure that your surgeon is qualified as a plastic surgeon, not just a cosmetic surgeon. Feel free to message, or find me on Instagram. @boobsbydrm</div><div>Ah. just re-reading that now (in November) has put a massive smile on my face. </div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Free the Nipple - for education's sake</title><description><![CDATA[Just a quick selection of pics that Instagram have decided are too 'naked' for it's platform. I am all for keeping our innocent protected, but really? This is education. When Instagram deletes pictures, they are not only removing the photographic part of that journey, they are removing all the comments that accompany them. This makes me sad.I started my Instagram so that I could document, in pictures, the plastic surgery journey I was embarking on....in the hope that I could help others in their<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_3f64236317e9454dad368814b080e592%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_288%2Ch_363/77ef52_3f64236317e9454dad368814b080e592%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/11/10/Free-the-Nipple---for-educations-sake</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/11/10/Free-the-Nipple---for-educations-sake</guid><pubDate>Thu, 10 Nov 2016 06:48:06 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Just a quick selection of pics that Instagram have decided are too 'naked' for it's platform. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_3f64236317e9454dad368814b080e592~mv2.jpg"/><div>I am all for keeping our innocent protected, but really? This is education. When Instagram deletes pictures, they are not only removing the photographic part of that journey, they are removing all the comments that accompany them. This makes me sad.</div><div>I started my Instagram so that I could document, in pictures, the plastic surgery journey I was embarking on....in the hope that I could help others in their research. I have lost so many comments and advice that I have been given, as well as some that I have provided to others. So frustrating. </div><div>There are some fantastic comparison shots here too. Such a shame that these aren't included in my Instagram journey.</div><div>H :) xx</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful</title><description><![CDATA[Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful - whatever that means to you!What is beautiful anyway? Is it how others see you? Is it how you see yourself? Or is it even how you feel about yourself?People come in all shapes and sizes, right? What I am learning more and more lately is that it's totally everyone's choice to look how they want and better themselves in any way they want, with no need for judgements from anybody else. Being active on Instagram as boobsbydrm, I have met so many other females going<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_499e83c41c2e4f8a919418ea8877c447%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287%2Ch_321/77ef52_499e83c41c2e4f8a919418ea8877c447%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/09/06/Be-Your-Own-Kind-of-Beautiful</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/09/06/Be-Your-Own-Kind-of-Beautiful</guid><pubDate>Tue, 06 Sep 2016 00:55:34 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful - whatever that means to you!</div><div>What is beautiful anyway? Is it how others see you? Is it how you see yourself? Or is it even how you feel about yourself?</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_499e83c41c2e4f8a919418ea8877c447~mv2.jpg"/><div>People come in all shapes and sizes, right? What I am learning more and more lately is that it's totally everyone's choice to look how they want and better themselves in any way they want, with no need for judgements from anybody else. </div><div>Being active on Instagram as boobsbydrm, I have met so many other females going through what I am and being judged for it. One of the girls I chat to on there recently 'justified' her breast augmentation by saying &quot;what's the difference with someone's choice to get braces and that's widely accepted!&quot; I hadn't thought of it like that before, but yeah...totally. No one ever criticises that, it's seen as more of a need isn't it. Interesting actually.</div><div>Is it anyone else's business what you choose to do with your body, or how you want to present yourself to the world you live in? I don't think it is. If someone chooses to alter their appearance, they are making that choice themselves. Their decision does not require judgments from anyone, not their partners, not their family, not their friends.</div><div>Whether it's a change of hair colour, a face full of makeup, a body piercing, a tattoo, cosmetic or plastic enhancements or body shape and size; what does it matter? Whatever makes you happy, right? Be your own kind of beautiful. </div><div>I never really thought about my reasons for getting a breast augmentation until I was forced to ask myself a few weeks ago. I have so many people asking me what my husband (of 8 years) thinks or what does my family think? When I thought about this, there is really only one response; what does it matter what they think? Right? I chose to have my surgery for me, and me only. I don't even think it was about self esteem. It was just about feeling like a woman, about looking they way I was supposed to look, with breasts. I didn't do it so my husband would like what he saw, he loved me and told me I was beautiful just about everyday, regardless of my breasts. It wasn't about him, nor should it be. It was about me.</div><div>This had me thinking about changes that other people make to themselves too, not just having surgery. There was a 'famous' person on 60 minutes a few weeks back. She had definitely had non-surgical cosmetic enhancements to her face, that was plain to see. (At the time of watching it, I had not had anything like that done.) I found myself thinking that she totally looked like she'd had 'work' done, but then also saying to myself &quot;since when is it my place to judge her&quot;. It was her decision to make the enhancements, and she did it for her own reasons and I bet she looks in the mirror every day and feels beautiful. So what is the issue? </div><div>It's the same with all changes a person might make to their appearance too, isn't it? Why do we feel the need to judge people so easily? I have made a conscious change in the way I see these things now, and I am certainly placing no judgements on anybody. Everyone has the right to do what they please to make themselves look or feel beautiful. It might be joining a gym to change the shape of your body, it might be a trip to the hairdresser to get your gorgeous long locks shaved off or it might be countless trips to the plastic surgeon to make you look like a barbie doll. If these changes make you feel more beautiful, then who is anyone to judge you for that?</div><div>There's a current 'movement' that's gone viral in the world of social media. Maybe you've seen it in one of your social feeds. They've just released a major documentary globally, about women and how they view their bodies and that they should just be at peace with them the way they are. I am almost of the opinion that even this is somewhat judgemental, in a way. Judgemental of people that do wish to make changes to their bodies, whether it's to lose weight for aesthetic reasons, lose weight for health reasons or even lose weight drastically and change the shape of your body for bodybuilding type reasons. From what I have read and heard, they advocate for a healthy relationship with your body, which is perfect. But......to me, 'they' are almost saying to just embrace it the way it is. I feel like maybe they're being a bit judgemental towards people who do wish to make changes to the themselves in order to feel more beautiful. Should I have just embraced my deflated breasts that hung flat against my? Should I not have changed my diet to lose weight? Should I not get up every morning and exercise to try to prolong my life through being healthy? Have I missed something? </div><div>One thing I do know is that I don't judge the this movement though. The message is great. Embrace yourself and who you are, but if that means you want to surgically or non-surgically enhance the way you look, then go ahead....you be your own kind beautiful! </div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Seatbelts &amp; Roundabouts</title><description><![CDATA[Dr Miroshnik recommends that you don't drive again for 7 days following your surgery. This is another reason why I should have stayed in Sydney for a little longer. The moment I returned home, on the 5th day, I was in the car. I didn't even think about what it would feel like. I didn't have far to travel, I had to take my son to school. Let me say it was interesting experience, I think I had totally underestimated my limitations.I get in the car, which in itself was a task. My little car is<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_bd14e5d2bb7d425d97a0ae46527f4a8d%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287%2Ch_161/77ef52_bd14e5d2bb7d425d97a0ae46527f4a8d%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/08/05/Seatbelts-Roundabouts</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/08/05/Seatbelts-Roundabouts</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Aug 2016 04:16:13 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Dr Miroshnik recommends that you don't drive again for 7 days following your surgery. This is another reason why I should have <a href="http://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/31/Hotel-Recovery-Bondi-Junction">stayed in Sydney</a>for a little longer. The moment I returned home, on the 5th day, I was in the car. I didn't even think about what it would feel like. I didn't have far to travel, I had to take my son to school. Let me say it was interesting experience, I think I had totally underestimated my limitations.</div><div>I get in the car, which in itself was a task. My little car is quite low to the ground. Usually I would sort of hold on to the back of the seat to get in. This time, there was no way that was happening. Each time I tried to grab the seat, it would pull on my pecs....and that is not a feeling I want to feel so close post surgery. I end up kind of squatting and sliding in. Wish I had a video of that!</div><div>To get out of my garage and then my driveway, I have to reverse and swing the car around. So....with pecs that are as tight as you can only imagine, this is hard work. I basically have to pull my elbows in to my sides, hold the bottom of the steering wheel with only my fingertips and turn like I was in a driving lesson.....bit by bit, there was no swinging my arms over one another. So I finally get out of the driveway and on to the street. NERVOUS! Being in control, or should I say somewhat in control of a vehicle, while feeling so vulnerable was giving me much anxiety. I drive a convertible car, and I was way too vulnerable to even have the roof off. I felt so exposed. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_bd14e5d2bb7d425d97a0ae46527f4a8d~mv2.jpg"/><div>Putting on my seatbelt was interesting. It cut straight across my chest, in all the wrong places. My breasts were really sensitive, so I ended up having to hold the seatbelt away from me, as it didn't sit properly when I took my right arm out of it to let it rest on my waist. So picture this......my right arm is holding the seatbelt away from me, while my elbows are beside my waist and the tops of my fingers are gripping the bottom of the steering wheel. Probably should have listened to Dr M and arranged for someone else to do the driving....but, it was a little too late for that now.</div><div>I started the 15km drive to my son's school. The first turn out of the street...piece of cake. The second....was a roundabout...not so much. Although I only had to go straight through the roundabout, it was really hard to do, after all, I was only holding on the steering wheel by my fingertips. lol Straight away I approach another roundabout because let's face it, Brisbane just don't have enough roundabouts! This time I had to make a right turn. As I get to it, I am super nervous, I 'joke' with my son that this may not have been the brightest idea. Turning is really hard when you are gripping the steering wheel with only your fingertips. There really is no way at this point that my arms can lift high enough out in front of me to hold it properly. As I drive the remainder of the journey, which luckily is pretty much straight, I spend the majority of the time adjusting my seating position, the seat belt and even the steering wheel. I just could not find a comfortable way of sitting in my car. My amazingly comfortable, little sports car had now suddenly become a heavy, 4 ton truck. </div><div>Over the next couple of days and in to weeks, I had a little bit of driving to do that just couldn't be avoided. It was the same scenario. Holding my seatbelt away from my chest, elbows to the side, fingertip steering. None of it was fun. The driving became easier, but even now, 12 weeks on, I still find myself adjusting my seating position. I guess on some days my breasts are still taking a different shape and feeling more sensitive than on other days.....but there is no pain or discomfort (that went away around week 3) and the great news is.......I love my car again. :)</div><div>H xx :)</div><div>My son nearly stayed home from school the next day. haha.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>It's the little things...lol.</title><description><![CDATA[I had planned for my surgery with Dr Miroshnik for years. I had saved countless pictures from his Instagram page to my camera roll, I had tagged my friend in pics in excitement and spent way too much time wondering which breasts would look best on me, over and over and over again. What I didn't think about was recovering. I gave no thought to the time it would take, the small things I would no longer be able to do or even how I would feel about my new self. Now at 12 weeks post op, looking back<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_db0c1b138733487a88ec570272b30613%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287%2Ch_184/77ef52_db0c1b138733487a88ec570272b30613%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/08/03/Its-the-little-thingslol</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/08/03/Its-the-little-thingslol</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2016 01:32:06 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I had planned for my surgery with Dr Miroshnik for years. I had saved countless pictures from his Instagram page to my camera roll, I had tagged my friend in pics in excitement and spent way too much time wondering which breasts would look best on me, over and over and over again. What I didn't think about was recovering. I gave no thought to the time it would take, the small things I would no longer be able to do or even how I would feel about my new self. Now at 12 weeks post op, looking back on all those little things makes me laugh. </div><div>I thought I would compile a list of some of the regular, daily activities I found difficult after having breast surgery. Whether it's from the pulling or the pushing actions or the stretching of my arms, these were somewhat a pain in the butt in those first few days (and some of them, weeks).</div><div>1. Flushing the toilet. </div><div>2. Opening the fridge.</div><div>3. Brushing or washing my hair - I just didn't....until about day 3.</div><div>4. Doing up buttons on my jeans.</div><div>5. Adjusting the shower head.</div><div>6. Shaving my legs.</div><div>7. Preparing anything in the kitchen. Even in to week 3, the act of vegetable cutting was interesting.</div><div>8. Doing laundry.</div><div>9. Getting trays out of the oven.</div><div>10. Pulling on tight clothing.</div><div>11. Lifting myself off the sofa, or a chair....or bed. #absfordayz </div><div>12. Getting in to my husband's 4WD.</div><div>13. Grocery shopping. Get that stuff delivered, seriously. Not one part of grocery shopping is easy. Getting items off shelves, pushing a trolley, putting the bags in the car....get that done for you.</div><div>14. Hanging up my towel.</div><div>15. Getting toilet paper off the roll (seriously....location is everything.)</div><div>16. Getting lids off bottles and jars.</div><div>The below picture is actually the pile of towels that I had accumulated over the first 4 days in the hotel. I literally couldn't hang them up, so they ended up in the bath and I used a new one everyday. lol. Note where the toilet paper is too. I couldn't reach behind me to get it off the holder, so it sat on the end of the bath for better accessibility. haha</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_db0c1b138733487a88ec570272b30613~mv2.jpg"/><div>I'll probably add to this over the coming weeks as I keep thinking of them. Or comment below to add your own in. </div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Hotel Recovery - Day 1-4</title><description><![CDATA[Recovering from surgery in a hotel was amazing! Despite being in another state and away from family, the fact that I had nothing else to think about for those first 5 days other that resting, taking my meds and a ton of pics of my new boobs, was heaven. I highly recommend it to anyone. Even if you're in Sydney for surgery with Dr M, book a hotel and stay there. lol It's forced recovery.I stayed at the Meriton Apartments in Bondi Junction. The Meriton is in an awesome location, right across the<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_96114d003619426ca1a450c1fc5277e6%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/31/Hotel-Recovery-Bondi-Junction</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/31/Hotel-Recovery-Bondi-Junction</guid><pubDate>Sun, 31 Jul 2016 02:33:10 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Recovering from surgery in a hotel was amazing! Despite being in another state and away from family, the fact that I had nothing else to think about for those first 5 days other that resting, taking my meds and a ton of pics of my new boobs, was heaven. I highly recommend it to anyone. Even if you're in Sydney for surgery with Dr M, book a hotel and stay there. lol It's forced recovery.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_96114d003619426ca1a450c1fc5277e6~mv2.jpg"/><div>I stayed at the Meriton Apartments in Bondi Junction. The Meriton is in an awesome location, right across the street from the Westfield and the train station (if you are up to it) is located below the hotel. I chose the Meriton because they had one bedroom apartments, rather than just the studio rooms like the Quest, which is located in the same building as Dr M's rooms. It was a little more conducive to feeling pampered I think.</div><div>The bed in the Meriton was a king size and super comfortable. Luckily, because I would be spending quite some time in it. Prior to leaving for surgery I had made sure that everything was ready for when I came back as there would be some things that were just not going to be easy to do, if at all. Lids were taken off bottles, taps were untightened, kitchen and food items were put in an accessible location, the shower head was lowered, but most importantly, my pillow fort was built. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_b094b4628afc4221806e936d22d25749~mv2.jpg"/><div>Let me tell you, that U Pillow is an absolute godsend. My pillow fort consisted of 2 standard bed pillows with the U Pillow strategically placed on an angle sloping down. Specifically for the first week, you are asked to sleep in a somewhat elevated position to assist in the healing process, and it's just way more comfy anyway. If you are not used to this, you will be....very soon. It is the most comfortable position you will find. </div><div>My first night sleep was broken by taking my meds every few hours and waking up remembering that I had boobs. haha. I am somewhat independent when it comes to being 'ill', or needing someone to take care of me (or just life in general...lol), so I do like to go through this kind of stuff on my own. I had told my husband that it was totally fine for him to go out with his mate that night. After all, I was safely tucked up in my hotel room, with my pillow fort and M&amp;Ms. I think he ended up coming home around 3am, which was during one of my awake moments. </div><div>Waking up on Day 1 with boobs was surreal to say the least. I guess I had just expected to wake up and not really feel any differently. Hello 'morning boob'! Now here was an expression I had never heard of it before. The easiest way to describe it is to say it's the 'heavy feeling' you get in your chest first thing in the morning. I used to say that it was like an elephant was sat on my chest and I could do nothing to change the feeling. It would take me a good 10 or so minutes of laying there to be able to finally get out bed. Once I was up and about it was fine. I did tend to kind of hunch over though, in a protective sort of manner. I think I was petrified at one point that they were going to fall off. (They won't though, don't worry.) I was super energized that first morning. The anesthetic was still there, so pain was about 1/10. Probably not even pain is the right word. I didn't actually have much swelling either, which was great as this can become quite annoying. I had my first shower, which was amazing. I expected it to be difficult, but it wasn't at all. I didn't have the shower anywhere near my chest though. I literally told myself that the spray from the shower head might push my boobs down. I think it's a natural response, I mean I had lived with these horrid breasts for so long that I was not going to let anything damage my new set. Note to everybody else....the water spray from the shower will not move your breasts. Promise.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_3984e33262f64613af75a61f428466fd~mv2.jpg"/><div>I couldn't stop looking at my new breasts. I lived in my lounge pants and post op bra and every time I saw them in the mirrors at the hotel room, I would stop and take a picture. (If you follow me on Instagram, you will be fully aware that behavior hasn't subsided at all). </div><div>The first pic below was taken at 7 hours post op. I think I was that excited by what I saw that I sent this direct to Dr Miroshnik with a comment of &quot;sorry, I'll try not to send you too many&quot;. haha. I've eased up on sending them now, but he was constantly getting them (uncensored). Can you imagine how many pics he must have? lol Seeing this image looking back at me in the mirror was such a great feeling. I seriously couldn't wipe the smile off my face. The second picture below was taken on the evening of Day 2. So many changes already. It's amazing what happens to them each and every day.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_d7fc35ad6660431c833031635e0b874e~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_4a219d08e94946acb515a24d0883f21d~mv2.jpg"/><div>My husband and I went to a El Topo Mexican Restaurant for lunch on that first day as I was craving Jalapeno Poppers. It was just a short walk over the road to the Westfield, although it probably took us about 15 minutes to get there. I was very slow. I felt great, slightly tired, but I was just super protective of anyone coming near me or bumping in to me. Petrified. </div><div>The food was exactly what I wanted, except that I was not able to have a margherita due to all the meds I was taking. The amount of food was perfect too, as I wasn't up to eating a lot. It didn't take long before I started to feel tired though and we made our way back to the hotel. All I wanted to do was sleep and rest with my pillow fort, and that is what I did for the rest of the day......and night. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_5ef2bb871c544227ac7d26a8248d9a62~mv2_d_1836_3264_s_2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_1a154a2a02d0491fa26701bd204adc69~mv2_d_1836_3264_s_2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_11a3bd97a39c48cb8bea34a9c853ce35~mv2_d_3264_1836_s_2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_a7a478490f1f43bdaaeb02d2164bead0~mv2_d_3264_1836_s_2.jpg"/><div>Day 2 recovery was much of the same. Pain was not really an issue, is was more discomfort and exhaustion. We did go for a brief stroll to the Westfield again, but there was seriously nothing else I wanted to do other than stay in the room. I was so tired, I couldn't even make it through a movie. My husband was due to fly home to Brisbane that night, so we just made sure that I had everything I would need for the next 2 days without him. I sent him home with some of my luggage too, as I needed my suitcase to be as light as possible as I would be having to wheel it through the airport on my own. (A thought that scared the crap out of me.) Although before he left, my husband had confessed that he upgraded my flight to business class, so I was relieved and very grateful knowing the solo travel would be less daunting now.</div><div>We are big foodies...and when I say foodies, I mean burgers, chocolate and ice cream type of foodies. The date of my surgery also coincided with the opening of a restaurant in Bondi that I was super excited to be able to try; Milky Lane. I had been following their progression on Facebook and couldn't believe when they announced they were opening on the very same day that I would be Bondi. It was fate. My friend (who is also a massive foodie, and had her surgery on the same day as me with Dr M) and I were crazy excited and together with our surgery, it was all we could talk about over the last couple of months. However.....the first opportunity came where we thought we would be able to stomach such an amazing feast and we just couldn't make it. It was only a 5 minute Uber away, but there was no way we were leaving the rooms at this point. We were knackered. Surgery had finally taken it' toll and we weren't going anywhere. Gutted. No Milky Lane for us. (Day 2 was a Sunday and they weren't open for the remainder of our time in Sydney.) The night before our surgery we had wandered down to Bondi to find it. Here is the only pic we have....lol. The next time we visit Sydney (at 14 weeks post op) we intend to visit Milk Lane and this time try their amazing looking menu. So. Can't. Wait.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_d178aa86dd0f4468a8af74a4c121ab87~mv2_d_3264_1836_s_2.jpg"/><div>Waking up on Day 3 was a bit surreal. My husband had left and it was just me and my boobs. I still really didn't have any pain, just had the tight feeling in my chest and if I could only shift this elephant, I would be laughing. I hadn't had regular toilet use yet either.....if you know what I mean. I had laxatives for this, but they had not done a thing yet. It was getting very frustrating. I spent most of the morning taking pictures of my boobs and sending them to my friend, who was only in the hotel room next door surviving her own recovery...lol. We sent each other so many pics. We both had our post op consult with Dr M's nurse that morning. It was a slow walk up to his rooms, which are actually only 5 minutes away....lol. We walking so slow and slightly hunched. We got up to his rooms and it was totally bizarre to be there, this time post surgery, with boobs. We waited just a little while and I was called in by the nurse. Everything was fine, of course. As I was an interstate patient, she gave me the scar tape that I would be able to use once I had my 8 week consult with Dr M. She said that everything was healing well, they looked like they were supposed to look and reminded me also about the post op exercises. There are 3 particular ones that I was told about during my pre op consult. Taken from Dr M's paperwork, they are;</div><div>1. Place both hands an your head and hold for 10 seconds.</div><div>2. Grab your hands behind your back at waist level and pull your shoulders back slowly. This gives a measures and gradual stretch to the pec muscles.</div><div>3. Take a deep breath and hold for 2-3 seconds. This not only stretches your chest by expanding the ribs, but it also is important for making sure your lungs are expanding following anesthesia.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_bce8f36b7f67466e88e7f954af0cbb43~mv2.jpg"/><div>Again, the rest of the day was spent resting and taking meds. I took them religiously, whether there was pain or not. The valium was just awesome. It's only a small dose, but really allows your muscles to just 'let go' and release your chest. I never missed one of those. I was also taking the antibiotics and the Panadol. I would take Panadene Forte at night, just so that I could sleep. As I have mentioned, I really didn't have pain as such, it was just more being uncomfortable, with this elephant that now lived on my chest. At lunch time on Day 3 I decided to go over to the Westfield, on my own. Probably a huge mistake. It wasn't long before I wanted to be home again, however I was kind of lost and had ended up right over the other side and all I wanted twas to be back in the room. I started to panic a little bit. I found a seat and just chilled for a few minutes as I thought I was going to faint. Then I got back up and tried to find my way back to the hotel. I just kept getting lost. About 30 minutes later I finally get back. I was so exhausted and had totally regretted that little adventure. I laid on the bed, took all the meds I could and had a nap. It really took it out of me, I shouldn't have left the room. I stayed there for the remainder of the night. lol. Nice view to go to sleep to.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_a91982adeb784a229ed3d5f37b0ab6e1~mv2_d_3264_1836_s_2.jpg"/><div>Day 4 post op, it's a Tuesday and my final day. In hindsight I totally should have booked an early flight, or at least paid for a super late check out. My flight wasn't leaving until 4pm. It's 11am and I had over stayed my welcome (10am checkout) at the Meriton, so I head downstairs to check out. I ended up leaving my suitcase at reception and going out to their courtyard and chilled in the sun for an hour or so. It was so lush to have the sun on my chest. I could have laid there for hours. Hunger overcame me so again, I head for the Westfield. I was really tired on this day. Whether it was because I knew I had to make the journey home, or whether it was just because I had no place to be, being in limbo between the hotel and the airport for 4 hours was not great. It certainly wasn't the best way to spend the last day in Sydney, it just resulted in me feeling really sore and exhausted. I didn't trek inside the Westfield very far this time, just far enough in to grab a quick bite to eat. I then made my way back to the Meriton and waited for my Uber.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_c06933e93f90434a8b37ee10a760ec57~mv2_d_3264_1836_s_2.jpg"/><div>The airport is around a 20 minute ride. The driver was super understanding when I asked him to put my bag in the car and then get it out again. This was a foreign request for the independent me. We arrived at the airport and I asked to be taken to the Virgin Business Class entrance as I was told this was the least amount of walking I would have to do. I get there and they send me back down to the check in section. Gah! This was an all around horrid experience.....pushing my suitcase was a mission. It hurt with every step. I was lucky to at least have 360 degree wheels though, otherwise I am just not sure how I would have managed. It's possible that I would have ditched the case and boarded without it....lol. </div><div>I get to the check in area and the lady behind the counter must have sensed that I'd had surgery...not sure why...possibly due the way I was holding myself I guess. Maybe she sees more often than I would have thought. She came straight out and asked me whether I'd had breast surgery. Strange. I told her I had and she went off to check that I was OK to board the flight. Panic set in. What if I couldn't fly home? I would have to make my way back to a hotel, a thought that I just couldn't deal with right now. About 10 minutes later and after speaking with 2 of her supervisors, she finally checks me in. Phewf! I had some time to spare so I made my way to the Business Class lounge. I didn't feel like eating, so just chilled on their sofa until it was time to board. I was glad to be rid of my suitcase though.</div><div>It was time to board. Yay. The final stretch. In a way I was wishing I was still in the hotel though. There was nothing to think about there, just recovery. As much as I was excited to see my husband again, this time in our house, with my new boobs, there was a part of me that wasn't looking forward to getting back to the usual processes of life. I was able to board the flight first as I was at the front of the plane. It was awesome, I didn't have anyone next to me either. Nice, big, comfy business class seats with all the room in the world to stretch out and create my own little pillow fort on the plane. I had timed my next valium too, so that I had one to take for the journey home. I was in for a very relaxed trip.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_35003c7e54584d899e0321462336f398~mv2_d_3264_1836_s_2.jpg"/><div>It is always a lush view coming in over Brisbane. The plane landed and my husband met me at the terminal. This was very different to our useful pick ups outside the front gate, this time I needed a hand. It was great to see him waiting for me. We stopped in at Doughnut Time (of course) on the way through to the carpark....they were demolished before we got in the car.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_069339ee58284f198dd0c1d199cfff18~mv2_d_3264_1836_s_2.jpg"/><div>We arrived home through the peak hour traffic. It was nice to be home. A new kind of recovery awaited me now. Home recovery with all the normality of 'life'; kids, pets, chores etc. We'll see how this goes. </div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>My Recovery Item Checklist</title><description><![CDATA[Travelling to Sydney from Brisbane to have a surgical procedure was somewhat daunting in the beginning. I was lucky to be able to go through this whole experience with a friend though, so that was super exciting. We made our initial phone call to Dr M's rooms in September 2015, the first date we could book our consult for was the end of January 2016. It was around the middle of February that we booked our surgery date - May 6th. We had 3 months. So much to do, we thought.We spent most of the 3<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_b094b4628afc4221806e936d22d25749%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287%2Ch_230/77ef52_b094b4628afc4221806e936d22d25749%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/27/My-Recovery-Item-Checklist</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/27/My-Recovery-Item-Checklist</guid><pubDate>Wed, 27 Jul 2016 05:06:23 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Travelling to Sydney from Brisbane to have a surgical procedure was somewhat daunting in the beginning. I was lucky to be able to go through this whole experience with a friend though, so that was super exciting. We made our initial phone call to Dr M's rooms in September 2015, the first date we could book our consult for was the end of January 2016. It was around the middle of February that we booked our surgery date - May 6th. We had 3 months. So much to do, we thought.</div><div>We spent most of the 3 months tagging each other in boob pics and screenshotting for texts. haha. We also went on a huge training program to try and get our bodies in shape and ready for a healthy recovery. It wasn't until around 2 or so weeks before surgery that we started to get super anxious and think about what we may need to be packing. We were travelling away from our homes for major surgery....and staying in a hotel, after all.</div><div>I started asking other girls on Instagram what their 'must have' items were. The list below is what I ended up taking. I know that other people recommend so much more, but seriously, this would be absolute must have. No need for over thinking it.</div><div>1. U Pillow</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_b094b4628afc4221806e936d22d25749~mv2.jpg"/><div>Also known as a Boomerang or V pillow, you will love this. It's perfect for building your recovery pillow fort. When you return to your hotel (or home) you will want to have this ready and waiting for you. You can buy these at Kmart, Spotlight, Myer or any bedding store.</div><div>2. Ice Packs</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_a6599f16b5034060b03f62e9fa37c9d0~mv2.jpg"/><div>Ice packs. If you forget everything else, don't forget these. Make sure they are the gel filled ones as they freeze really quickly. Take two at a minimum, that way you can make sure that you always have one frozen. Ice packs are a great pain reliever. They also reduce swelling, bonus! I continually had an ice pack on for around the first 7 days. You can pick these up at your local chemist or grocery store.</div><div>3. Vitamin E Moisturiser</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_c3c190c7b42746d1a881810ae52003dc~mv2.jpg"/><div>Any moisturiser with vitamin E will do the trick, but Palmer's is my favourite, probably because it smells like chocolate. I started with the moisturizer on Day One post op, twice a day. I would alternate with Bio Oil. Vitamin E assists in protecting and repairing your skin. It also lets you have some well needed bonding time with your new boobs. :) You can buy it at chemists or your local grocery store.</div><div>4. Bio Oil</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_ede26e86068a402a931f74b2d347e75b~mv2_d_1772_1772_s_2.jpg"/><div>Just like the Palmer's above, applying Bio Oil is a great bonding experience. I would use Bio Oil in the morning and at night. Bio Oil has a few different benefits. It is known for assisting in the reduction of scarring, it also treats uneven skin tone and dehydrated skin. You can buy it at chemists or your local grocery store.</div><div>5. Laxatives</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_92cda648a55e4b4ea3fe1635e618f45e~mv2.png"/><div>The drugs used both during and post surgery may have an 'unpleasant' side affect. Take these, you won't regret it. Pick some up at your local chemist or grocery store.</div><div>6. Recovery Food</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_6e93aa99951145e79c973680b95a9aa0~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_5e90fe99055e401aa0c4531eb6651154~mv2_d_1600_1312_s_2.jpg"/><div>Whether it's fruit, burgers or chocolate, make sure you have some food to come back to, already prepared. You may not eat in the first day, but at least you will have prepared food ready for when your appetite returns. You won't want to be cooking or going out for take out.</div><div>7. Comfy Clothing</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_7ca21b300a3f4b35a2f9e634194b37d4~mv2.jpg"/><div>Comfort clothes. Victoria Secret's Pink range has always been my favourite loungewear. You'll want something loose, that is not too much trouble to get in to, particularly on your own. Make sure the top you choose is not one that you have to pull over your head. A zip up hoodie or loose fitting singlet that you can step in to will be great. Just make sure it's super comfortable.</div><div>8. Paracetamol</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_a8a500dd04a8476d988514b8898429c1~mv2.png"/><div>Paracetamol will be part of your medication regime for the first week at least. You'll be taking 2 tablets, every 4-6 hours. I took mine religiously for about 2 weeks. Buy them at your local chemist or grocery store.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Surgery Day - hospital and home again</title><description><![CDATA[The day is finally here. This process started so long ago, that I kind of never thought I would ever actually get here. I had a call from the hospital yesterday* with my admission time; I was to arrive at the East Sydney Private Hospital for 8.30am. It seems I would be the first cab of the ranks. This was perfect for me for no other reason other than I love food and couldn't bear to think about having to fast through the day. This admission time meant I only needed to fast from midnight.<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_e6f88e8071bb499fa64ba554c5001ed9%7Emv2.png/v1/fill/w_254%2Ch_132/77ef52_e6f88e8071bb499fa64ba554c5001ed9%7Emv2.png"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/25/Surgery-Day-hospital-and-home-again</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/25/Surgery-Day-hospital-and-home-again</guid><pubDate>Mon, 25 Jul 2016 00:30:00 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The day is finally here. This process started so long ago, that I kind of never thought I would ever actually get here. I had a call from the hospital yesterday* with my admission time; I was to arrive at the East Sydney Private Hospital for 8.30am. It seems I would be the first cab of the ranks. This was perfect for me for no other reason other than I love food and couldn't bear to think about having to fast through the day. This admission time meant I only needed to fast from midnight. Perfect! It also meant that Dr Miroshnik would be nice and fresh. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_e6f88e8071bb499fa64ba554c5001ed9~mv2.png"/><div>The above pic was stolen from Dr M's Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drmiroshnik/">page</a>. It's funny, I used to imagine myself on the table behind him, on this day I was actually going to be on it.</div><div>My husband was due to arrive in Sydney at lunchtime, so it was going to work out perfectly for him to be at the hospital to check me out. (It is a requirement that you have someone to take care of you, otherwise they will not discharge you on your own.)</div><div>I was staying at the Meriton Apartments in Bondi Junction, which meant the hospital was only a 15 minute Uber ride away. It was a bit nerve wracking being on my own that morning. This is major surgery, right? It's a big deal...and here I was doing it on my own. Argh. Scary. I get to the hospital and it looks like a Woolworths as the bottom floor is exactly that....which is great to know if you need to pick up last minute shopping before you get new boobs. I couldn't find the entrance, so I walk around the entire perimeter of the building until I realise that I had walked passed it. #awkward So I pretend I knew where I was going and in I go. I travel up to Admissions on Level 4. There were only a couple of other people in the waiting room and I walk up to the desk. They couldn't seem to find my file. Yikes! Was this a sign? Can I back out? They had asked whether I had filled in the paperwork at Dr Miroshnik's office, which I had on the Wednesday during my pre op consult. I guess they never made it over to the hospital. She asked me to take a seat while they sort it out. It was only 8.15 by this stage, plenty of time. </div><div>I took a seat and waited while the admissions staff tracked down my file. I think they ended up getting copies forwarded through from Dr M's rooms. They asked me back up to the desk and we proceeded to go through all the formalities...and of course the hospital payment. This payment is paid separately to Dr Miroshnik's fees and is payable at your admission time. This was the last payment, it was now final. Super exciting! I sat back down in the waiting area and within minutes one of the nurses came and got me and took me in to the pre op room where she went through the standard 'Do you know what you are here for?&quot; questions. She seemed to be in a super rush, which she kept apologising for, but it did make me a little anxious. I also wanted to take photos the whole way through, but she told me to put my phone and my bag and follow her. She led me in to a small change room and gave me a gown and cap to put on. She asked me to get changed but because she was running out of time, she would have to be in the room with me so that she could finish asking me her questions. Still anxious..... The rushing wasn't helping.</div><div>The next thing I knew, me and my gowned up self were sat in another small room. The nurse put me on a nice, big comfy chair with a blanket and some lovely leg warmers. They were great. I need some of those at home. Beats bed socks. She then told me that the anesthetist will be in shortly and then left me alone in the room. As I sat there, alone with my thoughts, I just kept thinking that I could make a run for it. I could totally walk out and go back to the hotel. Dumb....lol. I was in the room for what felt like a little while, but I am sure was really not...then the anesthetist came in. His name was Dr Vincent Da Silva. He was lovely. Very caring and informative. He made me feel very comfortable. He gave me an outline of what he will be doing and the medications that he will be using during the surgery and those that will be prescribed on my discharge later that afternoon. During admission, I was offered to have Dr Da Silva provide me with a script for the post surgical meds, or I could have the meds available to me at discharge. I chose the latter as I wasn't sure where the nearest pharmacy would be to my hotel, and frankly, it was just easier to be able to take them with me and not have to worry about having to get them when we got back to the hotel. (FYI - this turned out to be the more expensive option, by far. My meds totaled $160, provided at discharge. I could have had my script filled from the pharmacy opposite the hotel for around $30.)</div><div>Dr Da Silva left and within about 5 minutes Dr Miroshnik came in to the room to mark me up. I don't know why, but I wasn't even expecting to be awake when I was drawn up. haha. I just assumed this all happened in theater. We joked about it. He assured me that most of the markings would be off by the time surgery was over. The markings were the least of my worries at this point. (I really wish I had a picture of them. Such a shame I didn't have my phone.) Dr M was amazing, as always. He really does have a wonderful 'bedside manner'. He is caring and attentive but most importantly he is 100% genuine. He really is. In every interaction I have ever had with him, he never fails to make me feel like I matter. He came in and asked how I was feeling, of course I told him I was anxious but of course, excited too. He asked me if I was warm enough and we joked about the awesome leg warmers....other than that, the rest of our conversation was a blur. I was too traumatised knowing that I was stood in front of him, bare-chested again with my awful breasts.....consolation to that though, was that it would be the very last time anybody ever saw them like that! He left the room and told me he'd see me next door. I remember hearing music blaring from what I thought was 'next door' and had assumed it was Dr Tavakoli, another Plastic Surgeon who is known for playing 'cool' music while he operates. I am not sure if was him, or Dr M.</div><div>I don't remember who the next person was but someone then came in and took me in to the theater room. Now, I have had surgeries before, all in public hospitals...but for all of them I was put on a bed and wheeled in. Not this time. I was walked in through a door, which I was expecting to be another 'consult' room where I would be given a pre med and put on a bed, ready to be wheeled in to theater. haha. When the door opened, it was the theater room, there were 2 nurses, Dr Da Silva and Dr M in there. (I think....my memory is a bit hazy. There wasn't any music playing though...it was super silent.) I was told to get up on to the table. So this was a metal slab, much like what you would see in a butchers....um ?? It was cold. I remember letting everyone there know that I thought it was cold too, like I am sure they not heard that before. I laid down, the light above me was super, crazy bright and I just remember putting my hands up above my face to block it out. Dr M came over and moved it out of the way and said something....I can't remember what he said, my stomach was churning, I was just on auto pilot....I just remember his breath smelt really strong like he had just downed a triple shot espresso. This is a good thing! He is awake and ready to give me some of his amazing boobs. lol Dr Da Silva then said something, had me start to count and then......</div><div>I remember waking up quite a few times in recovery. I am pretty sure there were two stages of recovery, but I can't be certain. I was so out of it. It must have taken a good 90 minutes for me to wake up. The nursing staff kept trying to wake me, I kept thinking they were annoying and wished they'd just let me sleep. (Sorry about that...lol) When I finally woke up, for real...the nurse tried to get me to eat something. I don't even remember what it was, I just knew that I did not want it. I am guessing it was a biscuit, I think. I just wanted to look at my boobs. I assumed I would have the post op bra on, so didn't think too much about trying to sneak a peek. Then I saw Dr M walking towards my bed. I didn't know who it is, just knew that he was familiar. He came over and said &quot;there she is.&quot; haha I am not even sure if I said anything back. I was so out of it. He seemed to answer me though, and said that he'd been able to get away with the 390s. This was great news, that's all I remember. </div><div>Then my husband was shown through to where I was. Yay! Unbeknownst to me, but they weren't allowing him through as it was taking me so long to wake up, they just wanted to make sure there wasn't anything else going on before they let him. As soon as he walked through the doors and towards my bed, I was super excited. I remember saying something like &quot;I got boobies!&quot; It was great to see him, I hadn't seen him for 3 days prior to the surgery.</div><div>I think Dr M may have had the post op bras with him when he stopped buy and had given them to the nurse, I can't quite remember (seriously, I was really out of it). After he left, she proceeded to let me know that it was time I got dressed. I thought she was joking. I didn't realise that I wasn't already dressed. You mean I could have had a peak at my boobs all along. I stood up slowly....felt quite faint and sat back down. The nurse gave me some anti nausea tablets and we tried again. Success. Pants and bra were now on. </div><div>The nurse gave me the pre purchased meds and I was discharged. It was home time. I don't remember getting out of the hospital, just remember waiting for our Uber. I was on a street corner, hunched over, feeling sorry for myself....and cold, but I had boobies! The Uber ride felt like it took forever and I felt EVERY bump he went over. Ouch. Even though the ride was only about 15 minutes, we managed to tell him what I was doing at the hospital. haha</div><div>We got to the hotel and I couldn't wait to just relax in bed, with my pillow fort. I think we arrived back at the hotel around 2.30. Of course the first thing I did was take some photos. haha. I could not wait to see the comparisons. Wow. I was blown away. This pic below is a 7 hour comparison. So amazing. I was so excited and completely shocked that this was the new me. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_caa9e2023c934b359fb5d08b94faf4f1~mv2.jpg"/><div>My husband was in charge of making sure my drugs were taken on time. He had written down all the times for each tablet. He's a great nurse. I was sent home with antibiotics, panadene forte (the strongest I can take without getting nausea) and valium. As far as pain was though, I really didn't have any. I mean, I felt tight and 'heavy' in the chest, but pain? Not really. I guess the surgery drugs were still working though and I was sure that I would feel it in the morning. The valium is a muscle relaxer. The dose is only 2mg, so it's not like it's going to knock me out. I was looking forward to taking it though, as I felt like I kept hunching over, sort of over protecting my new boobs and as a result my back and shoulder muscles were getting very sore. I took the first dose and chilled on the bed with my ice packs.</div><div>I think I spent the next couple of hours sleeping and eating a little bit of the food that I had at the hotel. My husband actually went out on the town with a friend that first night. (Totally with my blessing, of course.) All I did was sleep and chill in bed, take my meds and change my ice packs over. Didn't feel any pain, just some discomfort. All was awesome in my world of new boobs. I couldn't stop looking down my top. lol.</div><div>H xx :)</div><div>*this blog was written on the 24th July, but my surgery was date was the 6th May</div><div>Click here for <a href="http://eastsydneyprivatehospital.com/information-for-patients.html">East Sydney Private Hospital Patient Information</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>So I don't need a breast lift?</title><description><![CDATA[For as long as I can remember I was going to get my boobs done. To me, this meant I was going to get a breast lift and have them sit perky on my chest again; just how they did in my 20s. I think that may have been what held me back from getting a consult too. The fact that I had to have them lifted, which basically meant I needed to have them reconstructed. The thought of it was overwhelming and somewhat scary. It was a much larger surgery and therefore, I suppose a more expensive one, with a<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_355d609c9eaf4185ba0115c93fe662a5%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_325%2Ch_323/77ef52_355d609c9eaf4185ba0115c93fe662a5%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/So-I-dont-need-a-breast-lift</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/So-I-dont-need-a-breast-lift</guid><pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2016 06:53:08 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>For as long as I can remember I was going to get my boobs done. To me, this meant I was going to get a breast lift and have them sit perky on my chest again; just how they did in my 20s. I think that may have been what held me back from getting a consult too. The fact that I had to have them lifted, which basically meant I needed to have them reconstructed. The thought of it was overwhelming and somewhat scary. It was a much larger surgery and therefore, I suppose a more expensive one, with a longer recovery. That was all in my head of course. I mean, it's not like I knew what I was talking about, right? I'd never had a breast lift before, nor did I know anybody with one.</div><div>This was what I started with.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_355d609c9eaf4185ba0115c93fe662a5~mv2.jpg"/><div>I walk in to my consult with Dr Miroshnik pretty much expecting to just get assessed and then be given a quote for a lift and implants and be sent on my way. lol I was pretty mistaken. My consult was a complete eye opener. (I will create a full blog post about the entire consult process later.) Dr M had asked me a few questions about my lifestyle and had suggested that if I was ok to have 'bigger' implants, that a lift was not required because he really just needed to inflate my rather deflated breasts. I'd never heard of this before. To my uneducated self, you either got implants if you had no breasts naturally, or a lift in cases like mine. He measured where my nipples sat, as this would be the be all and end all of whether he could 'fix' me without a lift. To my surprise, I was a great candidate for the augmentation only. No lift for me! My nipples were positioned in such a way that when he put the implants in (size chosen later), they would be lifted enough, that they were in a natural position, and not too droopy at the bottom of my breasts. I was super happy with that.</div><div>Dr M had mentioned that as long as I was happy with 'bigger' implants, then we could just proceed with the breast augmentation without the lift. He would need to use the biggest implants required to fill all the excess breast skin. That gave me a little anxiety. Read my &quot;<a href="https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/I-dont-want-to-go-too-big">I Don't Want Big Boobs</a>' post for more on that. lol If however, I wanted smaller implants, he would need to do the lift and just create a whole new set of breasts for me. So I had a decision to make. </div><div>After a couple of weeks and a further phone consult with Dr Miroshnik, I chose to go with the breast augmentation only. I figured that I was a woman, not a 19 year old girl anymore and I was totally happy with having the larger, more womanly curves.....and knowing Dr M's results, who else would be able to produce that with what I started with. </div><div>This is a comparison shot. The top one is 10 week post op, the bottom was my consult pic from Dr M in January. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_6befe9adb2e14bf988a17496487db3f6~mv2.jpg"/><div>It's nearly 12 weeks since my surgery and I have not for one minute regretted the decision to go with the larger implants and augmentation rather than smaller, perkier breasts with the lift. My results are super natural and I have never felt more like a woman before. I even have days where I wish he had been able to use bigger implants. lol.</div><div>I guess the moral of this story, is definitely to know your options. If you are a candidate for an augmentation without the need for a lift, then don't feel anxious at all. It can be done....and if you're using Dr M, know that he is an absolute genius at making you look 100% natural. I am forever being told how natural I look. I love them!</div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>I don't want big boobs!</title><description><![CDATA[It seems silly to start this post with anything other than a little chuckle. Dr Miroshnik must hear this all the time and it totally escapes me as to how he doesn't just say "seriously?"My initial consult with Dr M was full of statements like; "I don't want massive boobs." " I don't want them to look fake." lol He assured me over and over again that unless I had specifically asked to be out of proportion, he would make me look proportionate. We spoke about sizes, CCs, profiles.....but to be<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_4b5f68ac49ec41898c7512bf3069c6fa%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_306%2Ch_244/77ef52_4b5f68ac49ec41898c7512bf3069c6fa%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/I-dont-want-to-go-too-big</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/21/I-dont-want-to-go-too-big</guid><pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2016 01:12:08 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_4b5f68ac49ec41898c7512bf3069c6fa~mv2.jpg"/><div>It seems silly to start this post with anything other than a little chuckle. Dr Miroshnik must hear this all the time and it totally escapes me as to how he doesn't just say &quot;seriously?&quot;</div><div>My initial consult with Dr M was full of statements like; &quot;I don't want massive boobs.&quot; &quot; I don't want them to look fake.&quot; lol He assured me over and over again that unless I had specifically asked to be out of proportion, he would make me look proportionate. We spoke about sizes, CCs, profiles.....but to be perfectly honest, none of it really made any sense at the time. All I knew was that I wanted him to fix me and give me what I was supposed to have.</div><div>I had very deflated breasts due to pregnancy, weight loss and a new found love of weight training. Dr M had mentioned that it was quite possible that the implants he used in each breast may very well have been different, due to what he had to work with; what left over breast tissue was there.</div><div>After my initial consult, I returned to Brisbane and proceeded to go against better advice and Googled all the different sizes that Dr M had mentioned. What I found was that everyone I came across all looked very much different, even with the same size implants. I was left anxious and confused. I had made another appointment to speak with Dr M (over the phone) to hopefully ease my mind with a little bit of education. After this phone consult, which can I add was amazing and a testament to how caring Dr M really is. Not once did he make me feel rushed, not once did he make me feel like I was being silly or that my questions or concerns weren't relevant. He spent as long as I needed to answer questions and ensure that I was left with a better understanding and much, much less anxiety. </div><div>What I had learnt from speaking with Dr M was that choosing an implant size was so much more than picking a cc size and running with it. Everything about me would make an impact to implant choice; the size of my chest wall, the width of my chest, the remaining breast tissue of my own, the fact that my chest was actually lopsided due to a shoulder surgery years ago, there were just so many things to consider. You just can not compare yourself to anybody else when choosing size.</div><div>He had also advised me that he would not know exactly which implants he would be using until I was in surgery. It was here that my particular situation would really show itself to him and he would test out the different implants during surgery and select the ones that produced the perfect results for me. Whilst the unknown size made me slightly nervous in the lead up to my surgery (which was still 3 months away from my phone consult with Dr M), I just kept in mind the reasons I had chosen Dr M in the first place. I had chosen him based on his results and I trusted that he would give me exactly what would suit me, what was proportionate for me. All this trusting aside, I still felt slightly anxious for the next 3 months. I just kept thinking &quot;I don't want big boobs.&quot; lol Well I thought I didn't want big boobs. What was big anyway? I mean, I was starting with nothing, so anything more than that would be considered big, right? </div><div>Two days before my surgery, I had my pre op consult with Dr M. I was so excited for this appointment, as it was now we would get to talk more about size and I could even try on some implants. Again, I just remember telling him over and over &quot;I just don't want to have massive boobs.&quot; lol His response to me was always calming, reassuring and he would just say &quot;They will be proportionate, I think you'll be pleased. You'll have a great result.&quot; Of course he totally knew what he was talking about. Here is the selection of choices he took in to surgery with him. Even seeing all the different sizes on paper was exciting. I couldn't wait until my surgery in 2 days. I was excited to see what I would end up with.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_0fc66d33d0d942c9b93d793a1434c12a~mv2.jpg"/><div>My surgery day arrived. Dr M was marking me up in the room. He asked how I was feeling. My response? Slightly anxious. I don't want big boobs. Seriously. lol. I remember waking up (eventually) after surgery and the nurse was helping me put the post op bra on. Dr M came by and after realizing who he was (lol) he says &quot;I got away with the 390s.&quot; I was stoked. lol....because you know, &quot;I didn't want big boobs.</div><div>Back in my hotel room that evening, I took a sneak peak at them in the mirror. To me, they were massive (some of the size was due to the swelling), and I was super happy. Super excited. Now....I loved my big boobs. They were amazing. I couldn't believe I spent so long being worried about not wanting big boobs. It's nearly been 3 months since my surgery and I have days where they are a perfect size and days where I wished I had gone a little bigger. (I know, right!) I sometimes think that if I had have laid off the &quot;I don't want big boobs&quot; statements a little more with Dr M, he may have chosen the bigger implants to suit me. They call it boob greed. I'll write another blog about that one day. lol. </div><div>For now, I have the most amazing and natural and perfectly proportionate boobs for me. I love them!</div><div>For the record, Dr M chose the 390cc Mentor Cohesive III medium height, high profile implants for me.</div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>The basis of my blog</title><description><![CDATA[Hi :) I am writing this first post to introduce myself and the motivation for creating this blog. I am just a regular Brisbane girl who recently had breast augmentation surgery with Dr Michael Miroshnik in Sydney, May 2016. I started this blog as a result of feedback and interactions I had on my Instagram 'blog'.I am boobsbydrm, you can find me primarily on Instagram (@boobsbydrm) where I have been documenting my breast augmentation journey with Dr Michael Miroshnik (aka Dr M).Instagram is a<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_5ee408dee36e448f85c44149b3330868%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/19/The-basis-of-my-blog</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/19/The-basis-of-my-blog</guid><pubDate>Tue, 19 Jul 2016 05:39:47 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Hi :) I am writing this first post to introduce myself and the motivation for creating this blog. </div><div>I am just a regular Brisbane girl who recently had breast augmentation surgery with Dr Michael Miroshnik in Sydney, May 2016. I started this blog as a result of feedback and interactions I had on my Instagram 'blog'.</div><div>I am boobsbydrm, you can find me primarily on Instagram (@boobsbydrm) where I have been documenting my breast augmentation journey with Dr Michael Miroshnik (aka Dr M).</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/77ef52_5ee408dee36e448f85c44149b3330868~mv2.jpg"/><div>Instagram is a great space for sharing your journey in pictures. Over time though, I found that each picture I posted prompted questions via comments, or direct messages from other patients of Dr Miroshnik, or from women doing research in to their own breast augmentation journeys. All of these women were looking for answers to questions about my procedure, or just wanted to know that how they were feeling was 'normal'. I never thought it would morph in to the account that it has. </div><div>I really love the interactions I have with other patients and I love being able to put somebody else's mind at ease, or be able to help somebody come to a decision to have their own surgery. </div><div>When I was preparing for my own surgery I found it hard to gather some actual, real life experiences from other Dr M patients without having my own private BA (breast augmentation) Instagram account. There are public forums around that I am a member of, but the direct contact that I get with Instagram feels more 'personal'.</div><div>I decided to write this blog a few weeks ago when somebody told me how inspirational my Instagram had been for them and how they had felt a sense of relief when we chatted about our similar experiences with Dr M. I thought that if I can help other women considering (or having had) a breast augmentation, then maybe the associated 'stigma' and judging of this type of surgery could be lessened, if only a little.</div><div>I do hope you enjoy reading it and if you are considering plastic surgery with Dr M or any other surgeon and would like to get in touch, feel free to contact me either by the form on this blog, <a href="mailto:boobsbydrm@gmail.com?subject=">email</a>or you can chat via <a href="http://www.instagram.com/boobsbydrm">Instagram</a>.</div><div>H xx :)</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>FAQs</title><description><![CDATA[Check the page menu for a list of FAQs. I'll be adding to these all the time as they come to mind. Feel free to message, email or contact me on Instagram if you have any ideas for me to include.]]></description><dc:creator>boobsbydrm</dc:creator><link>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/20/FAQs</link><guid>https://www.drmgirl.com.au/single-post/2016/07/20/FAQs</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Jul 2016 00:59:00 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Check the page menu for a list of FAQs. I'll be adding to these all the time as they come to mind. Feel free to message, email or contact me on Instagram if you have any ideas for me to include.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>