My Mommy Makeover story begins with my 2 healthy, beautiful, and heavy babies at the ripe ole’ ages of 38 for Stone and 39 for Stella. I had 40-week pregnancies and 8# 5 oz and 9# 4 oz babies, respectively. I breastfed both babies and when my milk came in, I went from a size C to an E!
In the spring of 2016, I had my consult with Dr. Wang-Ashraf. My best friend for the last 16 years, Randall, was by my side. He has been working with the good doctor for the last 4 1/2 years. He is the one who got me to the consultation. Randall was going to be a part of my surgery too!!!
I felt such relief when Dr. Wang-Ashraf examined me and said, “This is skin… you cannot exercise it away.” Finally! I was diagnosed with diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles commonly seen after pregnancy. It is real, and more common than you think.
My mommy makeover was scheduled for June 13, 2016. I was to have gummy gel breast implants, a tummy tuck and some liposuction. I had my preop the morning of surgery. Dr. Wang-Ashraf spoke with me and marked my breasts and tummy; I spoke with my anesthetist, and then I was rolled to the operating room. After a quick kiss from my BFF, I was asleep…
I remember waking up in the recovery room and feeling groggy. Because of the long-lasting, muscle-blocking Exparel medication for pain I was given in the operating room, I felt fine. (If you choose to have a tummy tuck, opt for the Exparel; this medication lasts 5 days and is amazing!) After the recovery room, I was wheeled to the extended recovery unit in the hospital, where I stayed overnight. My 24-hour stay there was amazing too! The staff were outstanding, and my pain was minimal. I felt some pulling and slight burning in the first part of the evening. The nurses helped me with walking down the hall, going to the bathroom, and changing into my gown from home. They were all so happy and friendly. I am a nurse as well, I was blown away by their great attitudes and wonderful care.
Dr. Wang-Ashraf came in the next morning and took the bandages off my breasts. I had this amazing brown tape all around my incisions. It was to help the skin stay flat and not buckle. I had 2 small drains for my tummy. They were functioning properly and painless. I had a binder over my tummy and would for the next few weeks to come. Everything looked good, and I was sent home. I felt amazing.
I stayed home for 8 days and went back to work on the 9th day, but only for an 8 hour shift. The average time off is 2 weeks but I had no choice. I felt good–really good! My post op appointment was fantastic–I was healing appropriately. I was taking all medication prescribed to me around the clock. Take it from me, taking your medications is so important–especially the stool softener!
I highly recommend the Artisan practice and Dr. Wang-Ashraf to everyone I come in contact with–I have handed her number out more times than I can count! Her work and skill are amazing!!! I never thought it would be so easy. However, you have to follow her instructions! Don’t lift, don’t carry , don’t overdo. My advice to you is this, save your money and have yourself made into the self of your dreams by Dr. Wang-Ashraf!
I had a great surgery and recovery. My tummy drains had to stay in longer than expected but that was ok as well. I can’t say enough great things about Artisan! All the staff in the office are amazing and kind. This is the only place to have your makeover.
Thank you to everyone who took care of me. May you be lucky enough to have them take care of you!
All my love and gratitude,
Heather Hall