Mommy Makeover Patient Testimonial
May 18th, 2012After having my third and final child, I vowed to regain my pre-pregnancy body. Little did I know that nature had taken a toll on my body that even diet and exercise could not turn back the clock entirely. After years of diligently working out (running & strength training), I still had excess skin that just hung out of everything. Not only did losing weight (body fat) leave me with a tire around the middle, but now my breasts resembled udders.
When my youngest was three; I couldn’t shake the idea that a tummy tuck would be the best alternative and alleviate all of the gloomy talk inside my head. I began researching online about the various procedures, recovery, prices, how to pick a doctor, what to look for, and pre/post operation pictures. But then I felt overwhelmed… in way over my head and I let it go. But every time I showered, got dressed or wanted to wear something my mind was plagued by the negative thoughts about the excess skin drooping all over.
Six months went by and I decided enough was enough; I could go consult with three doctors and then think about what I experienced and heard. The consultations were free and I did not need to make a decision on the spot. I booked three appointments within a two-week period, with three different plastic surgeons in the Temecula/Murrieta area. I liked the first doctor, but felt uncomfortable naked in his presence. The second doctor was an egomaniac, which left me wanting to run out ASAP. After seeing an office worker’s scar incision, I actually considered not having a tummy tuck at all.
My final appointment was the Monday after my Friday nightmare appointment, I even considered canceling. I am so thankful I changed my mind; for that is the day I met my surgeon Dr. Pousti. From the moment I arrived in his Murrieta office I felt at home, with the inviting scented candles burning, the sounds of a gentle waterfall mixed with instrumental music lingering about the office. The warm smiles of the office staff confirmed for me that I was in the right place.
I am not going to say I wasn’t still nervous or I’d be lying. But, my first appointment was completely different than the other two appointments in the respect that I went into a large room with leather couches and watched an informative video about Dr. Pousti’s purpose and practice. Then he came in and talked with me about my reasons for being there and any questions I might have. He easily calmed my nerves with his gentle, calm demeanor.
Dr. Pousti was the only surgeon who told me that he doesn’t advertise, because good work—leads to word of mouth and that is the best advertising. He also shared with me that he actually turns away 50% of the people that come to him, as their reasons are for other people, etc… Dr. Pousti encouraged me to be at my desired weight before having any procedure, as it would ensure fantastic results versus great. I explained I was having a difficult time dropping the last 15lbs and he suggested trying Medifast. I was never pressured or even haunted with follow up phone calls asking me to make a decision (which other offices had).
I found his morals, ethics and values well substantiated, so I started Medifast to drop those final 15lbs. Medifast was simple, quick and I actually lost 20lbs. I used Medifast for four months and then two months of maintenance. While using Medifast I would drop emails to Margie, who was always extremely helpful, understanding and swift in responding. Six months from my first appointment, I scheduled a follow-up to show Dr. Pousti that I lost the weight. He was so impressed with my tenacity and effort.
From there it was just figuring out when I could schedule in the needed recovery time (4-6 weeks, is a long time). I was finishing my Master’s, I have three children in numerous activities and I was working. I secured extra help from my mom for two weeks, which was a lifesaver! Each time I would make a tentative date in my mind, something would come up. Finally I told myself there will always be things that come up; it was time to just secure a date and everything else would have to work around it.
The moment I picked the date, everything came up…but I stuck to my guns and politely declined each event. Two weeks before surgery I met with Dr. Pousti to get prescriptions, discuss the operation in depth, post-op recovery, what to expect and any questions or concerns. This was one of my most favorite appointments, as I could feel it was all really going to happen for me. I was so excited. The Wednesday before my surgery (Friday), I met with Dr. Pousti and together we sketched out where incisions would be made, where liposuction would occur, what my expectations were and what music I wanted played while in surgery.
My surgery day is still vivid; yet short in my memory, as much of it I was asleep. The surgery center and staff are an extension of Dr. Pousti in kindness, gentility and professionalism. I experienced very little wait time at the surgery center and was well informed by the anesthesiologist. It was as simple as holding Dr. Pousti’s hand and falling into a deep sleep. Moments later, I awoke…the operation was over and I felt just a bit groggy and nauseous. After I got home, I made it up two flights of stairs, got in bed and slept. Every few hours I had to awaken for exercise, or meds, or drains, or something; but I just rolled with the punches. The medication really made the entire experience very comfortable.
Post surgery office visits (3 days, 1 week, 2 week, 3 week, 4 week, and 2nd month) were always managed in a timely sequence with loads of friendly smiles and genuine concern (Thanks Daisy and Vanessa). I did have a few bumps along the way with my own personal healing, but it was addressed and taken care of with the utmost care and concern. I am now 100% healed and 200% satisfied with my results. Dr. Pousti says that the final results I won’t even see for another few months… So I guess I will be absolutely blown away…just as I have been from the wonderful experience at Pousti Plastic Surgery!
Kudos to you all












