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Elora H.

Location: New Zealand
Procedure: Extreme Makeover With Tummy Tuck

"Seeing my stomach for the first time in over 10 years left me indescribably happy! It truly was the cherry on top of my weight loss journey and the culmination of all of the hard work I had put in."

Q: Tell us a little about yourself and what made you decide to get tummy tuck plastic surgery?

EH: After losing 55kg (120lbs) naturally through hard work, diet, and exercise, I was left with a lot of excess skin. The apron of skin I carried around my stomach was so heavy that it had begun to cause me medical issues. After being denied funding for a skin removal surgery in my own country, Dr. Cat saw my story and reached out to me. A few months later, I was booked in for the most life-changing surgery! My journey was just beginning.
Q: Now that you’ve gone through this journey, what’s your life like? Any plans or new outlook for the future?

EH: I’m now 5 years on from my extended abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) with Dr. Cat and I can truly say it has changed my life. Not only are my medical issues has gone, but my quality of life has improved immeasurably. Having never worn anything figure hugging, my confidence improved so much so that I can now wear a skin-tight dress and embrace my natural curves and flat stomach. I cannot wait to head back to Dr. Cat for further skin removal surgeries in the very near future.
Q: Tell us about your emotions and how you felt throughout your Plastic Surgery journey?

EH: Excitement was the main emotion that I felt throughout my Plastic Surgery journey with Dr. Cat. From my consult throughout to landing in LA, for me, it was a magical and exciting experience! I wasn’t nervous because I knew I was in more than capable hands and my post-surgery recovery was a breeze. Dr. Cat is so kind and caring and the level of service she offers her clients is second to none.
Q: How did it feel when you and Dr. Cat met and decided that your procedure was the right for you?

EH: Being from New Zealand, I first met Dr. Cat via a skype consult. Being told that the extended abdominoplasty was exactly the right surgery for me confirmed all of the feelings I had had prior to meeting with her. Knowing that there was someone who understood the issues I was going through and who was going to help me remove those issues was not only a relief but super exciting!

Dr. Cat posing with a patient during a consultation at her clinic

Q: How did it feel when your new body or new look was revealed to you?

EH: Seeing my stomach for the first time, and being able to see my belly button for the first time in over 10 years left me indescribably happy! It truly was the cherry on top of my weight loss journey and the culmination of all of the hard work I had put in. Dr Cat had done the most beautiful job, and my belly button is perfect! You wouldn’t even be able to tell I have had surgery.
Q: What do you think other people should know before undergoing Tummy Tuck Surgery?

EH: Do as much preparation in advance for your recovery as possible. I spent a lot of time considering ways to make everything easier for myself post surgery. I bought extra pillows for comfort, plenty of towels and prepared healthy nutritious meals in advance. You need to rest up, so by doing these things ahead of time you can focus solely on healing.
Q: With so many other doctors, why did you and why should others choose Dr. Cat?

EH: I was so lucky that Dr Cat found me. I would never have known about her otherwise! As soon as I met with her and saw her work, I knew she was the right surgeon for me. Having seen other male plastic surgeons, it was a breath of fresh air to consult with a female surgeon who understood what I wanted. Not only does she have the most beautiful post-surgery results I have seen, her bedside manner is incredibly caring and comforting.
Q: Is there a particular moment or memory that stands out for you?

EH: The entire experience with Dr Cat and her team is such a fond memory for me, I felt so welcomed and cared for.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

EH: If you’re wondering whether or not plastic surgery is for you, book a consult with Dr Cat! There is no obligations, no pressure and regardless of what you decide, you’ll leave your consult feeling listened to and confident in your decision.
Q: Favorite Tummy Tuck Surgery Memory?

EH: Waking up to see my beautiful, new, FLAT stomach.