Q: Tell us a little about yourself and what made you decide to get Plastic Surgery?
LP: I’m 46 years old and have 3 children. I have always been pretty confident and comfortable in my own skin. I lost 30 lbs and was super happy with how my body was looking, except the excess fat and skin on my tummy. I had thought about a tummy tuck for years but was nervous because there were very few people I know who look great after the procedure. I started doing research and found Dr. Cat on social media. Watching her do procedures and seeing the results finally gave me the motivation to do it.
Q: Now that you’ve gone through this journey, what’s your life like? Any plans or new outlook for the future?
LP: I feel fantastic since my surgery. I’m more comfortable when working out and even wearing jeans. Clothes just fit better. And I would say I have been getting more attention… probably because I tend to show off my new flat tummy more!
Q: Tell us about your emotions and how you felt throughout your Plastic Surgery journey?
LP: I live in Arizona and had my surgery during the pandemic. I was nervous because California was still pretty shut down. And having to stay in town for 11 days had me feeling very anxious. Dr. Cat always talks about the surgery being virtually painless, but I didn’t believe that. I was afraid to be in a strange place and not feeling well. It was uncomfortable, especially the first few days I was in my Airbnb. But I was pleasantly surprised that the pain was super manageable. Actually, the drains were the most uncomfortable part. Once I figured how to get in and out of bed and to the bathroom without messing with the drains too much it was no problem. After 1 week 2 of the drains were removed and I could manage all my care by myself. I felt better every day and could move around more and more each day too.
Q: How did it feel when you and Dr. Cat met and decided that your procedure was the right for you?
LP: We did our consultation over the computer. My husband sat in to help me because Dr. Cat needed to have some specific viewed of my tummy and belly button. He was pretty apprehensive about me having surgery. Even though he was supportive, I don’t think he was 100% on board yet. Once we finished our consultation I remember him saying, “you made the right decision. Dr.Cat really knows what she’s doing. I feel so confident.” Hearing him say that made me feel even more at ease.
Q: How did it feel when your new body or new look was revealed to you?
LP: I remember getting to her office early the morning after surgery. Dr. Cat and Julie came into the room and unzipped my compression garment and I saw my flat tummy. I was beyond happy… no bruising, just a nice flat tummy. If I didn’t have a mask on they would have seen my huge smile. The best reveal was when I’m husband helped me take the compression garment off the next day to wash it. His eyes were popping out and his grin was from ear to ear. He still hasn’t stopped staring at my tummy almost a year later!
Q: What do you think other people should know before undergoing Plastic Surgery?
LP: Do your research. Comparing surgeries with others who have gone for a more affordable option has shown me you get what you pay for. I received lots of unsolicited negative feedback about traveling for surgery and paying too much. I let that roll off my back. You only have this body and this life… make sure you look for the best surgeon. And Dr.Cat is the best!
Q: With so many other doctors, why did you and why should others choose Dr. Cat?
LP: You will not find a more knowledgeable, meticulous and compassionate surgeon, who takes as much pride in their work than Dr.Cat. Watch her social media… she is just as real there as she is in real life. Knowing a fair amount of social media influencers made me think she can’t be that sweet and genuine in real life. False! She is literally as friendly and kind and beautiful in real life as online. And her entire staff is amazing too!
Q: Is there a particular moment or memory that stands out for you?
LP: I let her post my surgery on her Instagram story. That night while in recovery I watched the entire thing. I could not believe how much skin and fat she removed. I must have watched it a dozen times! It was so great that I got to see the actually work she did.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
LP: I am so happy with my tummy. My only regret is not having it done sooner. I am already on the books for a breast revision and who knows what’s after that?! Dr. Cat has made my outsides look how I feel in the inside. I’m so grateful she is my surgeon.
Q: Favorite Plastic Surgery Memory?
LP: I love going in for all my follow-up appointments. I love visiting the staff and coming to here beautiful office.
consultation with one of our Plastic Surgery Experts.
