Patient Stories
Patient Testimonials

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Patient Stories

Kathleen's Total Body Transformation
Kathleen had been obese all of her life. While she'd managed to lose 150 pounds on three different occasions, her struggle to recover from her compulsive overeating continued until she found and committed to following a strict 12-step program. While on the program, she lost 160 pounds and knew that this time she would keep the weight off. With this certainty, Kathleen had the courage to continue with her body transformation. Of the loose skin and sagging breasts her weight loss achievement left behind she says, "I lost a lot of weight, but it wasn't satisfying to see myself in the mirror."

Finding the Right Cosmetic Surgeon
Kathleen researched plastic surgeons online and even met with 4 doctors in person. She recalls, "I fantasized about getting an extreme makeover." Kathleen is a serious kettlebeller (a Russian form of weight training) - a woman in her kettlebell class had a very successful breast augmentation in Los Angeles with Dr. Stevens and recommended him to Kathleen.

Kathleen visited the Marina Plastic Surgery Web site and was appreciative of all the information it provided regarding risks, side effects and scars. She especially liked that Dr. Stevens was a proponent of combined surgeries, knowing that having several procedures performed during one surgical session would help to minimize her recovery time. Kathleen had found the doctor she was looking for - the next step was to meet with Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. Grant Stevens in person. "I wanted to know what his work was going to look like," she says, "because I was going to be wearing it."

She met with Dr. Stevens to discuss the procedures that would best take care of her problem areas. Initially, she expected to get an arm lift, a laser bra breast augmentation with implants, and a tummy tuck and had plans for a thigh lift and mini facelift later. Dr. Stevens explained that instead of a tummy tuck, she really needed a total body lift to get the results she desired.

Plastic Surgery after Weight Loss in Los Angeles
Working with a homeopath in Northern California, Kathleen prepared for her big day. Kathleen was in surgery for approximately five hours and once everything was completed, she was released to the Serenity Surgery Aftercare Facility in Santa Monica. Charlie Sheridan, the Director of Marina Plastic Surgery Associates, had made all of the arrangements, and Kathleen remained there for 4 days, receiving around the clock care. She then stayed with her brother's family in Southern California for 2 weeks until she was ready to go home.

Looking back on her recovery, Kathleen recalls that she experienced very little pain. She says it was a dramatic experience psychologically, noting that her body had been traumatized by the surgery, having lost 10 pounds of skin. She remembers, "Before going to L.A., I had some concerns about living in a body without all this hanging flesh, since I've been an obese person all of my life. Surprisingly, that never happened. The day after surgery the skin was gone and it was like it was never there."

New Look, New Outlook
Today, Kathleen can hardly believe her new body. She says, "Dr. Stevens is so good at what he does. I cannot tell you how beautiful my results are. I told him, 'You're a miracle maker!'" As an added bonus, she ended up with a figure she'd never dreamed of. Kathleen says, "Most people go into plastic surgery because they want to get their youthful body back. I never had that body. I feel like I went in with the mindset to get a clean-up, but I got this very glamorous, beautiful body." And she's grateful to Charlie and everyone else at Marina Plastic Surgery Associates for providing such a loving and supportive environment for her experience. Today, Kathleen is looking forward to her thigh lift and mini facelift in Los Angeles to complete her transformation.

Interested in learning more about plastic surgery after weight loss? Come in and talk with our doctors in person. You can save up to $150 on your consultation when you request an appointment online and schedule during one of the select times our surgeons have set aside exclusively for Web visitors. Or, feel free to call us at 877.289.1928 to schedule your consultation.

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An Extraordinary Life by Design
In some ways, Patty is not a typical plastic surgery patient. For one thing, she let herself be influenced by what others might think for three years before getting serious about breast implant surgery. But after finally deciding to put her figure in the hands of Dr. Grant Stevens, Patty now says she's living "an extraordinary life by design."

Patty's Community
Although she had been unhappy with her breasts for what seemed like forever, Patty was hesitant to explore breast augmentation. She comes from a tightly-knit Hispanic community, and many people she knows do not yet feel very accepting about plastic surgery. At the same time, because relationships between family and friends are central to community life, Patty says people tend to talk about others. She worried about being judged. "I let my belief system stop me," she says. "It went on for about three years."

Family Matters
Patty is also unusual in that, at age 29, she's the mom of a 13 year old. "Yes," she says, "I had my son at a young age!" When her son was born, Patty says she really wasn't finished developing herself. She feels the pregnancy impacted her body even more than it would have if she had been older. She says all her sisters are well-endowed, "and I believe I would have had the same." Instead, Patty had size B breasts that were already saggy before she left her teens behind.

"Through time, I started noticing different women and how sexy they looked," she recalls. "I was so self conscious about my bras and bikinis." Patty had a girlfriend who had gummy bear breast implant surgery with Dr. Stevens and Patty loved the way her friend looked. She wanted to find out more about surgery for herself, but was especially concerned about what her family would think. Her mom advised her, "Do what makes you happy."

Choosing Her Surgeon
Even though she was already leaning toward working with Dr. Stevens, Patty says, "Of course I did my homework first." She knew Dr. Stevens had a reputation as a top surgeon, but she spent a lot of time on his Web site. She looked at the before and after photos and learned more about his experience. Then she arranged her consultation and took her girlfriend with her.

"I was really nervous," Patty recalls. She was first welcomed by Charlie Sheridan, the practice director, then met with Dr. Stevens. Patty remembers, "He had a very professional manner. He made it comfortable to open up."

The Big Decision
Patty says she went to the consultation convinced that she should be a small C after surgery. "A key factor was I didn't want to stand out too much in the Hispanic community," she says. Plus, she "Didn't want the porn star boob job." She laughs, "This is LA! We already get judged enough!"

But Patty kept thinking about her girlfriend's great looking size D breasts. And the more Patty talked with Dr. Stevens, the more Patty says "she got really excited and something shifted." She started wondering aloud what it would be like to go bigger. Dr. Stevens told her she could also be a size D and look natural with gummy bear breast implants. Patty remembers she thought to herself, "I'm going to trust him to do his job. He wouldn't tell me it's ok to go big if it wasn't."

The implants Dr. Stevens ultimately chose for Patty were 525cc. Her procedure was scheduled for Valentine's Day, a Thursday.

Patty recalls that her procedure was uneventful. She experienced some discomfort after surgery and it was challenging to have to sleep partly upright. Nevertheless, after minimal pain medication and rest, Patty was back to work on Monday. "I've always been a strong woman and I didn't want to stay in bed," she says. She had some bruising that took a while to disappear, she remembers, and there was a period of adjustment getting used to "the girls." But now, she says, her life has completely changed for the better.

Patty explains that the change she has experienced is much more than just physical. She says she does feel more beautiful and more confident, but beyond that she's ready to live the life she wants rather than do what others might think she should do. "I was ready to live an extraordinary life by design," as she puts it.

Relationship, Career, Life
She had been engaged at the time of her gummy bear breast implant surgery, Patty says, but no longer. She says she's in a different relationship now, a very happy one. "My biggest admirer is my man. He loves how I look and makes me feel comfortable in my body. He makes it easy to feel like me."

Patty also attributes advances in her career in real estate to her newfound self confidence. "My mindset is different; I feel like I can do anything," she says.

Did her community react to Patty's surgery the way she had feared? Some people did talk, she remembers, but Patty no longer cares very much. "My supporters are still here," she says. Most important, Patty says, "I couldn't be happier, and I attract happy people to me."

Patty can't say enough about Dr. Stevens. "In a nutshell, wonderful," is the way she describes him. "He's amazing. He's the most down to earth person you could meet." Patty appreciates the way he listened to her and walked her through her thought process, and she's glad she trusted his advice. Though her breasts are large, she says the compliments she gets are for their natural appearance.

Having gone from being hesitant to explore the idea of breast implants to now being proud of her size D "girls," Patty says, "The only thing I can tell people is to stop worrying about what everyone else thinks and think about your life. Think about living an extraordinary life."

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Beautiful, Normal Breasts; Beautiful Breastfed Daughter

"It's a bit hard to explain," said Becca, "but I just wasn't sure I deserved surgery. I didn't think it was possible for me. It felt more like a dream than a plan for a long time."

Becca's dream of having normal sized breasts took root when she was a youngster in north Florida. "I developed early and quickly," she said. "In fact, the first bra I recall having was a C cup. I know that's not really the way it happened, but I sped through size B so quickly I don't even remember it. I was a C by about age 13."

No one in her family had large breasts, and she wasn't really overweight, so Becca saw no apparent reason she developed the way she did. She had few friends with bodies anything like hers and no one to commiserate with. Her mom tried to help her adjust, but for the 5'3" soccer-playing teen, life just wasn't comfortable. "I know the grass is always greener elsewhere," she said, "but I truly would have been much happier being almost flat. I did not want to be known for having large breasts, so I tried to hide them in minimizer bras, hoping no one would know how big I really was."

Perhaps Becca would have grown more accustomed to her womanly curves as she became an adult, but unfortunately she continued to develop. "In my late teens I was a size DD," she related. "Then, by the time I was 24 I was a 4D. I think that's a size G."

"I had gained some weight, but I was muscular, too," Becca said. "I don't like excuses, so I tried to be as active as I could. I went to the gym, I walked, I did aerobics, I dieted. There were times when I didn't eat right, sure, and there were times when I skipped going to the gym. The guilt piled on when I gained weight, but even when I lost weight, I couldn't see a difference in my chest. I felt guilty that I couldn't make a big difference on my own - that, at 24, somehow I had let my body down, and now I was stuck with the pain. I sunk lower as I could only imagine how bad I would look and feel later in life. I saw a chiropractor for neck and shoulder pain, and I took a yoga class." After finding only a little relief, she started asking questions about surgery.

Right Path, Wrong Turns
One physician referred Becca to a plastic surgeon in her area, but he didn't convince Becca she should go after her dream. "I wasn't happy when he told me he'd detach my nipples completely to reposition them. I would likely lose all sensation and I would not be able to breastfeed."

Becca prayed about her problem and continued search for the right path forward. She never expected her prayers to be answered through a Los Angeles plastic surgeon she happened to see on television. But after seeing Dr. Stevens on a news program and visiting the Marina Plastic Surgery Associates Web site, she began to feel she was headed in the right direction. With encouragement from Yvonne, Dr. Stevens' insurance coordinator, Becca contacted her insurance company. The result? Rejection! The firm denied Becca's request for coverage, deeming her breast reduction surgery "not medically necessary."

Becca set out to prove breast reduction was in both her and the company's best interests. She compiled a package of information for the insurance company, including records of her gym workouts, doctor visits and yoga class. "I wanted them to see that I had made a good effort to take care of myself." She included letters from others, like her chiropractor, and she topped off the package with a personal letter. "I told them the procedure would be preventative for them in the future. I asked them to give me this chance to be more active, healthy and happy."

After months of waiting nervously, Becca got good news - her hard work had paid off, her prayers were answered and coverage was approved. She called Dr. Stevens' office and took the very next surgery opening they had. Breast reduction in Los Angeles was no longer a dream - it was a plan.

The Plan in Action
Becca's mom flew with her from Alabama to Los Angeles for the breast reduction procedure. "The moment we met Dr. Stevens, we knew everything would be fine," Becca remembered. "Dr. Stevens reassured my mom that he would take care of me as if I were his own daughter. And he did."

Dr. Stevens explained his approach to breast reduction in great detail. He said he would separate skin from breast tissue and remove portions of each, but that he would preserve tissue under the nipple without severing the nerves and blood supply. That way, even with her breast size much reduced and her nipple in a new position, sensation would most likely be preserved and Becca would have a good chance of being able to breastfeed. "Dr. Stevens also recommended I have his 'Laser Bra' - the extra internal support he could give me using a piece of my own tissue inside my breasts. That made sense to me - it sounded like it would help keep my new breasts in position longer."

Becca's surgery and recovery went without a hitch. She took pain medication for several days and admitted to being irritable occasionally, but she and her mom were out shopping and sightseeing in Southern California within four or five days. "It felt more like a vacation than a trip to have surgery," Becca said. More than anything about that time, she remembers her feelings about her new body. "Within several days my neck and shoulders started feeling better. When I looked down and saw how much smaller my breasts were, I said, 'This is so great.'"

Three Years Later
That was three years ago. Today, Becca and her husband, Monty, have an eighteen month old daughter Becca has successfully breastfed. Not only that, having gone through the physical changes of childbearing, her breasts in their internal Laser Bra still look great. "Even after breastfeeding, I can honestly say they're perky!" Becca has lost weight too, feeling very comfortable with physical activity. "Running around after my daughter is so much easier than it would have been before!"

So, what happened to that young woman who didn't deserve plastic surgery? She has been transformed in more ways than one. Becca's reasons for being hesitant for so long were complicated. "I believe it's different here in the South," she said. "Though plastic surgery is becoming more and more accepted, most people still don't talk about rushing out to get it. I was just an average person - healthy, with no other real problems. It seemed like an extreme measure to have surgery, and I thought people would judge me, saying that the reason I had large breasts was because I had gained a little weight. Also my husband and I had other places to spend money, and though he was completely supportive and even encouraging, I didn't want to cause a big expense. I think I just felt that breast reduction was out of my reach."

"Once I flew to LA, everything changed for me," Becca said. I was just so impressed by Dr. Stevens and his practice; I would have done almost anything to find a way to have the surgery. Even without insurance; I would have saved for years. It was that important to me."

To others dreaming about breast reduction, Becca has much to say. "Educate yourself," she begins. "Don't let problems get in the way. And don't settle for a surgeon you're not comfortable with. Don't make flying in and out of Los Angeles for breast reduction a big deal. It's no harder than getting the procedure done locally. Take a family member and make a good trip out of it."

"Three years later, I still feel elated. I tell anyone who is suffering like I did how happy I am." No matter what she felt about the surgery and herself before, Becca knows the truth now, and that's why she wanted others to hear her story. "You know your body best... when you've done all you can, don't feel guilty about taking the next step toward health!"

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READY, SET, GO... From Decision to Recovery: A Conversation with Natalie
Natalie is a member of the Marina Plastic Surgery team. She's Assistant to Director Charlie Sheridan, and she also acts as a Patient Advocate and Patient Coordinator.

Natalie had a breast augmentation and breast lift with the Stevens Laser Bra by Dr. Stevens at the tail end of 2006. Given her passion for working with patients, she's eager to share some of her experiences with you.

Natalie, how did you know breast enhancement was for you?
Even though I'm young, my breasts needed to be lifted. They're somewhat large and had already started to sag over the years, so I knew I could benefit from a breast lift. I also wanted my breasts to have more volume at the top. I was frustrated that although I had large breasts, I did not have any cleavage.

But you didn't sign up for surgery right away; what made you finally do it?
I had the same fears about surgery that some of our patients do. I was worried about the anesthesia, as I tend to get nauseated easily. I was also concerned about how much pain I would feel after surgery.

I soon found myself paying special attention to our own patients who would come in with body types and complaints similar to mine. I watched them go through the operative process, and really "tuned in" when these women came back in for their first post-surgery appointment. Patient after patient returned to our office with huge smiles and such gratitude and joy over their renewed figure. I saw them beaming and listened as they made comments such as "I'm thrilled," or "I have my body back," or "I feel so much more feminine and complete now!"

Basically, I saw people who made me think of myself. They often remarked on how they wished they had done this surgery sooner, rather than waiting for so long. I simply realized that, "what they had I now really wanted." It was my time. I was done buying "big girl bras."

So, with all the confidence I could muster up, I walked into my boss's office one day and asked Charlie if I could get the Laser Bra and Gummy Bear surgery for myself.

How would you advise others to prepare for surgery?
Well, first, if you tend to be nervous about these things like I do, forget that for a moment and prepare to be thrilled! Take that nervous energy and re-channel it into excitement! I look at my "before" photos and can't believe I waited so long. Now I can finally wear dresses without a bra, and I'm proud of how I look in a bikini.

What pre-op plans do people need to make?
The key thing is to have someone you trust to help you at home; they'll be your only hands for a few days. My boyfriend did this for me. He made my meals, fed my family of three dogs and two cats, brought my medication; he was just great. If you don't have someone who can stay home with you, the staff at Marina Plastic Surgery can make arrangements for you to go to a post-operative facility. It's extremely important to have a dependable person to be with you following surgery.

You should also get your house ready in advance. I wanted my bed to have clean linens and lots of pillows, that sort of thing. I made sure I had ice packs in the freezer and healthy food to eat for the next few days.

Did you have a lot of pain after surgery? How did you prepare for that?
I expected the surgery to be extremely painful. Although Charlie reassured me that I would be comfortable, I did have my doubts. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised, Charlie was correct, I was very comfortable--thanks to the pain medication the nurse gave me.

I filled my prescription prior to surgery and made sure I had over-the-counter pain relievers as well. I only took the prescription medication for a few days, then tapered down to medication only at night just to help me sleep.

I also had some expected swelling that felt like light pressure on my chest. Ice packs helped tremendously.

Did you feel sick, as you feared you would?
No, I didn't feel nauseated at all.

Did you stay in bed long to recover?
I rested in bed for most of the first few days, mainly because the medication I took made me feel sleepy. After a few days I was up and around, and I returned to work in a week.

But you didn't recover in just a week, did you?
I recovered enough in a week for light work days, but I noticed I felt more tired than usual at the end of the day. Dr. Stevens told me I would feel this way, it's normal. I felt a big difference when I hit the two week mark. My energy really started to return.

When can a patient expect to be back to normal?
It's a process. At about three to four weeks most people can probably go shopping for new clothes and do other non-strenuous activities. You can most likely start taking short walks around that time too. You should expect to hold off on regular gym workouts and heavy lifting until about the six week mark.

What complications were you watching for?
To be perfectly honest, I didn't think about complications. Working here in the office, I've seen many patients go through their experiences. I didn't worry because I saw nothing happen with our patients that concerned me.

Obviously pre-operative instructions and potential risks were explained to me, just as they are to any other patient. I felt I was prepared and well-informed about possible complications, yet I felt completely comfortable. Since I know firsthand the high level of expertise and professionalism we offer here I just didn't think about complications.

Do you have any advice for others about preparing psychologically?
Don't be surprised if one of your loved ones isn't in favor of your surgery. My boyfriend said he liked me just the way I was and he worried about the same things I did. He didn't want to see me in any pain.

Just remember, anyone who isn't you doesn't live your life. They don't know how you feel about your body and how those feelings impact you. Once they do understand what your procedure really means to you, they come around. My boyfriend is thrilled to see me so happy!

Do you have any suggestions for those who may be preparing for a procedure or concerned about the recovery period?
The best thing you can do is choose your physician and practice wisely. You need an experienced plastic surgeon and an M.D. anesthesiologist, plus colleagues that will be with you every step of the way to ensure you feel comfortable and safe.

Even though I work here, I can honestly say there's no other place I would trust. We really take the time to get to know our patients as individuals so we can make sure they feel informed and at ease.

How do you know your approach works?
Every day I see patients head into consultation with concerned looks on their faces, and yet they come out laughing and full of excitement. Dr. Stevens and Dr. Spring are not just skilled surgeons, they have the ability to relate well to their patients and understand their goals and fears.

I know our patients end up feeling like part of the family here. They call us to tell us they're getting married, they're expecting a child, whatever their news is.

Can you sum up for us?
Be prepared for surgery by thinking about what you'll need afterward. Have someone ready to take you home and make sure your home will feel welcoming to you when you return. Have someone dedicated to helping you for a few days. Make sure you can take about a week off work. Fill your prescriptions ahead of time.

Once you get home after the procedure, follow your doctor's instructions. Take your medications and use ice packs, if recommended. And even if you're feeling pretty good, get plenty of rest. Even if you feel well-healed on the outside, remember that you're not entirely healed on the inside so don't overexert yourself. Allow your body to fully recover internally as well, before taking on the weight of the world or running to Hawaii to show off your hot new body!

What if you're talking to a fellow worrier?
I would recommend focusing on how great you will feel inside when you have the body you want. This is one time in your life when you're doing something for yourself. Instead of worrying too much, enjoy the experience and look forward to the results.

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Her Breasts are No Longer Center Stage: Helen's Breast Reduction
Helen is an assistant director/production assistant in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. Working on both movies and television shows is quite an experience for a young woman in her mid-twenties, and Helen loves it. "It's great!" she said.

Until recently, one of Helen's attributes commanded too much of the limelight - her breast size. "I was big in high school," she related, "which was hard because I played basketball." But by the time she reached full adulthood and began her career, Helen was buying bras with size G cups.

Like many women with very large breasts, Helen dreamed about breast reduction surgery for years. "Having huge breasts in high school is horrible," she said. "It was awful for my self esteem. I felt people looked at my chest when they talked to me instead of at my face, and many of them actually did." Helen also said her breasts impacted the way she felt about interacting with guys during those years. "I didn't date at all," she said, "I sort of avoided that whole thing."

As she started work in the entertainment field, oftentimes Helen still felt uncomfortable with others, believing that her breasts played too big a role in her identity. "I always thought that was the first thing people noticed about me." Her breast size also affected her physically. She experienced back pain, and her physical activities were limited. "There was no way you'd see me jogging," she said.

Large breasts are a trait in Helen's family, and she first started getting serious about surgery when her aunt had breast reduction in Southern California with Dr. Stevens. "My aunt raved about it, she said it was the best thing she had ever done. I saw her start to lose weight as she was able to be more physical." Helen explained that her aunt was honest with her, telling her that breast reduction is real surgery with some discomfort and a bit of recovery time. "But she said her results were great and it was well worth it. She really encouraged me."

Another aunt went with Helen to see Dr. Stevens. "He made me feel very comfortable; he was sensitive and understanding. He said 'let's take care of this for you.'"

Having made the decision to move forward, Helen was apprehensive. Though her fears were very common, she admits they weren't the most rational. Part of her worried that she wouldn't wake up from the anesthesia, another part worried she might wake up too early. "The anesthesiologist was very good. He reassured me that the surgery was routine. He explained exactly what he would be doing, then he went ahead with it right away. He didn't give me time to dwell on it."

Like many patients at Marina Plastic Surgery, Helen stayed at the Serenity Center for the first night of recovery. As a single person, another concern she had was being alone after the procedure. "The nurses at the Serenity Center were great," Helen said. "They let me get my rest, which was what I needed, but they were nearby too. I felt at ease there."

Helen experienced some bruising and moderate discomfort for a few days after surgery. She took pain killers for two days then, because she's sensitive to pain medication, she chose to discontinue taking the prescription. She switched to over-the-counter pain relievers and found she could handle the discomfort that way.

Helen ended up taking about a month away from her job. "When I went back, I was ready to do everything except heavy lifting." She was more than ready for the changes she experienced. "I have so much more confidence now," she said. And she enjoys the fact that she can find bras that actually fit her and has her choice of tops to wear.

"I would do it all over again, without a doubt," Helen says of her surgery, now almost a year behind her. And if anyone asked her advice about having breast reduction in the Los Angeles area, she said "I would absolutely recommend surgery with Dr. Stevens."

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A New Beginning in New Orleans
"I don't want to make too much out of the fact that my family and I went through Hurricane Katrina," said Sheila, a 50 year-old mother of two. "We didn't lose our home like so many people did." Nevertheless, Sheila would be the first to admit that, unusual as it may sound, the storm played a part in Sheila's breast reduction surgery in the Los Angeles area with Dr. Stevens.

A few months after Katrina, Sheila and her family were still living the life of evacuees with relatives in the northern part of Louisiana. Like many other people, Sheila felt depressed. She felt something had to give. "I couldn't control Katrina," she said, "but I could control this." She decided to get serious about breast reduction.

The long process that led Sheila to fly in to Los Angeles for breast reduction started when Sheila was young. "By fifth grade, I was a size C," she related, "and by junior high, I was a full DD. And because I had a small frame and weighed just over 100 pounds, I was 'all boob,'" she laughed.

Contrary to the experience of others, psychological issues weren't first and foremost for Sheila. "I come from a very practical family," she said. "My mom is large-breasted too. Her attitude was something like, 'This is the way it is, get a good bra and move on,'" Sheila said. "I learned to handle it." In fact, Sheila pointed out that there were some positives for her in her experience as a girl. "I found the boys were pretty much focused on one aspect of me, so I learned to be practical about them as well."

Harder to put up with for Sheila were the outward problems that come with having large breasts. Reaching adulthood, she found she had frequent back and neck pain. She visited a chiropractor often and she had to limit physical activities to those that were comfortable for her. And as a professional Web designer, she found it difficult to buy business clothes that fit and didn't look "frumpy."

Sheila saw Dr. Stevens on television several years ago. He talked about breast reduction surgery, which was the first time she had heard about it. She happened to see him interviewed on another program a few months later, and she began researching the procedure. She started talking with local doctors including her gynecologist and another plastic surgeon. Her gynecologist hadn't heard of breast reduction and the local surgeon she consulted told her insurance wouldn't cover it.

Sheila started thinking about traveling to Los Angeles for breast reduction. Six months after Hurricane Katrina, she started a conversation with Charlie Sheridan at Marina Plastic Surgery, a dialogue that would end up taking almost six more months. Charlie found that Sheila's insurance would indeed cover the procedure for her. In June of 2006, Sheila and her husband flew to Southern California.

"The surgery itself was much less difficult than I thought it would be," Sheila said. She spent her first night at the Serenity Center, which was a great choice, she noted. "Even though we were thoroughly educated by Dr. Stevens and his staff, we were still a little apprehensive about recovery. Staying at the Serenity Center gave both me and my husband peace of mind. The staff was attentive, professional, and pleasant." Sheila said she had a little nausea that first night, and the nurses at the center were very responsive.

Sheila said she actually had little down time. She spent just two days in bed, then she and her husband went out to see the sights of Southern California. "I took pain medication for about four days, but no one was going to keep me from sightseeing. All in all I had a very good experience."

Now that several months have passed since her surgery, Sheila is delighted with the changes. "Next month I'm running in the Crescent City Classic 10K in New Orleans. It's my first race and I'm excited!" She also reports she has been excited to shop for clothes for the first time in a long while. "Now I can wear blazers and sweaters, you know, more current clothes. I'm less focused on the way I look, and I feel more confident in business meetings with my customers."

Interestingly, Sheila related that she isn't the only one to seek plastic surgery after Hurricane Katrina. Lots of people in the New Orleans area have been down and depressed for some time, she said. She learned she wasn't alone in wanting to make changes in her appearance. "It helps you have a new beginning, a whole new outlook," Sheila said.

If women have the opportunity to work with Dr. Stevens, they'll be in good hands, according to Sheila. "He's very sensitive; and he seemed to know just what size I should be so I wouldn't look too big nor so small that I would seem like a different person. He was just fantastic, and his work is remarkable."

To footnote Sheila's experience, here's an excerpt from a letter she wrote to Dr. Stevens after returning home:

I have some friends who say "it was so brave of you just to fly out to California and trust this doctor site unseen." My response is that while I had not visited your office prior to the procedure, I certainly did my research on who was the best surgeon for this most important (and, as it turns out, life changing) surgery. In fact, I had been researching breast reductions for at least three years, and your name kept coming up -- deservedly so.

Via your web site, your director, Charlie Sheridan, was a tremendous help with gathering information and making a decision. And once the decision was made, your entire staff was helpful in making sure all the pieces fell into place and the experience was a smooth one. They succeeded.

Too, I must add that while you forewarned me to expect an emotional roller coaster for the first week after surgery, I never experienced that. I have been ecstatic about the surgery from day one. The breast reduction was the best decision I have ever made and only sorry that I could not have done it sooner. It has been life changing for me..... new body image, new self-confidence, and I can hardly wait to start jogging! Living in the New Orleans area since the storm Katrina has been difficult at best. Your generosity and expert care gave me a new attitude and certainly a new lease on life.

For other women who may be wondering whether breast reduction surgery is something they should pursue, Shelia has the following advice. "You don't need to go through a hurricane to create a new beginning for yourself. If you're large-breasted and unhappy about it, the procedure can make such an impact on your life. There's just no reason to wait."

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Christy's Perfect Breasts
"After two years I am still excited with the results. I feel very beautiful."

"Breasts are so significant in our culture," Christy Carlton said, "in fact in any culture. Breasts are about nurturing; they give love and life. My breasts are central to my feelings about being a woman."

To Christy, breasts are meaningful in form as well as function. "I'm a visual person," she said. "I have an appreciation for the human body. Beautiful breasts are important to me."

For Christy, therefore, it was natural to pursue her idea of "the perfect breast." "It's not that I didn't feel attractive before," she explained. It's that after three children, my breasts weren't as full as they used to be." After breastfeeding, Christy said, "They just never came back." For the Los Angeles area resident, breast enlargement was a natural step.

Though Christy says she knew from her early 20's that she wanted to take steps to fine tune her looks, everything fell into place for her two years ago. Just reaching her mid-40s, she was a few years out of her marriage and she felt free to pursue goals that were important to her as an individual. And her 25-year high school reunion was just around the corner; she wanted to look her best.

"Charlie gets you on your way to creating the perfect breasts. Dr. Stevens is the man with the magic hands."
Christy called Charlie Sheridan, Director at Marina Plastic Surgery, to talk and get set up with Dr. Stevens. "Charlie is an amazing woman," Christy said. "She makes you feel completely at ease. She gets you on your way to creating the perfect breasts."

Christy had done quite a bit of research about breast enhancement in the Los Angeles area before her consultation with Dr. Stevens. "I knew I wanted gummy bear implants," she said. "I had read all about them and knew they were for me. I also knew what 'profile' means and knew which profile would probably be best for me." Nonetheless, Christy and Dr. Stevens had a lot to talk about during the appointment. "We reviewed photos together so I could show him the look I had in mind. And of course I didn't know what size implant would give me that look. But Dr. Stevens did. Christy says he gives a lot of his energy and attention to creating the perfect breast for you. "Dr. Stevens is the man with the magic hands."

A combination breast augmentation/liposuction/tummy tuck procedure, plus ThermaCool Face Lift, was scheduled for Christy several months before her high school reunion. She went to the event in a "fabulous" dress, an outift she could not have carried off with the same impact before surgery. "An old classmate of mine commented that I'm just like a fine wine," she laughed. "He said I just keep getting better."

"It's great to have the opportunity to reflect on all that's happened two years after surgery," she said. "Today it's hard to remember how I was before the procedure. But I know that after two years I am still excited with the results. I feel very beautiful."

Christy has her perfect breasts. They are a full size 36C and they're firm and shapely. Depending on what she's wearing, she doesn't always have to wear a bra. "Yes, they're perky!" Christy said. "Even my nipples look great."

Discussing what perfect breasts might mean to other women, Christy says everyone should have her own idea about that, with emphasis on "her own."

"Even though I had started dating again," she commented, "the surgery was for me and no one else. Make sure you do this for yourself."

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Patient Testimonials

Dear Charlie and Marina Plastic Surgery Associates:

Words cannot describe my transformation! For the first time in my life I feel "beautiful."

As a wife, mother, grandmother and executive director of a nonprofit agency serving homeless women and children, I would have heretofore described myself as intelligent, loving, positive, and hard working. However, under no circumstances would I have described myself as "beautiful." The past several years I have tried to ignore my aging face by burying myself in my work. Housing abused and abandoned women with children and teaching them to how to leave the past behind, became the primary source of my self-esteem. Additionally, the long hours I was putting into my work was taking its toll on my life, and the proof was showing on my face.

Like most women, I spent a fortune on creams, serums, vitamins and special diets, but nothing really worked. My already damaged self esteem was taking additional hits from store clerks who offered me their senior discount (ouch!), and I am not a senior! I hit an all time low when I reviewed an infomercial that I had prepared in order to raise funds for homeless children. A part of me died that day as I sat and watched "in Technicolor" every reason why those store clerks offered me a "senior discount."

I found sharing my woes with my dearest friend and colleague whom I trust immensely. She kindly listened and then in her typical fashion took action by connecting me with you and your company. While I was somewhat hesitant to do something for myself, my desire to reverse or even minimize the signs of aging overrode my sense of humility.

I must confess that I was a little anxious when I first arrived at the Marina Plastic Surgery office. I was happy and excited but also apprehensive. I was unsure if your practice could erase all those lines and sun damage etched across my face. My fear and anxiety were quickly put to rest when I met your very warm and professional team. Charlie, the Director, greeted me with open arms and introduced me to Carla and Cory, two very caring and professional Physician's Assistants. Together they evaluated the condition of my face and devised a comprehensive and custom treatment plan just for me. I left that first appointment feeling hopeful, and extremely enthusiastic.

The plan included a BioMedic MicroPeel, Thermage and Pearl Fractional treatments, Botox, and fillers- such as Restalyne and Juvaderm , along with some amazing skin care products. Some of the treatments that were suggested I had never even heard of, yet the staff was great and explained every detail of each treatment before they began each procedure. The whole experience was amazing. The treatments were administered in a lovely setting by very knowledgeable, skilled, and caring individuals. I cannot say enough about Cory Felber & Carla Crespo - they surpassed my expectations. For the first time in my life, I feel like a Queen!

Each treatment brought results and new hope. The BioMedic MicroPeel was so relaxing (I loved those warm mitts). My skin glowed and I felt radiant. The Thermage treatment (radiofrequency waves) deeply penetrated my skin where it stimulated my own collagen to lift and tighten my sagging skin. Prior to the more extensive treatments, I was placed into a private room where I comfortably relaxed while the light sedative and numbing cream took effect. The results are astounding! My face looks and feels much firmer and tighter and continues to improve with time.

There was very little or no down time with the Pearl, which wonderfully resurfaced the top third of my skin, while stimulating development of new collagen. The result is the elimination of lines, sun damage, and I was left with soft, baby-like skin.

The Botox injections were so fast and easy...and I am kicking myself for not having done these years ago. I could have prevented so many expression lines by just having a few simple injections every four to six months

The Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse and Perlane fillers have completed my makeover. They filled in and erased the facial lines that remained--even around my lips! Cory and Carla worked together to produce for me the most amazing set of lips. They are completely natural looking, and youthfully beautiful. For the first time in my life I am wearing lipstick. My friend, upon seeing me, exclaimed: "Tara, you have lips! Very sexy." I feel like a brand new woman!

I hope many women take the time to view my before and after pictures, my transformation is so amazing. I look and feel at least 15 years younger. My husband is so crazy about the results that he has set up an account to cover the cost of maintaining the results that Marina Plastic Surgery has achieved for me.

I am so grateful to Dr. Stevens, Charlie, Cory, Carla, and all of the staff; They truly transformed more than my face, as they helped me to see that I am truly "beautiful" and that I both deserve and need to care myself in the same way I care for others

Thank you all at Marina Plastic Surgery for "taking me from crayons to perfume" and, in doing so, restoring my self esteem. May God richly bless each one of you!

With love and gratitude,
Tara

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Dear Dr. Stevens, Charlie, Patrice and Staff,

Thank you so much for your help. The surgery has improved my life. It is so nice not to hurt anymore. No more back pain, neckpain, or headaces. My children thank you too! They have noticed how much better I feel all the time. They get so excited when I can play with them and not hurt. My clothes and bras fit and look so much nicer now. Having the breast reduction was one of the best things I have done for myself.

It would not have been possible without your help. It is great to know that the best doctors are possible.

You all are so wonderful and caring to me and my family. So supportive and understanding to my feelings.

Thank you again!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sincerely,
Jennifer C. and family

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Greetings! Hope all's well.

I am sure that you have heard this all before but I don't feel that that should prevent me from repeating it as it was entirely relevant to my experience. As well as providing you with an update about myself I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your welcome, concern, advice, and care before, during and after my surgery. This is extended to the entire team - from the receptionists, right up to the top guy Dr. Stevens. I felt that everyone I met constituted a wonderful team by being friendly, informative, frank and helpful - Lindsey, Andrea, Sally, Charlie, Tammy, Maria, and of course yourself.

A.

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Hi,
Charlie, I love my eyes and just as you and the Dr said, people remark how much younger and rested I look without knowing that I had the procedure done. And I love putting on eye makeup now. It really enhances the beauty of my new young eyes. Thank you.
C.J.

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Hi Patrice,
Greetings! Hope all's well.

I am sure that you have heard this all before but I don't feel that that should prevent me from repeating it as it was entirely relevant to my experience. As well as providing you with an update about myself I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your welcome, concern, advice and care before, during and after my surgery. This is extended to the entire team—from the receptionists, right up to the top guy Dr Stevens. I felt that everyone I met constituted a wonderful team by being friendly, informative, frank and helpful—Lindsay, Andrea, Sally, Charlie, Tammy, Maria and of course yourself.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

A.A.

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Hello Dr. Grant Stevens and team,
I am busy preparing for a relocation to Texas! Mike and I have dreamed of Lake Living, and we are moving to the Dallas area - www.pinnaclegolfclub.com.

The reason for this email is to say thanks again. I just came across my pictures of before and after and realize how much I have taken your artistry and wonderful care for granted! I still look soooooo much better, and the best part was the investment I made in my face with a facelift (!!!) in healthier eating habits, regular exercise, and renewed confidence.

Thanks again, God bless all of you...I never keep my facelift a secret, I hope some of the people who are amazed at how natural I look head your way!

Love,
P.B.

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To Dr. Grant Stevens and your fantastic staff,
What a blessing and privilege it has been to have my surgery with you all. Everything went smoothly - no surprises.

If ALL surgeons and their staff were as caring and professional as you, I would always want to keep my check-ups and appointments.

My husband and I pray God's richest blessings surround, lift and overtake you beyond what you could hope or dream.

D.H.

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I just wanted to thank the whole office staff for their kindness. My surgery went well as did my recovery, and I am very pleased with the outcome of my Cohesive Gels by Mentor. God Bless You All!
J.D.

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Dr. Stevens and Charlie,
I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you and your staff for the wonderful care you gave me when I had surgery in November. I also appreciate your generosity when I had no one to take care of me immediately after surgery. The care facility was great! I talked about having breast implants for 10 years or more but was always apprehensive since I did not have a doctor I could trust. My friend Sally told me "Dr. Stevens was the best" so I finally made the appointment. When I met you both, you made me feel so comfortable I had no doubt in my mind that this was the right decision. Dr. Stevens, you ARE the best and you have a way about you that made me feel so at ease and safe and I thank you for that!!! I love my new "gummy bears" and am glad I chose them over saline. Dr. Stevens, I will highly recommend you to anyone that is considering surgery. Thank you so much for making this decision so easy for me and for the special care I felt from you and your staff.

Diane

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Good morning Dr. Stevens,
I just wanted to drop you a note of thanks to you, for two years following my enhancement, I am still so very very happy with your work. I remember intrusting you with the sizing, for I was teetering between a B-C cup, and didn't want to go too big for my body type. I have to tell you that you were just RIGHT ON, and people are usually surprised if I reveal to them that they are implants. Everyone compliments that they are so well proportioned to my body — and that really pleases me. Thank you again for the wonderful work, and I constantly refer you to people who are interested in implants.

Actually, I work with a woman who is interested in a lift, and I have given her your contact information, so hopefully she will get in to see you for a consultation. This simply reminded me of how happy I am with my procedure, and wanted to take the opportunity to pass along a message to you of THANKS.

Sincerely,
Lori V.

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Hey Sally,
Just wanted you to know I am doing well. All of you are so beautiful. What a great group of people to work with. I enjoyed my surgery(if that is possible). You know I forgot to ask Dr. Stevens. Were my implants placed partially under the muscle? You know I get there and I have these questions and I see his beautiful face and forget them all! I am sure you hear that all the time!

Sally, thank you for everything. You, Patrice and Charlie were wonderful. And of course Doc......

J.C.

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Dear Dr. Stevens,

Just wanted to follow up with you after 21 years. You gave me a breast implant years ago in your last month as chief resident at Washington University. I was a nurse there and got a great deal financially having 'students' do surgery and anesthesia. To make a long story short, I saw you interviewed recently on some celebrity related program my daughter had on. I thought of meeting you in 1984 or 85 and how you told me that your dream was to work in California - helping beautiful women stay that way! Congratulations on living your dream.

Your bio and web site are great. My implants are GREAT, still. I am nearly 50 years old and have soft, shapely, healthy 36C breasts. Not only that, but I have breast fed babies since the surgery without any problems. Just thought you might be interested in some of your first and finest (!) work.

Good luck and continued success,
Pat A.

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September 13, 2004

I am thrilled with my new gummie implants. I had been considering breast implants for several years, and waited a long time for several reasons. Mainly, I wanted to make sure the procedure was safe, that I would look natural, and that I found the absolute best doctor to perform the procedure. After doing a lot of research, I am happy that I waited to get the gummies and feel fortunate to have found you through my friend's referral. I had also heard about you through a surgeon's office in England.

I had a terrific experience under your care. I was very nervous to have surgery performed. Your nurses and staff were knowledgeable and caring, and assuaged my concerns. From Charlie, who shared with me her personal experience, to Patrice, who helped me with all the necessary arrangement before the surgery and was with me after the surgery, and the rest of the gals in the office.

I was surprised at how little pain I experienced and how minimal was my bruising post surgery, considering what some of my friends had experienced (under the care of other surgeons). I know that this is directly related to the skill of the doctor, and I'm relieved to have felt as little pain. My scar is hardly noticeable (3 months post-op).

My breasts are absolutely beautiful! You helped me to choose the perfect size and shape for my small frame, which look very natural and make my body more proportionate. You are an incredibly talented surgeon (and artist!). I can't tell you enough how happy I am with them.

I made the right decisions going with the gummies. I have very body fat and natural breast tissue, and the gummies feel like they are already a part of me. Best of all, they look and feel amazingly real. My friends who have saline implants are envious, and one is considering replacing hers with gummies.

I would refer you to any of my friends who chose to have breast surgery. You are absolutely the best! Please feel free to use any of my comments on your website. Also, If you have any patients who are considering thesurgery and would like to speak with a patient, I'd be more than happy to relay my personal experience.

Warmest regards,
Suzanne S.

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