Post-op

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My GRS with Marci Bowers, and breast augmentation with Joel Beck on Friday went extremely well. I wasn't sure whether or not I was going to post anything about my surgery, either here or anywhere else, as I can't imagine a more personal thing I could experience. I also worry about the feelings of people who want and need this surgery, but can't get it for any number of reasons. There is very little fairness in this process for so many of us.

I got to see my new (or at least repurposed) genitals for the first time yesterday morning. My boyfriend had stayed with me overnight, so at 6AM, after the nurse had removed my bandages, I asked her to leave the room, and I called over to my boyfriend to awaken him. He figured I needed for him to help me with something, but I told him "Just come over and look".

So he moved beside me, and we looked at my vagina. It was dimly lit in the room and still dark outside. It was an incredibly intimate moment, and it is my favorite memory of my life so far. He held my hand, we talked softly about what had happened, and I cried a little and thanked him for being with me - he hadn't left my side since the surgery. I love this man with all of my heart, at least such as love works for me. The only thing I could imagine that might have felt comparable was a young couple together holding their new baby for the first time. Sadly, that isn't in the cards for us, but this'll do.

So I have noticed several things so far. It's much quieter in my head now - my Dysphoria seems to be gone. I feel great! Just the pressure of that thing laying against my body felt wrong I guess, because I notice its absence, and it's very nice! My sleep is quiet, my dreams so far, just dreams. I can imagine wanting to nap just because it's nice to nap now. I feel so much better.

The only part of this that surprised me was how unpleasant it is to be catheterized. But other than that, this process hasn't been bad at all. I'm a bit itchy - I seem to be allergic to the antibiotic they gave me. Benadryl is helping with that.

I should be released from the hospital today, and I am ready for it. I have follow ups later in the week, and I'll lose the catheter at that time.

I'm here in California until the 14th, barring complications.

Paula;

Such good news and I'm so so happy for you. What a touching post and to have someone to share life's experiences is a blessing.

Here is to a smooth recovery. Congratulations and best wishes.

Cheers... Jennifer

:cheer: :cheer: :cheer:

Hugs,
Persephone.

So very very Happy for you. Thank you for sharing. And yes you got quite a guy there. Hugs to you both,and your sister.
😄 Christina

All the biggest congratulations, Paula. I can't even imagine the joy you're feeling. Have a nice speedy recovery.

congrats Paula!! Thrilled for you that it went so well. And to have someone special to be there for you is priceless.

I hope the remainder of the recovery is speedy and complication free.

be well,

Erin

Hi Paula,

Congrats on this part of your journey and a speedy recovery.

Cheers

Isha

Congratulations, Paula! I'm glad to hear everything went smoothly. Please take it easy and get lots of rest. Now is as good a time as any to binge-watch some new shows...

I'm so happy everything has gone well for you. Having been in hospitals for three long stays, my advice is to get up and WALK as much as you can as soon as you can. Things tend to shut down and then don't want to get going again! Good luck!

Congratulations Paula! Get well soon.

So nice to hear, I hope you heal quickly.

Congratulations Paula, another milestone reached and passed with flying colors. Recuperate well and enjoy all those very special moments. They are important.

Paula, congratulations on achieving a greater degree of congruence, for want of a better term. Mimi and I are sending good Karma your way!

I am very glad that you decided to share your experience here. Yes, there are those who cannot follow your path for various reason, but the present is not forever. Real experiences from friends that we know are extremely valuable to everyone who may be contemplating such things.

Your boyfriend is a peach. Hang onto that one!

Do keep moving, but don't overdo. My view from the outside is that a woman is pleasantly surprised that she isn't as debilitated as she thought she would be, gets really active for one day, and pays the price afterward. Slow and steady wins the race. :meditate:

Congrats Paula!! Wishing you a speedy recovery...

Congratulations, I hope your recovery continues to go smoothly

Omg, how Wonderful. The first thought on my mind was wow another girl has been born. Take care

congrats!

Come by my place before you leave and we'll do some grillin' and swillin'

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

so happy to hear from you...so happy for you!!!

the thoughts you are having sound very similar to mine...

relax as much as you can!!

Congrats from down under as well... Wishing you a speedy recovery xx xx xx

I am so happy for you on your new life as a Lady.

Peggy

Tanks for the update Paula, hope you get well soon.

Must feel great. Speedy recovery.

congrats to you Paula and wishing you a speedy recovery! :)

I'm so happy for you Pula and a bit jealous. I fear this will never happen for me but that's all my fault. Enjoy your new life,
Hugs
Beth

Congratulations, Paula! Your turn to smoke a (pink) bubblegum cigar, I think.

:) Lallie