After the birth of our 9-1/2 pound son twenty-one years ago I had extensive stretch marks, an unattractive vertical c-section scar, and loss of muscle that caused a loose, un-toned ?pouch? no amount of diet and exercise would alleviate. My subsequent pregnancy with our daughter seventeen years ago exacerbated these issues even further. Despite daily exercise and weight loss/weight maintenance, the appearance of my stomach affected my self-confidence and self-image more with each passing year. My stomach was not only unattractive to me but also to my husband.
Though I knew they would do nothing to alleviate the ?pouch? and muscle loss, I have tried a number of topical applications over the years in an attempt to minimize the stretch marks and appearance of the scar?all to no avail. I have considered having an abdominoplasty for quite a few years. One day I saw one of Dr. Rios? ads in the newspaper offering a free initial consultation. Familiar with the practice?s wonderful reputation, and with my husband?s full encouragement and support, I scheduled that consultation.
Prior to meeting Dr. Rios I was a bit apprehensive, but my apprehensiveness diminished as we began discussing the procedure. Dr. Rios is so knowledgeable, thorough, and easy to converse with that our questions were answered and concerns allayed during that first meeting. I really appreciate the fact that Dr. Rios has potential surgical patients come back for a second consultation to further address any additional questions and/or concerns that may have arisen following the first consultation. At the second consultation, we discussed a few more issues and proceeded to schedule the procedure.
From the moment I arrived to have the procedure, on-site care far exceeded my expectation. Meeting with the anesthesiologist and seeing Dr. Rios prior to the procedure definitely calmed any ?day of? concerns I may have had. Pain management was highly effective and I ceased actual pain medication 1-1/2 days after the procedure. The personal contact I/we received following the procedure was phenomenal. Dr. Rios was reachable at a moment?s notice and called the night of the procedure to check on me. Knowing that Dr. Rios was just a phone call away was unbelievable!
The results of my abdominoplasty have so far exceeded our expectation and I am only three weeks out from surgery. Follow-up visits have been filled with encouragement and information?Dr. Rios? staff goes above and beyond to be helpful and kind!
Something Dr. Rios said at our initial consultation with him really touched me at the time and has continued to play in my mind since. As we were conversing during that first meeting, Dr. Rios stated that it was important to him personally to build a relationship with his patients and that he would always be accessible, no matter how big or small the issue/question. That kind of dedication and genuine patient concern are not often found. Dr. Rios? medical experience and surgical skill are proven time and time again?add the personal connection he provides his patients and the care received is truly unrivaled! Thank you Dr. Rios!
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