Joanne tells her story...
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Istanbul is an unlikely location to have an extreme makeover but is becoming a popular destination for surgical procedures. With prices approx. 1/3 of the UK and with 5 star treatment all the way, this is an experience not to be missed.
The Arrival
Arrival in Istanbul airport was to bright sunshine. We were expecting snow, so the transfer to our 5 star hotel was much easier than expected. The concierge at the door to take the bags, friendly staff and plush surroundings make me feel like a queen.
Later we meet up with the doctor to discuss ME ME ME, I was planning total facial rejuvenation. I had previous had my nose done twenty years ago (the first of many cosmetic procedures, this being my sixth!). Dr. Nazım Çerkeş noticed that the cartilage was cracked and disintegrating from my previous operations (yuk).
I was happy for him to do whatever he thought was technically correct, after all he has done hundreds of procedures before mine and is probably the most highly acclaimed cosmetic surgeon in Turkey. He had just returned from the USA where he is regularly a guest lecturer on Rhinoplasty (nose jobs). I figured if he is that good at noses (which are the most technically challenging) then the rest is a doddle.
The Hospital
Transfer to the hospital felt more like a hotel upgrade, with everything gleaming and the most luxurious atmosphere, it was hard to believe you were in a medical institution.
The next morning Nazım came to mark me up. I'm sure the felt tip markings all over my face were not helping with my escalating nerves!
Nazım came in one last time before surgery explaining that he was going to give me the injection of courage (I think he meant pre med!).
The next second, I heard his voice. I knew this was it. I was going to surgery. To my astonishment it was all over. I had been under for 8 hours, 3 of which had been on my nose. Amazing! There was no nausea, no shaking I couldn't believe it. I had a bandage wrapped round my head and looked better than I had expected. I felt fine and got up to get a drink out of my personal fridge with no pain whatsoever.
The Morning After
The next morning I was discharged. My head bandage was removed to leave only the cast on my nose. I had a little yellowing around my eyes and felt little bloated. We went back to the hotel at last. I laid watching telly in my room but felt fine so decided to brave the restaurant and went down to a dinner buffet. A fabulous array of fine food was laid on. I ate loads and for only £6.00!!
The next day I was well enough to go shopping. I managed to buy 6 pairs of leather boots - retail therapy is a great healer. With my dark glasses on and headscarf I felt just like Jackie Onassis. The rest of the week was spent sight seeing and shopping with little resting in between.
My Journey Home
After 6 days, we were coming back to UK. My cast had been removed on day 4 so only key stitches were left in which can be removed after 10 days by our company nurse. Pulse Beauty are planning monthly trips for all types of surgery.
by Joanne Baum - Director of Pulse