Young women rush overseas for enlargements from the Gold Coast
Published 13 Feb, 2008, Annelies Gleeson for The Gold Coast Sun Qld.
YOUNG Gold Coast women seeking `hot looks’ in bikinis through cheap overseas cosmetic surgery have fuelled a breast-enlargement boom. The number of Gold Coast models going under the knife has soared from 5 per cent five years ago, to 40 per cent today, said director of Lush Models, Rebecca Lush.
She said the the Gold Coast’s first medical tourism agency in Bundall, had influenced the surge. “Breast enhancements in Australia have always been out of most of the girls’ price range, but now with the much cheaper procedures in Asia it’s become a lot more common,” she said.
Breast implants on the Coast cost between $10,000-$15,000, but in Bumrungrad International Hospital, Bangkok, they are between $3000-$4000. Surfers Paradise model Bronwyn Gendall said it cost her $6000 for surgery, flights and 10 days of five-star accommodation.
“It was quite scary heading to another country for surgery, especially with the horror stories of people having botched jobs done over there, but then dodgy operations happen here too – they’re just not as publicised,” she said.
“Within 12 hours of arriving the breast implants were all done, nothing went wrong and the nurses were so lovely; they came in to check on us at the hotel.” Company Director director Claire Licciardo said women needed to choose carefully to avoid cosmetic disaster.
These changes mean there will be no travel restrictions if you are a vaccinated Australian entering or leaving the nation’s shores.
Morrison also said the government is working towards completely quarantine-free travel for certain countries, such as New Zealand when it is safe to do so.
It will also become easier to enter Australia with the plan abolishing international arrival caps on returning vaccinated Australians.
Citizens and permanent residents fully immunised with a vaccine approved or recognised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will be required to undergo seven days’ home quarantine.
Others will be required to enter 14 days of managed isolation.
After more than 18 months of being shuttered, PM Scott Morrison has confirmed today that Australia’s border will officially reopen to inbound and outbound international travel from mid-November in states that have hit vaccination targets.
You heard it here. It’s finally happening.
Australia’s tough outbound border restrictions will be scrapped when states and territories are expected to hit 80 per cent double-dose vaccination coverage.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Friday revealed the path back to international travel with the new system expected to start in November.
“There are no surprises here, this is what we set out to do,” said Morrison.
“Australia will be ready for take-off very soon.”
Restrictions on people leaving the country will be scrapped at 80 per cent coverage – expected in early November in some jurisdictions.
Current overseas travel restrictions will be removed and Australians will be able to travel subject to any other travel advice and limits, as long as they are fully vaccinated and those countries’ border settings allow.
These changes mean there will be no travel restrictions if you are a vaccinated Australian entering or leaving the nation’s shores.
Morrison also said the government is working towards completely quarantine-free travel for certain countries, such as New Zealand when it is safe to do so.
It will also become easier to enter Australia with the plan abolishing international arrival caps on returning vaccinated Australians.
Citizens and permanent residents fully immunised with a vaccine approved or recognised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will be required to undergo seven days’ home quarantine.
Others will be required to enter 14 days of managed isolation.
Home quarantine face recognition
People who cannot be vaccinated including those under 12 or with a medical condition will be treated as vaccinated for the purposes of their travel.
States and territories will begin this program at different times given varying vaccination rates.
Australian travellers will be able to access an internationally recognised proof of vaccination document (Vaccine passport) in the coming weeks to prove their status.
The TGA will also recognise China’s Sinovac and Covishield produced in India as authorised vaccines to enter Australia, meaning Chinese and Indian students, tourists and business travellers can return.
More than 45,000 people are stuck overseas waiting to come home with the NSW government indicating it wants to welcome thousands into the country when borders reopen.
“It’s time to give Australians their lives back,” Mr Morrison said.
On any given day during high season, this popular Thai beach town would be filled with tourists from all around the world. Jet skis, longtails and speed boats roared through its bright blue waters. Some pulled parasails, their colourful puffs of nylon kites moving through the skies, keeping harnessed bodies afloat. Massive cruise ships could sometimes be seen anchored offshore.
The party lights, for the first time in a decade, had been turned off.
In the evenings, the streets adjacent to Patong’s beach were packed with travellers till long after the sun slipped into the Andaman Sea horizon admiring the famous Phuket sunset. The air typically filled with the shouts of taxi drivers, massage staff and restaurant workers, all in pursuit of the next customer.
Now, it’s a Phuket that is hard to recognise. The majority of businesses are shut, some with “For Rent” signs. Door handles are wrapped in chains and padlocks, while closed hotels have put up rope fences blocking the driveways to their entrances.Even American chain outlets like McDonald’s, Burger King and Starbucks are shut.
The pandemic continues to impact all over the world, and Phuket is no different. But on the bright side, we’re now seeing another beautiful side of this wonderful island – not its attractions or natural wonders, nor entertainment and nightlife, but its kind-hearted people and frontline medical professionals that continue helping others in need during these unprecedented times.
Patong Beach, Phuket is getting ready for reopening on July 1st in Patong Phuket and with a facelift! No more electric cables on the beach front and road resurfacing in progress! Patong Beach is almost unrecognisable!!!!!
Earlier this year for the first time in decades, a large leatherback turtle came ashore at Kata Beach in Phuket to lay eggs yesterday in January. A total of 29 baby leatherback turtles broke through the sand and made their way into the sea at our favourite Kata Beach.The nest site has been sealed off for protection and a thermometer installed to monitor the temperature in the nest.
Karon Deputy Mayor Itthiporn Sangkaew, himself a native of Kata-Karon area, was overly happy about the turtle as were the locals! “As far as I can remember the last time turtles laid eggs at a beach in Kata-Karon was decades ago. Certainly not in the past 20 years,” he said.
Marine life experts from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) reported that the first turtles surfaced at about 10pm last evening and began making their way to the water’s edge with 80 eggs in total in the nest.In addition to the 29 that made it into the sea last night, five were taken into care as they were too weak to make the life-starting journey across the sand.
During the lockdown and in anticipation of Phuket’s reopening on July 1, there have been beach cleanups all over the island . Hotels have continually joined the local community and municipality to keep kata Beach clean with regular beach cleansing during closures.
Director SIS, Mat Christie Hindmarch said his team joining many hotels for our regular beach clean.The SIS Kata – A Dynamic Young and Trendy Resort Situated about 300 Metres up On the Hillside A Few Moments Away Of The Award-Winning Gold Sands Of Kata Beach.
“Hotels have continually joined the local community and municipality to keep kata Beach clean with regular beach cleansing during closures.”
The once popular beaches of Kata and Karon have been hit the hardest are most definitely Patong, Karon and Kata beaches, according to Anthony Lark, president of the Phuket Hotels Association.
“These three enclaves were 95% reliant on international tourism. And it dried up.”For the few who decided to stick it out, life has been incredibly difficult.” It’s very bad for us, he said.
Not many people come. We have only Thai people but not so many. In one day, only one or two tables. Normally we are full downstairs and upstairs.”He says staff are only getting paid half of their regular salaries until international tourists return.
For the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, founded in 2016, closing shop till the tourists return isn’t an option. Whether visitors come or not, the facility’s 12 retired working elephants, which live in the sanctuary’s 30 acres of jungle, need to be fed.”It costs approximately between 20,000 and 30,000 Thai baht a month to feed one elephant,” says general manager Vincent Gerards.
With a dozen animals on hand, that’s about $7,500-8,000 each month. Prior to the pandemic, most of that money came from the many visitors that would pay to experience the sanctuary and observe the elephants for a full day.”Around 85% of the population of Phuket relies on tourism in some form or another, whether they’re working in hotels or taxi drivers, fisherman — it’s all connected and we’re very dependent on international tourists,” says Gerards.”
So Covid obviously had a huge impact when we talk about elephant tourism in particular. More than 150 elephants living in Phuket have left the island since the beginning of Covid-19 because the camps had to temporarily or permanently close, and those elephants were then moved back to their owners who often live in other provinces.”
Phuket SandBox Reopening July 1
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the approved plan will take effect on July 1.”Phuket will be the first destination to lift quarantine requirements for vaccinated foreign tourists under the ‘Phuket Sandbox’ program,” says a TAT statement. “However, they will be restricted to travel activities within designated areas in Phuket for seven days and will then be allowed to visit other Thai destinations.”The plan is reliant on efforts to vaccinate 70% of the island’s residents, with officials requesting more than 930,000 doses. According to a report in Phuket News, more than 70,000 Phuket residents have received their first dose of the vaccine.
There is much optimism that international tourists will begin returning with measures for entering Phuket officially released today June 25, 2021. This is the glimmer of hope and a shining light at the end of our very dark, long tunnel.
For now, Phuket relies on domestic tourists
In the meantime, domestic tourism is keeping some businesses afloat — but just barely. “It has literally been the oxygen that has enabled almost all of the tourism-related businesses on Phuket to continue to breathe and survive.” says Lark, who points to the Bangkok residents that have been flying down on the weekends and government holidays.”But it’s unsustainable. Phuket’s tourism can’t survive at 6% to 8% occupancy. These hotels were designed to run at 30% to 40% occupancy to break even. So it’s helped stem the tide of outgoing grief, but it’s by no means sustainable, sadly.”
It has been a tough time, as Phuket does need international tourists. Everyone has been doing their bit and very creative to try to make the most of the situation that we are in at the moment and somehow managed to find a way. But we need to open up now we are supporting the local community, and we were working closely with local government and central government to get ready, in order to re-open Phuket, and to re-open Thailand, and to be ready to welcome international visitors.
Ekkapan, a street food vendor at Patong Beach, specializes in dishes from Thailand’s northeast Isaan region. He says the demographics of his customer base have shifted but — in spite of being in an area so reliant on international tourists — profits haven’t dipped. “Before Covid my customers were 80% foreign tourists,” he tells CNN. “But now we are serving mostly Thai people. Same money but we have to work harder. Foreigners liked to order grilled dishes, which were easy to make. Thais prefer things like som tom (papaya salad) and larb (a spicy minced meat dish) which take longer.”
The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary has also had to adapt its programs to cater to the domestic market — shortening the time length of its programs and lowering prices while also creating remote online opportunities to connect with their many followers from abroad. It’s helping to put food in the elephants’ mouths, but what they really need is for international tourists to come back as soon as possible.
With the pandemic tossing out an endless supply of curveballs over the last year, a lot can happen between now and July, it’s great to finally see that light at the end of the tunnel and to have a pretty clear plan of what’s going to happen. We’re ready to welcome tourists again!
As the nation gears up to celebrate a muted Thai New Year, this year promises to be a very different Songkran Festival, Laughs, smiles and love are still there from visiting family and friends however the traditional water fighters and splashing thats famous in the scorching April heat with streets and bars spilling with tourists is missing. But…it’s better than nothing.
The Public Health Ministry have taken the ‘song’ out of Songkran for 2021 so there won’t be any foam parties, no water fights, throwing or water pistol battles. The government is promoting traditional Songkran celebrations for 2021 at odds with the massive water battles that have become the norm over the past few decades.
Many people have no plans to spend extra during the holidays, some even cancelling plans altogether and preferring to have staycations in the city with Mo Chit looking unusually quiet for this time of year with 26.5% out of 1,000 people interviewed by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) said they planned to stay home.
Our partnered hotel in Phuket partnered luxury resort in Phuket DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort was full last night with locals and expats enjoying the celebrations!
Carparks are full right now- celebrating beachfront at the brand new beach bar at our partnered luxury resort in Phuket DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort!
FTI vice-chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul admitted that the ban on water-splashing activities — the highlight of the festival — will affect its joyous atmosphere. “We still have a positive outlook. with more money that will at least circulate during the festival because people have more time off than in previous years,” said Mr Kriengkrai.
It is expected Songkran to be less enthusiastic, but business leaders and state tourism authorities have said holding the festival with health guidelines in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19 is better than nothing.
Bangkok however authorities decided to prohibit celebrations, including water splashing, concerts and foam parties, in one of the popular destinations for Songkran revellers. The move aims to contain the spread of coronavirus, but could mean less of a party mood for the New Year celebrations. The news hasn’t been good with a second wave and infection rates up by around 900 plus per day.
We can’t help but to take a moment to reflect on this time in Thailand and all of the changes over the years! Songkran is one of our absolute favourite celebrations. Going forward we together with our partnered hospital and hotel teams, we are ready when travel does re-open even bigger and better than ever re-branded and expanded with a brand new website and more to offer our clients.
Today Nip Tuck Holidays is very happy to continue to work with our long-term hospital partners and new hotels as well as Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and government schemes to together stimulate domestic tourism. Together we will play our part in assisting in the reactivation and stimulation of Thailand’s cosmetic tourism and medical tourism markets and to help related businesses by promoting Thailand by offering our services to locals, expats and international travellers as borders open.
We love Songkran, and we are have some fabulous memories of our April Group Tours at Songkran! They were one of our favourite times as the hot April weather in Phuket and Easter was a time symbolic of transformations and new beginnings!!
Madeline was one of the ladies that shared with us how excited she was as we counted down for our April Group Tour in Phuket!!!!! Oh Goodness the memories feel like they were yesterday and thinking about Phuket we cannot wait for travel to re-open and host these Group Tours to Phuket again as well as other destinations!
“I am really excited about the trip and it’s crept up so quick I started to freak out a little for a moment with having everything organised but then I thought about it and all I have to organise is getting my bag packed!
So there has been no need to be stressed/freaked out/or whatever else!
“The best thing ever has been having Nip Tuck Holidays organise it all. I can say that if I hadn’t of had Claire to speak with and organise my trip, I definitely wouldn’t feel as confident as I do about it all and to be honest I probably wouldn’t be getting it done. “
Fun times with girls in raincoats post-op to protect their bandages from getting wet at Songkran!
The other girls on this trip agreed saying the service and standard of medical care they received as well as so much fun. “The service I have received from this company has been great, and hearing what she has to say and all her knowledge in the area of medical tourism, I feel great. “
“Claire is passionate about her job and you can tell this the moment you hear her speak about it which makes me confident I am in safe hands.
I’ve wanted to have breast surgery for a few years and now that it’s finally happening, I cannot wait! For anyone wanting this, I would highly recommend going through Nip Tuck Holidays!”
The focus of what we offer to our clients is the medical procedure and physical transformation and I would like to thank you for the opportunity of myself and our company being of service to you. For a lot of our clients it is something that you have thought about for a long time. We understand first-hand how you are feeling, because we have been through this ourselves! I have personally had breast augmentation surgery at our hospital in Phuket and I am happy to share with you my personal experience, just as many of our happy clients have.
We are all about making the way you look on the outside match how you feel on the inside.
Happy Songkran everyone and stay safe! We look forward to sharing more of our past client experiences on both individual and Group Tours while we await travel re-opening in Thailand. We have so much exciting news to come about new destinations and Group Tours scheduled when it does so please keep up to date or let us know if you have any questions or would like a free quote or assessment!
Phuket is planning to open their borders from July 1st, 2021 and cancel all quarantine measures for vaccinated international travelers.
We are happy to announce that we are open for bookings from July 1 onwards….📝
Travellers will need to be vaccinated against Covid-19 virus to travel overseas💉
Testing in Thailand for Covid-19maybe required💉
Thailand hopes the relaxed travel requirement will revive its tourism industry
Brand new Nip Tuck hotel partners
US clients can confirm
Australians must apply for special exemptions to be allowed to leave the country at this stage…..waiting to hear from June 17*
Travel to Thailand at this stage looks possible with the Thai Government warming to a plan proposed by struggling local tourism operators. It seems the online campaign has successful put enough pressure on appropriate Government bodies to re-open to international tourists on the basis that vaccination programs will be well underway by then.
Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha said on Facebook that a review of their vaccinations are important first are the first step so they are prepared, as it’s important that Thailand proceed in line with other countries.
‘Those in the tourism business would like to get certified soon. But there is still a lot to be uncertain about. “The main thing is we have to go along with other countries as well”
And this really is the main issue at the moment globally facing us all! We are seeing hopeful signs of the end to the dreadful COVID-19 pandemic and this is a HUGE FIRST STEP!
Tourism is one of Thailand’s biggest industries and major employers, accounting for an estimated 13 per cent of GDP. For our part, together with our hospital teams we are happy to announce that we are open for bookings from October 1 onwards.
AND….. We have a huge announcement to make!!! Nip Tuck Holidays we would like to introduce you to our selection of brand new hotel partners partnerships with a selection of international hotels and resorts for the ultimate recovery post-surgery!
Four Points Sheraton, Patong Phuket
This brand new beachfront, luxury resort two outdoor pools, five fantastic restaurants & bars and the latest facilities for the ultimate holiday in Phuket and recovery post-op. You will come home feeling rested, renewed , looking and feeling like a new person!
In Phuket we have the brand new Four Points Sheraton, Patong Phuket to provide our trademark hands-on approach to our business and clients as you recover in these luxurious surroundings with beachfront views, special privileges and bonus inclusions.
The Doubletree by Hilton Banthai Patong, Phuket is a luxury resort in the heart of Patong Beach.While you rest your body in these luxurious surroundings and ease of access to attractions in Phuket such as shopping centres and beauty clinics which are a favourite post-op for clients recovering from cosmetic surgery.
As our clients recover in these luxurious surroundings with beachfront views, we offer special privileges and bonus inclusions we provide options for companions and even suites to bring along the whole family. As NipTuck clients you will be treated like extra-special guests while you recover from surgery!
In Bangkok, our partnered resort Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 is the best choice for new hotels in Bangkok and so central just a few steps to BTS Asoke Station!
That means less stress and worry about getting around the city in the heat, especially in bandages and when you have stitches. Here you have all that Bangkok has to offer at your fingertips ensuring your best post-surgery recovery possible whilst recovering in Thailand and having an enjoyable holiday!
Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok, Sukhumvit 15 Relax and refresh- sleeping on the signature Four Comfort bed is like sleeping on a cloud, and doctor’s orders upon discharge from hospital.
Recover in style at this luxury oasis while you sample the best that Bangkok has to offer on this vibrant city.
We will be rolling out new surgery holiday packages and prices shortly so make sure you are on your newsletter so you have the latest news! Here are our contact details to get in touch! https://niptuckholidays.com/contact-us/
“The entire trip blew all my expectations I had out of the water. I was amazed at the quality of the hospital and it’s staff. Everyone made me feel so comfortable, in fact, I felt like a princess.
The Dr was so warm and friendly, but also professional it took all my hesitation I may have had.
I would recommend it to anyone if they were considering any cosmetic or dental procedures. I would do it again for sure…”
Donna Pope, Upper eyelid lift by Dr Pathom
“I am greatly amazed at the wonderful services provided by all staff. The hospital, doctors, hotel and not to forget the lovely drivers who transferred us from the hospital back to the hotel.
The beautiful manners and cleanness of the Thai people amazed me.
Claire, you are a truly lovely compassionate lady, I was not once at all nervous or worried because are very calm and a professional at your job.
The upper blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) was pain free, with only slight bruising and swellness but is healing fast.”
Annie had an extended tummy tuck, liposuction to the hips, abdomen, back and waist, and a breast lift/ reduction and implant with Dr Witoon“This was excellent!”
Claire was outstanding, caring, lovely, truly a beautiful person who put herself out of the way to ensure everyone had a good time and their fears were alleviated before they arose.
The customer service is 1000% outstanding!”
Our Group Tour from Brisbane
The day had finally arrived and dreams were coming true for eight exited ladies all over Queensland and one from Tasmania. Together, we were embarking on a journey-of-a-lifetime as part of the exclusive packages offered by Nip Tuck Cosmetic Surgery Holidays exclusive Medical Tourism Group Tour Package ex Brisbane.
There was an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation about the journey ahead, knowing this journey was going to change their lives!
Wow, what an awesome bunch of ladies having breast augmentations, breast lifts, breast reductions, liposuction, tummy tucks, eyelid lifts, Botox, Laser teeth whitening and dental procedures teeth cleaning, crowns and veneers.
The strength of the Medical Tourism Group Tours is having the support of other ladies in the same position, as well as me, which proved very valuable to clients in terms support and her for advice on hand for any issue that may arise.
For Carole and Donna, who were part of the tour and both partially deaf, obviously the language barrier at times proved challenging, so this support was invaluable with all communication with the hospital and hotel.
Prior to the departure, all the ladies had received their final documents with very thorough information including the medical component of the details of their procedure of choice, pre-operative advice, risks of surgery.
I was in touch daily with the ladies and available 24-7 to answer any questions or clarify any concerns including reassuring clients, husbands, mother and family members about the impeccably high medical standards of both the hospital and the surgeons in the global network, as well as the genuineness of their care and concern for all their clients.
The eastern philosophy and culture in Thailand ensures that you, as a client, are the primary concern of our surgeon and hospital. You will be made to feel like the most important person in the world, because, as a client of Nip Tuck and Bangkok Hospital, you are!
Our surgeons, hospital and we at Nip Tuck genuinely care about you, your physical and emotional needs and understand and empathize with the full emotions you are gone through, and take very seriously the trust you are placing in us. We will not let you down!!!
Day 1: Friday July 3
I was eagerly awaiting there arrival at the VIP area of Phuket airport with Maam and New, our very special hospital ground-care staff.
After an emotional greeting, our hospital staff loaded everyone’s suitcases into a mini bus, and together we went directly to the hospital for our consultations with the surgeons.
Seeing is believing- and everyone is impressed!
I love this moment, when the trust my clients placed in me was re-confirmed and my clients finally have the opportunity to see the hospital, meet their surgeons and experience the incredibly high standards of the medical and personal care we offer.
For every one of the clients, this surreal feeling combined with an overwhelming sense of relief and reassurance that this was the best decision they had ever made.
For everyone that has experienced a package hosted by Nip Tuck Holidays, all those negative thoughts and comments about the standards of medical care offered by our company were now laughable.
This view is supported by hundreds of testimonials from happy clients and the exceptional standard of results. We arrived at the hospital to the grandness of the hospital, and were warmly greeted by the hospital staff with cold towels, drinks and refreshments.
Consultation began with the surgeons at 11am. This gave our clients the opportunity to meet their surgeon and have a private and confidential chat about their procedures of choice and to have any questions answered and concerns addressed with an overwhelming sense of calmness and confidence.
We spent a long day at the hospital and were all becoming increasing tired. The medial testing at the hospital is very thorough.
A couple of ladies were having their surgeries the next morning early so had checked into the hospital, so now everyone else was ready to venture down to Patong Beach and check into our hotel.
Everyone quickly dispersed after checking in, some dashing for a Thai massage, others mesmerized by the buzz of the town while Claire accompanied some clients and made a quick dash to the Sea Smiles Dental Clinic around the corner for a dental consultation.
Exhausted and starving and in desperate need of a cocktail by this stage, we had one more job to do before we could relax. So….we went next to get a Thai number and some credit on our phones so we could all be in touch with our families.
We arranged to meet everyone in the hotel lobby at around 6.30- 7pm. So now, everyone had the option of joining us for dinner and a drink, or doing their own thing as we headed to a glorious spot on the beach and ordered a cocktail.
It was an incredible moment as the sun set across the beach and we ordered some dinner. Finally, after a long day, we relaxed. This is the moment were all waiting for, however by this stage we were all so exhausted that the conversation wasn’t as interesting as it possibly could have been……. But already, we all sensed that were had developed a very strong bond of having this experience together and a moment we will look back on with fond memories….
I confirmed with the hospital that all Neshamah and Maggie will be ready for their multiple procedures in the morning including liposuction, tummy tucks breast lift/ augmentation/ revision and reductions and face lifts all to be performed on the ladies the next morning.
I was adamant that the ladies go down to the beach for a massage and some dinner prior to their procedures arranged for them to be back at the hospital ready for surgery bright and early the next morning, while everyone else relaxed in their hotel after dinner.
Day 2: Saturday 3rd July.
Surgeries begin…
An early morning, I accompanied Shelley, with pick-up at the hospital at 6.30am. Shelley from the Gold Coast was scheduled for a lower eyelid lift, neck lift and breast revision surgery with Dr Pongsakorn.
As we arrived at the hospital, Shelley was whisked into her room and into surgery, as I went to be with Neshamah and Maggie prior to their surgery.
For both ladies, the reality hit, making this “very surreal” experience very real. I was there for them, holding their hands and wiping away any tears reassuring them that everything was okay.
It was a great honour and a privilege to have the chance to be there for my clients in their time of need. I understand the emotional and physical process of this incredible journey, and understand it from having the surgery myself. And I think its important to also have the perspective and empathy of witnessing it through the eyes of many other clients as well as the perspective of the hospital and surgeons.
“It is a pleasure for me to support someone else.”
The clients tell me the support is invaluable as they were whisked into surgery…. Mostly lol.
With everyone doing well and confirmed schedule and appointments for the next day, it was now time to enjoy Phuket with some ladies.
Together we ventured out for a little shopping and exploring in spectacular Patong, had a cuddle with a monkey on the street, then stopped for some wonderfully delicious and cheap Thai food and some cocktails and Thai massages.
Day 3: Sunday 4th July
Donna is having her upper eyelid lift today, Patricia is having a face-lift, Carole is having a breast lift and implant and Lauren is having her some liposuction to her abdominal area along with brand new boobs involving a reduction/ lift and implant.
I am very excited another lady is arriving from the Gold Coast today and joining our tour. So, I accompanying the hospital staff and met Lani at Phuket airport.
Very excited to have Lani here!!! I knew Lani from my gym on the Gold Coast! Together with Maam and New-our wonderful hospital ground-care staff, we went to pick her up at Phuket Airport and straight back to the hospital for her consult with Dr Pongsakorn and have her pre-operative tests.
Neshamah – WOW!!!! After an extended tummy tuck, liposuction to the thighs, stomach and hips, as well as breast reduction, lift and augmentation Annie looked amazing and complained a little about a headache.
UNBELIEVEABLE!!!!!!
Her breasts were a little tender she said she was feeling a little uncomfortable and restricted about her position and its awkwardness. That’s it!
Mentally and physically she was fine. I was amazed and so was she both physically and mentally. In fact, she complained about having a headache.
She did not look like she had just come through very major surgery thats for sure. This is a credit to her own strength and the incredible skill of Dr Witoon, coupled with the incredible post-operative care she received in the hospital.
Patricia had her pre-op tests and scheduled for surgery in the afternoon. She was scheduled for surgery at 3pm and could barely contain her excitement and patience as she tried to wait patiently in her room, watch some television and read her book, as her focus drifted….
Within a couple of days Lani was up and about and wanting to explore what Phuket had to offer. She had some friends here we caught up with and we went out to enjoy some Thai food and beer then we went for a Thai massgae, as you do.
Then had some wondered through the shops looking for the ‘secret rooms’ for some gorgeous Louis Vuitton handbags and Channel earrings and Calvin Klein knickers we simply could not resist, then back to the same little spot for more yummy food and beer with some friends from home we saw.
Day 5- Monday 5th July
The next morning I had the opportunity of meeting some clients of mine from Cairns that were there having their surgery. I had only spoken to them on the phone so it was great we had the opportunity to finally meet!
As she was whisked away, I hugged her and reassured her it would be over as soon as she knew it and I will call and check on her tomorrow.
Together with Dr Piyapas, I went to see Maggie post-op and was incredibly moved by Dr Piyapas’s very sincere compassion and empathy in his care of his patients.
He took the time to explain in detail and reassure her, as he held her had, and wiped her tears, and offered support and understanding and humanness rarely demonstrated.
I was there with Maggie as she awaited transportation back to her suite, reassuring her and mostly talking a lot to get to know her and distract her from her physical body to take her mind elsewhere……
Then Lauren, who was off the morphine after her breast lift, reduction and implant- feeling no pain and looking perfectly well.
No problems at all- she just breezed through it!
Next was Pat, who had a face lift. Again- major complaint as a headache. Probably due to the tight compression bandages from her face lift. She had the physiotherapist with her so I left her to it and would check on her later…..
Then Carole – breast lift and implant. Off the morphine, no pain, bounced back incredible with her bright smile and gorgeous sparkle in her eye…… No pain, no problem at all.
Shelley back to the hotel for her discharge at 1pm back to the hotel. She looked and felt amazing, if a little tired, so I advised her to rest and take it easy for the rest of the day. I on the other hand, had to make a mad dash to the Sea Smiles Dental Clinic to accompany some clients and also have some procedures for myself including crowns and teeth cleaning.
I grabbed a yummy coconut Gelato on the way home and had another Thai massage and checking on all clients at the hospital and hotel just to see how everyone was doing.
Lani was happy with the size of the implant and Maggie and Annie who were both doing pretty well. Maggie was sounding exhausted but good.
I called Pat who sounded a hundred percent better, and Lauren who was feeling great. I told all the ladies I would see them tomorrow and get plenty of rest and take advantage of the incredible round-the-clock care they were receiving!
By this stage, everyone had lost track of days completely. It was a blur and I have to say I was completely exhausted! A combination of the flurry of procedures, doctor’s appointments and keeping track of everyone’s process, this feeling of loss of reality was compounded.
Day 6- Tuesday July
I was up again at 5.30am, and again, the first for my big breakfast of eggs and fruit and coffee after coffeeJ I arranged myself and Donna to be picked up from the lobby at 11am so the ladies could visit their sisters. Donna surprised me by showing up with a fabulous tattoo on her left shoulder.
As we waited in the lobby, Lauren made a surprise entrance looking amazing!
I was in awe at the brilliance of these surgeons, and continually amazed at the phenomenal recovery process of each and every one of these ladies.
Donna and I went to see Pat, who after a facelift yesterday came out of surgery with a headache due to the tight compression bandages. I spoke to her last night and I was relived to hear her sounding much better. And today different lady today, as the bandages were off, and she sprawled out on the lounge with her feet up looking fabulous!!
Bruising around to her eye area and face was to be expected, but mentally and physically-WOW!!! She was really for discharge and feeling very pleased. She said there were heaps of people she planned to keep in touch with, but at this moment was feeling like escaping to her own private bubble and listening to her body and just detaching from the world. I completely agreed with her. After her procedures- I advised her is the perfect time to be entirely selfish and let her mind and her body rest, recover and rejuvenate!
Next, Donna and I went to see her sister Carole. So sick of her large breasts, she had a lift and implant to a smaller size which resulted in high, perfect results. She kept peaking at them, just dying to see the results. But Carole’s smile said it all- her face was beautifully lit.
So many success stories!
Next I went upstairs to see Maggie. Her flowers had arrived as a gesture of love and support from her husband Tim, and filled the room with a wonderful smell and warm glow.
Maggie was gradually feeling better- but after her extensive procedures, her recovery was to be expected. The biggest complaint for Maggie was being uncomfortable. In general, I think people don’t appreciate the freedom in their own body until this is taken away……
Her movement was severely restricted, the position uncomfortable, her appetite not completely restored. But she was looking, and sounding, and feeling better by the day. People’s rate of recovery, the pain and discomfort they experience and the rate of healing is so different for the individual. Like everyone else that had breast work, she was dying to rip of the bandages and see the final result!
With any cosmetic/ medical procedure, there is a high degree of swelling post-operative, and the immediate results are very drastic compared with the final results after the standard 6 weeks post op. But day by day, as your body recovers from the trauma, heals naturally and rests and recovers, in the fullness of time, the results are extraordinary- no exceptions.
I went to see Annie, who was dressed in her very glamorous yet comfortable night gown looking fresh and totally amazing, with a gleam in her eye and the due satisfaction.
Everyone was very pleased with her incredibly quick recovery both mentally and physically. Her energy was bright, with an aura of peaceful and surrounded by a healthy, orange glow.
All in all, very positive!!! Together, Pat, Donna, Carole, Lani and I all discharged from the hospital and we taken back to the hotel.
Everyone was very keen to check into their rooms and have the space to do their own things, whether it is just relax, talk amongst themselves in private or explore the streets of Patong.
The shops were a dream, with an abundance of everything you could wish for including handbags, wallets, t-shirt. It was endless…….
The heavy rain of the morning had stopped, and the humidity and heat was moderate. After we ate, we wondered around he shops and explored the markets, shops, and bought some Ed Harvey t-shirts and soaked in the atmosphere.
Day 6: Wednesday July 8
All procedures completely successfully- all done and checked out, apart from Maggie and Neshamah. Maggie was my primary concern at this stage, as he client who had the most intensive surgery and the one most need of my support and attention.
I spent the morning confirming schedules, appointments at the hospital for follow-ups and flexibility around all client needs.
Breakfast again at 6am and feeling very refreshed and rested after a good night sleep. So after breakfast I will call New and arrange a more suitable time.
Walked past the pool which looked way too tempting, so I grabbed my bikini and headed down for a swim and some sun for an hour .
I spent the day at the hospital with Neshamah and Maggie, catching up on emails and attending to client needs and back at the hotel by 4pm, and as I arrived back at the hotel I saw some of the ladies wandering about so I quickly dropped my things at the hotel and went out for a beer and some food and wondered around shopping…… As you do……
Checked on everyone before I fell asleep that night and fell asleep hoping the weather would be spectacular for tomorrow, as it had rained pretty much every dayJ
Day 7: Thursday July 9
The first day I have had an opportunity for a breather!!!! Because everyone had an individual process to their recovery and it is a good idea to pay it by ear according how you are feeling with any tours after surgery. Today, everyone wanted to take it easy so I went to Phi Phi Island for the first time.
It was a long and exhausting day, but WOW!!!! What a day. Pure magic!
Maggie & Neshamah were being discharged from hospital today, so all in all, everyone’s procedures and discharges have been completed successfully, starting on follow-ups- I could try to relax today.
We were picked up and crammed into a mini bus then to a meeting point where I grabbed some flippers and snorkeling gear and some bread to feed the fish and a diet coke to try and pick me up.
The boat ride took about an hour and the first stop was Phi Phi Island. I swum in the gloriously warm and crystal clear beach for about 20 minutes and then together with them quickly explored the island.
Next stop, Monkey Island. The tide was high so we didn’t get to stop, but stopped only inches away from these incredible monkeys in their natural environment where we could hand feed them bananas. I snapped and snapped away, getting myself labeled the “Paparazzi” by the very funny and lovely host of our tour. Oh well, I got some amazing shots!
Next we sailed to another island where I sat outside the front of the boat, snapping away and soaking in the natural beauty of the islands. Next stop, we stopped the boat and had half an hour to snorkel. I grabbed my flippers and put on my mask and jumped into the water.
As people fed the fish, I swum around and with them as they engaged in a feeding frenzy. It was surreal and magical and truly out of this world. I felt like a mermaid surrounded and a part of this beauty of nature.
I touched the fish as they swum around me, swum wish them and in the other direction, so they swum right to me. There were thousands upon thousands of the most beautiful fish I had ever seen. It was intensely beautiful, peaceful and magical.
Back on the boat they kept passing around delicious Thai cookies, and with a free flow of coke, 7-up, water and beer, and we were all starting to get very hungry.
Next we went to another Phi Phi Island for lunch for an hour and a half. The food was a buffet with Thai soup, and what seemed like high fat Asian cuisine. Next stop we had another bat ride to another island where we all sort of dozed a little after full bellies and the humidity.
As I awoke and we pulled into shore, my phone rung (on the island!) and I was delighted to hear from Maggie and Neshamah after their discharge from hospital and confirming plans for dinner tonight at 7.30pm.
What a day!
The wonderful host host kept us all very entertained and happy with his upbeat and genuinely lovely disposition, and we watched in awe as her made some beautifully crafted flowers out of straw. He made me one, and I offered him a tip for another one for both my beautiful girls.
Arrived back at around 5pm, where had a bath, and got ready for dinner at 7.30pm. I was a bit early, so I went for a quick walk down to Bangla Road for a cuddle and photograph with an Iguana.
I arrived at dinner with Maggie & Neshamah and had the most glorious feast and spectacular drag show I had ever seen. Very, very impressive.
I was in bed by around 10pm I think!!!
Final check-ups , finals and recovery and indulging in decadent Thai food and my favourite Mango, ice-cream and sticky rice desserts. I found DVDs for my kids and a couple of things before falling asleep early as usual.
Up at 5am packing, with check-out and pick-up from hotel foyer at 8am.
Due their multiple procedures, both ladies were required to stay a little bit longer. I had a tear in my eye as I left Annie. She was an absolute pleasure!
I learnt about Pat this morning. As we traveled to the airport she told me about her wonderful adventures doing volunteer work with Mother Theresa in India. Wow!! What an amazing woman.
It was wonderful and truly a pleasure to get to know all these amazing ladies individually, and sharing an experience that would have profoundly positive effect on heir lives.
We arrived in Singapore around lunchtime. I was so exhausted I spent the day sleeping, then went down to Chinatown to taste the local food. Shelley and Pat also relaxed and took in the sights of Singapore.
The Public Health Ministry have taken the ‘song’ out of Songkran for 2021 so there won’t be any foam parties, no water fights, throwing or water pistol battles. The government is promoting traditional Songkran celebrations for 2021 at odds with the massive water battles that have become the norm over the past few decades.
