About two months ago, I had plastic surgery done. Let me start by saying that I’m a real person, and I have feelings. I’m posting this to share my experience, but I hope that, even if you disagree with my decision, you’ll have the decency to be polite with your comments. It’s AMAZING what people will say while hiding behind the relative anonymity of the computer. I have had people say things to me in the past that they would NEVER say to my face! So please be kind. This is my journey and I’m not saying everyone should run out and get plastic surgery (it’s certainly not for everyone). Just sharing!
It’s actually surprising how many people have admitted that they’ve had something “done” since I’ve openly talked about my surgery. From nose jobs to breast lifts and reductions to lipo and many other things. It’s a lot more common these days – and a lot more SAFE if you choose an experienced, reputable surgeon.
So anyway…I’ve always been bothered by my “baby face.” Round cheeks and a weak chin, plus a fat pad under my chin that had grown into something of a double chin. At age 33, my baby face features had not gone away. As the president of a social media agency that serves the beauty and fashion industry, I felt that my face didn’t portray the strong, confident woman that I was (am). I wasn’t trying to look like someone else – just me, but better.
Some of you might think I didn’t need the surgery (fair enough), but unless you know me in person, you may not realize that I only share pictures of myself that are flattering. You’ve probably never, ever seen a pic of my profile/side view. And most of the time, I used certain angles or a large smile that made my chin look longer and more proportional.
After consulting with my good friend, Dr. Jon Perlman, MD, FACS, I decided to have fat removed from my neck, buccal fat pads removed from my cheeks and a chin implant added. Buccal fat pads are what give babies those huge, round cheeks. Very cute on babies, but not so much on full grown adults! The theory is that they are actually there to allow babies to breastfeed easily. The chin implant is made from hard silicone. Back when Marilyn Monroe had a chin implant, they used cartilage, which can degrade over time – yikes!
Well, I thought about it for a long time, did a lot of research, and decided I was ready. Dr. Perlman showed me pictures of his patients’ before and afters. He explained the procedure and recovery in depth. He answered all my questions. His friendly, calm demeanor and 30 years of experience put me at ease. I had some blood work done to be sure I was healthy enough for the procedure and everything was normal.
I was nervous about the surgery because I had never done anything like this before (except for wisdom teeth removal). I followed protocol by avoiding alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, etc. for several weeks before the surgery. I starting taking bromelain, arnica and turmeric supplements before (and after) the surgery.
The night before the surgery, I didn’t eat or drink after midnight. Then I got up early for my 7:30 am appointment. My boyfriend drove me, and we were both pretty nervous. After getting into the gown and hairnet, Dr. Perlman marked up my face, and then I went to the operating room. The anesthesiologist put in my IV, and the nurse put compression massagers on my legs for circulation. They told me they were giving me something to help me relax and that’s all I remember. I woke up groggy and the nurse helped me to the restroom. After recovering for a bit, they let my boyfriend take me home.
I took antibiotics, pain killers for two weeks (I have a very low pain tolerance) and a sleeping aid at night. I stayed propped up at a 45 degree angle for about a week (these pillows helped SO much!), and I had to wear a very unsexy headband to keep pressure on my chin. I wasn’t able to eat solid foods for a couple weeks, so I had LOTS of protein smoothies. My amazing boyfriend waited on me hand and foot (thanks Gregg!).
There was one incision under my chin and one on the inside of each cheek. All stitches were dissolvable so I didn’t have to get them removed. I wore a piece of surgical tape (like a band aid) over the chin incision for 2-3 weeks. Most people didn’t even notice it was there. I had NO bruising – which is crazy, because I bruise when people look at me the wrong way! I was swollen like a chipmunk for 2-3 weeks, and the swelling gradually went down day after day. But after a week, I could have gone out and people who didn’t already know me wouldn’t have noticed. There were times when I was scared my face would always be wide and puffy, but every morning it got a little better. Now it’s been almost 3 months (will be 3 months at the end of January), and I’m so happy with the results! You can see how my chin is now in proportion to my nose (especially noticeable in the side view).
One thing that REALLY helped my swelling and recovery was good ‘ole TURMERIC! I bought turmeric shots at the local health food store, Erewhon, and my boyfriend also made his own blend for me with manuka honey, aloe, turmeric and pineapple juice (which also has an enzyme called bromelain that helps swelling). Dr. Perlman was impressed with how quickly the swelling went down.
So, was the recovery easy? No. Was it tolerable? Yes. Was it worth it? Absolutely!
My mom wasn’t excited about the idea, but when she saw the “after” pictures, she said I looked more like her when she was young. She was blessed with a strong chin, and now I have one too!
In my opinion, surgery is not something to be taken lightly, but if there’s something that has always made you feel insecure, or kept you from enjoying life to the fullest, I think it’s something to consider. Again, I’m not saying it’s for everyone. Certainly not. If you are an adult, and you’ve weighed the pros and cons, and want to do it, don’t cheap out. Go for the best surgeon you can find. I love Dr. Perlman because he’s very conservative and won’t make you look “done.” He’s very caring, and he even gives his patients his cell phone number so they can text or call him anytime during the process!
Bottom line is – I’m so happy I did it. I feel much more confident. And maybe I’ll start doing more beauty videos for you guys since I don’t hate seeing my face on camera anymore! 🙂
If you have any questions, let me know!
Thank you so much for sharing your story. You look gorgeous!!!
You are so nice and look gorgeous!!
You have been so brave and open when you shared your experience with us. You look great before and after 🙂
Another comment to say that you for sharing. It can be really hard to sharing something like this on the internet, so I appreciate your openness.
I THINK YOU LOOK WONDERFUL..BEFORE AND AFTER..ITS ALL ABOUT WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOU..ITS YOUR BODY AND IF YOU FEEL GOOD INSIDE ABOUT YOURSELF YOUR WILL LOOK GOOD ON THE OUTSIDE..LOVE YOUR LEAPING BUNNY ARTICLES..YOU GO GIRL.
Jen just want to say congratulations and thank you for being so brave. I have a similar soft face and even though I’m only 29 I’m already worrying about the roundness becoming saggy neck and jowls as I get older. If you look at a photo of my face you would think that my body is much fatter than it actually is. I have a suspicion that I have mild cushings syndrome (one symptom is the “moon” face) as I’m easily stressed and suffer from clinical anxiety.
I’ve been looking for information on procedures to help define my face better, but was worried I’d be laughed at by a surgeon for being too young. Thank you for dispelling my fears and for being so candid about your experience. Not that you weren’t beautiful before, but now your features are balanced nicely. And most importantly of all, you’re happier. And I’m so happy for you! x
Thank you for sharing! There are a few things I’ve wanted done for a long time, mostly my hereditary undereye circles, but I haven’t seriously begun looking into it. You look great. 🙂
Fabulous results, particularly the chin implant.
Thank you for sharing your experience. Iv’e toyed with the idea of having a few minor things done myself. You look great, still like yourself.
So cool to get an idea of what it would be like… I have wanted to get fat removed from my neck and under my chin for a very long time. After tax season I will probably call up Dr. Perlman to see about a consultation. 😉
I’d like to second the comments about appreciating your willingness to share your experience. Very generous of you. Question: Do you still have the adorable dimple?
Jen, you look cute in both! Thanks for having the courage to put yourself out there and share your experience.
Beautiful!
just wanted to say you look lovely 🙂
I was born with underdeveloped breasts. I was (still am) a little chubby and my breasts were a tiny AA on the left side and a barely-a-B on the right. It was very visible and I’ve had huge insecurities about it. I remember when I was 17 I was shopping with my mom (who always had a really big chest while not being big herself) and when I looked at bras she just laughed and said “Why do you need a bra? You have little peas. You don’t need a bra.). God, I wanted to cry.
I had surgery done at 19 (went to a full European C -I’m from Europe– which is about an American D, as suggested by my doctor). I remember going to the office and after taking off my shirt just saying “please make me look proportional”… and he did. My life changed 100% after that. I became confident and happy. Even when people gave me sh*t for my decision I couldn’t have cared less. 5 years later, I regret nothing. I love my boobs and often forget I wasn’t born with them at first. <3
You look gorgeous Jen! Thank you for sharing!!
Kat – have you gone to see a naturopathic doctor yet? I went to Dr Hirani in Culver City (LA) and she helped me figure out that I have a MTHFR gene defect that is causing a lot of problems (basically means I can’t convert folate and B12 into the right forms for my body to use). You can also get a genetic test for $100 at 23andme.com. Not saying genes are your issues, but it’s a place most doctors won’t look. Definitely get tested for Cushings and maybe have liver, thyroid and other hormones checked to be sure.
The change is amazing! I love that your features are now more prominent. You look beautiful.
Hi Kelly! I have a friend who asked about the under-neck fat removal only and Dr Perlman said it’s a lot cheaper if you do it under local (instead of general) anesthesia. Something to keep in mind! I had to do general because I had a lot more going on.
I think you look gorgeous. What’s funny is that you say you look like you had a baby face before…but your surgery actually made you look younger (in a not so baby way.) Wish I could be so brave – there’s so much I need done! xx
Good for you! I think you looked fine before, but I understand how it feels to be constantly worried about your appearance.
Midway through childhood and on, I was teased about my bumpy nose, even by a few cruel adults. Early on I practised posing front of the mirror to minimize my nose in pics. In my teens and early 20’s I dreaded car rides sitting next to my new date.
After having my baby at 23, I was just starting to get over my nose untill I came across a pic of my profile taken when I wasn’t aware. My reaction was “Nope, I’m not letting that go.”
Despite my friends’ jokes about making “save the schnoz” posters, I had my surgery at 24.
Unfortunately , upon inspection, I still hate my nose- It’s crazy! I think too many years of teasing may have programmed or tattood the insecurity.
BUT, I no longer think about it all the time, which is HUGE. I’m more confident, and I don’t worry anymore about my appearance. So it definitely helped me.
No one should criticize, they’ve never walked in your shoes. So again, good for you for making that tough decision.
I think you’re so brave to share on the internet! It’s amazing the crap people will say on line that they would never, ever think of saying to you over the phone, in an email or especially in person!
I think you look like a slightly more adult, but not older, version of yourself. You’re right, it’s amazing how much those buccal fat pads made a difference!
I know exactly what you mean Shannon and Christine! The droopiness made me look older, but the weak chin and full cheeks made me look younger. So now it’s all nice and balanced. 🙂
Thanks Phyrra! 🙂
Thank you everyone for the sweet comments!
I want to thank you for the full details and well-reasoned approach to your surgery. I never thought you needed it, but you had been annoyed with it for as long as I’ve known you, so it makes sense. I love that your mother feels you look more like her now, though was protective before the procedure. Of course, Greeg is ever the supportive boyfriend. Congratulations, you look lovely and I can hear/see the confidence in your pictures and writing about your pictures.
Awww Katie – that’s so sad. How old are you now? Obviously there are padded bras, but if you are still insecure, breast implants could be the way to go.
Oh, by surgery I meant I got implants!!! I’m 24 now and I got them done in October 2009. Best decision of my life 🙂
You look great!! I have a baby face to & at 46 Im considering having the same procedures that you had done, thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Oh Snap! That’s awesome! All I gotta do is bust my booty this tax season and make some $$$!
Seriously though, anyone in the IE (So Cal) looking for a tax pro look me up; I’m in Norco and you can find me in H&R Block’s Tax Pro Finder online. Free consultation and I can give you an estimate on your refund.
Such beautiful results!! You have inspired me! When the budget improves I need to consult with a doc too 🙂 Thanks for posting!
oh wow! The results are really obvious in your profile pic and you look even more beautiful than you already were! I want it done too, especially my neck… need to see this Doc!! 😀
Looks amazing! Hard decision well made! xx
you look so great!! Thanks for sharing your journey and especially the part about getting it done using a local 🙂 With my weight loss I’d love to get rid of my turkey chin – you’ve given me hope 🙂
Thank you for sharing this very honest account of your procedure. Your results are stunning!
You were beautiful before but your after photos certainly are fabulous! I can’t imagine having surgery, but I understand many who do. My sister had some stuff done, but she really suffered. Much more intensive work and I’m not sure she had the best doctor. I know it’s very personal, but would you mind sharing approximately how much the whole process cost? Did insurance cover anything?
Way to go Jen Jen! Female power! Own it!
You look great. The doc did awesome!
You look beautiful!! I support PS! I will get a nose job as soon as I have the $$ resources…
I saw you in person at iFabbo before the surgery and you looked fabulous! Thank you for sharing this post. You were beautiful before and you still are <3
The transformation is amazing! High fives for double bravery. One for going through the procedure and two, for sharing online! You are a beautiful woman in many, many ways!
You have always looked great, but I’m so happy you’re feeling more confident! I agree with Kimberly, high fives for bravery!! I love that you were willing to share this journey here as well. 🙂
Well .. I wouldn’t want to encourage plastic surgery. I like to see everyone as beautiful the way they are. Not that I have anything really against it. When I’m a lot older I know I will probably consider it. But I must admit, you look great! You look glowing, and your facial structure is more defined, and you’re more confident on the inside , and that’s pretty awesome. Congrats!! <3
I love the sophistication I see in your face now, especially your profile. Dr. Perlman did a fabulous job since you still look like Jen and not a stranger you wouldn’t recognize.
Looks great. My bff wants this exact thing done.
It’s amazing Jennifer. It must be so freeing and fulfilling. I wish I could do it, but all the other surgeries I’m having make me afraid to think further ahead to fix my several times over busted nose and face. Anyway, you look amazing…more confident and there is more symmetry. I’m so happy for you. Enjoy the heck out of it, girl!! You deserve it!!
You look amazing! I want so much done to myself but I’m absolutely terrified lol Plus the expense isn’t do-able =( Your story will at least give me a “before you call a dr” plan so I can at least have all of my research in order for when I’m absolutely ready =)
I am in awe! You look absolutely wonderful. I think it is incredibly brave for you to put everything out there for the world to see. I think people should do whatever they need to make themselves feel better. Not to look like carbon copies of a Barbie doll, but to look like themselves, only better. Which is definitely what happened here!
You look great! Thank you for sharibg your story. I’ve considered getting my nose done and a breastcredyction and lift.
I’ve definitely heard all the horror stories, but you look amazing!
Old chin/new chin you’re beautiful inside and out, Jen! I say do what makes you feel best. Congrats on being brave enough to do it and share it! xo
I think that you look amazing! We’ve talked about this before and, like I said then, once you get to a certain age and still feel insecure about something on your body… It’s perfectly fine to change it! You need to do what makes you happy and what will make you happy with yourself. Modifications can be in any form – tattoos, piercings, surgery, hair dye, and self tanner. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to love yourself and making some tweaks to get there! 🙂
I’ve always thought you were gorgeous, and this just enhances your pretty features so much. I’m happy you’re happy with the results and your decision. If I ever decide to get anything done, I will consult with Dr. Perlman. He seems to have a really good eye for what looks best for each individual. Most doctors in LA keep trying to recreate dolls or Playboy bunnies!
you look great! and what’s more important is how you feel after. 🙂
Thanks so much for taking the time to get back to me Jen! I’m in Ireland, so we don’t really have a diverse healthcare system, but I’m going to scout around and see if I can find someone who specialises in these issues. That’s very interesting about the genetic link! I’ve been interested in getting a genetic profile done for a while, but they were much more expensive when I last checked. Thanks again here’s hoping we have a great healthy future 🙂
Thanks Desiree! 🙂
Oh somehow I didn’t scroll down enough to read all of your comment – doh! So glad you feel more confident now!! 🙂
Hahaha I think so ! Now I have to go check!
Your story nspired me. As someone who has considered plastic surgery since childhood and now in her 30s (and still feeling the same), it was great to hear your whole story. You’re still beautiful you! Just little tweaks! I’m encouraged to finally get serious about facial plastic surgery!
Congratulations! I’m glad you are happy and I think you are very brave! And, you look great!
You’re the same beauty before and after 🙂
Stay healthy.
What do you mean by “turmeric shots”?
You look beautiful! I didn’t see anything wrong with you before, but I do love how the results came out after one you! I, too, have a week chin (that kind of passes for a double chin, unfairly) and a baby face. Although the recovery time sounds like a hassle, it’s only a few weeks compared to the rest of your life. Do you know if you have to get it touched up at all after a certain amount of time? I know breast surgery and some other things require another appointment every ten years or so. Also, sorry if this is too much to ask, but how much did the whole procedure cost you? Thanks for the post!
Hi Sammi – no I shouldn’t need it touched up or anything unless someone punches me really hard in the jaw – LOL! The cost was around $10K.
My boyfriend and made a mixture of turmeric, aloe, manuka honey and pineapple juice, and I drank them like “shots” – out of shot glasses – so about 2 oz a day.
Thanks Vanessa 🙂
Absolutely amazing! You look almost exactly the same from the front but your ‘after’ profile is just perfect – still you but even more beautiful and everything is in proportion. Your surgeon seems really good – it doesn’t look like you’ve had any ‘work’ done. I had a genioplasty a few years ago (alternative to chin implant where they actually move the bone!) and I’m so so glad I did it. Always interesting to read about other people’s stories. Thanks for being brave and sharing x
Cosmetic surgery aims to improve the aesthetic appearance of a person,
while plastic surgery may include this, or just the reconstruction
(reconstructive surgery).
What an amazing profile! I think you were beautiful before the surgery and in fact when I looked at your front-on shots wasn’t sure which was pre and which was post! But the profile shot is striking. Great blog. Thank you for sharing 🙂
Thank you Gigi! 🙂
There was a time when even i was skeptical about going for nose job. But when it comes to plastic surgery, it all boils down to your surgeon. Fortunately, my surgeon was someone as experienced and skilled as Dr Barnouti who helped me get a nose of my dreams. Your post was truly amazing. Well done!
Hi Jen,
You look lovely! Very elegant results, and thank you for your honest post. I’m 30 and also considering buccal fat removal and possibly chin lipo or whatever the doctor recommends to bring more balance to my face. I’m super thin but have always had a round, somewhat bottom heavy face shape and it’s always made me self-conscious. I’m wondering in you’re still happy with the results or have any wisdom you’d like to share?
-A
BEST thing I ever did – I’m so happy with my new, improved face! 🙂
This post has given me alot of excitement and confidence about getting almost identical surgeries that you have had! My side profile is absolutely haunting to me, where like you, every photo on my profiles or what not are angled to make a pleasing photo, and no one would dare find me uploading one from a too far of an angle (side). It has upset me for many years, and kept me back from social events or even leaving to go to school. i know its not self created fear, for i’ve joked about the imperfection to my friends and shown them my sides, they laugh and admit it is ugly (cries-old judgemental ‘friends’ btw ).
Your result is so amazing and i hope to be able to come out looking as great!!
Wow – let me know how it turns out! Good luck to you!
You look great! I’m so glad that you took the time to ask all your questions before getting the surgery.
Great choice to have the Plastic Surgery done. What an improvement.
Thank you for sharing your story, I think it looks awesome!
Awesome! you look pretty. Thank you for sharing this post. Continue sharing and inspiring people like me.
Great post. Thanks for sharing.
The decision taken by you is really great and you did it on the crucial stage of your life, It’s good to heard that you got positive results of plastic surgery.
I really enjoyed the rticle. Have been thinking about a nose job for some time.
You look beautiful. Great results and very inspiring article!
Great Results. Thank you for sharing your story!
woow, frist of all thank you for sharing your story adn second of all this is the most fascinating change i have ever witnessed. well done and good for uu xxx
Hi!, i read your post. I can see how plastic surgery practice suffer because the bad information on internet. Your are right, plastic surgery exist for a good reason for help people to have better quality of life. I love your results and i hope everyday you feel amazing with your desicion. that is what is important.
Great results after your surgery! You look good 🙂
I agree with your point that invasive surgery should be your last resort but if it is going to help you feel better about yourself then after and only after you have done your proper research then you should go for it. One thing I would say is that surgery can be addictive so be careful or you might end up looking like those women who have gone too far.
You look gorgeous after the surgery, definately a good choice.
What a brave and beautiful woman you are 🙂
Thank you for sharing your story. xoxo
Wow you look fantastic! I’m hoping to get my nose done this fall. I’m kind of nervous but excited, but also nervous.
You look amazing! Thanks for sharing your personal experience. Well done!
I had a good laugh about the bruises quip. You look ravishing. You have a very beautiful profile kind of reminds me of alexandra breckenridge. It is a good thing that you did a very good research and weighed your decision before going through this and choosing a very fine surgeon is the best way to go. Most people who haven’t thought this over would get regrets in the end and that is the very last thing we want to have our patients go through. I’m glad you are very happy about it and that you are more yourself now, more confident and all.
You are look so gorgeous!
Hi Jen Mathews
Firstly I want to say that you look gorgeous after surgery. I really appreciate that you shared an amazing experience. It will surely give courage to most of the people who are planning to go for surgery.
Thank you for sharing your courageous journey.
This was interesting for me to read…Thank you for sharing. Sharing this experience will help so many people who are dealing with a similar situation.
I am proud of you! It takes courage to do this.
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Hi Jen Mathews,
I found this article very useful. will share this in my twitter . And also you are looking so beautiful .
WOW !!!! LOOKING GORGEOUS……………Thanks for sharing Your Story…
Hey ,
What an amazing share!!
I must say that you look more beautiful after your surgery. I know it was a tough decision but the results that have come out are mind blowing.
Cheers!!
Wow, This is insane. This post and These pictures are the perfect examples of how a simple surgery can make you beautiful and also attractive. Appreciate your article and looking forward to getting more from you.
Deciding to get plastic surgery is a big decision. I’m glad you shared your experience as to why you chose to get plastic surgery. It’s interesting to know that it’s more common these days and safer if done by an experienced surgeon. Your transformation is amazing! I’ll definitely consider getting plastic surgery. Thanks for the advice!
They did a WONDERFUL job. I’m so happy for you.
Another comment to say that you for sharing. It can be really hard to sharing something like this on the internet, so I appreciate your openness.
I think you look great. Thank you for sharing your story. You have helped lots pf people make a tough decision.
such a great story, you look amazing..
Jen you look beautiful. I know it’s hard to ignore what people say about you but you are your own person and you should do what you want to do and not what other people want you to do.
Good result
Jen you look beautiful. I know it’s hard to ignore what people say about you but you are your own person and you should do what you want to do and not what other people want you to do.
Hi Henry – I assure you, I only do what I want to do! There was no pressure from anyone to have this surgery. This was years ago, and I’m still so happy I did it.
Ive been thinking of getting cosmetic surgery gor quote a while now. I was hoping to het similar chin implant and rhinoplasty. I just wanna do something about my appearance instead of feeling so depressed about it. However, isnt cosmetoc procedures not cruelty free and anaesthesia is tested on animals? Thats really my huge dilemma right now… I really want to get it but I just feel so guilty…
That’s a really great question Kimiko! As I’m sure you know, the medical industry is very different from the beauty industry. In the US, all drugs legally have to undergo animal trials before they can be approved for use on humans. So if you are undergoing any kind of surgery, or taking any prescription drugs, that’s a very personal decision you’ll have to make. You may find this article interesting as well: https://www.vegansociety.com/news/blog/what-vegans-should-know-pre-operatively