I am a 26-year-old certified nursing assistant at a pediatric hospital. I love cooking and exploring nature in the beautiful PNW. I don’t have any kids–except for the ones I take care of at work, but someday I plan to adopt.
How did you find your surgeon? What were the specific reasons you chose him or her over other providers?Â
I chose Dr. Liu because he was recommended by my care team at Kaiser. We also have some mutual acquaintances in the Seattle healthcare community and they had many wonderful things to say about his surgical artistry and compassion.
What type of procedure did you have and why did you decide to have this procedure?Â
I had Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS), which included forehead and chin reconstruction, a septorhinoplasty, and lip augmentation. I wanted to have this procedure done because I knew it would help alleviate the gender dysphoria that comes along with being trans. Once I saw Dr. Liu’s work I knew he was going to be the perfect choice for me.
Describe your surgical experience and recovery.Â
My surgical experience was amazing! Dr. Liu ensured that I felt comfortable every step of the way and went out of his way to make sure I was thoroughly educated about my procedure. He provided post-op meds that alleviated my post-op pain and I had a very smooth recovery. He also checked in during my first 24 hours of post-op recovery which really helped ease any worries I had.
What were your fears about having this procedure and how did your surgeon help you overcome them?Â
My only real worry was about possible pain during my recovery. Dr. Liu made sure that my concerns were addressed and assured me that the post-op medication would allow me to be as comfortable as possible while I was healing.
Describe why you are happy you chose this procedure. How has it positively impacted your life? Your self-esteem?
Since having this surgery done I no longer feel gender dysphoria. My body, mind, spirit, and soul are finally aligned. Dr. Liu gave me a natural and refined result that gives me joy every time I look in the mirror. He is truly a surgical artist! I wake up every day now feeling confident about how I look. I truly feel like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders.
Tell us specifically about why you are happy you chose the surgeon you did? Describe his/her most outstanding qualities.Â
Dr. Liu truly listened to my desires and aesthetic goals for my surgery. He provided me with options and used his surgical expertise to craft a plan that best addressed my areas of concern. I appreciate him for being a compassionate physician as well as a surgical artist. He truly practices patient-centered care.
How did our staff support you in your surgical experience?
Everyone on the Polyclinic Plastic Surgery staff was so respectful and supportive of my gender identity, which is so important when providing care to gender-diverse patients. Each staff member I interacted with was respectful, helpful, knowledgeable, and kind. If you are considering a procedure with this team, you can rest assured that you will be satisfied and cared for at every stage of your journey.
Do you have any advice for others who may be considering this procedure?Â
If you are considering this surgery I would encourage you to do it. It will be SO worth it. Dr. Liu will work with you to achieve your surgical goals, and he will perform the procedure with unmatched artistry.