The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago - Brian M. Braithwaite, MD & Lorri Cobbins, MD Reviews

“I trusted these surgeons because I’d already had multiple procedures with them, including a tummy tuck this year that went smoothly with minimal pain support and uncomplicated healing. Then I had gluteal fold surgery to remove excess skin under the buttocks extending into the upper thigh. This is not comparable to most surgeries—it’s directly in an area of constant pressure, sitting, movement, compression, and tension. The tissue never truly rests. During surgery I was not fully numb and experienced significant pain but felt unable to stop the procedure. Post-op, I was cleared for baths early, which I questioned. Shortly after, the incision opened in an area already under constant compression from body weight. What followed was disappointing: limited aftercare guidance, wound separation, severe ongoing pain, and little acknowledgment of how difficult recovery from this specific procedure can be. I have a small child. I still have to drive, sit, function, and recover. The sharp radiating pain into my tailbone and leg has been unlike any surgery I’ve experienced. What hurt most was feeling dismissed. I was told pain management could not continue despite my history of being careful and responsible with medication use. I do not drink, smoke, or use drugs. I’ve even returned unused pain medication after prior surgeries. For me, pain medication is a temporary surgical recovery tool—not a lifestyle. I never expected unlimited medication. I expected my care team to stay involved and help me recover from the surgery they performed. Pain is personal. No surgeon should decide what level of pain a patient should be experiencing—especially in a procedure they themselves have never lived through. I’ll find the care I need, but I’m disappointed I had to look elsewhere while recovering from complications and severe pain. I won’t return and I can’t recommend this practice. I’d hate for someone else to feel abandoned during recovery the way I did.”