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Women often care for others and may neglect their own needs in the process. Whether you choose to have surgery for medical or cosmetic reasons, it is important to know that you will be looked after by someone who understands your needs. Sometimes the best person to do this is not your spouse or good friend as you might think. That is what Bella Care is for. Bella Care calls itself “the premier surgery overnight recovery facility in Austin.”
Post-op should be a time for pampering. “Despite the economy, people are still having plastic surgery,” observes Beth Hutton. In response to the demand for comforting post-operative care, three women from distinct backgrounds came together to form Bella Care. “I was a medical surgical nurse and worked for a plastic surgeon,” says Kathy Dougherty. A business-minded gal nearly completed the team. “I had several small businesses, a stockbroker’s license and used to work for Merrill Lynch,” shares Hutton. A great communicator was the third charm. “I have a good work ethic, a lot of contacts within the plastic surgery field and the personality to talk to patients. I believe God put us together. We are a three-braided cord that is not easily broken because we play off each other’s strengths and give Him the glory,” shares Mitzi Lindsey. Bella Care was founded on the basis of three women who had a passion and a bond. “ ‘Find something you love and do that’ is my advice,” says Dougherty.
Naturally, most women want to be pampered during post-operative care. “We are a totally different setting than the hospital because we are a beautiful resort. The bed is extremely comfortable, the linens are fabulous and the whole atmosphere we provide helps begin the healing process,” describes Hutton. Privacy is guaranteed. “We have the curtains drawn so it feels inviting, warm and cozy,” adds Hutton. You will really get to know who takes care of you. “A nurse never has more than three patients,” says Lindsey. It is not just any nurse either. “The nurse has to have a loving, caring desire to nurture and take care of people,” shares Lindsey.
Post-operative pampering really is essential. “You need physical, emotional and social support from someone who understands what you are going through to get you through the rough spots,” says Dougherty. You are welcome for any amount of time. “The stay varies depending on the procedure. Every week for the past four weeks we have had patients add to their stay,” Dougherty tells. Sometimes husbands join for the relaxation. “There are so many wonderful husbands that come and stay. They see what the nurse does and how to move their partner, how to get them situated and how to get the medications on schedule. It is a learning experience for them so they are comfortable and will be a good caretaker when they get their wives home,” adds Dougherty.
There are several popular services. “The package I would recommend highly is the Bella Care Essential,” insists Hutton. This includes transportation to the resort, private accommodations, aromatherapy and reflexology, constant nursing care and complimentary meals for $850. This is conducive to relaxing both the body and the mind. The Bella Care Basic II is similar, except the nurse only visits twice a day for $500. “The only regret I hear about is that women wish they had done procedures sooner,” reflects Dougherty.
Women embark on this healing journey for various reasons. The confidentiality and peaceful escape are viewed positively. “Sometimes people want privacy or have nosy neighbors so they would rather recuperate here. Others have a Type A personality in which if they go home, they will start to work instead of relax,” says Lindsey. Bella Care will support and respect your decision for the operation. “I come from a very conservative home, but I do not think cosmetic surgery is any different than having cosmetic dentistry done or getting your hair colored,” shares Lindsey. You are sure to feel welcome.
Lavender-scented aromatherapy and reflexology are two highlights of Bella Care. “The reflexology is amazing. The foot mimics the body so if you had facial surgery, we spend extra time on the top part of the foot and that heals your face. If you had tummy surgery, we work more on the middle part of your foot,” describes Lindsey.
The women of Bella Care offer wonderful outlooks on life. “I have God within my heart and my happiness and joy is from within,” declares Lindsey. She understands in business it is necessary to learn from mistakes and always seek to improve. “You can only live your life forwards but you can only understand it backwards. We just keep learning as we go and laugh. If something does not quite go right, we say ‘you cannot unscramble those eggs.’ Just throw in some cheese and make an omelet and we will make it better,” jokes Lindsey. Wisdom goes a long way. “Everything happens for a reason. I do not believe in luck or coincidences. I believe that everything is a blessing,” insists Lindsey. Most of all, Bella Care believes in you. “Women are so amazing and are not always recognized for all of their talents,” notes Dougherty.
KLS, the owner of Barton Creek Resort is cheering for Bella Care’s success. “They want us eventually to have a Bella Care at every resort across the United States,” exclaims Lindsey. The entrepreneurial team of Bella Care have big dreams, too. “We want to have a Bella Care ball and raise money to set aside for taking care of women with breast cancer since that is something that is near and dear to us,” shares Lindsey. These women deserve to have free social and emotional support during trying times.
Even physicians recognize the need for Bella Care. “They feel we are unique and several are saying they demand that their patients go there,” shares Lindsey. “If someone is contemplating plastic surgery, they need to come to Bella Care. It would be the best thing they could do for themselves,” promises Hutton.
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