Getting really depressed almost 4 weeks post-op
By KayeFL on 15 Jul 2011
The first two weeks I was the happiest woman on the planet. I was in pain, but thrilled with how I looked. Then week 3 started and I started getting up and doing things, but not a lot and still rested a lot. I work on a computer and I really didn't do much of that. Week three is when the swelling started. It has gotten worse and worse and has never gone down. With this big swollen pouch that is hard and ugly I look like I did before surgery except with a larger scar. I haven't been outside to get hot. I ate more protein like they said, I have warn stage 2 garments and the original also. I have avoided salt. Will this go away or will I always look like this. I feel ugly and so sad. I was embarrassed for my husband to see me before; now I am really embarrassed. Is this normal?
Here is a link to some answers from our RealSelf doctors on Swelling After a Mini Tummy Tuck. And also Pouch After Mini Tummy Tuck.
I decided yesterday to just live with pain and get going and do things. Small swelling still occurs, but it is also very hot and humid in FL.
Hi Kaye,
I never wore one after day 3 post op and all went well. You will have swelling with or without it so why not be as comfortable as possible:)
New here. Made up my mind to get a TT. After 4 kids I really need it. So I started calling around for consultations and have 4 already booked!!!
I'm so happy.
You go girl!! And we will all be here to support you:)
Just sent you a PM..
Thanks for the support.Can't wait til my first consultation on Monday!!!
I will be anxious to hear how that goes:) Keep me updated.
I'll post on how my consultation goes Monday.
Some doctors don't even want their patients to wear compression garments! Check out this link.
That said, it's always best to follow doctor's orders. I'm glad your spirits are up a bit. Please keep us posted.
Kimmer, I am trying and hoping these are not the final results. :-)
I went to a medical message therapist that cleaned out my lymphatic system and did some healing message. The swelling reduced by I would say 85% by the next day. It hasn't been nearly as bad and I feel a lot less depressed. I had no idea I would swell like that.
He did give me some advice so please let me know your thoughts. He said to talk to my doc first, but he would recommend not wearing the compression garment for awhile. I left it off that day and the next day the swelling was minimal. The doc said put it back on and I instantly started swelling up again, so which is better? I see the doc tomorrow and will talk with him about it as well.
Oh Kaye this is normal:( Your Swell Hell has set in but don't let it get the best of you. It will be ok so stay strong. Patience and time will heal this.
This procedure is a hard one and takes weeks if not months to recover from. It is very normal for your emotions to be all over the board along with the swelling. Just take this one day at a time and focus on the end results.
Keep doing what you are doing and you will heal. You can do this Girl:)
Hi Kaye,
Have you discussed this with your plastic surgeon? Swelling is still very common at three weeks. I think it's what you call swell hell. You might want to read Kimmer's Month by Month Tummy Tuck Diary. Though she had a full TT, I think some of her guidance will still be pertinent to you. Please come back and let us know how you're feeling. And if you haven't already, you should consider posting a review of your experience in our Mini Tummy Tuck Community.