What Can I Say?!? Waited 21 Years to Get Rid of Nasty-looking Belly

I'm 5 weeks out from my extended tummy tuck. For the first two weeks I had difficulty urinating as well. I would just have to sit on the toilet and work at it for what seemed like an hour. I really think it is because of our muscles being pulled together and we just have to learn how to use them again in order to urinate. After week 2 it became much easier. I also gained 15 lbs after surgery, however I have lost all of that plus 10 more at 5 weeks post op. So stay off the scale, let your body get rid of that extra fluid and once your drain tubes are out, then start weighing. You have a lot of healing to do. I still have swelling at 6 weeks post op, but when I get implants the Dr is going to do a revision, lipo a little more in tummy and tighten up a little more of the skin. But I had a lot of skin to get rid of. I had lost 110 lbs prior to surgery. My drains came out at about 3 weeks post op and it seemed like forever. Hang in there, when your body no longer needs them, they will dry up.

Thanks for the encouragement !! I needed that!! Apparently I had a bladder infection on top of everything else. Still swollen but tubes out, THANK GOD!! I get so exhausted doing so little, dunno how long that'll last. Feel very overwhelmed emotionally and am sure that doesn't help. My hubby is deployed to middle east and we have 6 kids between us.... So, lots to weigh a mind down. Lol. Please let me know how your progression goes so I have a better idea of what to expect. Kudos on the extra weight loss!! Must feel and look great!! Thanks again

dabears how are you doing now? I have mine Oct 5th and I am so scared. bdgarrison@charter.net Bev

Well, 4 weeks out and though loving how I look, still get so worn out doing very little. You never realize how everyday little things DO use your abs... even simple household chores. omg!! Do I pay for it later!!!! Can't sleep because am in so much pain. Was complaining about how much I still hurt to my obgyn...... He looked at me Like I was an idiot and told me it IS a 3 month recovery, what do you expect?... Wearing the binders and compression things DOES help. Massaging scar has made visible difference fast. Think expecting worst would make recovery easier. BE confident in your Dr, mine welcomes calls and concerns ANY time and be sure Dr wants you to have realistic expectations on outcome. Hope your experience is a great one!

Oh yeah, meant to mention that am less than pre op weight!!! Took couple weeks but MOST of swelling is gone except for belly button and actual scar area. The numbness and pain feel weird but then when took pics in bra & panties to send to my deployed husband.... Thought it worth it!!!