“Mini Tummy Tuck With Lipo - California”

I am 46 years old and have two teenage sons, age 17 and 19. I feel very fortunate that I have never had to struggle with my weight or had a problem with stretch marks. However, a couple of years ago, I noticed my body changing and no matter how thin I got or how much I exercised, I could not get rid of my stomach.

I started looking into cosmetic surgery and was hoping to be a candidate for a mini tummy tuck. I also wanted local anethesia. I found this website and everyone seemed to be recommending a full tummy tuck so I wasn't sure. I got in to see a highly recommended plastic surgeon from my area in April. He recommended a mini tummy tuck with Lipo. It will be done under general anethesia also, which makes me a little nervous.

My surgery is scheduled for July 25th. I am excited but equally apprehensive. Is there any one else out there scheduled for a Tummy Tuck around this time that would like to share stories?

Updated on 28 Jul 2011:
My experience with Dr. Payne and his staff has been a truly great one. Dr. Payne is a very knowledgable, caring doctor. He genuinely listens to his patients and is quick to respond to any need or concern you may be having. Dr. Payne has an excellent bedside manner. His staff are all professional, caring individuals like himself. I would highly recommend Dr. Payne to anyone who is considering having any type of cosmetic surgery.

Updated on 28 Jul 2011:
I had my surgery this past Monday, July 25th! I can't believe I did it! I was very excited but also quite nervous about being put under. The first thing I remember is waking up in recovery and looking at the clock. It was over! My husband was there and I was going home. I've spent the last few days resting and taking my medication religiously. I haven't seen my incision yet but I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow a.m. I'm sure I'll see it then and also find out from the doctor how I am healing. I do have a tremendous amount of bruising from the lipo but what's hurting me the most is my back. I'll try to post some before and after pictures soon.

Updated on 29 Jul 2011:
I saw my new tummy for the first time today and absolutely love the results. The scar couldn't be any lower. There is still some swelling and I am badly bruised but, taking all that into consideration, I am happy, happy, happy! I get the drain out on Monday and am so much more comfortable to be in a binder today. Pictures soon.

Updated on 31 Jul 2011:
Better today. Counting the minutes until my doctors appointment tomorrow. Should be getting my drain out. Very excited about that. Looking forward to putting on somewhat normal clothes again and getting outside in the sunshine.

Updated on 2 Aug 2011:
My doctor's visit went well yesterday but I do have to wait until Thursday to get my drain out. : ( Disappointing but it definitely beats the alternative they gave me if the fluid continued to build up. I was at 50 ml within a twenty-four hour period and I need to be below 30. But everything is healing great. I'm rarely taking pain meds, even tylenol any longer. I am so happy with the results!!! My stomach looks great!!! Just getting a little stir crazy now. I've read all the magazines I had saved up and have watched all the programs I had taped. Back to work on Monday though so am definitely going to take it easy until then.