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POSTED UNDER Tummy Tuck REVIEWS

Done with TT, now it's BOOBIES time!

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Hey everyone! About me, 3 kids ages 11, 6, and 2...

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NewMePls
WORTH IT$5,039

Hey everyone!
About me, 3 kids ages 11, 6, and 2 yrs... all between 7-8 lbs..closed the baby factory as I finally got my boy (2 yr old) and 3 kids is more than enough! I am 5'11", pretty tall for a girl...and prior to children I was pretty slender, except for my tummy has always had a little fat, especially in sides and flanks. Well, after babies that multiplied along with saggy excess skin. So I am I guess skinny everywhere else, except for this monstrous belly and back fat. My body is totally just, discombobulated looking...lol. I am so into fashion and beauty.. but get disappointed when clothes don't fit/look right due to the tire I carry around...sigh. Well, I just hit 30 yrs a month ago, and figured I'm not getting any younger, so I think its about that time I do something about it. Seems as I get older, the gym and diet are not doing much for that area- so my only other alternative, plastic surgery! However, I am a chicken! I am soooo scared! But I want to be able to go through with this, to finally get rid of those insecurities and boost my confidence and live happier.

I have always had anxiety issues, since as a child I witnessed my mom get physically abused by my father. Anxiety just stuck with me unfortunately. BUT I don't want that to get in the way of my dream to have a better figure! Not to include my hubby is so against it, and called me superficial because of it... and even stopped talking to me for a few days. This is something "I" want... I am not doing it for anyone other than me. He says things to scare me, like talk of infection, dying during surgery, blood clots, etc...which I know are all possibilities (some rare) but he purposely is trying to freak me out so I don't go through with it. SO basically, I have no support. Help! lol. I went to 2 consultations, and was iffy about one doc... second doc I liked, seemed genuine and truly worried about my wants as well as health. SO, I am waiting to see what dates they have available, as I am looking to do this ASAP (within this month) due to my schedule not allowing in the future (work, etc.). I would appreciate some support/advice/words of wisdom, whatever! I have no one to talk to about this....mom is not supportive either :(

Oh yea, and does $10,800 including all fees sound reasonable for tummy tuck with lipo of upper abdomen, sides, flanks, and back?

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Had a great consultation, Dr. Makhlouf seemed concerned with my wants, needs, and overall health. He spent a fair amount of time with me in consultation making sure to thoroughly explain things. Surgery went great! Post op doc followed up with me as needed and responded to my pages. He even came in on a Sunday when the office was closed when I had a concern. Happy with my new Flat tummy! Thank you Dr. Makhlouf!

Replies (9)

August 11, 2012
First of all, the only one who really knows what it is like to live with your body is you; therefore, it's your choice! Over time, it really takes a toll on your self-confidence and how you see yourself. "Being healthy" isn't just a physical thing, it's a mental thing too. If you have ended up here and are ready to go through with it, I'd say do it!
The procedure cost (incuding everything that you mentioned) seems pretty fair given that you're in the city. If I were just to factor in the tummy tuck, mine would cost around $8000---but mine is just the tuck with no lipo (I'm in Chicago, too).
Other than that, I can't really give you any further advice as I've not had mine yet. Come Monday, though, I may have a pearl or two of wisdom (if I'm not too doped up)

Good luck!
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August 11, 2012
I am sorry that you have no support system. I am so spoiled with my husband that when I hear stories like yours it breaks my heart. You have to do this for YOU, no one else. You have come to the right place! You have a HUGE support system here! There is a wealth of knowledge about the entire process. I don't have much input because my surgery is not until August 22nd, but I can relate to the fear and anxiety! I have been scared to death every since I scheduled my surgery. I went through the fears that I would not wake up, something going wrong during surgery, waking up looking worse than I did before I went in etc. It is SO normal and it is a huge part of the whole process. If you weren't scared that would be a problem. This is a major surgery! I promise you that the fear turns to excitement! I am 12 days from my surgery and although I am still nervous, I am now more excited than scared which is a huge thing because I was having constant anxiety to the point that I was making myself sick! Just keep reading peoples stories and taking in knowledge about the procedure...knowledge is power!!! You are NOT shallow...you are taking control of your life and doing what makes YOU happy which is the most important thing! Don't listen to all of the negativity! Reach out to me anytime! Good luck to you! God Bless!!
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August 13, 2012
Bobbi you are a doll, thank you so much...my surgery is a day after yours! OMG! Its a mixture of feelings.. we will be recovering together...so KIT!
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August 13, 2012
Yes we do! I am in freak out mode again today! SO NERVOUS!! I am just ready to get it done and get off of this emotional roller coaster!! We will do great though! It's so cool that our surgeries are so close!!
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August 13, 2012
OMG I know... I am same...up and down. My mom says I am crazy for doing this just to "look good"...and kinda got me thinking bout wow that is pretty crazy and scary.. lol. Ughhh it sux thinking about it so much! Want it to just happen.. so then I can sit there and wonder If I regret it or not lol! It never ends. I just want to fast fwd to recovered!
August 11, 2012
I had my tummy tuck two weeks ago and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I already feel so much better in terms of improved confidence. While I had my husband's support, this surgery was for me!
I was uncomfortable for a few days after surgery but it is a breeze compared to labor. I returned back to work after ten days of rest.
Lastly, I live in Los Angeles and the going rate for this procedure is 13,500$
You will be soooo happy you did the surgery.
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August 13, 2012
Halcyon glad to hear it went well! And yes CONFIDENCE! I don't know what that is... I wouldn't even know how to handle it :P And as for the price, seems when in the city its pricier :/
August 13, 2012
I wanted to add that I stayed over one night in an aftercare facility. After that I went home, sleeping in my bed. I didn't require any fancy pillows or expensive props. Furthermore I took it easy but was fully able to go to the bathroom myself. I guess it's how you handle it.
I'm just over two weeks PO following a full TT with hernia repair and I feel great.
I'm so excited for you!
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August 13, 2012
Halcyon it would be so nice to be able to stay the first night...but it's so costly. I think the first night is prob the scariest. That is awesome that you can go to bathroom by yourself! I am hoping I can handle alot on my own soon. We shall see! Glad you are feeling great! Happy Healings! :)
UPDATED FROM NewMePls
12 days pre

So the kind words from you amazing ladies on here...

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NewMePls
So the kind words from you amazing ladies on here gave me the little push I needed to finally schedule my surgery date! August 23rd it is..woo hoo! Put my down payment and all! I can't believe I did it! Pre op is tuesday Aug 14th. Hubby is getting better, still doesn't wanna talk much about it but will be there to help me post op! I just won't bug him about it too much now.. But as you ladies prob know.. its all we can think about! So it sux not being able to talk much about it but glad I have this blog and you guys! Xo be back soon!

Replies (16)

August 11, 2012
I am sorry you have no support! I have found people very helpful and supportive on here. I had my tt just over a week ago and I am so happy I did. I already have a new found confidence that I didn't realize I had lost. My surgery went wonderful and my recovery has been much eadier than i thought it would be. Another person can not know how your own body makes you fee both physically and mentally. If you need someone to talk to feel free to message me.
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August 13, 2012
cutebellysoon confidence already at a week...I can't even imagine it! wooo hoo! It must be a GREAT feeling...congrats on your confidence doll and happy healing to you! Glad to know recovery is going well! When people say "horrible pain" or "worst pain ever" I think of the pain 10 minutes before giving natural birth to my son (body breaking contractions) and think to myself, omg I don't know if I can handle that lol. And ty.... "If you need someone to talk to feel free to message me".... :)
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August 11, 2012
I'm sorry your husband is being so hard on you. A shrink I know, author of "The Pleasure Trap" told me that me looking better is very threatening to my husband. Our husbands fear that w/ fixed tummies we will be more attractive to other men. I admire your strength. You are not listening to his fear mongering (he is right about risk but you take risk everyday driving to work) which sounds abusive to me since he knows you want to do this. Keep me posted please.
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August 13, 2012
PlantStrongMom Yes I too have thought that may be the case, him being insecure about me looking better and feeling better about myself...especially cause we have been a bit on the rocks the last couple years.
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August 15, 2012
Well, sister, I think you are very strong and courageous to be doing this w/o his support.
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August 11, 2012
I too am so sorry to hear you have no support, and happen to agree with PlantStrongMom. Your hubby taking the approach that he is seems abusive. While it is fair for him to have concerns about your safety it is definitely not fair to you for him to try to keep you from doing something that will boost your self confidence. Keep your chin up girlie and remember no one knows what is right for you but you!
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August 13, 2012
SValentine I agree, do this for you!! And that's what I'ma do and no one's gonna stop me... and that may be why he was mad ;)
August 11, 2012
I am SO EXCITED for you and THRILLED you found this place! Everyone here is wonderful and we will totally be your support group! I think you need to have a heart to heart with your hubby (you may have done this) and just explain that you understand and appreciate that he is happy with how you look but this is something you NEED for YOU and you're doing it whether he is supportive or not. But also explain how you want his support and that you understand all the risks but the outcome outweighs the risk for you and that his words hurt you.

I agree that maybe he's feeling threatened or envious for some reason. I was blessed because my hubby was the one that made my decision for me to do it (mine became more of a need than a want) but I also tell him he will benefit from this more than he knows. I have never been too insecure around him or never said anything anyhow but my new found confidence will make me more confident in all areas of my life so that will be good for him so something your hubby will have to look forward to!

BTW - your quote seems average to me. You are going to do great and lok great! I will pray Gods Peace over you! I prayed a ton for Peace and i never really felt nervous - it was kinda crazy to both me and hubby but i totally credit god for it! =) I should have been a wreck! =)
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August 13, 2012
Amen! God will get us through this!
Hubby is getting better, and while being intimate the other nite he actually said the TT may be a good thing! Glad you did it and had a great experience! Congrats to you and hubby ;) :P
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August 13, 2012
Just hit the like button :)
August 13, 2012
Awe good to hear! Glad he's coming around! Yay you!!!
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August 11, 2012
I don't recommend you get theTT it's very hard on you and you WILL need support. Plus you will have to find someone to take care of kids while u recover. Wait until u have support. I'm 3 days post op and my finance HAD to help me take a shower today. You need a recliner or hospital bed. You have to sleep in the upright position you need a walker and a shower chair and at least 3 weeks rest.
UPDATED FROM NewMePls
11 days pre

Hubby is getting better and more open as the days...

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NewMePls
Hubby is getting better and more open as the days go by! I am even more ecstatic and the fear is not as extreme. I still try not to pester him as much with it tho, don't wanna push it. But I love being able to come here and vent and see all of your awesome responses! I posted some more pics so you guys can see the whole package and how that monstrous belly does not go with the rest of my body. I went out last night to celebrate my good friend from H.S.'s 30th b-day, and seeing the pic on FB just confirmed again on why I REALLY need to go through with this. I was so embarrassed that my H.S. friends still look hott and there I was looking 5 months prego. The confirmation that yes I need to go through with this is obvious. I CAN'T WAIT!

So I went post op shopping! got the following:

Gauze
Paper Tape
Antibacterial Liquid Soap
Peroxide
Neosporin
Arnica Gel
Mederma
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin C Capsules
Plastic Mattress Cover
Bedrest Pillow
Small Travel Pillow for neck
Extra Pillows (I can't afford to rent a hospital bed nor have a recliner, so pillows have to do the job)
Funnel
Clips to clip drains to clothing
Throat drops (for discomfort from tube down throat from anesthesia)
Facial wipes
Dry Hair Shampoo
Antibacterial Wet Wipes
Hand Sanitizer
Sponge for my sponge baths
Books

It's setting in! Still can't believe I will soon have a flat tummy!

Replies (7)

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August 12, 2012
Go for it! I'm 3 days post op and I had excellent results. My tummy didnt match the rest of my body. My dr said she removed 2 lbs of facia that could never go away w/o surgery. I'm resting at home now. Pain is under control.

Please rent a hospital bed. That was the best decision I made. It works great and helps you in and out of bed.

Good luck to you. I will post after pics on my profile once swelling subsides.

You wont regret this procedure I promise
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August 13, 2012
BBGalini, CONGRATS! You did it!!!! Hearing you say I wont regret it and you are just 3 days post op is pretty promising! :D Happy Healings doll, looking fwd to your pics!
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August 13, 2012
Oh my newmepls, I'm so sorry you don't have much of a support system in place. I believe you must do this for yourself and no one else. Sounds like hubby kmows how hot your gonna look and maybe a bit insecure about it all. I hope he does help post op for,you. I would say the most important part of his help would be to help you in and out of a bed, adjust your pillows and fetch things for you at least for the first 7 days. Like BbGalini says rent a hospital bed if you can! I needed help getting up, for the first 7 days and maybe a bit after but by then once up II could,putter to make a sandwich or toast or something. Mine does try very hard but he is not a nurse by any stretch of means. You should read my post from Aug 10 th you will laugh your butt off at what he tried to do for me. But the house work and laundry and cleaning of dishes and kitchen he's great. Oh and he is taking me to my apptments. So all and all it's working itself out and I am feeling better ever day. Take care and yes you will love your new tummy,

Hope fully once he see's how hot you are he will be falling over his feet to help you. Oh and I think that's a good price for everything plus the lipo, But remember, do your research on the PS he's the most important factor in all this google away his name you won't regret it! Keep us posted we are all here for you!
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August 13, 2012
NewSue awww you are so sweet...I hope he finds me hot! I feel my belly is all he looks at (especially during intimacy). He claims he doesn't even notice it but.. I do :( I do feel it may have been due to insecurity tho, I even told him this and he says he was truly offended that I even said that, and that he is just worried for my well being. I advised that I have done my research and if I did not feel confident about this, I would NOT be doing it.
Hope hubby is loving your new tummy and glad you are doing well! And congrats! :)
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August 14, 2012
NewMePls you're scheduled a day after me!! Wishing you all the best. The KEY THING to remember is that you doing this for YOU!!! I'm totally in agreement with you. I'm 41 yrs old have three kids (19,4, & 2) and after having my last 2 from my second marriage my clothes wouldn't fit right either...that's such a depressing feeling. I went into this headstrong and no matter what I was having it done!! I've set expectation not on the results but on what I'll be dealing with and what I'll be able to handle. This is a long journey that progresses on a daily bases. I think as long as you have a clear mind of what you're about to face it makes it easier. I wish the best for you on your journey please keep us posted..Good Luck :)
August 16, 2012
I'm so excited for you! You're going to love your new body. I can relate with you about not having a support system. Although my friends and siblings are willing to support me, my parents would probably shun me if they found out. Do it for yourself. If you're not happy, then you need to find a way to make yourself happy. If this is what you truly want, then whose to say that you're wrong? You know your own body the best. :)

Also, if you don't mind me asking, which doctor are you doing the procedure with? I'm looking into a few more consultations with surgeons in the North Shore/Chicago area.
August 17, 2012
Glad all is going well and hubby is more accepting! You'll be so happy with the results! Sounds like you're prepared!!! It's getting close!