“Full TT Jan 21, 2011 - Cincinnati, OH”

I'm the mom of 3 and after the last pregnancy the belly did not bounce back. I've wanted this for over 10 years and have scared myself out of it several times. I have been working out more in the last few months and the one thing I cannot change with exercise is the glob that should be a tummy. I'm tired of tucking a tank top into my shorts to avoid the embarrasment of anyone seeing the glob if my shirt were to ride up. I've gained lots of courage from this website. I'm still nervous but feeling positive after reading so many other stories. This website has been such an inspiration, I'm almost looking forward to surgery day!

Updated on 23 Jan 2011:
Surgery went well. 2 hours. Little slow to get anesthesia out of system, but no nausea. Home the first night and slept in chair. Took 1 pain tablet instead of 2 and have a pain pump. Next day felt pretty good and 1/2 tablet of pain pill, that was a mistake. It set me back most of the afternoon with pain. I get the shivers alot, maybe from pain pills, and that makes my back and abs tighten up, which is not good. Once I'm settled back in blankets I feel good. Had to walk more last night and today as feet and ankles are swollen a bit. Day 3, I washed hair in sink and put a little makeup on, I feel much better! Post-op appt is Tuesday and I will get a peek at the new belly :)

Updated on 31 Jan 2011:
For me this surgery has been so worth it. The overhanging skin is gone. I am actually considering a two-piece bathing suit this summer for the first time in 19 years! I am 11 days post-op. I hope to get my drain out tomorrow and continue my progress. I still have a difficult time getting comfortable sleeping at night, but I'm getting a solid 4-6 hours a night. During the day I go up and down the stairs 4-5 times a day. I do some light housework, wiping down counters and sorting laundry. I've had moments of mild pain, but mostly discomfort. It's a big surgery, but the recovery is manageable and worthwhile!