49 yr old, BA, TT, Lipo to Flanks

I am a 49yr old mother of three (24, 23, 14). My first was a C-section due to being breach, the second and third being all natural births with no pain meds (second with a midwife at home!) I nursed for a total of 5 yrs between my daughters and like most other Moms, have paid the price with deflated breasts, separated abdominal muscles and a body that doesn't respond to many exercises. I eat healthy and work out, but have realized that my once athletic and toned body was a permanent trade-off for my wonderful children.

The decision to have a Mommy Makeover happened very quickly. I was curious about the "new" silicone implants and as I was researching, came across the Mommy Makeover. Within three days, I had my consultation with a very reputable PS and was scheduled for my surgery a week later. I know it may sound alarmingly quick, but boy, did I do my research!! Endless hours on this site, researching my PS, contemplating the actual need and want of such a major surgery.

My consultation was wonderful and we decided that a breast augmentation, full TT and lipo on flanks would be the ideal combo. We discussed a breast lift but my PS really didn't think I needed one bad enough to incur the scars. I'm sure that they would have looked even better, but just getting the volume back was my biggest concern. He also said I didn't need any lipo on thighs and though my "curves" would be complementary and balanced with my new breast size and smaller waist. We initially chose 280cc Mentor silicone moderate profile plus. I was soooooo afraid of going too large and the additional weight as I am so active.

Surgery was set for a week after the consultation. I barely slept!! So very nervous. Wondered how I would tolerate the pain and the end result. My stomach was literally tied in knots and I was beyond anxious. Read hundred of profiles, supply lists, nutritional info, etc. At the end of the day, I realized that the process is so individualized that one really doesn't know how they'll recuperate, products that they would actually use, and how well the results will be. I guess these unknowns are what make the process so scary.

Day of Surgery: Checked in at 5:30 am, in pre-op at 6:30. Once my IV was in, I was "out" within 10 mins and what felt like a blink, awoke in recovery. I was surprised at the lack of pain, but I knew that the meds from surgery were still in my system. I was also surprised at how clear-headed I was as a lot of people don't remember much of recovery. I was very lucid and felt great considering what my body had just gone through. I only had one drain for the TT, the lipo incisions were left open to drain (very small). Was walking and went to the bathroom then was released to go home.

Once home, more soreness was felt but not a lot of pain. It was just tremendously hard to get in a comfortable position. I set up station in the living room recliner with all of my supplies on a table next to me. Hate, hate sleeping on my back and didn't get too much sleep the first few nights. Getting up was the hardest part and needed help but could walk slouched over by myself to the bathroom. I did purchase a raised seat and THANK GOD! I couldn't imagine bending down that low during the first few days and feel it was one the best purchases I made.

I had tremendous drainage from my lipo sites and used Depends underwear (cut to form) along the area. I was amazing at how much liquid was draining but knew it was normal. The drain from my TT was also very steady. I did have some moderate bleeding from my TT incision site that caused concern but after speaking with the PS nurse, was assured it was also normal. I told them that they need to change their description of "ooze" to "streaming" (LOL).

My first post-op was a week later and I had developed some redness around my lipo incisions. My PS said that I was healing beautifully and this was as "good as it gets" regarding how well I looked within the first week. Once he looked at the lipo areas, he also noticed a rash forming on my back. Nothing was infected but he was concerned about the rash so he prescribed me a course of steroids and more antibiotics. By the next day, I had a HORRIBLE rash that covered my back, was migrating to my arms and legs. I was MISERABLE. I was in tears at the itchiness and how uncomfortable it was. Geez...I had no problem with the surgery and a rash brought be to tears :-( Called PS and we decided to go off all meds except the steroids. We weren't sure what med I was allergic to but decided to take Xtra strength Tylenol. I must say, if it wasn't for the rash, the surgery recoup would have been so much easier that I had expected. Not painless, but no where near some of the horror stories I have read. The rash ultimately subdued with the next 48 hrs but it was a long 48 hrs!!!

I am now 12 days PO and feeling WONDERFUL. Never went back on any pain meds and the tylenol kept the edge off. Standing 90% erect and finally sleeping on my side in my bed. My scars are healing great, just a little soreness on the side of my breasts. My TT scar is perfect...very low and even. Will start scar therapy once healed. Very happy about my breast size and don't notice the additional weight at all. Can't wait to see the results 6 months from now! Would do this again (but would leave the allergic reaction out)!

I welcome all questions or comments as I know how much information and comfort I received by all the women who selflessly took the time to post their experience. This site is wonderful.