“One month post-op and feeling good! New Pics Too! - Mastic, NY”

I will be 30 this year and I really miss my pre-pregnancy body. I had a c-section and it has really done a number on my lower half. Nothing fits anymore or at least to my liking and I am so sick of looking at the clothes hanging in my closet and wishing I could wear them confidently again. The truth is I am sick of being ashamed of my body. It has been four long years dealing with this extra skin and bad self esteem and now with the support of my husband, I am really going change my life. I am fortunate, I know not all people can do this for themselves. So I am going to make the best of this by going to the gym daily, taking my vitamins and watching what I eat. I am determined to do all I can on my part to get the best result.

I am just curious if any of you ladies have any Pre-Op tips for me? Supplies I would need?

Updated on 1 Mar 2011:


Updated on 1 Mar 2011:
Well I finally got the 'Before' pics up, it was really not as bad as I thought. It is strange to see myself from that angle, just used to looking down and grabbing at the flab with negative thoughts.

Now it is all positive thoughts, a little anxiety and a lot of anticipation.

Updated on 14 Apr 2011:
I just went for my 2wk pre-op and settled a lot of my fears. Like the Arnica/Bromelain debate. Arnica is not needed cuz it is for bruising and I won't be bruised. Vitamin E is forbidden! No binder for this TT, yey me! My scar will be super low, actually below my cs scar. No medical clearance necessary cuz I am under 40, just bloodwork needed. I am excited, nervous, and anxious. MIL will be here next thurs to help prep the house. She will be staying 3 weeks, hope that is long enough...Until then, I will count down the days.

Updated on 28 Apr 2011:
Hi ladies, well it went really well. Feeling no real pain yet, just discomfort from backpain, gas and swelling. Can't seem to get much sleep, feeling a little dopey too. DH was a star at the hotel, draining every two hours, helping me up and down. Day one almost down, just want to get some sleep!!!

Updated on 4 May 2011:
Well it has been a week since surgery and I feel alright. Off all pain meds except Tylenol PM to sleep. Ohhhh to sleep... Saw PS yesterday and he says the incision looks good, and I am going to look really good when all this swelling goes down. Sure doc, when is that????!!!!!

Still have both drains in, doc says they have to stay in till >20ml drainage per day. Today one was 60ml! Oh I just want them out so I can sleep in my own bed and on my side. I am in my son's bed cuz all the pillows I need in order to sleep on my back would most definately smother my husband in the night!!!

MIL is a big help, I couldn't do this without her. Really.

Anyways, I am taking this day by day and tomorrow will be better. Thanks ladies, you all have been a tremendous help both pre and post-op. Without this site, we would all be clueless.

Updated on 4 May 2011:


Updated on 4 May 2011:


Updated on 29 May 2011:
Well it has been a month now and everyday is getting better and better. Finally got both drains out and I plan to have a ceremonial burning of that god-awful fannypack along with the granny panties later this summer. Still cannot fit my regular clothes due to the swelling, but I am seeing it lessen everyday. I am happy. Although I would kill for a Zumba class, PS said to wait two more weeks before getting back to the gym :(

Updated on 29 May 2011:


Updated on 14 Jun 2011:
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