30 Year Old Mom Who is Beyond Ready! - San Diego, CA

Congratulations on your decision to proceed with “mommy makeover” surgery. Based on your history, photographs, and your ability to achieve your long-term stable weight (which should you should be very proud of!), it is likely that you will do well with these procedures. You are correct in that careful selection of your plastic surgeon will be key. Generally speaking, the “ideal” patient for tummy tuck surgery is one who has completed pregnancies, is psycho socially/emotionally/financially stable, has an excellent social support system surrounding him/her, is capable of arranging enough recovery time, does not smoke and who has reached a long-term stable weight. A few additional words of advice may be helpful to you:  1. Make sure you are doing the procedure for the right reasons (for yourself) and that you have realistic expectations. Be aware that an improvement in the “problem area” may not translate to an overall improvement in your life situation. You are bound to be disappointed with results of the procedure if your motivation for doing the surgery is not internally driven. 2. Time your surgery carefully; generally, it is not a good idea to have surgery done during or immediately after a stressful period in life (for example divorce or death of a loved one). The additional stress of surgery will undoubtedly be more challenging to deal with if a patient's emotional reserves our already exhausted. Remember, that an improvement in your physical appearance will not translate to an improvement in your life situation. 3. If possible speak to patients who have undergone similar procedures and query them about the toughest times of their recovery period. Any practical hints previous patients can provide may be very helpful. 4. Make sure you are aware of potential complications that may arise how to reach your surgeon if necessary. 5. Make sure you have a strong and patient support system (several people if possible) in place who have time/patience to take care of you. Arrange for professional nursing if any doubt exists regarding the availability and/or stamina of your caretakers. 6. Be patient with the healing process, understanding that it will take several weeks to months to feel “normal” again. It may also take many months/year to see the end results of your surgery. 7. Be prepared to distract your mind with things of interest such as books, magazines, and movies. 8. Expect less of yourself; do not go back to work, school or chores too early and let others take care of you (for a change). 9. Pick your surgeon carefully (a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon) and trust in his/her advice. Keep in close communication with your surgeon and do not hesitate to communicate questions/concerns and the emotional swings that you may experience. 10. Resume all medications that you were using preoperatively when cleared by your plastic surgeon and stop the use of narcotics and sedatives as soon as feasible after surgery. 11. Keep in mind the end results as you go through the tougher emotional times after your surgery. Best wishes.

Sounds like you're well on your way! My sister lives in Carlsbad. I've read many good reviews frrom RSers about Dr. Tom Pousti in SD. That said, you should meet him to know him. I am very particular aout drs and one thing I do like about him, having never met him myself since I'm in LA, is that he answers takes the time to answer ?s back on RS. I find that very admirable that a bust- and popular- PS would actually take time out of his schedule to do that. Good luck on our journey!!

It sounds like you are VERY ready. Here's a list of questions to ask at your mommy makeover consultations. Please keep us posted throughout your journey. Excited for you!

You have a right to be annoyed. I'M annoyed with you! I would take that as a red flag... things happen for a reason. Fate. There are plenty of good drs out there. Maybe the timing just isn't right... do your research and keep looking. You need face time with the dr and if they keep brushing you off, it's not a good sign.

yeah I am really big on first impressions and this would not be a good one. Maybe find another PS to consult with.

Good luck, I went to Dr. Pousti. He is the best. He is in San Diego. I would definitely try him. Good luck finding a doctor.

Don't be discouraged. Keep looking. Finding the right "match" might take a few more consults. Don't go with someone just bcz you're tired of looking... I believe in fate. If it's the right time at the right moment, it'll happen. :)