Tummy Tuck Reviews
94%
WORTH IT RATING
"Worth It Rating" shows the % of consumer reviewers that stated the procedure was "Worth It" or not. See more RealSelf Worth It Ratings or Add Your Review
Tummy Tuckbefore & after photos
View Before and Afters

Average Tummy Tuck Cost: $7,950

Learn about Tummy Tuck

7,756 people and 865 doctors are talking about Tummy Tuck

Get Free Email Updates

Feeling Fit! ( New PIC)

Worth It
Spent: $7,250 in Tampa, FL

Comments (265)

Updated 31 May 2012

Posted 3 Aug 2011

Greetings All,

My name is Jo and I live in Tampa, FL. I’m scheduled to have a TT procedure on 10-07-11. Over the years I’ve been a yo-yo dieter, but last year, (after I had a breast reduction), I was determined to lose weight and keep it off. I started eating right and exercising steadily (5-6 times per week). I’ve finally conquered my weight and have lost a total of 60lbs.

I’m 49, but am now back down to my High School weight and my weight has been stable for the past 6 months.

I want a TT because I’ve worked hard to get my body back and I’m in great shape, (except for the excess wrinkly skin on my tummy). I’ve been saving money in a me fund and I’ve decided that now is the time to do something for myself, so I’m going to take some of my savings and get my body back.

I don’t expect to look like a 20 year old, but I want to be the best me that I can physically be.

I have great surgeon, but I’m still afraid of possible complications. However, I refuse to let fear dissuade me. I want to thank all the Realself members for sharing their journeys. You all have helped ease my nerves more than you’ll ever know.

Updated on 11 Aug 2011:

Ladies,
I need your advice. My surgery is scheduled and I have an excellent surgeon. However, after doing more research I thought it best to consulate with at least two more surgeons. Well, I went and saw the second surgeon today. He has excellent credentials and fabulous pictures of his past work. He was very relatable and spent a lot of time answering my questions. His fees are comparable to the first surgeon but include an overnight stay in the hospital. Both surgeons are listed as Consumer Research Council’s Top Plastic Surgeons and they both stated that my procedure should only take a couple of hours. So my question to you all who’ve already undergone a TT, is staying in an overnight facility worth changing surgeons for?

Updated on 20 Sep 2011:
Hi Ladies,
Unfortunately, I've had to postpone my TT. I have some side issues to deal with. Once those are settled, I'll reschedule my procedure. Good luck to you all.

Updated on 1 Nov 2011:
Hi Ladies,
Had my pre-op today and it went very well. I love my doctor and his staff! I will be getting muscle repair but no lipo. My doctor said that lipo increases the risk for complications, but if necessary we can do later. He also stated that I have no reason to be scared and that the only issue that I may have is with the scar (I’m African American and our skin tends to keloid). However, my doc doesn’t charge for revisions and the scar can be fixed later if necessary.

My entire TT is only scheduled for 2 hours. Oh, since I’m over 40 I have to do an EKG!

Have I said that I love my doctor’ staff? His nurse recommended that I get it done at a place that only charges $25 dollars verses the $122 dollars that the surgery center charges. I got a prescription for Dilaudids and anti-nausea meds. I already have flexril for muscle spasms which he said I could take if necessary. I didn’t even flinch when I paid the $5000 surgeons fee. I’ll pay the $2250 surgery center fee on the day of the procedure. This really feels right and I am at peace with my decision.

By the way I got on the scale today and was down to 152.5 (that was after breakfast and a 3 mile run). As of today, I’ve lost 63 pounds since I started my healthy lifestyle in 2008. I’m so proud that I texted a new pic of me to family and friends and got great responses. I promise to post pics before my surgery!

Also,the nurse measured me for my compression garment and I only need a medium. My waist is 28 inches and my hips are down to 37.5. I'm hoping to be a brick house(36-24-36)after my TT! LoL!

Updated on 8 Nov 2011:
Hi Ladies, time sure is flying. My EKG results came back. Everything is fine! I got my binders in the mail a couple of days ago and I picked up my pain meds. I'm really starting to get antsy. I just want this over and done with. My hubby is getting tired of looking at tummy tuck before and after pics!

Oh, my weight is holding steady at 153 and my eating is under contro1. I feel good but it is still hard for me to picture myself as slim. I'm still suprised whenever I look at myself in the mirror.

Updated on 11 Nov 2011:
Ladies, please pray with me that by this time next week I’ll have undergone a full tummy tuck with no complications, amazing results and am resting comfortably with minimal pain.

Updated on 12 Nov 2011:
Alright Ladies,
I'm ready! My recent college Grad just got a job with benefits with a great company. So, I'm taking that as a sign that it's O.K. to spend this money on myself! Time to invest in me again and complete my transformation. I told my hubby that once I get my sexy new tummy, I'm going to be walking around the house wearing only yoga pants and sports bras (I think he's looking forward to that!).

Updated on 17 Nov 2011:
Hi all, I am so excited, tomorrow is my day! I’ve done really well with my diet and as of today I’m down to 152.4, my BMI is now 22% and my size 10 jeans are a bit loose. I think this is a great weight for me. I can already see some muscle definition in my stomach, so I’m hoping it is tight and flat after my tummy tuck. Today I’m going to do my Thanksgiving shopping, go for a nice 3 mile walk, and have dinner with my hubby. I’ll post updates on my surgery and recovery as soon as I can. Please pray that my surgery is a success and that I make a full and complete recovery with minimal pain. Thanks for all your prayers, support and encouragement!

Updated on 22 Nov 2011:
Hi Ladies, I had my surgery as scheduled on 11-18-11. Today is day 4 post op and so far so good. I went into the operating room around 9:00 am and was home in my recliner by 1:00. My stomach is nice a tight, the scar is low, I have a cute belly button and as an added bonus, my bra fat is gone! I would rate the pain a 5 out of 10 but the anesthesia left me as weak as a new born babe and I haven’t had much of an appetite. I’m slowly getting my strength back and am force myself to eat protein, fruits, and veggies. Well that’s it for now. I’ll update more later. Thanks again for all your prayers and well wishes.

Updated on 23 Nov 2011:
Greeting All and Happy Thanksgiving!

I had my 4 day post op visit yesterday and the P.S. says everything looks perfect! He and his nurses have treated me like I was their only patient. I forgot to mention but he called himself to check up on me the evening after my procedure. I’m totally off the narcotic pain meds and only taking Tylenol as needed. Last night I was able to sleep in my bed for 6 hours straight and I am feeling great today! I’m eating right and walking around the house every hour for 5 minutes. I’m standing straight and tall and feel like I’m about 80% of my normal self. I just want to add that my husband has been wonderful! He is the best nurse I could possibly have and has anticipated and catered to my every need, He is truly my prince.

Updated on 29 Nov 2011:
Alright ladies, I’m 11 days post-op and I got my drains removed today. My doctor has released me for exercise and said that I can start running today. However, he did say that it would be better for me to run on a treadmill or workout on the elliptical verses running on pavement. So far this journey hasn’t been half as hard or painful as I thought it would be. I don’t even mind having to wear my binder 23 hours a day. I know I promised pics as soon as the drains came out, but I just bought a digital camera today, so now I have to figure out how to use it. Anyway for those of you still on the fence about a TT, I say if you can afford it, GO FOR IT!

Updated on 20 Dec 2011:
Hello Ladies, I’m 41/2 weeks post op and I’m feeling good. I’m back in the gym and slowly regaining my pre-op fitness level. I’m able to walk 4 mile or run for thirty minutes on the treadmill without pain or discomfort. I would have to say that after the first three days my recovery has been pretty easy. However, I’m withholding my worth it rating till I hit the two month mark. I’m still a work in progress but I’m happy with my results so far. What I find amazing is that even though I’m still swollen I can now wear a size 6 versus the size 10 I was pre-surgery and I didn’t have any lipo! Anyhow, here are the pics I promised. I hope you all have a great Holiday Season!

Updated on 24 Dec 2011:
Happy Holidays Ladies! I’m 5 weeks post-op and my recovery is going very well. I’m working out 5-6 times a week for one hour. I usually run, walk, ride the spin bike, or workout on the elliptical machine. It feels great to be back in the gym and I can hardly wait to be able to do crunches or get back on the rowing machine (my PS says I have to wait till my 6 week mark). I’m trying to eat right and I would say that I’m successful 80% of the time. My stomach is looking better and better each day and my swelling is minimal. So far I have no regrets and I pray that everything continues to go well for me and I wish the same for all of you too!



Updated on 31 Dec 2011:
Hi ladies and Happy New Year! I am 6 weeks post op and aside from some extended family issues, doing great! My PS has released me to do any excercises I want, including crunches! My weight is down to 150 and I'm officially in a size 6. BTW height is 5'10'. I brought three pairs of pants and they all fit perfectly. I've been very active during my recovery process and I ran three miles yesterday which felt awesome. After my run/walk today, I will take off my binder and only wear it while excercising. Other than losing weight, this tummy tuck was the best present I've ever given myself and so far it is well worth every penny spent! Now I have to work hard and apply my scar cream and silicone strips to ensure my scar doesn't keloid.

Updated on 12 Jan 2012:
Hi ladies, tomorrow I’ll be 8 weeks post-op. My tummy is coming along just fine and I’m back to my regular workouts and I’m able to do crunches and sit-ups. Please pray with me that everything continues to go well for me and my family. Thanks and blessings to all of you!

Updated on 14 Jan 2012:
Greetings all, I Just passed the 8 week mark and I'm feeling great! My next mission is to get rid of all the granny panties in my underwear drawer and go out and get some sexy undies!

Updated on 7 May 2012:
Ladies, I am going great. My weight is still stable and I just ran mt first 1/2 Marathon. Having a TT was the best gift I could have ever given myself.

Updated on 31 May 2012:
Ladies, I'm feeling great and training for a full marathon.
No regrets about the TT and for the first time in my life I have a body that I'm proud of. I wish you all blessings and happy healing.

This review is the subjective opinion of a RealSelf member and not of RealSelf, Inc.

Helpful review?

My Doctor:

My rating:

Dr. Greenwald is very relatable and his staff is great! He's rated one of the top 100 surgeons in the U.S. and the recognition is well deserved! Just take a look at how he transformed my wrinkly belly into a sexy tight tummy!

Doctor's Bedside Manner
Answered My Questions
After Care Follow-Up
Time Spent With Me
Phone or Email Responsiveness
Staff Professionalism & Courtesy
Payment Process
Wait Times

Comments (265)

Post a Comment Sort:
Robyn in Sunny SA 5 Aug 2011
Thanks for posting your story Jo. Congrats on the weight loss. Fantastic !!! You deserve to have this procedure and believe me you will be thrilled with the results. Post some before pics and keep us posted on your feelings as you approach D Day. Try to stay on the positive reviews and just know that your fears are normal. Best of luck. Look forward to following your journey here on Realself.

Regards
Robyn
JoBibbi 5 Aug 2011
Robyn,

Thank you so much for your encouraging words. I'll post before pictures soon.
Kimmers25 (Community Manager) 5 Aug 2011

Thank you for posting your review!   You are going to do wonderful!

crabbypatty 6 Aug 2011
Can't wait to see pictures of the new you!
marinemom (RealFriend) 6 Aug 2011
Jo, I know you will be so glad you did this when it's done. I, like you, was not trying to regain my 20's body, but hey, believe it or not, I think it's not unimaginable that my tummy looks as good now as it ever did. Yours will too. Good luck!
JoBibbi 7 Aug 2011
Hi Marinemom,

Thanks for the good vibes. I saw your pics, you look fabulous!
marinemom (RealFriend) 11 Aug 2011
Jo, regarding the overnight stay. I personally do not like to stay in the hospital if it can be avoided, especially an otherwise healthy person. Mine was done in the PS surgical facility, fully accredited, etc., I have to say, it was so nice to come home, I had everything all ready, recliner, all meds, you name it, and I paid for homehealth care to spend the first week with me. She was there from the moment I got home until 10 each night. After the first 3 nights, I was able to get up on my own and take my meds. I know other women have stayed overnight, but it depends on the docs. Good luck.
JoBibbi 11 Aug 2011
marinemom,

Thanks for responding so quickly. I'm going to stick with my original surgeon. He did a great job on my breast reduction and is rated on the top 100 doctors in America. So, I'm going to trust in him and stop worrying so much.
Kimmers25 (Community Manager) 11 Aug 2011

My opinion is no.  It's not worth changing surgeons just for an over night stay.  You pick the surgeon based on how you feel about them.  Are you comfortable with them and do you trust them?   And if everything else check out with credentials etc.  

Personally I would rather be at home and away from any hospital or facility germs.

Trust your gut and first reaction and go with it. 

JoBibbi 11 Aug 2011
Kimmers25,

You always give such great advice. I'm going to trust in my decision and in my original surgeon. Thanks again for all your time and efforts. We are lucky to have you looking out for us. Your family and circle of friends nust feel blessed to have you in their lives.
Kimmers25 (Community Manager) 13 Aug 2011

Ahhh you are sweet:)

Robyn in Sunny SA 12 Aug 2011
Wow, and here I am thinking YES YES YES, take the overnight stay !!! Are hospitals really that BAD in the US ?? I agree about not risking the germs etc. but theatres are sterile environments and surely your wards are clean ??? I spent 3 nights in hospital after my surgery and had the best care ever. Your second consult sounds like it went really well ?? Oh well, I see you have decided to go with your first PS - it really is a "gut feel" thing so you must have made the right decision for yourself :) Good Luck Jo ....
JoBibbi 13 Aug 2011
Thanks Robyn, I was only thinking about the overnight stay because of the pain management. The second consulate went very well. However, the first PS did a great job on my breast reduction so I'm going to stick with him. Most hospital in the U.S. are surperb but there is always the risks of catching an infection from another patient. Plus, as long as I get some good meds I think my hubby and son will take great care of me.
ClareIreland 20 Aug 2011
Hi Jo, Can you tell me which surgeon you chose? I am about to go to a few consults and want to interview a few good ones. Please let me know so I can investigate for Tummy Tuck! Thank you Clare I.
JoBibbi 23 Aug 2011
Hi Clare,

I chose Dr Dan Greenwald. His practice is called Bayshore Plastic Surgery and his office suite is located in the Channelside District of Tampa.
marinemom (RealFriend) 13 Aug 2011
Robyn, I think the undertone is that if you are healthy otherwise, it's not worth the risk of getting some kind of germ/infection from a sick person who may also be in the hospital. It does happen and more than you probably are aware, I can't speak for the theatres you have there, but I can say that I would never stay overnight in the hospital unless I had to. many of my friends whom are nurses echo this feeling. But in the end, you are right, your instincts about the surgeon are the deciding factors! So glad you had such a great experience with yours!
marinemom (RealFriend) 13 Aug 2011
Oh my gosh, ladies...I feel like I have been punched and beat-up in my tummy area. I am sooooo sore today, walking all hunched again and in some pain. I took 2 extylenol and laid in my recliner and took a 4 hour nap. I feel like crap! Gee, I am a bit taken back b/c this is really the first day I have felt bad since the surgery. I took my temp no fever, so I will manage until Monday when I go to the ps. office. 18 days post op today.
Kimmers25 (Community Manager) 13 Aug 2011

Good days and bad...

If you look like, feel like and think you have been kicked by a horse, drug through the dirt, and then backed over by a truck....you had a tummy tuck:)

Those days are so frustrating.  As you heal everything tightens up inside and makes you ache.  Just kick your feet up and give in to it.  It's your body's way of telling you to go slow.  It all passes.

 

marinemom (RealFriend) 13 Aug 2011
I appreciate your words Kimmers, your description is exactly how I feel. I can't imagine what my poor body is going through, eventually, it was going to pay me back for the torture I put it through. My lipo areas are still really sore, I never gave much thought to lipo hurting, but it does! My teenager cooked us dinner, served it and cleaned up! She is worried, she hasn't seen me "down" like this since surgery.
Kimmers25 (Community Manager) 13 Aug 2011

Yes the lipo areas really hurt.  Mine felt like a 3rd degree burn...terrible!  And a deep ache.  I also wonder if you are coming down with a little bug??  There are so many people sick right now with flu symptoms.  

I am kinda just thinking it's your body going through the healing process though.  Keep an eye on everything and if you get a temp that hangs around call the doctor ASAP.  But really I remember going through the exact same thing and it was so frustrated.  I found that the more rests I took the better I felt.  

What a great daughter to take care of you:)   I know I sound like a broken record but...rest, elevate, hydrate, medicate, ice.  It really does help.

Sending big hugs your way:)

marinemom (RealFriend) 13 Aug 2011
Thank you so much. I will do all of the above.
Robyn in Sunny SA 19 Sep 2011
Just wondering how you are doing ?? Been a while since you posted ?
JoBibbi 20 Sep 2011
Hi Robin,

I'm doing O.K. but sad that I had to postpone my surgery. I'm hoping to be able to reschedule within the next few weeks. I hope your recovery is going well and that you're back to your normal routine.
marinemom (RealFriend) 19 Sep 2011
Hi Robyn, not sure if you were referring to me, probably not since I post almost every day!!! But I am doing pretty well. I am 2 months post op on Tuesday, had an infection at week 3 and a "hole" opened in my incision, but it is healing nicely and overall, love my results. still sore from lipo and swollen still, but doing great.
Kimmers25 (Community Manager) 20 Sep 2011

You take care of yourself and we will be here when you are ready.

Post a Comment

used for verification

Read more Tummy Tuck reviews