Tummy Tuck: Stories

I have been reading blogs on Real Self for two months and have finally decided to talk about my experience. I am 39 years old and after much consideration decided to go under the knife on 12/06/10 to lift my boobs, get rid of my muffin top and fat girdle.(All result of childbirth, of course 3>)

Prior to surgery I was about 30 lbs from my ideal weight but my doctor said that was "ok" and he could still achieve good results. At the time I was exercising pretty regularly (1-3x week power walking, zumba, treadmill)but not on a daily basis. My eating habits are not too bad but I am married to a chef so sometimes I do overeat.But anyways...after surgery for 5 days I felt like I got hit by a Mac truck lol I took percocet on the clock and got through it but I did have an adverse reaction to the meds which was not pleasant. :( Five days post op the dr removed the girdle/dressing and stood me up in front of the mirror and WOW I had a waistline again:) It was amazing! i continued to wear the girdle 24hrs for 2 more weeks/ then 2 weeks only during the day. The zippers on the girdle were so uncomfortable but my back hurt when I didn't wear it.

I went back to work 10 days post op BIG MISTAKE! I was so uncomfortable...boobs hurt, pulling sensation in stomach, swelling and tightness...plus I developed ulcers under my boobs which took 6 weeks to heal! I really overdid it! up until last week I would work from 9 to 5, come home, eat dinner, and crash by 8 pm. I tried one time to exercise @ 4 weeks post op and nearly hypervenilated.

Just last week (7 weeks post op) I was able to exercise without discomfort. I also enrolled in a bellydancing class and LOVE it! 3> My tummy is still very swollen though and it is depressing not being able to wear my old pants (Thank God stretch pants are back in style!) But...when I look in the mirror I look smaller because my waist is more defined. (Ironic, huh?)

My boobs are very natural looking and not much bigger...just a little more lifted and rounder. I am the same bra size, even with implants (38 D) which was what I wanted. :)

My doc said to be patient and that the swelling in my tummy will go down eventually....so it's hurry up and wait :P I just want to be able to wear a bikini this summer...haven't worn one since 1992....