Tummy Tuck: Stories

I’m a mother of two wonderful kids, I’m 30 years old, 5’2 and I weigh 140 pounds. For the last seven months I been reading so many stories and I been following so many of the journeys/stories here in realself. I been dreaming of a flat tummy for the last 12yrs. With that said, I just thought it would be fair to post my journey here, since all of the stories have help me, what to look forward to. I would like to thank everyone who has posted their stories/journey, it’s been so helpful.

I will be having a tummy tuck, lipo and fat grafting/transfer to my butt. I will be seeing Dr. Cardenas in Tijuana, Mexico. I meet with her & I love her. I loved the fact that she is a very honest person and blunt. I didn’t feel rush whatsoever, she meet with me at the last minute and I’m very thankful she took her time with me. I wanted to do breast implants too, but she did mentioned I was going to lose weight and it would be best to wait at least six months before I do my breast to get better results. I will be meeting with her again April 25th for my new tummy, lipo and fat grafting.

I under estimated the surgery!!!
The 1st day was hell! I stayed one night at the hospital and went home (hotel, since I had to travel) the next day.
It was horrible trying to lay down (even do I had so many pillows) but what was worst was trying to get up. My husband didn’t know how to help me get off the bed. He called the Dr. and decided it was best for me to stay at the recovery house which was about $1000.00 that I was not planning to spent but I must admit “it was worth it”. Healing has been slow for me, It’s been two weeks and I can’t stand up straight. My body is itchy and I’m still in pain. Even do my healing process is slow is looking good, no infections, I’m not to swollen, my cut is looking good.
I must say, Dra. Cardenas is wonderful and her staff too. They took care of me. The recovery house has certify nurses 24/7 and their wonderful.
I will post pictures later.

Oh!! Forgot to mentioned you guys can view part of the surgery on YouTube - under Dra. Cardenas.

Here are some questions that I asked my Dr. before the surgery.
Will I have a flat tummy?
I want a small belly bottom, is that possible?
Do you use TopiFoam after surgery?
Will I where a compression garment or a binder after surgery?
Where can I buy compression garment & what measurements/size should I buy?
Cleaning of the belly bottom, your incision and drain tubes?
When can I drink coffee?
When can I start taking my supplements/vitamins?
How long before I can wear heals?
How long before I can work out / lift weights / stretch *Yoga *Pilates?
Where is the operation taking palace?
How long will I be in the hospital?
What operations are you recommending?
What policies do you have regarding tummy tucks?
How many cc’s do you think my butt needs? Is it possible 1000. cc’s?
Inner thigh lipo?
If I develop an infection or abnormal asymmetry, what is your policy on a revision? In other words, will I have to pay for a second surgery?
Any tips to ease up any discomfort / pain?
If I have an emergency at night where can I reach you?
Do you recommend using scar gels/silicone sheets or any other remedies, to heal faster or better?
I heard running reduces your butt grafting?
Lipo in my tummy?
Pain pump?

This that I purchased:

Cold Compressions
Gauze Pads
Keri *Lotion
Polysporin *For healing
Arnica *Bruising
Lanacane *Anti-Itch
Dulcolax/Senacot
Milk of Magisum
ScarGuard sheets/Silicone sheets
Iron
Vitamin E
Gatorade
Protein shakes
Water
Medical Tape {waterproof}
Pillows (body pillow and nursing pillow) "the nursing pillow is for your butt.
Thin Blankets if you need to travel
Surgical Gloves
Antibacterial Wipes
Maxi Pads
Purel
Antibacterial Soap - Hibiclens