“...Hernia/Muscle Repair”

Ok, so here I go. I have been spending crazy amounts of time on this website looking at stories and pictures. Thank you all for sharing your journey. I can honestly say I don't know I could do this without all this support. Like most people here, I am scared of the complications and risk associated with this procedure but see how the results can be so worth it. If I can just get past the nerves....

I am a mom of 3 kids (boy 7 yrs, girl 5 years, and boy 9 mo.) The boys were both almost 10 pounds and I am short waisted. The result is stretch marks up to my ribcage and lots of saggy skin. When I look in the mirror it doesn't look like me (or at least the me I like to remember). I am 5'3" and 155 pounds. I want to lose at least 10 pounds before surgery and another 10 after.

I have been on 2 surgical consults so far and am scheduled next week for my third opinion with a dr highly recommended from a friend. Choosing a surgeon has been one of the most stressful parts so far. Of course I am only looking at double board certified and credible sources, but there are so many to choose from in the Dallas area. I really like the idea of no drains and am seeking only doctors who use quilting sutures. My first appt was with the dr who invented the Progressive Tension Suture technique and published it in medical journals. I liked him but cannot find anyone who has used him and can recommend him. If anyone out there knows about this guy, please please let me know.

Im so tired of wearing compression garments to not look pregnant from the muscle separation and all the skin.

Updated on 15 Jul 2011:
I had a consult with a third dr. He was one a friend referred me to as well as a couple of women on this site. He was so great. I liked everything he had to say and feel comfortable with him.

Updated on 30 Jul 2011:
I did it. I booked my appointment and had my pre-op yesterday! It is paid for and no turning back. One moment I am excited and the next totally panicked. I decided on a doctor. I picked the one with the most experience and "specialty" of tummy tucks. I got my prescriptions to fill and need to make my shopping list. Oh I don't think I mentioned its next FRIDAY. I needed to schedule it soon, the longer I wait I seem to stress. So 8/5/2011 here I come.

Updated on 3 Aug 2011:
Less than 2 days away. Work has kept me so busy I haven't had time to worry about my upcoming surgery. I haven't gone shopping or packed my bag. Hmmm, I think I better get started.

Updated on 7 Aug 2011:
Day 3 post op. I felt good yesterday. Today Im in pain. Especially when I walk. I took after pictures and they are kinda scary looking. Definitely a tight tummy, but lots of pink splotchy and bruising. The binder is a love hate relationship. I know it helps with swelling, but it is painful. I called the dr last night because I was worried about swelling of the pubic area, but he said that is a common issue and to blame gravity. Which makes sense and I know other ladies have had the same issue.