When Diet and Exercise Just Don't Cut It - Cary, NC

I'm 46 years old, never had children and struggled with my weight most of my life. In about a month I'm going in for liposuction for my stomach, flanks, lateral chest wall (bra overhang) and thighs. I hope to do this once, so I might as well go big! Lipo was never on my radar, but I'm not embarrassed to say I need a little help with shedding the fat.

I eat well for the most part but I do slip up, however, I'm very diligent about exercise which I do at least 5 x week. To help shed the fat I hired a personal trainer. I decided to ramp up my cardio and started running. I completed 2 marathons and 5 half marathons. I was sure the running would get me the flat stomach and improve my problem areas. No such luck. Collected some great looking medals and an assortment of injuries. Just this year I realized time is not on my side. I've put in years of hard work, sacrifice and money. I'm happy with my size, but no matter how hard I work there are some areas that will not improve. That's when I had the epiphany.

As the procedure gets closer, I will post before pictures (eek!). In the mean time, I hope to drop a few more pounds. Because the weather will be warmer, I'm really hoping the swelling won't be worse than normal and I'll be able to sleep in a compression garment. I would appreciate any advice on what to prepare for and expect. Thanks in advance and good luck to everyone!