mommyofthreegirls

Hi there!

I live in Atlanta as well and did exhaustive research on several surgical practices. I met with many different surgeons. I had a substantial umbilical hernia after three pregnancies that needed to be repaired, and the only way to address this and repair it properly was to do a tummy tuck at the same time.

I opted to go with a female practice. The surgery itself went well, the recovery was not nearly as bad as I anticipated (although I have been told I have a strange pain tolerance!), and the hospital nurses were fantastic. That being said, I, too, will need a revision.

What differentiates my result from others is that my surgeon has been completely supportive, and our communication has been open and honest. She agreed that the results needed a revision, and has agreed to make the necessary changes free of charge.

The second surgery will be a hassle, no doubt, but I have never doubted my surgeon, her qualifications, or her desire to ensure the finished product was satisfactory for us both.

In my situation, due to the hernia, they were not able to get rid of all of the excess abdominal skin, and my stretch marks will be there forever. Let's face it - paper thin skin from stretching and pregnancies can only stretch so far.

In terms of the "pooch," it is very normal to have what I call a "shelf" above the incision - it's fat re-distribution. Yuck! I joke that the muffin top I used to complain about has moved south!?* At first I thought it was swelling and inflammation, but it's actually fat deposits that have moved. I eat well, exercise regularly, etc., but I still have that "ledge" and it bothers me, too.

With that being said, I still feel very happy with my end result. My belly used to look permanently pregnant - I stretched out incredibly during the pregnancies. Now, even despite some skin which will be taken away, my belly button is repaired, my hernia is gone, my stomach is flat (except for the area I mentioned previously) and I can enjoy summer t-shirts, dresses, etc., that are form fitting again.

If you have any questions, comments, or need more information, please feel free to list your email and I'll be happy to call or email you to discuss further.

Even despite the issues post-surgery, I love my doc, do believe she did a good job despite my myriad issues, and would recommend her. Their practice was just featured on Good Morning America.

To me, going into the surgery with clear dialogue and expectations is key. I did that. My result was not what either of us expected, but ownership was taken with a solid solution by my surgeon. I understand that surgery is not always an exact science. In fact, I have many friends who have had many different procedures from many different reputable surgeons and all of them required a revision...breast, belly, face - you name it.

Good luck. I hope this is helpful - it turned into a bit of a brain drain for me! ;0

Hi there...I am so sorry to hear this. I also reside in Atlanta and am trying to find the right surgeon for a FTT. Do you mind me asking who you saw? Good luck and please keep us posted.