I have two beautiful children who stretched me beyond belief while pregnant with them. I’m 5’1 pre-baby body I weighed 115 lbs. After my first child I topped the scale at 186 lbs. and after I had my second child I vowed I’d work hard, clean up my diet and lose the weight. I obsessively worked myself down to 107 lbs but now comfortably at 130 lbs. I’m happy at my weight but my stomach and stretch marks make me feel self conscious, unattractive and overall ugly. I’m finally at a point in my life where I’m physically, mentally, and financially ready to take on a major surgery. I did my homework and interviewed many doctors before I found the one who I feel is the best fit for me. I’ve scheduled my mommy makeover (abdominoplasty w/muscle repair, mastopexy w/o implants, and lipo to the hips,) with Dr. Cayce Rumsey at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery. He made me feel comfortable, treated me like family and gave me his expert opinion. I went in considering adding implants but he advised against it because of my body’s natural shape and amount of tissue I already have; it just wouldn’t look right over time and I wouldn’t be happy. Which would possibly lead to another surgery down the road. I loved that he kept it real. All the other doctors I spoke with wanted me to do it and didn’t really care about anything I said in the room. Dr. Rumsey and his staff listened to me and I’m sure are going to give me the best treatment and outcome I could ever hope for. I also love the fact that no matter what, I can call and talk to either Beth or Melissa. They are there to answer all of my silly or in depth questions. I’m 4 weeks out from my post op appointment and I’ll update my journey as I go. Wish me luck!! Updated on 15 Apr 2019: My beautifully stretched out mom stomach now sits a little off center. Muscles could use some reinforcements... Utters used to feed my youngins needs some lifting to help stand at attention once again. Liposuction on my love handles because, why not? Updated on 25 Jun 2019: Wow! I can’t believe it’s been 4 weeks already! I had my 4 week post op appointment yesterday and I was told by Candis (I’m not sure what her position is there but possibly a nurse) that I was a good patient and Dr. Rumsey said I was healing great! Although, I could tell by Candis’s facial expression, I worried her when I said I was doing yard work earlier that day. I had to follow up an clarify I wasn’t pulling, lifting or exerting myself. Just walking back and forth in the Florida heat, cutting open bags and spreading rock while my husband did all the physical demanding tasks lol! Minor Complications include: I stopped taking nucynta (pain medication) 4 days post operation bc I wasn’t responding well to it and I developed a rash, I developed a hematoma in my left breast and Dr. Rumsey quickly fixed the issue successfully. Anyways, check out my updated pictures below. I’m not sure what to credit my quick healing to other than Dr. Rumsey being an amazing surgeon and that I’ve been staying on top of my vitamins, protein, upped my vegetable intake daily and I drink a collagen boosting drink probably about twice a week. I also drink plenty of water every day and I rest when I need to and I’m active when I find the energy. Last week I began walking outdoors (~1.5 miles) and going to the gym. Although my my exercises were limited to the abduction and adductor machine and walking on incline for 15 min - but again I did not exert myself. I plan on slowly doing more this coming week. I’m so happy with my results! Check them out below! Updated on 25 Jun 2019: 4 weeks post op!
Had circumferential tummy tuck at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery. My surgeon was Dr Rumsey. The whole staff was excellent! Dr Rumsey talked me through his recommendations and what his plan would be for best results. He, Beth and Melissa were all very responsive to any and all questions before and after surgery. Highly recommend! I would use again for any future surgery.
I would recommend Dr. Rumsey over and over again. He is a skilled surgeon who truly cares for his patients. I lost a significant amount of weight and needed multiple procedures performed. I have had a circumferential abdominoplasty, thigh lift, arm lift, breast lift, and breast aug. He is awesome at what he does! He listens and answers questions throughly and patiently.
So I finally got a breast augmentation!!! I'm only 4 days post-op but so far I'm very happy with the results. I was a 36A before, I'm very very active, and very fit. So my concerns was how would these boobs interfere with my fitness life? And, will my new boobs close the gap I have between my boobs? (Pics below). During my consult I told the PS that I wanted to go as big as he thought was suitable for MY body frame. It's hard looking at pictures online and comparing because everyone has different measurements and outcomes are always different. So when I did look at pictures I googled girls my height ( 5'9), my body weight (140-145) and my body fat (18%). My PS was also able to show me before and after 3d images using an imaging software, Crisalix. My final decision was between 325-350cc which I ended up getting 325cc. I'm not sure what my final bra size will be because I'm still swollen and they have months to drop but I'll probably be a small C. I also decided to go with the gummy bear gel high profile implants (Keller Funnel brand) They feel very natural, won't ripple, and are 'supposed' to be lifelong. Recovery... Like I said, I'm only 4 days pre op but lemme say, the recovery is a lot more uncomfortable than I anticipated. I'm an athlete so I can handle pain and I'm also stubborn BUT, having objects placed in your chest is very uncomfortable. Rest!!! Relax!!! Take advantage of catching up on your favorite TV shows and use ice bags. One side WILL feel very different than the other. My right side is more tender and swollen. I'm also noticing more crepitus air) on the right which just feels funny. I'll post pre op pictures in a few days. Please feel free to ask any me any questions. The entire experience was fun and exciting. Just listen to yourself. Many people will try to tell you to 'go smaller', 'go bigger', 'dont get them'. You'll most likely hear more negative feedback than positive. Don't let that discourage you. :D Updated on 21 Nov 2016: I can already see my breaths are dropping. My right breast is still pretty tender but I'm able to wear a sports bra. I can fit in my old one which was a medium but I'm super happy with how they look in a sports bra (finally! No more padding). Today is also my post op appt . Update coming soon. Updated on 27 Nov 2016: I'm LOVING the results of my BA. I still have slight discomfort on the side of my right breast. It's somewhat of a burning sensation. The incision on my right is also tender. I've been massaging the scar just because it feels good. Since my first post-op appt, I've been doing the breast exercises 4-5 times a day as instructed. My breasts are moving more which is nice. I love how soft they are!!! I've been wearing sports bra's since 1 week of sx. I'm still able to fit in mediums but still had to purchase new ones so I had more support. I'm able to drive, put my arms over my head and do light lifting. I tried doing a light job but the motion of my arms going back n forth didn't feel good so I'm going to hold off another week.
i saw this site prior to my surgery and thought i would share my journey too i weighed 370 pounds had gastric bypass and lost 170 pounds i had sagging skin and lots of it so I went to Dr. Rumsey at Ponte Vedra plastic surgery he is very professional and knew what he had planned from the start they removed 13 pounds of skin from hips and tummy called circumferential abdominoplasty it was so worth it i am only 6 days out but love the results
Dr. Rumsey's surgical technique can best be described as "Artistic Precision." Because of his unique approach, experience and skill, I had ZERO, that is Zilch, bruising after undergoing a comprehensive face and neck lift. This is remarkable because I am a 64 year old woman, who bruises easily. There is an art to performing plastic surgery and to achieving remarkable results. Some of my girl friends who used other plastic surgeons had significant bruising, hematomas and related complications-- Not Me. My incision sites are almost invisible. Most importantly, this was the only facility I could find in NE Florida that provides for overnight medical care and monitoring. This is critical in that all surgery has inherent risks and I have been told that most complications occur within 24 hours of a procedure. My only regret is that I did not have eye surgery at the same time. In short, my experience was: no bruising, no scars, received excellent over night medical care and monitoring, had a short recovery time and natural looking results.
I've gone to two consults and have chosen to have surgery with Dr. Cayce Rumsey of. Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery in late November or early December. Dr. Rumsey was attentive, professional, and extremely encouraging about my expectations. I'm 5'5" and currently 180 pounds. I plan to lose 10-15 between now and my surgery date with clean eating and exercise and my ultimate goal is 145. I've had four ten-pound plus babies and then developed Hashimoto's Thyroiditis at some point between the last two that took a couple of years to diagnose. With proper treatment (Armour Thyroid) I feel alive again and have energy to live! I'm back to exercising daily and it feels great! I do the T-Tapp basic plus workout (17m) daily and either jump on rebounder (30-40m) or walk 1 hr 6/7 days. I see differences in my physique and my weight is coming off, but the only thing to fix my belly is a TT. I will have a TT with extensive muscle repair, umbilical hernia repair, lipo to hips, medial thighs and possible flanks, I think. I'm going to have another consult with Dr. Rumsey in a couple of months to evaluate where I am then to make final decisions. I'm excited and nervous all at once. I'm looking forward to chronicling my journey. Christie Updated on 6 Aug 2014: Final consult with Dr. Rumsey scheduled for 8/25/14 when we will discuss the amount of lipo needed and I'll pick surgery date and pay. It can't come quick enough. Updated on 25 Aug 2014: I had my second consult and paid my deposit today. Dr. Rumsey has his own surgery center and patients stay overnight. I'm scheduled for 5.25 hours of surgery - tummy tuck with extensive muscle repair, umbilical hernia repair, lipo to hips, medial thighs and possibly flanks depending upon weight loss prior to surgery. I have Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and PCOS that make weight loss a challenge, but with proper thyroid treatment (Armour) , clean low-carb eating, and 30-45 minutes daily exercise (T-Tapp & Rebounding are AWESOME), I've lost 9.4 pounds and 11.75" in 4 weeks. I'm currently 175.8 and plan to be 160-165 by surgery day. My date is Tuesday, Nov. 25th, right before Thanksgiving. After surgery, I plan to continue to lose 20 more pounds, but the motivation from losing the belly will be terrific! Dr. Rumsey expects me to have fabulous results. I'm very excited! Updated on 26 Aug 2014: I'm starting The Tummy Team (Google it, I can't put in a link.) core program this week to help my diastasis as much as possible before d-day. Today the diastasis measures: Top - 2 Fingers Wide & Deep Mid - 4.5 Fingers Wide & Super Duper Deep Bottom -1.5 Fingers Wide & Medium Depth My doc said my weight was fine for surgery, but when I said I plan to be down 10-15 before then and another 15-20 after, he said my results would be fabulous. That's encouraging to hear! The amount of lipo I have of medial thighs, hips, and flanks will depend on where I am come surgery time. I'm hopeful to need as little as possible. Updated on 31 Aug 2014: I've begun a core strengthening program for those with diastasis and rebounding is a no-no with a week core. Ugh! I love rebounding and have been dropping weight. I guess it will be on hold until after I heal from surgery and have returned my core muscles to some sense of normalcy. I guess I'll try the elliptical that sits in hubby's home office. I love walking outside, but it is 95+ degrees and crazy humid. Gotta love FL in summer. Updated on 1 Sep 2014: Just some new before pics to chronicle my journey. Down 5.5 lbs. and several inches from initial pics. Still a ways to go. Updated on 1 Sep 2014: Some pics didn't upload. Oops. Updated on 2 Nov 2014: I can't believe how quickly November has come. My pre-op appointment is tomorrow morning. I'm disappointed that I haven't lost more weight, but then again my thyroid has gone a bit wacky. I'm at 173.5 and am fairly confident I can be 170 on surgery day 11/22. We didn't talk about an extended tummy tuck, but tomorrow I plan to ask if it would give me even better results. I'll update tomorrow after the appointment. Updated on 3 Nov 2014: I had my pre-op appt. with Dr. Rumsey today. The office staff is friendly and efficient which I appreciate. I haven't waited more than 10 minutes for an appt. at this point. Dr. Rumsey's nurse, Melissa, is very sweet and takes her time to answer any questions that pop up. The pre-op took 1 hour 45 minutes and apart from paying, the worst part was the pictures, UGH! I added the Exparel so my total went up $395, but that is worth it for me. I need only one dose of Lovenox so I was glad to hear. Blood clots freak me out. I don't have the pics from the appointment yet, but will share when I do. Updated on 3 Nov 2014: I've located a hospital bed rental company and it's only $150 for the month including set-up/delivery and pick-up. That's great news for me since I don't sleep well in a recliner. Also, I got prescriptions for Percocet, Lovenox, Keflex, Phenergan. Since none of my expenses are covered by insurance, I searched for coupons and found Good Rx had coupons for all of these. I figure whatever I save will help. Just passing it on to others. Updated on 12 Nov 2014: I have filled my prescriptions, ordered my hospital bed and recliner, stocked up on gauze pads, stool softener, gas-x, and tylenol. I've bought 4 possible compression garments for after. I have some loose pants to wear. Now what about arnica or bromelain or other needed items? We use arnica gel frequently, but I'm not sure at what point I can begin using it after surgery. I have arnica tablets, but don't use those as often. I've never taken bromelain at all. Can anyone share if they used these and when they began? Also, please share if there are other things I should buy or do now since surgery is fast approaching on 11/25? Thanks in advance for all advice. Updated on 16 Nov 2014: The days are flying by and I have so much I want to get done before the big day. FOOD - I'm cooking bone broth by the gallons and freezing it, need to stock up on groceries, want to make homemade jello and get some crockpot freezer meals ready to ease the cooking burden on my dd13 and dh. They both cook, but I figure it will only help if I'm prepared. I've bought a thermos to take my own bone broth to the surgery center and will take my own crackers and jello, too. I have celiac and have to be extra careful about what I eat to avoid gluten contamination. CLEANING - I want to really deep clean my entire house so that it won't bother me if something gets missed during recovery. My 4 kids are great with chores, but we homeschool so all 4 are home all day most days so that makes just more messes to be cleaned up on a daily basis. SET-UP - Our bedroom is upstairs so I am setting up in our guest room downstairs. I have a guest through 11/18 followed by another 11/20-11/23, after that I need to clean the room, move some clothes and toiletries downstairs, have my lift chair and hospital bed delivered and set up (11/24), set up the toilet riser since that toilet is very low, arrange the medications and supplies within reach, move the roku or apple tv to the room so I'm not bored, bring in laptop and phone cables and who knows what else. SHOPPING - I've bought my Rx meds, colace, gas-x, gauze pads, bacitracin, dial soap, and compression garments (4 to try after). I have arnica gel and tablets and need to order bromelain. There's probably stuff I'm forgetting, too. HOMESCHOOL - I'm behind on checking math from a week of appointments and need to get on track. I need to make sure they all have (next books, copywork, etc) what they need to finish this term strongly. During Dec. and 1/2 of Jan. we will have light school only to help a bit. HELP - My mom will come all day every day as long as I need her. My hubby isn't traveling through year's end, so he can work from home a lot and help, and all of my kids are big enough to do a lot for themselves. THANKSGIVING - since it's 2 days after surgery, I am skipping. Hubby and kids will go to inlaws with other family, my mom will stay with me. I'll make sure they save me some sweet potato souffle and some pumpkin cheesecake that my daughter will make in my absence. I guess my homemade creamed corn will keep til Christmas this year. The rest I don't mind missing. CHRISTMAS - I finished all of my shopping for all 4 kids, hubby, extended family, including stocking stuffers today. We keep it fairly simple - Something they WANT, NEED, can WEAR, AND READ and usually one main gift. I sorted it so that dd13 can wrap everything except her own gifts. Trying to think ahead. THAT'S ALL FOLKS. I'm sure there is lots I'm missing and should be thinking of, so please share! Updated on 17 Nov 2014: I am not a worrier by nature. I make a decision and I'm good with it. But today, well today, I woke before dawn almost hyperventilating over the heavy duty meds I'll need and their addictive nature. It was unlike anything I've experienced before. I have had hydrocodone after 4 c-sections and did fine with it for 4-6 days and then disposed of the rest. This time it is Percocet and I've not taken that before. I don't drink or take anything stronger than ibuprofen normally. I guess I'm fearful because I have relatives who have been addicted to pain killers and it freaked me out this morning. I'm fine now and more rational, but this morning I had a mini freak out! Updated on 20 Nov 2014: I can't believe how close it is to surgery day for me. The remaining time is sure to fly as my dad is in town for the weekend, my littlest has his 5th birthday party on Saturday followed by a haircut for me. I have tried to prepare as much as is possible, now I've got some cleaning to do, but other than that, I am trying to rest and get over this cold that I and all 4 kids came down with. Funny - I went to get a new razor for shaving my legs from the package and found this odd razor with an attached comb. I had no earthly idea what that thing was, so I googled it. It's a bikini trimmer. Talk about perfect timing. I must have been living under a rock because I had no idea such a thing existed. I will post some final pre-op pictures and measurements on Monday before surgery on Tuesday. Can't wait to join everyone already on the flat side. Updated on 20 Nov 2014: Today was hectic with homeschool co-op, my dad arriving for a weekend visit, sewing club for one daughter, baseball championship for oldest son who has been in bed sick for 2 days (they won, go Braves!), 2 other kids sick, and to top it off, I discovered pantry moths! missceegee Member PM this user This afternoon I opened my pantry and saw two moths, then three larva. Then saw they must have come in the bulk cashews I bought recently, but left in the pastic bag. There were probably 10 moths and 100 larva on that bag. Yesterday, there was no problem & today this. I removed everything, vacuumed and cloroxed the entire pantry, every shelf, nook and cranny. We threw away anything opened or questionable. Pricey when everything is gluten free. All jars, bottles, and snapware containers were thoroughly cleaned before returning them to the pantry. I only found 4 larva and 5 other moths away from that shelf with the cashews so I am hopeful I caught this early. Everything in the pantry is now in Mason jars, snapware, or ziplocs if unopened. I cleaned for 5 hours. My kitchen is spotless. My trash is full. It's one am and I'm exhausted. Praying we don't have a recurrence as my surgery is in 4 days and have a 6-8 week recovery. I don't want to be dealing with moths during that time! These things are HORRID! Updated on 23 Nov 2014: This will be a somewhat random brain dump, I'm afraid. RECAP OF MY STATS... I'm 39 and have had 4 babies all via c-section (10lb14oz, 9lb10oz, 10lb5oz, 10lb10oz). I was average build (135-145 pounds when not pregnant) until after baby 3 when all of the baby weight didn't come off like before. Looking back, this is when my thyroid issues began. I have Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, PCOS, and Celiac disease. All managed well at this point, but I still have an extra 20-25 pounds I'd like to lose. I have a huge diastasis and umbilical hernia. My surgery is on 11/25 and should last 5 hours 15 minutes. I am 5'5" tall and currently I weigh 170.5 pounds. My highest pregnant weight was 198 lbs. My highest non pregnant weight was 187 pounds. My goal weight is 145-150 pounds. FEELINGS... I've had one mild anxiety attack while walking around Target this week. It was weird because I've never had one and I'm not the anxious or emotional type. One crying jag in the shower over what if I die and leave my husband raising our four kids alone. A moment of I can't believe we're spending all this money on my stomach. Nesting like I'm about to have a baby. Exhaustion after a final busy week with homeschooling, extra-curricular activities, homeschool co-op, appointments, moth invasion in my pantry, my dad here visiting, all 4 kids having colds, having a cold myself and a birthday party for my littlest yesterday. Peaceful right now because I know this is the best move for me. Not looking forward to recovery at all. Hubby and kids are awesome helpers and my mom will come all day daily as long as is needed. Thankfully she seems to have recovered from the stomach bug that plagued her for two days because I do not want to be throwing up after this surgery. Praying I don't develop a bad cough from this surgery. OTHER... Hospital bed and lift chair are being delivered tomorrow. I made 25 crockpot freezer meals to ease the cooking burden on the family. I have my prescriptions. I've ordered a shower stool (nice to keep long term) for the downstairs shower I'll be using. I'm worried about getting on and off the low modern style toilet down stairs. I have a walker to help with hunchback syndrome. I've taken my stool softeners, been washing with the antibacterial soap, and shaved the nether regions which is weird to me. IMPORTANT NOTE - Tend Skin is an amazing product that helps avoid razor burn and itchiness. I bought some front opening cute pjs, some grippy socks, some slippers. Oh, and a new tv for the room I'll be in because the two year old one that has only been used a dozen times decided now would be a good time to stop working. My friend who is a massage therapist is going to come tomorrow afternoon and give me a wonderful, relaxing massage. Can't wait! I think that is it. I'll be posting my final pre-op pictures in a few minutes. Updated on 23 Nov 2014: Here are my pre-op pictures. Can't wait for the post-op! Updated on 23 Nov 2014: Updated on 24 Nov 2014: In 16 hours I'll begin my journey to the flat side. I'm not nervous at all at this point. Oddly enough. I was achy this morning and felt a bit puny, but felt fine later. I was coughing when I woke, but only from the overnight stuffiness that goes with a cold. I'm hoping that goes away overnight because coughing that hard is not on my agenda! My massage therapist friend came and gave me a massage and said every muscle and joint was stiff and tense, but that's sort of normal for me. My bed and chair were delivered and my room is getting ready downstairs. I have broth and jello. I'm as ready as can be. My surgery time was changed from 10 am to 11:45 am, but that's ok. I just wish I didn't get sent home quite so early the next morning at 7:30. I am not a morning person. See you on the flat side. Updated on 24 Nov 2014: Just a few pics of my recovery set-up. Updated on 24 Nov 2014: I thought I would beat this cold when it came on last week. I used essential oils which really do help, Zicam, and tylenol to beat it back. After the first two days, I was feeling ok. Now, I woke this morning forcefully coughing to clear the gunk that settled over night. I was slightly achey, too. Day goes on and aches are gone, just a tiredness remained. However, I have the post nasal drip tickle cough now. And I'm certain morning will have me hacking up a lung. Not to mention, I could drink the volume of a lake right now and my throat would still be dry and scratchy. And I'm not to eat or drink anything after midnight. That's in 15 minutes. I might die from dry throat by morning if I do that. Nurse warned that surgery could be canceled if I have a fever (I do not.) or if my lungs aren't clear (They are, I'm sure.) It's just the nuisance and the pain that I know will be worsened by this coughing. Oh well, I survived the worst possible sinus infection with coughing after the c-section of my first kid, I can do it again I suppose. Time to quit complaining and look at the bright side, the flat side that is just ahead. I'm off to shower with anti-bacterial dial that smells like a hospital and dries up the outside of the body, too. In TMI news, nerves and too many stool softeners should ensure no constipation after surgery tomorrow. Updated on 25 Nov 2014: Last night I guzzled water, took one last Zicam for my cold, hooked up our warm must humidifier with essential oils diffusing, slathered cold bombing essential oils on topically and went to bed. I fell asleep around 2 am and slept soundly until my 7 year old came and woke me to ask what the weather is like today at 7:30. I would have slept longer. GOOD NEWS is that I'm NOT coughing much. I've had one little cough and that's it so far. Also, my thraot is not painfully dry now. I'm leaning in and inhaling the humidified air and it's helping so much. I am so thankful this morning to feel much better. I'm calm and at peace and ready to go. I have told everyone what surgery I'm having and everyone has been very supportive. Lots of people are praying that all goes well and I am comfortably resting in the Lord's hands. See ya'll on the flat side. Take care. Updated on 25 Nov 2014: Excuse typos. Drugs and iphone don't mix. Surgery was exactly 5 hr 15 min. Belly flap was 6 lb I think someone said. I threw up phlegm coming out of anesthesia from being on my back so long and having a cold. That was AWFUL. Surgive first exhausting potty walk. Just switched from iv to oral pain meds. I'm uncomfortable but no in pain. Except medial thigh lipo areas after the walk and sitting. On hard toilet. Yikes that hurt. Chair here is comfy but the lift one at home will be better. Getting up ain't no joke. I've had 4 c-sections and they pale in comparison thus far. I'm getting loopy so will sign off. Haven't seen anything but bindr yet. Updated on 27 Nov 2014: I'm loopy from meds so this is short and possibly coherent. Just saw belly for first time when I changed dressing this evening. I wasn't up for a shower. I had so hoped to see a flat tummy before swelling began. Too late. I'm huge above incision and my mons is ginormous. Seem to have resolved cough right now. I'm moving well every hour for most part as long as meds don't wear off. I hope that I'll be pleased eventually. Updated on 28 Nov 2014: I've lessened the amount of meds. Now taking 1 Percocet and 3 ibuprofen every 4 hours. Took a shower, not painful but totally exhausting. My belly button is different than some I've seen. I finally saw it all while standing. WOW - it's a huge difference from before. I think when the swelling goes down, I'll be thrilled. I beg vena-pro leg squishers. I like them. They're like mini massagers. Incision is low. I'll post some pics soon. I finally cleared the phlegm clogging my throat and am no longer coughing for which I am very thankful. Updated on 28 Nov 2014: Here are pictures. Updated on 28 Nov 2014: Comparing Before & After Pics. Also, 3 lb was removed from belly flap and 1255 cc's lipo (~3 LB). I'm thrilled so far. Updated on 29 Nov 2014: I woke up too warm and needed to remove binder for a few minutes. Ended up doing complete drressing changes and snapping a few pics. I am not draining a lot and expect to have drains removed on Monday which is 6 days po. Lipo areas are sore and swollen. Began using Arnica gel tonight and taking arnica. No BM yet, haven't had an urge, but have eaten very light with homemade chicken soup, broth & jello, eggs and toast. Did enjoy a 5 chip gluten free cookie that dd13 made for tree trimming day. They chose the tree and got lights up. Will decorate tomorrow. I'm sitting out and being surprised. Feeling pretty good, better without cough and fever and more mobile than expected. Still spending majority of time in recliner with legs up and resting. Off to try to sleep some more. Updated on 29 Nov 2014: Swelling and its not comfy. Lipo is not comfortable. I ordered a Design Veronique to wear after drains removed on Monday. Hopefully better than shifty binder. Taped undies down off drain, so I can wear them. No BM and that is becoming uncomfortable. Otherwise alive and resting. Updated on 30 Nov 2014: Swelling stinks! I have a shelf of swelling above incision and my moms plus some general all over swelling. Walking close to upright. Walker helps bag tire less quickly. Eating small but finally normal diet bc not much appetite. WARNING - TMI Ahead Constipation became real major issue today. I haven't had a BM in 6 days, since th day before surgery. Since then I've taken colace stool softeners regularly since before surgery. I took 4 sennnecot laxatives, 2 cascara sagrada natural laxatives. Nothing. This afternoon I had to go badly. I tried and tried and broke out sweating profusely all over with inability. I somehow managed to pull off everything including compression hose. I can't dress myself yet, but in an emergency can do more than I think. So, I resorted to Ducolax Suppository. In 20 minutes, I had success. I've never been so relieved!! Tomorrow prune juice will become a dietary staple for a while. Updated on 1 Dec 2014: First PO visit was this morning. Went smoothly and was quick. Drains were pulled, no pain, I didn't feel anything except slight pinch when stitch was pulled. I was draining 10 ccs per side in 24 hours. So glad to be free of them. Doc is pleased with progress, says clear up rash, then focus on swelling. Suture removal is next Monday. Yesterday, I developed a red rash all over belly, top of thighs. Today at doc, we discovered it under breasts and some on back. All under areas binder covered. Dr. Rumsey said it looks like heat rash or possibly contact dermatitis. I am to keep binder off for a couple days and let air circulate. Trying hydrocortizone cream on small section to see if it helps. I'm to send picture updates to Melissa, Dr. Rumsey's nurse twice a day. Pic attached. Feels so much better without the drains!!! So, I'm in my recliner in a loose summer gown, keeping tummy cool. Applied hc cream to one spot as test. Miss the binder on occasion, not always! TMI news - all the stool softeners and laxative didn't work, but Ducolax did. Today the rest is kicking in making the opposite problematic. No worries, I'll get sorted soon. Updated on 1 Dec 2014: Forgot pics. Actually dozed while doing last update. Allowed binder or any Spanx type garment when rash clears. Note, rash not itchy but looks like prickley heat. Happy that undies no longer roll down. Pants I wore to doc were no longer tight and are bordering loose. They were active wear pants from Lands End. That's nice. Doc expects all swelling to eventually go down and to be totally flat. I'll dance a jig. Thankful for walker as it saves my back! Just using around house and on short walks. Updated on 2 Dec 2014: My trunk rash has spread over more of abdomen, flanks, & back. There's even a little on my neck and groin area. It looks like heat rash, is generally not itchy, though it got itchy in the night. I'm still without a binder or compression garment until rash clears. That means I'm more swollen. I'm not terribly uncomfortable, but am a bit so, especially around my incision. The extra swelling is discouraging, too. I am taking only ibuprofen for pain right now and it's working. Also taking vitamin C, mucinex (for post nasal drip and cough), Benadryl (for rash), probiotics. Trying a rx cream on one section that hubby had for a different rash. I'm drinking hot tea and broth, eating well. TMI ALERT - Yesterday, I had 3 loose BM after the constipation battle from the day before. I am hoping to find a balance soon. Updated on 3 Dec 2014: My gp doc had told me to use a rx cream for contact dermatitis yesterday. It did help soothe it significantly, but I still felt it needed seeing so. ... This morning I saw my GP doc Who is amazing. He was glad I came. Diff diagnosis. It's a systemic reaction to some medication. No way to know what medication at this point. We have a new plan of action. Zyrtec in am. Benadryl in pm. New stronger steroid cream, Triamcinolone 0.1%, 2-3 times a day. Give it a week and it should gradually improve. Keep binder off. If in a week not well or earlier if not making progress, I'm to return. He and I would rather avoid oral steroids if possible bc of side effects and issues it could cause with healing, but that's what next week will be if we don't see progress this way. I am hopeful this way will work though. I wish I knew what I'm allergic to, but may never know. I've read a lot of surgeons no longer use binders or compression and have great results, so I'm not going to stress over it. I must heal this allergic rash before I think about the rest. Thank you for continued prayers! It means a lot to me to have y'all praying for and thinking of me. Updated on 4 Dec 2014: The new rash treatment is working slowly but surely. Yay!!! I walked 0.25 mile mostly upright, but as I warmed, the rash got itchier, so I decided that was far enough for today. Yay!! I had a normal BM today. Yay!! I'm a bit less swollen today. Yay!! That's all for now. Updated on 4 Dec 2014: You've gotta love Florida in winter, it was 75 degrees and sunny today so I enjoyed a second outdoor walk with my dog. I walked 0.33 mile this time and really enjoyed it. I am having some tight, uncomfortableness on my hips from swelling. It's right above my hips and so swollen it results in creases. It's worse above the right hip. I rubbed the area while I walked and it did seem to resolve some of the hard tightness. Is it important to begin rubbing those lipo areas regularly? The horrid rash that had taken more out of me than I realized is begging to improve. It's 40-50% better, I think, thanks to the wonder steroid cream. I am managing pain with only 2 ibuprofen every 4-6 hours. My family has been a wonderful help. My younger kids - 5, 7, and 10 are all keeping up with their studies and chores and enjoying the beautiful outdoor weather. My eldest daughter, almost 14, has gone above and beyond as chief nurse, cook, baker, laundress, and babysitter. She is quite a gem for whom I am ever grateful! Hubby is great, too, but he will feel better when I'm closer to 100%. Thanks for listening. Updated on 4 Dec 2014: Here are the pics. Updated on 5 Dec 2014: The rash was really itchy in the night last night on my back. I woke to go to the bathroom and found myself half asleep scratching my back. I'd done well not to scratch til then. Of course, the scratching made it made it worse temporarily. I had to reapply cream and get a cold pack. Slept ok otherwise but didn't wake up til 9:30 am. I just took a .5 mile walk at a turtle pace and the weather is cooler, about 65 degrees. It felt heavenly on the healing rash. My swelling is less overall today for which I'm thankful. Still not a flat tummy, but I'm hopeful that will come. Updated on 6 Dec 2014: I'm grateful for many things today: - sunny, beautiful weather - sitting outside to watch my kids ride scooters for 15 min. - the horrid rash is better day by day and should be gone by early next week - no pain, I'm uncomfortable, sore, and exhausted a lot, but not in pain. - ever so slightly less swelling - encouragement from friends and family I'm praying for: - my continued recovery and everyone here - rash resolution - ability to wear compression - good end results, even if it takes a little longer - continued positive outlook - opportunities to serve my family as I regain strength and mobility. Updated on 7 Dec 2014: I've taken daily pictures to track my allergic rash and swelling. I put them in a comparison format and thought I's share. Updated on 8 Dec 2014: I had my 2 week post op this afternoon. My sutures were all removed and according to the doctor. I have no seroma, so that is good. I still have a lot of swelling due to the length of time from surgery, lack of compression, and the allergic reaction. I asked the very kind and personable nurse (not the usual nurse) what she expected my final outcome to be. She said, greatly improved from pre-surgery, of course, but that I should not expect to be flat. WHAT??? She proceeded to remove all of my sutures from lipo, belly button, and all of incision. Suture removal was fine, a couple of pinches, but no big deal. Dr. Rumsey came in, looked it over, commented how well my rash is healing and that my incisions look great. He checked for seroma and found none. Said I was to return in 3-4 weeks. I asked him about what final results might be. I KNOW it's early and that swelling will fluctuate for months, but I wanted to know if he expected me to have a flat stomach in the end. He was non-committal saying it's too soon, too many factors and that we will know more in 3 months. I do not like unknown. I'm a planner. I always start with a plan. I can change the plan or throw the plan out and start over if need be, but I always start with a plan. I feel like I wanted a response that was the surgeon's best guess of my outcome. I know he can't be sure, but I wanted an answer of some sort. Scar treatment is brown paper tape to be changed every 7-10 days. Next appt is 1/5/15. I'm feeling down. My belly was flat at 3 dpo and I loved it. Swelling, the rash, all of it manageable when I thought the end result would be that flat tummy of 3 dpo. Now, knowing that at least one nurse says I shouldn't expect flat, but only improved, it's disheateneing. She mentioned possibility of revision in the future. Said its like tailoring and that it takes a few tries to get the fit just right. A FEW TRIES??? I was feeling encouraged this morning with the swelling down and rash improving, this afternoon despite my normal optimism I'm feeling blue and discouraged. Updated on 9 Dec 2014: Today marks two weeks since my surgery. Yesterday, I was a little down after I got normal answers from the nurse and surgeon. Normal in that they were wait and see final results instead of just telling my ears what I wanted to hear - that tummy perfection was on the horizon. The nurse I mentioned in the previous post was a very kind and personable lady who was simply giving me her honest opinion when I asked. It's not her fault that the answer wasn't what I wanted to hear - that I may not be totally flat and may require a revision and that only time can tell. All of that I was told before surgery, too. It's pretty standard. I suppose I was feeling fragile and vulnerable yesterday and the news I already knew was more crushing than it should have been. Perfection is not a worthy goal for it isn't achievable this side of heaven. Repaired muscles and hernia and much improved appearance that is as close to flat as can be were my goals and I'm going to be more diligent about keeping them in mind. I will enjoy the progress I clearly see and refuse to fret about final results. I did wear a spanx yesterday for the first time and my skin did not react. Last night I switched to a cotton tank under the binder and am remaining with the binder today. It's easier to go to the bathroom and I can tighten or loosen it which I like. I'm comfortable with these since I wore them after 4 c-sections. My swelling was down more this am which is nice. I have very little bruising and I'm most sore on hips and back where lipo was performed. The lipo areas get hard and swollen more than my tummy and I find gentle massage loosens them up and makes them feel better. Right now, I'm gently rubbing the areas I can reach. Soon I hope to have my massage therapist friend come for real lymphatic massage. The lipo areas are also the most sore parts. My belly is still mostly numb. My incision doesn't hurt at all. The belly button looks a bit icky, but normal icky not infected icky. It's just got more healing to do. Here's to positive outlooks for all of us today! Updated on 11 Dec 2014: RASH - It's better every day. I expect to stop treatment in another day or so. COMPRESSION - I am able to wear my binder now. I take it off for a couple hours a day because I feel I might explode otherwise. This is simply due to my dislike of tight things. SWELLING & PAIN - Flatter in am, more swollen in pm. Yesterday I sat upright on the couch for a couple of hours directing kids' studies. Afterwards, I was very uncomfortable and swollen. In fact, by evening I hurt from shoulders to hips. I took a nice warm shower and even took a Valium due the tightness in all of my muscles. This was the first time since 6 days post-op, I think, that I needed more than ibuprofen. I slept well and woke feeling reasonably ok. I decided to direct studies as needed from my recliner today. Much better plan! EXERCISE - I am still walking my street twice per day, sometimes the entire street and sometimes 1/2 of it. Today, I walked 1/2 the street twice for a total of 0.5 mile. I hope to be up to 1 mile per day sometime next week. I am mostly upright for a good part of the day. After sitting or lying down, it takes me a few minutes to straighten. EATING - My appetite is normal now. In fact, yesterday and today I ate a few bites too many at dinner and was very, very uncomfortable as a result. I think it's just going to take a couple weeks to get used to this new body and how little it will stretch comfortably. This is a good thing! ATTITUDE - I'm staying positive, enjoying results as they unfold, trying to slowly return to normal life without overdoing it. My goal is to check in here weekly for a while and then monthly. Updated on 12 Dec 2014: Today is post-op day 17. I had 2 firsts - climbing a flight of stairs and driving. I went upstairs to my room because I needed more warm clothes. It's in the 40s today and I only have 2 long sleeve shirts down here in the guest room. Hurt a bit going up, like a pulling sensation, but coming down was ok. Sneezing is BAD!!! Sneezing makes me feel like I'm having baby contractions. I drove today. We (4 kids plus me) had to pick up two bday gifts for parties this week. Debated going to target which is a longer drive (15m) and more walking, but less money for gifts or driving to local boutique which is 5m drive and less walking but more $$ for gifts. I chose local. Managed to spend $30 on two kids' birthday gifts, so not too bad. I walked probably .5 mile total. It was ok, tiring, but not overly so. The worst part was a congested area on the sidewalk with a group of gesticulating men. I was afraid I or my little ones would be knocked over. I am not a timid person in the least so I put my arm out to guard my belly and my two smallest kids and pushed one man out of the way with a firm excuse me. The men weren't being rude, but we're just oblivious to passersby. We came home to eat leftovers for lunch and I've been resting in my recliner. I love this thing! It has been a necessity. The hospital bed is nice and I'm sleeping in it at night, but if I had to pick one, I'd pick the recliner!!! Lipo areas are sore and tender. I try to rub them when the binder is off. Belly button not fully healed and I'm unsure of it just yet. Incision still covered with paper tape, but no problems. Rash is almost gone. I keep saying that, but it's fading more each day and now I'm only treating it once per day. I can shift some weight onto my left hip a bit when lying down. It's not on my side, but even the little bit helps. I'm a side/tummy sleeper so the back sleeping is hard. It's also tiresome to stay in one position IMO. I think I forgot to mention I had the vena-pro leg squishers for blood clots that were very useful. I'm no longer using them as I'm very mobile taking twice daily walks of 0.25-0.5 mile each plus moving about inside. I did like using them the first couple weeks though. I found them sort of soothing. I guess I'll pass them on to my dad now; he has poor leg circulation. The uh...hmm... Playground will not be reopened anytime soon. I want to be comfy lying flat without binder plus other healing needs to be further along. I have read of some ready at two weeks & more power to them. Not me! I did show hubs the belly and profile yesterday and he was very pleased. He's a super sweet man though and will wait til I show him I'm ready. Has the patience of Job, really. Oh, one more thing - I measured waist and hips. I've lost 3" waist and 2" hips already. Woohoo! Not bad for 2.5 weeks post op and still swollen. I'm taking pictures daily, but figure I'll post them weekly now instead of daily. Blessings on your journeys! Be positive and patient and realistic about goals. I think those points are important! Updated on 18 Dec 2014: Tuesday, 12/16/14, was 3 weeks post op for me. I'm feeling better each day, typically with some backward steps thrown in the mix for sure. APPETITE - Normal, must say all of the yummy baked goods and chocolates of the Christmas season are tempting, but I'm trying to indulge responsibly. It helps that I can only eat Gluten Free items that we make. I ate some BBQ yesterday for lunch from our favorite place - BBQ pork, smoked corn, mashed potatoes. I only ate 1/3 of the meal and was full, but the sodium content caused some minor swelling that seems to be resolving 24 hours later. Bone broth, hot tea, almond thins are go to things for me. I just had a Peanut Butter, Berries, Banana, and Kale protein smoothie for lunch today - YUM! SCAR - I changed my 3M Brown paper scar tape on Monday. It stays on for 7-10 days at a time. The scar looks great everywhere except my left hip where it is quite puckered. I'm hoping that lays flat over time. I do have a vertical scar that is very thin beneath my belly button. The scar is fine, but I do seem to have some excess skin here. BELLY BUTTON - It's mostly healed up. I am not crazy about the appearance, it could simply be that I have so many deep stretch marks, that this is the best it can be. It seems I have some excess skin right in this area that could be tightened up a bit. Time will tell. My belly button is off center by 3/4 - 1". Odd, but true. Still, it's way better than it was already. LIPO AREAS - I had lipo to hips, flanks, and inner thighs. These are the areas that hurt. They swell and get hard and are tender. I'm hoping to begin lymphatic massage with my massage therapist friend soon. Until then, I rub the areas when I'm out of my binder. SWELLING - I'm pretty flat most mornings, I have swelling above hip bones most often and in lipo areas, oh, and the Ken Doll. Sheesh. It's awful. Fortunately it doesn't hurt. ACTIVITY LEVEL - I've been walking all along and am up to 3/4 mile at a time at a bit quicker pace. I'm driving, getting in and out of the van hurts sometimes, but only the lip areas. Shopping and pushing a full cart is a no-no, it hurts the core. Climbing stairs is fine now. I can pick things up off the floor, but try to avoid bending down that far as much as possible. I can do a load of laundry, swish and swipe the bathroom counter, sink, toilet. Still, I rest several hours a day, mainly in my recliner that I am in love with. I will hate to see this thing go. The playground remains closed. SLEEPING - I'm still in the adjustable hospital bed. I can lie on both sides for about 15-20 minutes at a time, curled up. I still sleep in a v-shape. Lying flat pulls too much. I have the oddest, most vivid dreams. It's really bizarre. I also keep trying to do huge full body stretches in my sleep. I find I tense my back, legs and abs very tightly and it's as if my body is fighting to do that big stretch while my sleeping brain is saying, "NO!" This morning around 4 am, this happened and the body must have won a bit because it woke me and I was sore for an hour afterwards. New pics shared. I promise I own more than one pair of undies even if all my pics seem to be in the yellow ones. Hehe. I hope you all are recovering nicely and enjoying a blessedly slowed Christmas season! Updated on 18 Dec 2014: All the pics didn't get loaded. These are mainly of the scar on 12/15/14. Updated on 23 Dec 2014: Today marks exactly 4 weeks since my surgery. Not a lot has changed in the last week, except I did wear a pair of jeans to the grocery store today for the first time. Jeans that did not fit before surgery. I came home and changed, but I wore them. Woohoo. I changed my scar tape this am and when in the shower, there was a stinging sensation on my left hip, right at the end of the scar. It seems that there may be a teensy opening there, either it has never closed or has reopened, I'm not sure. I talked with my nurse and she said to re-tape it for now and then watch for changes, it should close. The scar remains very puckered on my left hip. I have been busier this week and overly tired as a result. I'm looking forward to a slower rest of 2014. I bought sexy undies for the first time in over a decade. However, if I don't quit eating chocolate this holiday season, I'm gonna need a new tummy tuck. Ha! Just kidding, but only slightly. Updated on 8 Jan 2015: Tuesday marked 6 weeks post-op. I am doing well. Incisions are closed, I've just discontinued the paper scar tape, at least for a while, as my skin was becoming overly dry and irritated. I'm using a homemade (by my massage therapist friend) oil/goo on the scar for now. It feels great! Lipo areas still hurt, esp. my back. I'm hoping to start lymphatic massage to help. Too many chocolates and cookies over Christmas and now it's time to get back to reality. So far, I like my shape, though I am swelling in my upper abs in the muscle repair area quite a bit. I was checked for serum and told it's inter-tissue swelling. I think it might be related to the fact that when I wake in the am, my muscles in that area contract hard and involuntarily. It's very weird. I'm trying deep breathing to help before I move at all when I wake. The upper ab swelling is unattractive! As is the Ken Doll. My weight is ~ 165, I think. So still have some swelling going on. Goals for next week: - Return to my bed, even propped since the wonderful adjustable bed leaves tomorrow. - Walk min. of 2 miles at least 5 days per week - Slowly begin T-Tapp exercise video - Sleep more. I've not slept well in a week. I miss my bed and sleeping the way I want. - Gradually increase amount of time I am out of binder/garment when inactive. - Eat well every day and skip the desserts! - Lymph massage 2-3 times per week - MAYBE open the playground. ;) That's it for now. I'm too tired to upload pics, will try to do it tomorrow. Updated on 20 Jan 2015: Today, I am 8 weeks post tummy tuck with lipo to hips, inner thighs, and flanks. I am back to my regular routine for the most part though I still tire more easily than normal. I do think my thyroid is off a bit, but it will settle soon. I am free of all restrictions and allowed to do anything I'm up for. EXERCISE - I can walk 1-2 miles without problems, in fact, my lipo areas feel best when I am moving. They ache and hurt when I sit too long. I have yet to get into a good routine for exercise post surgery, but I'm working on that. I want to return to my T-Tapp video and walking and eventually rebounding. THE PLAYGROUND - Uhm, this was reopened last week. No issues though I don't want any pressure on my belly so hubs gets an arm/core workout. Nothing fantastic to report change wise, but I am more comfortable in my skin now. CONCERNS - My upper abs are swollen all the time, I'm concerned that they will never flatten back out. Surgeon says there isn't much swelling or fat there and that if I overeat, the stomach will distend. Problem is it's always big even if I haven't eaten anything. Mons Pubis is huge. It's always huge, so I'm not sure it's swelling, but may be residual fat. Not sure I would consider lipo later as the lipo areas are the ones that still ache or hurt now. I am only wearing Spanx or the binder occasionally. The doctor has said wear as needed, but wean off of it. SCAR - I'm happy with the scar. It's healing well. I'm still using 3M scar tape for another month. When my skin is too dry, I take it off and use a concoction of Vit. E oil and shea butter and essential oils for a day or two. BELLY BUTTON - not the best, but more due to my stretch marks, I think. Not concerned as long as it doesn't close up. WEIGHT - currently 166 lbs. I was 169.5 on surgery day and 6 pounds was removed. So either I have swelling still or I gained weight over the holidays. I think it's a bit of both perhaps. I'm hoping it is mostly swelling. I would still like to lose 20 lbs. CLOTHING - things fit better, but I don't wear drastically smaller sizes. I wore L and XL before and now I wear L. Mediums are too tight. I cannot yet fit into size 12 jeans, but my 14s fit nicely. I'd like to be a 10. Overall, I am happy with results. I need to begin exercising more regularly and get a better picture of how I feel. So far so good. The upper ab swelling has got to go before I can be really content. The mons is troubling, but easier to accept. Updated on 20 Jan 2015: just a few more pics... Updated on 5 Feb 2015: It's 10.5 weeks since my tummy tuck and liposuction surgery. I'm doing well. - no restrictions any more - can lift my 5 year old easily - no pain along scar and scar is flattening nicely - upper and sore and seem to spasm, esp when I first wake up or move after lying down a while; seizes up tight as a rock and not comfortable; deep breathing helps - still using 3m brown paper tape on scar per surgeon until 4 months post op; when I change tape every week, I leave it off a day and treat with an essential oil concoction because the tape is drying - happy with scar and belly button - flanks still hurt from lipo esp after sleeping or resting a while; moving and being active helps a ton - Mons is still ridiculously large. Not sure it's just swelling , but we will see. - upper abs are now more swollen than anything. Under bb is very flat. This looks like an alien - have not re-established a good workout routine and need to make this a top priority - too many cookies/treats between Christmas and the month of birthdays (Jan.) means I lost zero pounds, but I haven't gained I hope everyone here is doing well. I'm happy overall, but want the upper ab issue gone along with the last 15-20 lbs! Updated on 27 Jul 2015: Hmm. I've gained 10 pounds post surgery due partially to my thyroid being out of whack post surgery and partially to real life interfering with regular exercise. Ugh. I nursed my eldest child through the flu and pneumonia for 3 weeks and now I and my 8 year old have the flu. Not our healthiest month. On the plus side, I'm sure I'm losing at least a couple pounds. I still have the upper abdomen bulge from before the weight gain, so I'm wondering if a revision might be in order. Definitely better that what I started with. While perfection isn't s worthy goal, I am not sure I'm satisfied with the end result just yet. If I can get the extra weight off, I'll have a better idea. The scars have all healed well. I'm pleased with my doctor, just want to see me at 160 lb before I decide on revision. At the moment, I would be happy to quit having violent coughing interspersed with raging fevers! Updated on 8 Jul 2024: Over the past 10 years, I ballooned up to 205 lbs which was due to poor eating, too little exercise, and loads of stress. I have lived on a farm for 3.5 years now so lots of exercise happens naturally but poor eating and stress led to T2 diabetes, all around crappy labs, being uncomfortable in my skin, etc. On 4/1/24 I was 205 lbs. I have changed my lifestyle and eating habits, begun intermittent fasting, and taking needed supplements. As of 7/7/24, I weigh 169 lbs. almost what I weighed on surgery day. (166 lbs). I reversed the diabetes within a few weeks and everything is trending better. Goal is 155 lbs by year end. 145 would be great, but at almost 50 years old, I’ll be happy with 155. Here are new pics of my much older body.
I never considered implants until nursing left me a deflated 34B (or C in Victoria's Secret, they're so generous)! After going to a couple consultations, I was told I also need a lift. It took me several months to come to terms with that, but now I am just ready to do this. Tired of feeling insecure and having to live in uncomfortable push up bras/bikini tops. Struggling with some mommy guilt and a fear of the surgery itself. I'm considering 300-350 silicone unders. I'm 5'6, 130 lbs, and hoping to look more proportional since I'm pretty thin on top, but have ample hips/butt! Updated on 7 Apr 2014: Adding a wish pic! I'd be very happy with this size! My pre-op is in a few days. Will update again then... Updated on 8 Apr 2014: Droopy and blah. Will be so nice to fill out a bikini top this summer! Updated on 11 Apr 2014: Just had my pre-op and decided to go with 300/325 mod+. The appointment was nearly 2 hours long (mostly with Dr. Rumsey's nurse Melissa who was wonderful) and covered SO much information! Had vitals taken, went over what to avoid from now until surgery, got re-measured, tried sizers again, got my scripts for Keflex, Percocet and Phenergan (no valium?) and paid my balance. All the questions I had were answered and I feel much calmer now. No ibuprofen, aspirin, flax or vit E until 2 days post-op. No alcohol 2 days pre through 1week post. Wash with dial soap day before/or surgery. It's really real now! Hope this info helps someone. Updated on 19 Apr 2014: Well only 4 days left til the big day. I went from being giddy after ordering little bralettes the other day for after sx (haven't bought anything without underwire & inches of padding in years) to having some doubts. Keep asking myself why this is so important to me. My dear aunt went through breast cancer a few years ago, and here I am complaining about the way mine look. At least they're healthy. Arghhh I hope these feelings are just normal jitters. My fear/anxiety about surgery and the anesthesia is also kicking in again. Positive thoughts & prayers are welcome ladies!! Updated on 21 Apr 2014: I will certainly NOT miss underwire!! Updated on 23 Apr 2014: Well ladies I made it through surgery day!! Been in bed dozing pretty much all day. Pain is bearable so far if I stay on top of meds. Will give better update tomorrow! Thank you for the prayers and support! Updated on 24 Apr 2014: Yesterday was pretty surreal. Had to be at surgery center at 8:15, but doctor was running behind from previous surgery so we waited longer than expected. They took my vitals and a urine sample. (Btw, on a tmi note, my period decided to show up yesterday when I woke up! Lucky me)! They set up IV while I answered some questions. Then we waited for doctor to come in and mark me up. After that the anesthesiologist came in and asked me more questions. I hugged my hubby goodbye and walked to OR. I got on table and nurse and anesthesiologist told me to take big yoga breaths, joked that this was the yoga room! I said it didn't look like a yoga room! Lol, and next thing I know I was waking up in recovery! I wasn't even aware that I was given anything, just was out. BP was pretty low and I was dizzy when I woke, so they gave me saltines and some water. Once that improved I was wheeled out to car. Got set up in my bed with a wedge and one of those u-shaped travel pillows. Got sick once, so I took phenergan and nausea has not returned. My sweet husband made homemade chicken soup, so I had a small bowl of that. Been drinking a ton of smart water and chowing down stacks of saltines like nobody's business! They just taste so good right now! Slept in 2-3 hour cycles the last 24-hrs and feel good. I Def need the Percocet every 4 hours or feel pain break through. Got up and semi-helped hubby get our daughter off to school, even braided her hair for her :) Had a coffee and Greek yogurt and now back in bed resting. This truly was not as bad as I feared. I had such anxiety over this surgery and it felt like it was over in a blink. If you are nervous about this, please know it is not as scary as you fear. Attaching a pic but I'm all bandaged up so it's hard to tell much. I'm glad they don't look/feel too huge. Get to unwrap and shower tomorrow! Updated on 25 Apr 2014: Today was the big reveal! Everything looks ok, just sitting high and some swelling which I know is to be expected. I had my hubby unwrap the ace bandage and he was definitely happy with the results! Lol. (Funny for someone who claimed to not care!) I felt pretty good today. Stopped Percocet and started alternating Tylenol and Advil, so I'm happy about that! Also was able to venture out to dinner and it was nice getting out of the house for a bit. Oh I also applied some arnica gel to help with swelling. Right now that's the most uncomfortable thing I'm experiencing--that swollen, stretchy tightness. Anyone know how long that lasts?? Updated on 27 Apr 2014: Hi girls! Was feeling a little down today bc of the bruising and swelling, and my right looks bigger than left to me. But then I tried on the old bikini top from my before pic and it def cheered me up :)) Yesterday (day 3) I hit a bit of a wall. Was low on energy and felt light headed all day. I think I was breathing too shallow bc of the tightness. Anyway, back to feeling fine today! Post-op visit is tomorrow so we'll see what they say. Hope everyone had a great weekend! Updated on 1 May 2014: Can't believe it's been over a week since my surgery! Overall I've been feeling really good. I do get tired easily and have had some bouts of light-headedness. I also have some numbness on my right side and underarm. I'm starting to get zingers, so I guess the nerves are waking up. I'm taking Tylenol and Advil as needed, which is about 2-3 times a day. I'm using arnica gel and bromelain tablets to help swelling/bruising. Dressing has been a challenge, as so many of you have said! It's hard to hide sports bras/surgical bras when it's already tank top weather here! Why oh why didn't I do this in January?! Attaching a pic of me and the hubs since it's been so nice putting faces to our realfriends names :) Will update with some more after photos later! Updated on 1 May 2014: Updated on 5 May 2014: Time is flying right by and I'm almost back to feeling normal. We had a pool party for my little girl's birthday yesterday with 12 kids and woohoo I pulled it off! (But oh man was I tired after!) I had my 2nd post op appointment today. The sutures and tape were removed. I have to admit I was a little nervous about seeing what the scars looked like, but I was pleasantly surprised that they're just thin, pink lines! I have to replace tape weekly for the next month. I should've asked about using scar gels but maybe it's too soon? I definitely want to order some of that Pracasil that orange3421 recommends! That's it for now. Happy healing and good luck to those with surgeries coming up :) Updated on 7 May 2014: Updated on 15 May 2014: Haven't been on here as much because I got busy with work the end of the school year! I hit my 3 week mark yesterday and today I changed my tape. My husband is out of town so I had to do it alone and I'm totally squeamish--I was not looking forward to it! Everything looks good except for one nipple. Looks like he cut over one edge instead of around it, and there is a dark line where it's healing. I emailed a pic to PS nurse because it concerns me a bit. The other lines look so clean, but this one is different. We shall see what they say. At least it's my nipple and nobody but hubs & I will see it;) Other than that, I'm doing good. I still have to take it easy with arm/chest movements and lifting anything. I started sleeping on my side again this past week and am super happy about that! I kind of squish myself against a king size pillow to get comfy. Still have some numbness on my right side through armpit. Feels strange more than anything. But my nipples are crazy sensitive! We had a huge PGA golf tournament in our area last week and we went 3 days in a row and walked around all day in the heat. And drank all day. Lol. I didn't know how that would go being only 2 weeks post-op. I was exhausted by the end of each day, but had a blast! Updated on 25 May 2014: It's been a month since my surgery, time flies! They are definitely starting to soften and feel more natural. Nipple hyper-sensitivity and morning boob are gone for the most part, so that is happy news. Now I should mention the boob greed. Ladies, it is real ;)! I got exactly what I asked for (I feel my PS got me very close to my wish pic), but I think I should have gone a little bigger. I read about the boob greed on here so many times but I did not think it would happen to me bc I was the type who was so nervous about being too big! That being said, I think they look very proportionate and I can still keep them conservative when I want to at this size. So that's my take on that. Lol. Happy Memorial weekend!! Updated on 3 Jun 2014: Everything is going well. I've been cleared to resume all activities! I have to continue taping for another month, then can start scar treatment. We're going on vacay next week so I needed some new bikini tops and new non-sports bras! I'm fitting in a 34D, at least for now. With a regular bra on they look much better in clothes, so I'm feeling good!
I had a "mommy make-over" with Dr. Rumsey at PVPS in March 2012. After having 3 kids I wasnt sure if I could ever get my pre-baby body back. I eat good and exercise but stretch marks left my tummy looking wrinkled and even saggy. I was hopeful that I would look good in a bathing suit again and FEEL GOOD when I tried stuff on in the dressing room... I wanted shopping to be fun again, and not feel like a chore. My results are amazing! My stomach is flat and no longer hanging over my jeans. I even dropped a pants size! Plus my husband notices the change.... and sometimes they never notice!!! I feel more confident now and I dont dread bathing suit season. Why did I wait so long??? I recommend this procedure to anyone.... Once you have a consult with the right doctor, you'll know what you want.
I've known that I wanted a TT since after I had my first son. I got bad strech marks and loose skin on my belly. I knew I wanted more children so I waited til now after my 3rd son was born last Sept. Everytime I had a baby my belly would just get worse and I have gotten to the point where I know if I dont get the surgery I wont ever be "Myself" again, I feel like Im restricted to doing normal things, little things that most people do, like taking my kids to the pool, going on vacation, finding something to wear everyday, etc. So Im here and tomorrow Im ready! Nervous but ready! Updated on 25 Feb 2011: Thanks everyone for the good wishes! Surgery went well. Right when I got there everyone was so nice and made me feel comfortable. They took me back and marked me up. I loved how my sergeon marked me up so precise, he measured everything and took his time. After that I was in the operating room and then I remember waking up. My surgery was 4 1/2 hours long. I did have a couple issues with the meds. They told me Im super sensitive to medicine. I actually had them stop giving me the demerol because it was making me feel so nauseous and just took Oxycodone by mouth. That helped a lot. I would rather feel a little pain then feel so sick. The other issue I had was when They started getting me up to walk around my blood pressure would drop so low I would nearly pass out (which would not be good after this surgery) So for a while I was concerned that I wouldnt be able to get my catheder out and go home the next day but the nurse was so patient and helped me every hour to work my self to get up. Every time it got easier. The pain is not too bad just really sore and hunched over. I havent got to see my results all the way yet because they told me to keep my binder on until sat. but I did take a peek and it feels so good to finlly have a flat tummy. Im swollen but it still looks amazing! all of the nurses kept on telling me how much Im going to LOVE my results because they saw my results before swelling in the operating room. so Im VERY excited! Oh yea and they got over 8 POUNDS of skin and fat off me!!! Wow!
A ruptured or leaking silicone gel implant would be unusual, though not impossible, so soon after your surgery. It is not possible to diagnose a ruptured gel implant by physical exam alone and if your surgeon suspects the possibility then an MRI would be the best method to confirm. Another possible cause of the change in shape and palpable folds you have noticed is early capsular contracture. Though not as common with implants placed under the muscle this complication still occurs in at least five percent of patients....and is occasionally seen as early as 4-6 months. The best thing to do is make an appointment with your surgeon so he can perform a thorough exam.
Seroma after abdominoplasty is a fairly common occurrence and can typically be easily treated in the office by percutaneous drainage through the skin of the lower abdomen. The bad news is that the seroma may recur and require additional drainage procedures over the next several weeks. The good news is that this minor complication should not affect your final result. Though this is certainly not an urgent situation you should bring the issue to the attention of your surgeon at your earliest convenience.
It appears from your photos that you have full natural breasts and the degree of ptosis(sag) is very typical for your breast size. If your primary goal is to have more youthful but natural looking breasts then a breast lift might very well suffice. It is important that you fully understand the locations of the required incisions and resulting scars before proceeding. If fullness in the upper portion of your breasts is important then adding an implant would be an option to consider. These two procedures can often be performed together. Good luck!
In your case, other than slightly more post-operative discomfort, I see little downside to performing a muscle repair. Your results will likely be enhanced. You appear to be a very good candidate for a tummy tuck. Good luck!
At this early stage it is completely normal for one implant to seem higher than the other, particularly implants placed subpectoral(under the muscle). Full settling of your implants may require 3-4 months. Nonetheless, if your higher side also seems larger and/or more painful, you should probably see your surgeon.
