Christopher Nolan, MD (retired)

I am 51 years old and have had two children, one was a c-section. Back when I was in my 20's and had my c-section, they cut through my muscle. Of course, nothing was the same afterwards. After 25 years in a bad marriage and divorce, I gained and lost weight which added to the tire around my middle. Three years ago, I had a breast lift and was extremely happy with my plastic surgeon and the results, so I decided to go back to him for my tummy tuck and muscle repair. I think the most important advice I could give is to read the blogs and accept the fact that the first few weeks are really going to suck after the surgery. Everyone is different, and there is no "magic" number of days or weeks when suddenly you'll feel great! You should know that things DO GET BETTER, but be prepared for the pain! It hurts, but it eventually gets better! Also, be sure to research doctors. Be sure to get one who is a certified plastic surgeon--your body is not worth going cheap! I had my tummy tuck and muscle repair on June 28th, 2011 and am extremely happy with the results!!! Yes, I had the horrible swelling, and I could only take two weeks off work, so I had to deal with it. I followed my drs.' instructions and walked hunched over as instructed until he told me I could straighten up. Yes, it feels like you're going to split in two and it burns and it's painful, but IT GETS BETTER! I'm just starting to exercise again, including sit-ups. It still hurts to do sit-ups and my stomach still burns sometimes if I stretch too far. I listen to my body and stop if there is pain. All I can say is no matter what age you are, a tummy tuck is the way to go to get rid of that loose skin!

Hello, I underwent a Mommy Makeover 9 days ago, and am so glad I did it. My recovery was speedy, pain free, a little discomfort, but very very worth it! I'm 37 yrs. old, 5'6", 156 lbs. Had two C-sections and very loose extra skin. I hated the post baby tummy "apron" I was left with, and after two years of exercise, endless sit ups, and conscious eating I could not get rid of the skin. I would highly recommend it, but just as it's important to find a good doctor, you also need to have good aftercare at home while you recover. I hired a caregiver to stay with me for the first 5 days bc you will need someone to help you in/out of bed, coordinate your medication, food, hydration, and walking. You must get out of bed and walk to avoid developing blood clots!!! Best of luck to you. Updated on 4 Aug 2011: I also had breast augmentation. After breast feeding two beautiful children for one year each, my small breast practically shrank down to skin flaps. My PS used Mentor silicone implants (325& 350cc) to give me volume and fullness. I'm very pleased with the outcome and my decision to undergo this surgery. My PS "reconstructed" my body and put everything back in it's place.