I am a 35 year old who maintains healthy diet and exercise, but always carries fat in midsection. I’ve always been an athlete and live an activelifestyle, but had this fat since teenage years. No pregnancies and currently weigh 132 and am 5’6”. Procedure will be laser assisted lipo on upper and lower abs, waist and back bra roll. Updated on 17 Jun 2018: Updated on 17 Jun 2018: Lots of swelling, soreness and bruising, but I can already see a flatter stomach. Some incisions have already healed and no more drainage today.
Part 1: On September 19 I had my surgery and I thought I would blog a little about it for any one who is curious. I will not lie and say every thing went perfect because it did not, but hopefully it will not dissuade any prospects out there because at this point I finally DO feel like it was worth it. :)... Updated on 3 Oct 2016: Part 2: Like I said in my last review, I am going to tell the truth! So, I had my surgery on Sept 19 and went home the same day. 4 days later I woke up to a swollen left arm. I called the advice nurse and explained my symptoms (swelling, tight feeling, pain, warm to touch) and she got me to see a dr that same day (not my surgeon). Somehow I had contracted blood clots in my arm from surgery which is apparently rare, and also bewildering because I was following all instructions. I was told 1 of the 4 clots was dangerous, so I was put on blood thinners which led to the biggest problem of all... two days later my left breast filled with blood (hematoma) and I PASSED OUT in the bathroom of my home. I literally woke up to my sister slapping my face and frantically calling my name. My husband called 911 and I went to the emergency room. They could not drain the hematoma until I could see the surgeon the next day, so I was in for an extremely painful night as the hematoma continued to grow and my breast fill with blood. Updated on 4 Oct 2016: Part 3: The next morning, in the hospital once again, my surgeon put me under anesthesia as I needed a second surgery to drain the hematoma. By now it was extremely painful (at the hospital they ask you to rate your pain on a scale of 1-10 and I kept giving them an 8) The surgeon drained A LITER of blood. Not fun. So then he informed me I would have to stay at the hospital for a few nights for observation. The staff was nice enough, but I wasn't out of the woods yet... Updated on 4 Oct 2016: Part 4: A big fat blister developed on the problem boob as if to put a cherry on top of my sh*t sundae. Remember ladies, that can happen too. Anyway after being drained, I kept feeling dizzy and light headed whenever I would get up, even though the nurses kept encouraging me to walk. I would try to eat something or sleep off the feeling, but it persisted. Finally they ran a blood test and found my blood count to be extremely low and in the critical range. I would need a blood transfusion. I was VERY apprehensive at this point to have any new procedures especially since all of my problems seem to have been blood related, but they convinced me that everything would be okay, and I gave in. Updated on 4 Oct 2016: Part 5: I went home Friday Sept 30th and now, a few days later, my soreness is normal. Only rarely do I need my oxycodone. I have an appointment tomorrow to see my surgeon. The hematoma left a palpable lump in my left ta-ta that I am hoping will go away in time *fingers crossed* and now I can smile in hopes that the worst is over. Updated on 7 Oct 2016: Part 6: I understand that it is tricky navigating my two remaining issues: I have the blood clots (from the surgery) so I need to stay on anticoagulants, but I am also all cut up in the chest from the surgery so the very notion of being on blood thinners is counter intuitive. Still, I have to stay on them--a twice daily needle in my stomach called Lovenox that I have to shoot myself with at home--or the blood clot that is dangerous could cause a super fun pulmonary embolism! The problem, though, is that I feel my left breast swelling up again with blood. Slower this time, but surely. My dr has advised me to bind myself with a large ACE bandage until I can see him again on Tuesday which seems to slow the process down. It's upsetting to have to keep being worried that I will end up like I was before, and he empathizes, but no one seems to know how to fix both issues at the same time :/ Perhaps I will see if any of the doctors on this site have an answer Updated on 9 Oct 2016: Ok, yeah what happened to me sucks but this has to resolve itself in time. Right? All I can do is be patient, go to all my follow ups, hope for the best, and remember what it was like before. I had the migraines, BAD ones. So bad drs were doing MRI scans to see if I had any brain tumors, and later on I was getting Botox injections in my head (they didn't help much). I also was not able to exercise for long periods of time. If I went to a YMCA class with a friend I would slow down way before her and 90% of the other class. Exercising matters to me because I plan to pursue a career in law enforcement. Those were just a few of the issues~ But today I am just going to d*ck around my house on a lazy Sunday, try to ignore the new swelling (even though I am out of pain pills now...grrr) and distract myself with video games and my two sweet doggies. Even though I have to continue to bind my chest I still bought two new sports bras...from "regular" stores Target and Walmart! I thought it would be fun to take a pic doing a side by side comparison of my old sports bra and new one. The pic doesn't do justice, my old Lane Bryant bra ECLIPSES my new Target xl sports bra! The other pic is how small I am now. My new size is taking some getting used to, but I guess that's normal seeing as how my big bazooms were part of me for so long. I think I'm just in mourning. Ha. I misssss youuuuu cleeeeavage Updated on 12 Dec 2018: Two years ago I was posting right after my reduction in the midst of a lot of complications. Today I can happily say I’m all healed up and even though I had those complications, I would do it all over again. I’ve lost 22 lbs since then (& -5 lbs from the BR) because I’m actually able to RUN NOW. I feel more confident, proportionate, and I fit into clothes comfortably now. 2016 Recap: What happened was I got a blood clot after surgery. It was dvt (the kind that can travel and cause a deadly outcome) and the only thing doctors can do is to put you on anticoagulants for a blood clot. Well what happens when you just got cut open and thin someone’s blood? Internal bleeding. Two days after I went on Coumadin I had developed a hematoma, passed out and had to go to the hospital and get a transfusion. I was there for couple of nights and then released. One or two ladies have told me my experience scared them. While I am a reminder that this procedure is not risk free, I do not think my experience should be a deterrent. I’m fine now. You can follow me on Instagram to see more of my progress if you’d like: @ tyranosarahrexx . And if you want to dm me there, as many have already, I’m an open book.
I have scheduled a smart Lipo appointment for 5/1/2017 and have been researching a lot. I decided to go with Sono Bello in Portland because they focus on two types of procedures. My doctor is Dr. Malin. I recently gained weight due to medication and increased appetite. I'm hoping this will jumpstart my metabolism and help me get back to my goal weight of 165. I am currently 5'4 and 205lbs. I met with Jennifer Deneke last week and she set up my pre-op and procedure date. I really liked her, she didn't pressure me or over promise. I felt her advice was genuine and conservative. I will update again once I meet my doctor at the Pre-Op. Updated on 24 Apr 2017: I have been researching Smart Lipo and set a consultation with SonoBello Portland. I am going for it with Dr. Malin on 5/5/2017. My Pre-Op is 4/29/17. They gave me a free session of Venus Legacy to assist with tightening. Overall because of my BMI each area was about 1900 resulting in 8,800 total. I am getting upper and lower abdomen, waist, and hips. I will keep updating. Does anyone have advice Updated on 29 Apr 2017: This appointment has been frustrating. I was scheduled at 11 and did not go in until 11:15. I did not end up seeing the doctor until 12:15. There were so many people waiting and in process. It was a busy day. Not sure I that's because the time of year or if it is always this busy. The most frustrating part was they had me sitting in an empty room in a really uncomfortable chair in an awkward robe and the surgical bra and panty. I'm questioning whether or not this is the place I want to get my procedure. The experience at my pre-op has been so different than the consultation. Jennifer Deneke the patient consultant was so nice and her office was comfortable and inviting. Nothing like this pee op room. Updated on 5 May 2017: My procedure was a success. Totally different experience than the pre op. Total procedure was 3 hours. They took out 4 liters of fat. Updated on 5 May 2017: As of right now it is 2 hrs after my procedure and I am at a zero pain level. Updated on 6 May 2017: A lot of fluid discharged yesterday. I Bought a pack of 22 puppy pads. Wishing I had bought two packs. The drainage is a lot but that's a good thing. Still taking the Percocet, Arnica, antibiotics, and a probiotic to prevent yeast infections. I slept on my back and then rotated to my side and my other side. I'm not sure how I will shower and wash my garnet. I'm wishing I had bought 2 garments. One to wear while the other is washing. I'm sleepy but I get up and walk around for a few minutes. Overall I feel fine just want to keep resting. I don't have much of an appetite but last night I was starving ate pasta and meatballs. Won't make that mistake again. Updated on 6 May 2017: Little groggy from pain meds. Going for a walk no appetite. Drank a protein shake to get my metabolism started. Haven't showered yet. Going for a walk then will get in shower. I will hand wash the garment and then dry on low. Overall I'm great. Updated on 6 May 2017: Pain 0 taking my time. Only ibuprofen. Wishing I had xanax or a muscle relaxer. Here is my care package. Water, ibuprofen, Arnica, and kombucha. I feel good. Getting a pedicure. Washed my garments and they feel loose but I can't tell if that's because I'm numb. There is some definite bruising. It not too bad. My lower stomach is still poochy but I think that's the fluid collecting. Excited to see results after 1 week. Updated on 7 May 2017: My garmet is already too big. Going into get a smaller one on Monday. Done taking the Percocet except at night. I'm excited to take my garmet off and see what my stomach looks like. The draining is mostly finished. I have zero appetite just lots of water. How long did it take you all to go down a size in your garmet? Updated on 7 May 2017: Will start using the Arnica cream today to get rid of bruising. I'm currently using a waist trainer instead of the binder bc it was not tight enough. I haven't used the bathroom since Friday. Today is Sunday. Hopefully I'm have a bm and be less bloated. Any advice on how to reduce swelling quicker? I'm also very itchy. Updated on 8 May 2017: I've been drinking 65 oz of water daily and massaging my Lower stomach. The Arnica gel makes massaging Better I also picked up some 14% Indica and it was perfect. I would def do this again. I'm thinking about my back and arms already. But I want to see how flat my abdomen heals. Will post pics at the one week. Thank you Dr Malin and nurse Christy. Updated on 8 May 2017: Today is good. I got super tired after being up early. I went to the gym and completed 25 min on elliptical at resistance 12 then 25 minutes 8 resistance on the bike. Totally tired me out so now I came home to take a nap. I got a smaller garmet while I washed my waist trainer. Looks even better today. Updated on 9 May 2017: Pain is pretty much gone as long as I wear my garmet. I wAnt to start massages but my abs are still so tender. I didn't go to the gym today and felt really guilty. I'm def going tomorrow. I finally went number 2 and I feel so much less bloated.
I've been a frequent follower of treads here. Currently I'm trying to decide between Athenix and Sono Bello. Anyone had any experience with either of these facilities. Which one should I go to for liposuction of the abdomen and waist area. Any reasons would be very helpful. Updated on 26 Mar 2017: 27yr old trying to get rid of stubborn belly fat - Dr. Malin is one of the surgeons in Sono bello. I am scheduled for my surgery in 5hrs and u can't sleep to save my life. I'm super nervous!. I'm not sure what to expect with the pain, the results and recovery. I'll keep y'all posted! Wish me luck! Updated on 27 Mar 2017: Let's just say that so far I'm absolutely impressed with my results. Dr. Malin performs miracles and I've never looked like this before. Hurts like hell, but completely worth it. I'm sleep but would post a before and after picture of my recovery Updated on 29 Mar 2017: Today is day 4. I am not feeling any pain during the day. Still swelling but I already see the results. I've been managing my pain with Tylenol on day 2. I can't wait to see my finals results. Dr. Malin is a miracle worker Updated on 21 Apr 2017: Still some swelling but I can see a big difference. I can't wait for my 3month appointment!
It's been a long time that I've wanted to fix my body...unfortunately didn't have the opportunity till now. I'm quite nervous and don't know what to expect. I have been reading a lot of the reviews from many others on RS to get an idea of what to plan/prepare for and expect as far as pain wise, recovery, etc. I'm hoping the pain is manageable as I've already gone through the "miracle" of child birth 2x. I hear if you can get thru that...you can get thru just about anything. So with that I am being hopeful that this journey will be worth it as the rest of the 97% on RS have said. :) Updated on 7 Apr 2016: Took these just now, I weigh between 129-134lbs at 5ft 2in. tall. I maxed at 165lbs after my second son. I have worked so hard since then to bring my weight down and here I am today with extra skin & some fat left in my stomach area. I am proud that I was able to bring my weight down but not proud of these unflattering images. I'm quite petite everywhere else that no one knows I have this under my clothes. I always get loose clothes to hide my mid section and people who have seen my belly say they never suspected it to look as stretched or wrinkled as it does. Ready to regain my confidence ALL over. Updated on 11 Apr 2016: So I went out and picked up some vits over the weekend but am unsure of I should start taking them now or not. Help someone? I am hoping for a somewhat speedy recovery and thinking of I start with them now maybe the herbs & nutrients will kick in sooner for healing. See my pic and let me know your thoughts... Updated on 5 May 2016: My PS says everything went great and I will be very happy with the results. I stayed overnight At The hospital which was nice because I had nurses checking on me and assisting in bathroom walks. Boy it is uncomfortable to walk the first couple days. Every thing is so tight. Once they put me under I didn't feel a thing. That was the best part. They do want you to be hydrated the whole time and my PS wants me walking around to boost recovery. Updated on 5 May 2016: Ok see my belly hanging... Updated on 5 May 2016: Updated on 6 May 2016: Since I have stairs in my house I had to go upstairs to my shower. It was a challenge going up and less going down. Does/did anyone have sharp stinging and burning pains on the side? My right side is killing me every time I move and walk. Help please. What does it mean?? Updated on 7 May 2016: Like a burrito. This garment it's quite comfortable to be so tight.. Updated on 8 May 2016: Firstly, Happy Mothers day to you all beautiful ladies! I do have a question...are you guys opening up your compression garments every now and then or no? I've kept mine on unopened since I took my shower and am now wondering if I should be opening it to air out?? Help please? I see so many of you taking pics without the binder. So I'm like.do I need to take mine off too? Updated on 8 May 2016: At first I was worried from some other reviews I've read but I have been religiously taking my stool softeners since day 1 that when the time came it was a breeze to get thru. Note to others: take those stool softeners as soon as possible after your surgery. It surely helps and won't hurt at all during the time to push. Updated on 9 May 2016: Updated on 9 May 2016: Can't express enough how much of a relief this elevated toilet seat riser is. Definitely invest in it if you're getting a TT in the near future! Updated on 10 May 2016: I haven't purchased the silicone sheets yet. Wondering what's a good brand...? And where to purchase from.. Updated on 10 May 2016: Feeling stronger. Stairs are not so bad now. Still using a walker or assistance. But not a bad day of recovery. Results looking good. I have swelling on my hips which I'm OK with ...lol Updated on 14 May 2016: Hanging in there. I was worried about what I thought might be an infection so I went to ER 2 nights ago but I only had excess water that needed to be drained. But it hurt because they had to press on my stomach. They gave me iv drugs to calm me down and took off all my sutures. Ouch! I had my post op on Friday and the Dr. Said it was a little seroma...yuck....aside from that small setback everything is looking good he says. I also got my right drain out so that's a relief. Now one more to go, next Friday out should come out. I can walk fairly well with the walker and like a zombie without any help lol. I think I kind of weened myself off the pain meds. I'm still taking the oxy and ibuprofen a needed just not religiously like in the beginning. I'm at a 4 out of 10 rt now just sitting. Updated on 19 May 2016: to post anything lately. I am getting stronger as the days go by but still need assistance doing simple tasks. Ever since I got my sutures off there has been a "hole" in my incision area in the front of my stomach. It's not an infection or seroma or necrosis thank you GOD. The dr. says it's just some wound separation :((((( I guess since I'm so numb I don't feel any pain but it is very unappealing to the eyes. There's nothing I can do at this point just keep it dry and clean the dressing over it 2x a day. The Dr. says it's common and will heal aesthetically just fine but right now it is quite scary looking. I'd upload a pic but I can't even bear the site of it, let alone share it with you all. This to me is a setback. Now all I can do is count the days till this dime-sized hole heals and closes itself. So I'm pretty depressed right now. Still hunched over because I'm sewn up so tight. Good news is I am more used to handling laughing and going #2 in the bathroom now. I've cut down on the pain pills down to only 2-3x a day. I can also feel some stinging in my stomach so must be the nerves waking up. I finally have both drains out -another positive! I can't wait for the day I get all this hair off my legs, armpits, eyebrows, vajay....child I'm turning into a chia pet. Good night for now ladies. Happy healing to you all. Updated on 2 Jun 2016: Looks just how I remember it without the extra skin and wrinkles. So glad it healed up quite fast. I haven't been posting because I've been a little depressed. I have another opening on my right side. My stomach is not open but the skin is not sealed so it hurts and burns. I know it will heal it's just yet another setback...but I'm down 1 month and on to the next. Happy healing..that is all for now. Updated on 2 Jun 2016: Took this collage of pics before tonight's shower...so far outs looking good. Just gotta stay positive. Updated on 27 Jun 2016: I don't even know how far out I am right now...almost 2 months I think? Here's my incision...it's a bit jagged on the sides and my opening in the right is almost closed now. I feel a lot better about myself. I don't need to wear the medical binder anymore but I went out and bought a more comfortable waist cincher by Maidenform. Its way more comfortable! As seen in my pic. Swelling seems more so in the evening. But so far so good! Still numb in the front and muscles are rock hard...is that normal? Updated on 27 Jun 2016: That is all...been using bio oil since day 5 Updated on 9 Nov 2016: I can pretty much do everything. My stomach is still numb which I expected. But I love my results and now just need to eat healthy and stay in shape ????
