Dr. Gelaman has done numerous procedures on my hands including carpel funnel. He was fantastic to work with and has a great personality. He makes sure you understand everything that you will be going through and what to expect. I was very satisfied with both my surgeries on my palms, I turned to him for hyperhydrosis treatment in the palms. My 1st was last year and was fantastic with great results up to 7 months of sweat free hands. I will be seeing him again for the same treatment in a week. Highly recommend.
Dr. Gelman is a great plastic surgeon. He made me feel comfortable and very happy with my decision. I am still in the healing process but I could not be happier. Him and Laura are amazing and I would recommend them to anyone. My breast augmentation has gained my confidence level immensely! It was worth the money and I cannot wait until I am completely healed.
I have gone on many consultations, and I have finally found the surgeon to do my procedure! I am all booked for November 20th!! I am going with 550cc round, smooth, silicone unders. I am somewhat worried about size, but I needed the volume to help with some of my sagging. I do not scar well, so I decided to go with a bigger implant to avoid a lift. Updated on 20 Nov 2014: I am so excited for today. I am very nervous as I have two little ones who depend on me, but I have been reassured that I am young and healthy. I am also nervous about the stigma that comes with having implants, but I am so ready to do something for myself to reward my body for nourishing two growing bodies. I can't wait to put up some post op pics and see the progression :) I have full confidence in my surgeon. Updated on 20 Nov 2014: Everything went very well! I can hazily remember my doctor coming in and saying, "You can look down at them, there they are!" To which my heavily medicated response, "Holy sh**, I have boobs!" hahaha The initial pain was rough, much worse than my c sections, but they quickly gave me medicine soon after and ever since then the pain has been easily manageable. I feel great after a few sessions of dozing off every few minutes. The facility and nurses were amazing. It was just an overall amazing experience. So far I am very pleased. I'm not sure how women get pictures on here so dang fast post-op, but I feel very dizzy every time I use the restroom, so I am going to wait a day or so for pictures. My husband helped to adjust the bra because It was getting way too tight, and let me tell you.....From what I did see....I am soooooooooooo excited!!!! He was too ;) My sad mommy boobies are filled up, and my nipple raised up so nicely! Updated on 20 Nov 2014: Here's some quick webcam pics of them so far :) Updated on 24 Nov 2014: I feel pretty much back to normal today. It just feels like I had a great arm day at the gym yesterday lol Even in my frankenboob state, I am loving them compared to my deflated mommy boobs. I go back to the doctor today which is exciting because I can't wait to see when I can wear a normal sports bra and then eventually an under wire-free bra. I can't see the incisions yet due to the steri strips, but they seem to healing up just fine. Very minimal bruising, with some itching and burning of reconnecting nerves. Can't wait to see what my ps says today :) Updated on 29 Nov 2014: Feeling pretty amazing! The only thing killing me is not being able to work out for so long. I am loving them already, and they get better every day. My right is still a bit higher, but nothing crazy. They have boosted my confidence so much, and I have just been feeling so amazing the past few days. I am so pleased with this whole experience so far, and I can't wait to see how they look in a few months :) This is one of the best things I have done for myself. Updated on 12 Jan 2015: I am now 2 months post op, and I can safely say that I am overall happy with my results so far. It seems like I am developing a slight double bubble on my left side which isn't ideal, but I am still in love with my results considering what I started with. I got a big implant and had thin skin, so I am wondering if that is what is causing this? I have an appointment in a few weeks to ask what is going on. I am nervous to think of any complications that may require revision because I'm not so sure that I would have the money to fix them any time soon :/ Just going to sit tight and keep these girls supported until I can talk to my doc.
I had my ba on August 27,2014. I received 700cc gel. Saline implants were replaced the gel. I previous had 475cc. I go for my 1 week follow up. No pain no pumps. I wish I would have gone bigger. The one on the left is 475 moderate profile and the one on the right is 700cc gel high profile. I love them Updated on 17 Sep 2014: Three weeks out and looking amazing.
I've finally booked my TT after 4 consultations with different PS. Next Thursday I should be on the flat side. I'm anxious and scared at same time. Please offer any advice that will help me through this process. Also any home remedies, creams, etc that helped thru your healing is greatly appreciated. I will post pics soon. Updated on 17 Aug 2014: I can't believe by the end of the week I will be inn the flat side. I'm nervous. Its not helping that I work in medical field so all kinds of things that could go wrong are floating through my head BUT I trust God to get meet thru this surgery with a speedy recovery! Well here our my pics. ...???? Updated on 18 Aug 2014: I'm nervous but thought I would be a wreck! Pictures were taken today as well as all my questions answered. Of course I made final payment. Looking forward to being on flat side but not too the pain/recovery ahead Updated on 21 Aug 2014: Surgery went well. The staff at st james franciscan surgery center was awesome.I'm sore off course. Taking pain meds every 4hrs. The biggest pain is going to the bathroom! I've been drinking lots of water due to cotton mouth so I've been to bathroom multiple times ( 3 to be exact) . My husband and daughter are a huge help.because I have this compression garment on that hooks in crouch. ...I have to have assist. I'm not walking bent over. ... thank God! I hear each day gets better. .... come on better days. Guess what! I have to go to bathroom AGAIN! OMG! Updated on 23 Aug 2014: I kept feeling a stitch pulling at left tube opening. It started where I only felt it when I stood up but later when I was reclined back. I called ps 5a. He told me some things to do like milking clot out of tube. After 3 calls& a mess at my house I got the clot out. This did nothing for the pain & appeared that tubing want draining fluid. so he told me I can cut stitch and pull drain. I was able to wash self up and then the same pain hit me. I believe it's a stitch inside that is pulling when I stand up. Updated on 26 Aug 2014: Few updated pics 4 days post op. Today I'm trying to sleep in bed for second time. My back has been killing me because I've been sleeping in a recliner. Not taking pain meds since 2nd day post op. I went to ps appt yesterday without binder. He wasn't happy. I put it on soon as I got home. F/u appt Friday Updated on 31 Aug 2014: So everything is looking good per my ps. At my Friday appt (day #8) ps had to w/d 150cc fluid from left side. Remember I don't have a drain on that side. Other than a lil sick from needle it was no big deal. I'm in need of another compression/binder because mines is causing pain/discomfort in panty area. I've tried different things with no relief so I'm going to buy a waist only one. Last night was another successful sleep. ... yes!
Hi! my name is Ariana I'm about to turn 21 on June 19th and my birthday present to myself is liposuction of the abdomen. I have spent endless hours in and out of the gym exercising, and my body is how I want it except my stomach I have always had a pouch of fat that is resistant to exercise and dieting. Let me tell you how every week is currently: Monday I take a pole dancing class, Tuesday I lift weights with a friend, Wednesday I lift weights with a personal trainer, Thursday is all cardio at the gym, Friday I lift weights with my trainer again, Saturday I take a break, and Sunday I take a Tae Kwon Do/Cross fit class. A lot right? Apparently it's not enough. I currently weight about 121 lbs. I am 5'0. Most of that weight is muscle but I do have size 34DD breasts for some reason. My biggest concern is getting rid of this pouch of fat it just sticks out and I hate it so much! A couple weeks ago I went shopping and ended up crying in the fitting room because everything looked beautiful on me until you look at my stomach area. ;( That was enough. I already had a plastic surgeon in mind and I gave them a call, set up a consultation and went in the following week. They told me it will be a piece of cake to get rid of and I'm a good candidate for the procedure. The doctor was wonderful he was so kind and really took the time to talk to me, I felt like I knew him my entire life. The procedure is tumescent liposuction and was much more affordable than I thought it would be. I took an extra week to think things over and decided I'm ready! My surgery is scheduled for June 24, 2013 and I couldn't be anymore excited!!!!! I just wish my family was more supportive.. My mom refuses to go with and so does my dad and he is even making fun of my decision telling me I'm stupid and saying I need to change my last name to Dyson ( Like the vacuum) Thankfully a friend has agreed to drive me. :) I hope this goes well! I can't wait to buy clothing that is form fitting!!! Updated on 13 Apr 2013: Anyone else having problems with friends or family accepting your decision? I feel like I'm the only one with a family that is not supportive of me.. Updated on 24 May 2013: Still so far away! I Have just about all the money for my surgery. I'm paying in all cash..Just can't wait. A lot of you that I've talked to have had your procedures done already and I have to say all of you ladies look perfect! Makes me feel a little less nervous about it when I see your photos. lol. I have my pre-op photoshoot and sit down with my surgeon on my bday. (Was the only day that I could fit in my schedule) that's on June 19th...until then I'm still hitting the gym as much as I can. And I'm running my first ever 5k tomorrow! Woo! Updated on 29 May 2013: I told my trainer who is also a long time family friend and just a good friend in general to me personally. He actually brought up the topic of liposuction at the gym today and I came clean. Going to be much easier now that I don't have to avoid him for a couple of weeks. And surprise to me! - he is actually very supportive of my decision! :) Updated on 30 May 2013: Sorry I'm picture crazy just want to see my before and after from every angle lol. So bare with me on all these yucky before photos. Updated on 19 Jun 2013: Today was my 21st birthday and I also went in for my before pictures at Dr's office and got my Rx for antibiotics and pain killers. Can't believe it's less than one week away! They made me feel a little more comfortable because I'm starting to really feel nervous about it now. Guess that's normal though..anyways next post will be on the morning of! Yay! Updated on 24 Jun 2013: My procedure was today. The staff at the surgery center were so nice and funny and really made me comfortable. I was SO Scared! When I got there I changed into a gown and special socks to prevent clotting and I got leg massagers put on my legs and an IV started. My friend was able to sit with me up until it was time to go for surgery. My Dr. Came back and marked me up. It tickled lol. Shortly after I spoke with the anesthesiologist who had a great sense of humor. Then came time and they wheeled me into the operating room but gave me what they called "happy drugs" in my IV...it all gets blurry from there.. I think I moved onto a different table from my bed and that's all I remember then I woke up in recovery with my garment already on and was in quite a bit of pain. Im pretty sure my Dr stopped by to see me in recovery buy I dont remember. My pain I would say was about a 7 on the scale..My friend came back and sat with me for about a half an hour before we were allowed to go. The nurse helped me dress and wheeled me to the car. Now I am home and I took a norco already but still having some pain. Not as bad though. It's really hard to bend or move my torso.. Well ill post a picture with garment on and then I'm going to sleep! Updated on 24 Jun 2013: So I haven't eaten anything but a little oatmeal today and now I'm pacing back in forth by the bathroom feeling like I'm going to vomit. Anyone else feel this way??? I have my boyfriend bringing me some food right now I really hope it helps.. Please give me your feedback. I'm worried. Updated on 25 Jun 2013: Pre op drawing photo. Updated on 25 Jun 2013: Last night I didn't sleep the best I kept waking up and having to pee about every couple hours. I got up around 8am and went to the grocery store alone. I walk really slow like a little grandma lol. Pain is about a 4-5 not too bad. I think the norco I am taking is what is making me nauseous so I'm trying to put off taking it as long as I can. I think I forgot to mention that I got stitched up so there is zero drainage. But I'm really swollen. I can tell even though I haven't taken my garment off. I get to shower tomorrow. I'm excited about that! Right now I'm laying in bed with ice on my tummy over my garment of course and it feels pretty good. :) Updated on 26 Jun 2013: I showered! I got my first look at my new tummy, it's just amazing I shed a couple tears I am so happy! I just hope it really smoothes out it kind of ripples and worries me. I'll try to be patient though. The actual shower itself was such a strange experience for me I am still kind of numb and some spots are very tender..there's not much bruising yet. I could of stayed in the shower all day and stared at myself lol. Taking off the compression garment was easy but putting it on was pretty hard. I wish I had someone to help me I really had to push myself to pull it tight and snap/ zip up the side. Before I showered I went to the gym and walked a mile on the treadmill..slowly..lol. I also lifted some weights very light weight with high reps. Later in the day I did a little cleaning and laundry. I'm pretty mobile. Today my pain at most was about a 3. I still take the norco but not as often. Oh and the nausea is gone! Think I will take tomorrow off work also and return on Friday. Posting more photos let me know what you guys think of the waviness. Updated on 26 Jun 2013: Accidentally pushed post update instead of add photo. Oops. :/ Updated on 27 Jun 2013: Everyday I wake up it seems to get much easier to move around. I didn't go to work today but I plan on going tomorrow..I would much rather go to the Blackhawks parade and rally in Chicago!...oh well. I woke up and went for a short walk this morning. It was cut way short because someone's huge ass German Shepard was loose outside and started stalking me. Talk about being terrified! All I could think of was I'm screwed I can't run or really defend myself or anything. After some deep breathing and fast walking I made it home safely lol. Did not do much the rest of the day, Until the evening I got dressed up and went to a banquet type dinner with my dad. Had to put on my best poker face as he hit every pothole on the way there. Oh and this garment makes me so stiff it's awkward getting in the car. So I'm looking for some input from you all on your compression garments. I have this rash that's spreading around only where the garment is very tight to my skin like under my boobs and on the side with the zipper. SUPER ITCHY! And noticeable red bumps. I would think it was an allergic reaction but the bumps are tiny..maybe it is because my skin can't breathe? Anyone else experience this to any extent? Let me know what you think. Goodnight! P.S. Pain today was very minimal like a 1 maybe a 2 on the scale. :) Updated on 28 Jun 2013: Went to work today..it was long and tiring and I hardly made it. By the end of the day I was sitting in a cushioned chair icing my stomach. It had actually gotten more swollen since the morning. I think because I was being overly active ( walking, bending over, picking dogs up, etc.) Probably too much all at once. I was the first to go home. I'm going back tomorrow but will try to chill out. I am like 95% sure my rash is a Heat Rash/ Prickly Heat. It's the worst part about this whole experience so far. Honestly this itchiness is way worse than the pain. Just went and bought some Gold Bond powder so I can sleep. *Fingers Crossed* please work!!! Updated on 30 Jun 2013: I was so happy the first time I took off my garment...now I wake up and it looks okay but by the end of the day I am extra swollen (I think) and my pouch is back. Slightly smaller but looking the same! Why am I not Flat?! Is this how it works? Will it really be that much different in 3months? I'm crying because I don't know if I like it and I'm constipated and covered in a crazy itchy rash oh and I think my flanks look horrible, now they make me look dumpy.. I'm seeing my PS tomorrow for my 1week follow up and I'm going to talk to him about all this and probably get a quote for my back to be done. Hope everyone else is having a better weekend.. Updated on 2 Jul 2013: Yesterday was one week and I seen my Ps. He looked at my rash and gave me a new garment to wear yay now I have 2 different colors lol. I have to go back to see him again tomorrow if the rash is still here which so far it is and I think it's getting worse. Gold Bond and Benadryl aren't helping that much anymore. Maybe I can get a corticosteroid hopefully that will work. :/ Anyway he says he took out 1500cc (1.5 liters) WOW! So I am really swollen according to him and I will look totally better than this in 3months. Staying positive. :) Updated on 3 Jul 2013: I seen my ps again today and he told me to remove the compression garment for real this time since the rash is still not gone. He assured me that if I get uneven or lumpy he will fix it for free! (With TruSculpt) He's awesome. Oh and I'm also on a steroid now. Fingers crossed this needs to work! Updated on 4 Jul 2013: Last night I got dressed up and went out with some friends it was Soo much fun and I wore a shirt that I bought so long ago and Never wore because I was too fat. It looked great on me! I got compliments on how great I was looking and how I really lost some weight! (They don't know) haha I loved every second of it. So Realselfers when you are feeling better put that shirt on that didnt fit before and go show it off!!! You are all so beautiful! And I am so happy now! I didn't even pay attention to my rash I think the steroids are already working! Yay! :D Happy 4th Of July to my fellow Americans! Be Safe! Xoxoxo Updated on 8 Jul 2013: Week 2 already! My rash is totally gone. I seen my ps today and he says I can start wearing my garment for only 12hours a day (at bedtime if I'd like) and everything is healing great! I am loooooooving my results. Just amazing. I was also allowed to return back to normal activities. So I had pole class today! It went great! I wasn't hurting and I kept up with everyone else. I'm attaching new photos I think I'll do weekly photo updates. Updated on 16 Jul 2013: So I don't think there's much of a difference this week except a flat spot I have on the right side. It's not that noticeable but it's there. I seen my ps yesterday and he said it will all flatten out in time and that I look great. Still super happy with my results! Now off to the gym!!! Updated on 24 Jul 2013: A little late on this update. Lost a friend yesterday and it's been hard to deal with.. Well I'm one month post op now. Still have this flat spot and the skin is still numb. But it's a weird numb like I can feel it and I can't at the same time. Weird. The only lump I have is the incision down by my vagina Dr. says to massage it a lot and I have been but don't think it's going away. I don't care. It's not noticeable at all and I love my tummy! Not sore at all anymore. Just a little awkward feeling when I lay on my tummy or bend in a certain way. No biggie. Also I won't be seeing my ps again for another month since everything is going well. :)
I have always had larger arms. I became overweight in jr high and have been obese since then. I had gastric by-pass 5 years ago and lost 150 lbs. I felt great but my body looked horrible. I became depressed because I felt like I looked worse than I did before I lost the weight. Having surgery seemed like it was too expensive to even consider. I have slowly gained 50 lbs back in the 5 years since the bypass. Then I started watching a show on discovery about people who had plastic surgery to help thier self esteem and it clicked. I needed to find a way to have it done. I am going to take out a loan against my 401k. It's a large investment but I figure I spend more than that on a car and my body is more important than a car. It's harder to justify the cost when I could use that money to help my family and use it for the kids. I just know that I need it to be happy and proud of myself. I think that I will be a better role model for my kids with the surgery. I am starting my transformation with my arms - they are very large and droopy. It's hard to find clothes because of thier size - my body is a size med/large but I have to buy 2x to fit my arms. I hate going swimming because everyone can see them. I really try to make sure no one see them. Luckily the longer sleaves came back into style because it used to be very hard to find summer clothes with arms. I had consults with two PS in the area and I am going with Dr. Gelman. He has a lot of experience with massive weight loss patients and made me feel very comfortable. I am scheduled to go in for my arms on 4/15/13. I will wait 4-8 weeks(depending on healing) to have the stomach done, then breasts lifted and possible thigh lift. Updated on 7 Apr 2013: I go for my pre op appt tomorrow night. Just one more week until surgery : ) I am very excited and nervous. Trying to get as much done now so I dont have to worry about stuff after. I really hope I end up with the results I want. I really would love to some day wear a sleeveless shirt or dress. I am praying this goes well. I have my tummy tuck set up for May 20th so I am hoping to be ready for it by then Updated on 14 Apr 2013: WOW... it's here already! I am excited and nervous. I have to leave the house at 5:30 am. I hope I can sleep tonight. Arrrgggghhhhhhhhh Bye Bye Arms ... Can't wait to see you go! Updated on 18 Apr 2013: POD 3 Thanks for all the well wishes! First few days were pretty rough - I was really hoping to be one of the lucky people who said this procedure was easy breasy -- The first night I had one arm killing me. If both arms would have felt like my left arm - easy breasy - but my right arm hurt like a son of a gun. I remember thinking in the recovery room that I was very grateful I didnt lump anything else with this surgery. WOW I felt like I had been hit by a bus. I will try to get pics tonight - My arms are very swollen but they already look so much better than they did. He did a lot of lipo on both arms and said he removed as much from my arms as he does on a normal tummy tuck. I was pretty doped up at last nights appointment but I think he said he removed about 5 lbs. My drains did not come out last night - still too juicy. That actually made me feel better - i know how swollen i am now - I can only imagine how i will feel after my relief valves are gone. I measured 19.5 inches before and now they are 14.5 with the selling. And they are smothed out - vs being a lumpy deformed mess. Today is the first day I feel like being out of bed and I wish i could do more. I have an appt tomorrow afternoon to see if the drains can come out. i will be glad to have them gone but i also hope that no fluid collects - even the ps said that draining the arm area with a needle is "uncomfortable" Yikes! Hopefully I can post some pictures tonight - I really have not been able to look at my results yet - i looked breifly but my arms are so swolen that its hard to hold them down close to my body. I have a baggy long sleeve shirt on so i really cant see them like i want to. It's like after loosing the weight - i will probably need to stare at them a while in the mirror to make it seem real Updated on 18 Apr 2013: Posted a few pics. Nice to finally have a shower : ) The cut goes from my elbow to right under by breast. Not sure if the drains will come out tomorrow - i am still draining a lot of fluid Updated on 19 Apr 2013: POD 5 down to one pain pill every 4-5 hours. If I make the mistake of 6 hours I am pretty darn crabby. My arms are still very swollen and I am moving like a turtle. The drains did not get removed again today. Now I have to wait until Monday afternoon. Which I know is a good thingbut.... having drains hainging out of you is no fun - i cant really get dressed by myself because i am afraid of snagging a drain. I am supposed to work on Monday. I will probably go in but not looking forward to hanging out with drains under my clothes - they are bulky. Went out to dinner tonight - felt good to get out of the house - i was getting stir crazy. There is a spot by my arm pit that looks a little red - not sure if its just normal healing or if I shoudl put anything on it - before surgery i bought spray neosporin but I forgot to ask the surgeon if I can use it - anyone out there know? I also kinda wished I had the lift chair that I am planning on renting for the TT here now - I cant get comfortable to sleep. I am a crabby mess - mostly due to the soreness then lack of sleep. I think most of the soreness is from the lipo - very little pain from the actuall incision sites. I love that it goes all the way down and curves under my boob - the scar will eventually blend into the one that will be there after BL. I wish I would have thought to measure around ribcage before surgery - I know I am missing several inches - I think that as long as I do the fleur de lis TT I will not need to do the back butt lift. The old bra fat roll is history! whooo hoooo Updated on 26 Apr 2013: PO Day 11 - Had that day - the one they warn you about and I knew was coming - WHAT did I do to myself. It was a rough day. Arms are very very tight. I feel fine for about 3-4 hours on Tylenol then at night I take a norco to help better manage the pain so i can get a few hours sleep. I am pretty miserable - the incisions are healing well I think - I will have to take more pictures later tonight. But they are getting so tight feeling - i am walking around looking like i am going to hug someone because I cant put arms flat against my side. I cant really raise them past shoulder height. And the darndest thing is the most painfull part is my lower arm - it is painful for anything to touch - they are swollen and I think the nerves are not liking it. I can say that I see improvement each day, but it feels like this will never end - i had to push myself to stay at work today. I have a desk job but my arms hurt to move to the point i cant think. I wake up at 3am in agony - painkiller wears off by then - i hope this goes away soon. I have MS so I am not sure if it's adding to the nerve pain. I am so glad it's friday. I need some prayers that this gets better - have a follow up appt with ps next week. I am not normally a pill popper but i love whoever invented norco. Its the only thing that takes away most of the pain. BUT I cant take it and drive so Tylenol helps but i am still in pain with it. Argh - i know i am rambling but i am just feeling crabby and sick of the pain. on a positive note - the bruising has gone away on most of my arms - just a few remain. I took the arnica pills so i think that helped because I tend to have bruises linger for awhile. Updated on 29 Apr 2013: POD 14- finally a day with no tears! Still having pain but its tolerable with Tylenol every 4 hours. I was able to think at work. I did drink part of a 5 hr energy about an hour before I had to leave b/c I was beat. It did the trick and all was well until I had too much sodium at dinner. But I am icing the swell and its bearable. Thank you all for getting me thru this. It's comforting to know you have been here and understand. I posted some pics I took Saturday. The incisions are healing ok- cant wait for all the swelling to go down. Looking forward to my next appt to hear what dr has to say and to start talking tt. Still on fence about addl lipo so I want to see what he recommends. Have a great night all. Updated on 4 May 2013: PO day 19 - went to the store and bought a few short sleeved shirts/dresses today and then went to eat with the hubby. I am still very sore - but slowly getting better each day. My stitches are disolving now and i have been pulling the loose ones out. It's still weird- the soreest part is my lower arm where there was no surgery at all - they are very very sensitive to touch. I can hold my arms down at my sides now if i am not moving - walking with them all the way down is still a little painful - it's a tight pulling zinging pain. I am really looking forward to the tt. Still trying to figure out if i want lipo too -- also started looking at my face - under my eyes are wrinkly kinda hollow because of the weight loss - my hubby thinks I'm addicted to ps lol Updated on 8 May 2013: 23dpo Doing better, only take Tylenol once or twice a day. I have a lot of swelling still. I have a little spot on each arm pit that has opened up and had a little bit of infection. Cleaned it with peroxide and put neosporin on it. I was a little freaked out because everything was closed up now I feel like I am moving backwards. And TOM is here so I am swelling up from that in addition. Had my pre op with my ps for the extended tt. I am doing the fleur de lis for sure and no lipo. I need to start eating healthier and getting more protein. I have noticed hair falling out. I heard that surgery could cause it but its probably because I am post gastric bypass. I am posting new pics Updated on 19 May 2013: Not much to update. The swelling is getting better but my arms are still very sensitive to touch. My left arm looks ok but I wish my right one was smaller. I will wait to see if it gets any better before talking to ps about a possible revision. They still look better Han they did. I was able to fit into my goal t shirt that I could not wear because my arms were way too big. The scars look the same. I'll post some new pics. I go in tomorrow am for the tummy tuck. Nervous and excited. Updated on 27 May 2013: I survived the tt wow. Don't know how people do it at the same time as arms. I posted pics of the tt ont the tt review. It's not what I expected I wanted the tummy of a teenager and I have a lumpy bumpy Franken tummy. Had a mini breakdown last night/this am but in a better place now. So back to arms...they are still very numb tingly in the forearm area. They did swell back up with the tt but not as bad as from al. The right one is my least favorite. It stil has too many lumps and too big but I am getting over it. I will try to work out after tt heals and if I can't fix it it might need revision? Really depends on how it looks the al pain was sooooo intense. The tt pain is tolerable well as long as I don't move anyways. Lol. Anyone who thinks this is the easy way out is so dead wrong. Being in pain and useless for this long is a drag. If I have any addl surgeries they will not be until the winter. I need time to mentally and physically recover from this. Updated on 17 Jun 2013: So I start physical therapy for lymphadema this coming Friday. I am still swollen in arms and they still have nerve pain. The scar is very noticeable right now. I am looking at the pics I just took and they don't look as horrible in person. They are still large arms just not jumbo and as odd shaped as they were before. I ordered the scar away gel strips to help with the swelling - they just came in tonight. I would do the arms again but it's been a long rocky road. I wore short sleeves out and it feels so weird. I am hoping the pt helps with the swelling-it's getting old. Lol. It's tolerable most of the time.
I have 2 children....one is 5 and my youngest is 3. I told my husband, "It is either I get another kid or I am getting my tummy tuck!" His response, "Kids are more expensive!" So here I am getting my body back to what it was until my gorgeous children stretched it. I gained about 50 pounds with each kid. I was 117 lbs before pregnancy...got to 162 lbs and now I am 122 lbs. My goal is NOT to loose weight. It is to actually buy jeans and feel comfortable to wear them without a hoodie hiding my flab! My PS said I am a great candidate for this procedure. He stated that liposuction is unnecessary, that I have excess skin and my children torn my abdominal muscles top to bottom, so a Full Tummy Tuck is needed. I had my Pre-Op on Monday and it finally hit that I am FINALLY getting this done. I asked my husband, "Are you sure you don't want to have another kid?" but his answer has not changed. Updated on 15 Dec 2012: I am getting really anxious. It is now in less than a week, Yikes! I finished all my Christmas shopping because the PS stated that I am not going to be able to do anything after the surgery. Well as I went shopping I had to get myself an outfit to show off my "new" stomach. Of course it isn't anything scandalist, but I bought leggings, boots, and a cute shirt. I can't wait to wear it and not worry about the HUGE pouch that is seen now because of my excess junk lol! Updated on 16 Dec 2012: Well this is the last week of work...and I can't believe that the day is almost here. I went out again today to get more leggings in hopes that I will be going to Christmas parties. The PS said I went be able to shower until my drains are out, so if I do go to these parties I will be a disaster. The expected date to get the drains out is on the 26th. Updated on 17 Dec 2012: So made arrangements and know now what I will be doing on the day of surgery. I think making plans for my kids and making sure my husband can help is more stressful than anything. I am getting excited. I am wondering, "Am I even going to sleep on Thursday night?" Funny thing happened to me today. A student of mine asked, "Are you ready to die on Friday." I was shocked. I fears wondering how he even knew about my tummy tuck. I just calmly said, "What?!?" He said, "You know...Doomsday." I was SO relieved. That was kinda scary lol(; Updated on 18 Dec 2012: I decided to stop seeing my trainer at the end of November so I can see her two times a week when I get the okay to work out again. I am wondering how it is getting back in the gym after the TT? Did anyone have trouble starting working out after 6 weeks post op? Updated on 19 Dec 2012: I went to my PS office today for a Microdermabrasion and it was nice to see my PS again. I feel so much more at ease. It was funny to hear him say, "See you on Friday." I found out today how the belly button is "made" during a tummy tuck. I had NO idea. I thought that was pretty interesting. I also saw how BIG the drains are. Everyone kept saying that they were small, but to me they are HUGE. I have a weak stomach when it comes to blood and now knowing that I will have to drain them when I go to the washroom is kind of freaking me out big time! I just wish I had this done already because as my surgery gets closer and closer I am finding things about this procedure that I had no clue about. Friday come already(; Updated on 21 Dec 2012: Well I went to my surgery around 6:30 am and left around noon. I am totally fine. I got up to get in the wheel chair, already got up to use the bathroom (you have to roll on your side to get out of the recliner), BUT I am having a real hard time sitting down. This isn't bad at all. I think I am so ready for my Christmas parties. Yippie! Updated on 23 Dec 2012: Yesterday I slept the day away. I had a hard time keeping my eyes open for longer than 15 minutes. Now though I am up moving. My kids have no clue what is going on, I am hiding my drains in my hoodie and they think that I just have an ouchie on my stomach. This is great! My mom and dad took care of me for 2 days, that way my kids didn't have to see me. They visited each day and again they couldn't tell what was going on. So far it has been a great experience. I found out today that I can take a shower but am worried to see what is underneath my garment. I am not good with blood and cuts....I guess we will see. Updated on 25 Dec 2012: Well tomorrow is the day I get my drains taken out! I will actually see my results. I am kind of a wiss when it comes to blood, so I haven't taken off my under garment and have sponged bath everyday. I am eager to see what it looks like...I promise to post some pictures. Hope everyone had a good Christmas and another day of recovery or a day closer to your surgery day(; Updated on 26 Dec 2012: Went to my PS and got my drains taken out! I believe most of my pain, which I didn't have much, was from my drains. I told him that sleeping in bed was uncomfortable for me. He said that is from the stitches and the drains. Boy was he right! I took a shoer and I feel free(; my garment is in the wash and I feel less secure with it not on me. I have to wear it 8 hours a day until I see him next Wednesday. He said everything looked great. Posted some pictures. I think that there is a HUGE difference. He did say I am very swollen and that there is nothing I can't o but rest it off. I can deal with that. I called my mom after seeing the PS and started crying. I can't believe that I can put a tshirt on and NOT see my belly in it. My boobs are finally bigger than my tummy bump. I am happy yet sad since my tummy always reminded me of my kids. I hope that this feeling will go away, but I have had this tummy for 5 years and it reminds me of the experience of pregnancy. Updated on 27 Dec 2012: Well was out of the house all day today. Lets just say I am now regretting it. We went to Fuddruckers (a restaurant) and I am questioning if me being so mobile or the salt and that juicy hamburger is the one to blame for me feeling like this. I feel as if my garment is about to bust open on me, as if I am suffocating with it on. I feel a burning sensation and at the same time pains. I took some Tyelnol, but I must say this is the worst day I have experienced this far. I would take my garment off but I know I will swell up like a balloon. When I washed it yesterday it was holy hell getting it back on because I swelled during that time. My husband had to even help me get it on, and he kept saying that I had to dry it on heat. He didn't believe me. I hope everyone else experienced this. I searched for help online and it seems that most of this is normal, but boy is there alot of people out there who still has swollen tummies after a year post op!! Are they serious?!? I better not be one of them. I feel so bad because we get this procedure done not only to look better but it is huge for our self esteem. I can't imagine to be stuck like this for over a year. If I knew that I would never get it done. I pray that this is not the usual. I have NEVER read anything like this before and of course now that I am googling "swelling" and "burning sensation" I see all of these horrible articles out there. Lets hope today is a better day. I plan on resting tomorrow. We bought a ferret for our house (just what we need) and now I have to watch it with the 2 birds and 2 hunting dogs. Uuurrrggghhhh... Updated on 30 Dec 2012: So yesterday my parents came by and we all had a great time. I kept laughing watching my kids play with my dad, and boy oh boy am I regretting it. I have all these pains in my tummy....right where my abs are. I know it was hard to laugh and sneezing is impossible, but I had no clue I would be in such pain today. It is ridiculous to know that you can't laugh. I understand to rest, but where was "no coughing, laughing, or sneezing". I think that needs to be written somewhere as cautions after a tummy tuck! On another note my swelling went down a lot. It must have been those yummy fries from Fuddruckers. I am wondering why our tummy feels so bloated now. Is that the swelling? I am allowed to take off my garment as long as I wear it for 8 hours a day. I don't know about you a ladies but I am miserable to leave it off for a minute. I haven't asked my husband once to help me up since surgery, until I had my garment off, which was 7 days after surgery. It makes me concerned that I am never going to want this garment off of me(; Hope everyone is doing well. New Years is right around the corner and I am pretty sure I will be staying in lol(; Updated on 31 Dec 2012: Feeling really good today! Ready to go do some grocery shopping and some holiday returns. Put on some clothes and thought WOW I look the same before having kids. Now I am starting to be nit picky about other parts of me. I added photos of me in my outfit.... Updated on 1 Jan 2013: Well shopping was a treat. Lets just say the walk in the mall seemed as if the mall got bigger, and the wait in the lines seemed to take forever. I was in there for an hour! After that we all went to ToysRus, of course for the kids, and then grocery shopping. By the time we got On my way! I was dinner time. Made dinner, ate, turned on a movie, and next thing I know is it is 7pm. Ummmm I passed out! I guess that was a lot on my body. I felt great and didn't feel tired, but my body said otherwise. This morning I am pretty sore. I can't believe how walking and being on your feet really do have a huge impact on us! Well I am going out again today, but this time we are seeing a movie, so I will be sitting lol(; Happy New Years everyone. This is to all of us who will be showing off our "new" bods lol(; Updated on 1 Jan 2013: So today I started to realize that my stomach is still REALLY BIG! Yes, I know that there is NO over hang and I definitely don't look as if I am 5 months pregnant, but my circumference is HUGE. I don't know if it is swelling or fat?!? Can you tell the difference? I am going to load a picture of what I am trying to explain. I mean my boobs are out as far as my stomach. Is that normal? I see my PS tomorrow and I pray I hear something good from him. Updated on 2 Jan 2013: Well when I saw the PS today, I didn't even let him speak before I hurried and asked him, "Is this fat or swelling?" So it seems it's swelling. He pointed out my contour of my shape of my stomach (the little I have right now) and said you can see from that area, what I have is swelling. He also said that I am one of his tinier patients. I took that as a complement, but I am not that tiny! He did suggest getting a smaller undergarment, so they ordered me a small (I have a medium now). I also got the silicone cream to put on my scar. I also asked about working out....he said not for a month! He said that walking is great, but nothing where the heartbeat is going up too high. I did ask him if it woud make a difference in my swelling if I relaxed more than be on my feet since someone mentioned it to me, but he said it doesn't make a huge difference. I feel so so so much better. I am definitely bigger and round, but if it is swelling and it will subside then I can live with that(; I see him in 2 weeks and hopefully then I will get the ok to start working out at the gym. Updated on 4 Jan 2013: So I feel pretty normal now. I am still wearing my garment but I am pretty much acting like myself before. No one is making any comments about my tummy, so I don't know if that is good or bad. I wish someone would say, "Wow what did you do...your stomach looks so thin." I am not hearing it yet. I really would like to hear it from someone who sees me often, and someone who doesn't know that I had this surgery. I read in someone else's review that pineapples have an ingredient that acts as an inflammatory, and some PS recommends their patients to take it to help swelling. I went out to buy it today and well of course, Wal-Mart doesn't have it. I think it is time to go to GNC. Anyone else use this and really see a difference? Updated on 6 Jan 2013: So I went and bought bromelian (pineapple extract) pills from GNC yesterday. These pills are HUGE. I guess we will see if it will work lol. I feel great today. Able to laugh and cough with no problem. Also can bend over, get up quickly, and walk normal. I am happy that I am healing so fast because tomorrow I am back to teaching! I don't need all my students asking me questions if I wasn't able to stand straight...that would be a nightmare. I uploaded more photos which shows that my previous picture was just swelling. I am feeling much more confident knowing that I have just swelling and not tummy fat. Why are we so critical on ourselves? Hope everyone else is recovering smoothly. Updated on 7 Jan 2013: Well felt pretty good and excited to go back to work. Sad to see NO one said anything about my belly. It makes me wonder....really there is no difference? I must have hidden it very good because there is no way in hell they can't see the huge bump missing. By 4 hours in my day I felt like I was going to burst through my under garment. I felt bloated and swollen. I went into the bathroom to get a quick peek and saw that I had a red blotch above and a little below my incision from the way I was leaning against my chair. As a teacher, we don't sit. We are constantly on our feet, but I found a way to write on the Elmo (it is like an overhead projector) so I put a bar stool next to it to lean on. From the way I was leaning I got this red mark. So tomorrow is another day and I hope that I won't be so uncomfortable. I felt like I was 9 months pregnant by the end of the day and the way I was walking I am surprised no one asked, "Are you okay?" Updated on 10 Jan 2013: So today during class I had one of my students ask, "do you have one of those girdles on?" I replied, "Why you see a zipper or something?" She said, "No." I couldn't continue with the conversation because it was during class as I was walking around and helping my students, but I so wanted to ask, "why do I look skinnier, or is it my stomach looks flatter?" I am hoping that this question was in terms of me looking flat and that my stomach doesn't have rolls anymore lol(; I still don't get any positive remarks from my friends or family that knows about the surgery. Instead they tease me that my butt looks bigger now. I think a lot of my swelling went down and am wondering if it is due to the amount of days from recovering or if it is the bromelian pills (pineapple extract) that I just started taking. I am happy someone mention these pills on this site because I never heard about it until now. Hope everyone else is doing well. Updated on 13 Jan 2013: Well I am not happy today. I hope It is a case of me being picky. I have noticed lately that my "love handles" exist now. I have done a little research on this site and found that many people who had a full tummy tuck and did not get lipo believed that their flanks were swollen. However, it turns out that all of these people should have gotten lipo on their flanks, and send s they didn't that they see their love handles more now than before. It is stated that since your stomach is flatter and tighter you see your flanks more, and that is why many PS offers lipo during a tummy tuck. My PS said "we'll anyone can use lipo, but I don't think you do. I wouldn't spend $1000." Well I am now wishing I did. I do NOT want to go under anesthetic again. Also my incision is extremely high on my right side.my cut is like a half of a smile. My underwear and pants do not hide it. Of course I didn't realize it until now because I didn't wear my undergarment for about 2 hours today. I see my PS on Wednesday and I have many concerns. I want him to know that he did a great job and I am happy but I am not satisfied with the end results so far. I hope he can offer me more options and ways to get what I want. Updated on 25 Aug 2015: I forgot that I had this account and came across it today! I am so happy that I shared my story. It has been awhike since I had, my tummy tuck and here are a few things that I can complain about (but I am just being picky)... (1) I believe I should have lipo since I have "little" humps on the front of my stomach on the left and right side (not love handles!). (2) my scar on one side is high and shows with a two piece. bUT to be honest I am too old to wear a two piece so... Who cares?!? It has been a great journey. I would do it over and over again and have no regrets.
I am 36 mother of three and my stomach looks horrible.. I have not been able to see my va jay jay in 15 yrs..... I really want to look normal...Updated on 13 Jun 2012:1 more day!!!!!!! i have all type of feelings!!!!!!!Updated on 13 Jun 2012:I am getting ready to go fill my prescription, purchase back pillow, fruit, bath chair, etc...... Any last suggestions of other things I need to do....Updated on 13 Jun 2012:Just came back from my appointment with the anesthesiology,,, everything is fine....... so 6/14 is a go ahead........ got my meds, pillows, etc........ so im ready............... any last suggestions??????Updated on 13 Jun 2012:Ok, just got out the shower, using this strong hospital soap, really got my skin feeling very dry... Tommorow is my big day!! I can't sleep!!.my emotions r every where! Plz pray 4 me..Updated on 14 Jun 2012:So its 415 and I cant sleep!! my mind is.racing!! Cant wait for this to b over!! 4more hours!!Updated on 15 Jun 2012:Day 2 po opt, really sore, hard to walk, very swollen, pain.pills r not working...Updated on 15 Jun 2012:Getting around a little better,, able to sit in a chair, tried to play cards, only lasted a little while.... Just took meeds, bout to go to sleep.....really tiredUpdated on 15 Jun 2012:Day 2 po opt, really sore, hard to walk, very swollen, pain.pills r not working...Updated on 17 Jun 2012:Po Day 4, feeling sooo much better, I am able to stand some what straight, Ive been taking stool softners and gas X, and drinking lots of water, which has really been helping. I feel like ima have a bowel movement soon....still not able to eat much,Updated on 17 Jun 2012:The top part of my stomach is very swollen and hard.. Is this normal? Im having.second thoughts? I feel my mustles moving and getting tighter to the point where I cant move,.. Plz advise ladies
I'm turning 36 on 2/26 and I'm having a tummy tuck, lip of flanks and inner thighs done. I'm do excited and very nervous all at the same time. I have 3 daughters, 18, 14 and 10. I was married for 14 years to my high school sweetheart who I meet at 15 and needless to say It will be a year 3/9 that we have been divorced and 3 years in May we have been separated. I've wanted to get a Tummy Tuck done for about 5 years now cause my body has not been the same since Ive had my kids but never really could find the courage to do it. Well ladies it's been a long and rough road but I am grateful to say I'm slowly finding myself again and and made the decision to go for it and get my tummy tuck done. I figured with the new beginning of my new life I may as well have a new body to go along with it. I'll try to post pictures so you can see the before and after outcome once I get some help from my girls cause I'm not the greatest at uploading stuff but I'll be sure to get it done. Thanks to all you ladies for your post as well, they have truly been a motivation to me in this journeyUpdated on 21 Feb 2012:Today I went in to see the Anethesiologist. She checked my vitals and all looks well. She gave me some information about her and her staff. I'm glad I went in to see her because she made me feel a lot better about the surgery. Tomorrow I go in to make my payment and for my last consultation before my surgery date. I'm very excited but still can't shake being nervous as well. Ladies please keep me in your prayers. 6 more days left to go before my sugary date. I'll keep you posted.Updated on 22 Feb 2012:Today I went in for my last pre op appointment before the surgery. I'm so excited only 5 more days left. My doctor took my before pictures and talked to me about what I expected from the surgery and my being nervous. He and his assistant made me feel very comfortable. Still a little nervous but waiting patiently for the new me :-)Updated on 23 Feb 2012:4 more days left to my surgery and Im so excited. Still nervous too but at least after my appointment with my PS and the anetesiologist this week I feel much better. Just really looking forward to the surgery being over and on to the recovery part of this process. I went out today and got my prescriptions filled and this antibacterial soap my PS told me to shower with from the neck down the night before and the morning of the operation. It's called Hibiclen (HBC) its suppose to help minimize the risk of infection. I also brought some Mederma gel which is suppose to help with healing the scar. Tomorrow I'm going on a cleaning spree in my home. I want everything to be in tip top shape when I get home from my surgery so I don't have much to worry about other then trying to rest and heal properly. Please ladies keep me in your prayers.Updated on 24 Feb 2012:My oldest daughter came in from college today. She wanted to be here for my surgery and will be going back to school on Monday after the surgery is done. I'm getting more nervous as the days are getting closer. Every thing is pretty much done just a little more cleaning to do tomorrow and then I Plan to enjoy the rest of the weekend trying to relax and have a little fun especially for my birthday on Sunday with my favorite 3 ladies. Can't wait until it's all over.Updated on 26 Feb 2012:So I finally got my pictures uploaded. I had a great day today for my birthday today and Tomorrow is my big day. I have to be at the surgical center at 600am and the surgery is scheduled to start at 730am. Im so exicted and happy its finally here, now I can stop thinking about it all day. Im still a little nervous but know all will be fine and cant wait to get on with the healing process and to see the final outcome. Please keep me in yuor prayers ladies as my journey is really about to begin. I will keep you posted.Updated on 27 Feb 2012:Hello ladies, first off thank all of you for your prayers and kind words. Today was a long eventful day to say the least. I got to the surgery center at 5:50am, my girls were on it and have been more the helpful today. After arrival, got checked in and changed into my hospital gown. The staff was friendly and my nurse was great. She got my IVs in and took my vitals and then the disappointment to find out that my blood count ( hibogloman levels) were very low due to my Anemia which I just learned I had today. My PS was not happy with this info and the fact that he thought this should have been checked way ahead of time as oppose to the day before the surgery. The normal blood count level is 14 and mine was at 8.5. After finding this out the doctor was to have my blood drawn for an accurate count cause this test was taken by my nurse from a sample through the IV. The lab technician didn't get in until 8am so now it's just time to wait to see if I could even have the surgery done at this point cause both my PS and anesthesiologist explained to me the risk of surgery and how it may impact the anesthesia. WOW, now I'm disappointed but suprisingly not nervous cause I love the fact that they were serious about the importance of all vital being fine before considering to operate. So, at 8am on the dot lab tech came in with the results and blood count is actually 9.5 as oppose to 8.5 and with this count though still not where it should be would theynwould ne able to complete the Tummy Tuck. Yea but could not do my lipo on flanks, arms and mideal thighs. My PS explained to me that lipo effects yup blood levels different and he couldn't do it with that blood count. He then gave me two options, 1) I could get my TT at no risk now and come back to 4-6 weeks to have lipo done after I had been treated for the low blood count concern and it had increased which gone advised would take about the 4-6 week timframe to do so. 2) Wait and get all procedures done at the same time in 4-6 weeks. Well ladies My decision, give me my TT now and I'll come back to get the lipo done later :-) Now we were on our way and on the way back to the operating room had some friendly conversation with PS and other staff and somewhere in between it all I was out and in recovery in what seemed like 5 minutes but had actually been about 4 hours. Woke up to my nurse who right away asked me if I needed anything and how was my pain on a scale of 1-10. Yes I needed water and ice chips, was very thirsty from not having anything to drink after midnight and my pain was about a 6. Was not happy with what I was feeling like at that time pain wise. She came back with my water and some pain meds to give me thru the IV and in about 30 minutes she came back to check me out again and I needed more water, very thirsty and my pain had went down from a 7 to maybe a 4. I was still in quite a bit of pain. She have me more pain med thru the IV and explained to me that bat that time I had been given the max pain meds. OMG please let the pain go away..... After about hour I was okay to go home and was ready to do so. Still in some pain but better than what it had been. It was very difficult to get in and out the car. When I got home called the PS right away to see how soon I could take the pain meds I had been proscribed. I'm doing ok now though still in some pain it's not as bad as it was earlier in the day and I am able to tolerate it. Kind of rough to go to bathroom and getting up and down from the couch, chair or bed. Don't really have much of an appetite either but had to make myself eat something to start on my antibiotics so had some yogurt and a half of fish sandwich a little later. Can't really sleep cause lying down is difficult at this point and I find that im more comfortable sitting up right although I don't know why. But ladies so far through what I am calling this very eventful day, I am pleased so far. I noticed as well as my girls that the jogging pants I wore into the center this morning looked totally different leaving this afternoon. My PS placed the incision very low and that's a great thing and even though I have not seem my stomach due to being wrapped up since I woke up in rocovery I can just tell things are better than what I started with. Can't forget to mention my 2 drains which is mot much of a bother to me except for being in the way wjen trying to use the bathroom. Drainging them has not been bad at all. I'll keep u ladies posted and post more pics before the week is over.Updated on 1 Mar 2012:Hello ladies, it's been a few days since my last update but I am now 3 days post op and doing pretty good. The first few days were the hardest trying to adjust to not being able to do anything. Having troubles sleeping good as you can tell it now being 4:47am. stuck to the couch and have not attempted to make it upstairs yet. Taking sponge baths cause I haven't been okayed to shower yet and that has been difficult to with this crazy garment I have on. The draining tubes still not bothering me, drain them as needed a few times a day and that works out well. My main concern has been this compression garment, it is so uncomfortable very tight and no matter what I do I can't position it to feel beter in it at all. The pain is not that bad anymore but it is serial there. Still can't stand straight up yet but did get up yesterday evening and today to do a little walking around downstairs. My oldest daughtervwent back to school after my surgery but I have been able to manage with my two youngest which are 14 and 10 with no problems. They habe been very supportive and helpful. I get tired easily but that could be cause I'm not resting well at night so I find myself taking naps throughout the day an hour or two hers and there. I havent seen my stomavh yet but have my first follow up appointment on friday 3/2 at 9:39am and i spoke eith my nurse yesterday that says if all looks well theyll change my garnent and remove the draining tubes. Overall ladies all is pretty good, I'll keep you posted and try to post new pictures asap.Updated on 1 Mar 2012:Sorry for all the typos in my previous post. This iPad has a mind of it own and is always changing what I'm trying to sayUpdated on 2 Mar 2012:Today was my first post op appointment and all went well. My PS says I'm healing real well. Scar looks great and belly button looks good to and from what I could see all is fine. Still a Lot of swelling after he removed the bandages but I'm impressed. He gave me another compression garment to wear up to about 6 weeks post op he said. I can take a shower for the first time after my surgery starting today, yay....WOW, my stomach looks good already, no more muffin for me and I'm very excited about it. Still in pain although, he didn't remove the drains yet which are now starting to bother me a little bit with the stitches but it's bare-able so I won't complain. Needed a lot of help in and out of the car today and after being out for a few hours I was very exhausted and in a bit of pain as well. My girlfriend had the day off and came to take me to the doctor and to run a few arrons to the bank and to get another prescription filled for pain meds. Yes I still need those at this point but I'm only 4 days post op so I guess that's to be expected. My friend was so impressed although that she completed a consultation while there with me and hopefully she will be starting her TT journey in April. Good for her :-)Updated on 3 Mar 2012:Hello ladies, still having trouble sleeping all through the night it now being 2:31am. I hope this faze hurry up and passes. I just can't get comfortable enough to sleep more than a few hours at a time for now. Starting to itch but from reading a lot of you ladies info itching is good cause it means healing so I'll take it. I know I said the first few days the drains weren't a bother at all but now OMG can they please hurry up and be removed. The stitches are really working on my nerves and they are now causing me to be uncomfortable as well. Yesterday was the first day I could take a shower but I'm not ready for that yet at this point, still in to much pain and discomfort. I'll stick to washing up for the next few days until hopefully some more of the discomfort leaves. A few days left on my antibiotics and my 2nd post op appointment with my PS scheduled for Monday 3/5 at 2:45pm , to see if the drains can be removed then. He says if I'm draining less than 30ML in each tube within 24hrs then we should be good to remove them but if I notice they are draining more than that as of Monday morning then to give him a call to reschedule the appt for Wed 3/7 instead. Please Lord don't let this be the case, I think once the drains and stitches are removed I'll feel much better and heal a little faster as well. Have to return to work Thurs 3/15 so I'm hoping this recovery process moves along smoothly and gradually. Talk to you ladies soon :-)Updated on 3 Mar 2012:Hello ladies, today is 5 days post op for me and I felt I had gotten up enough energy to take a shower for the first time with the help of my oldest daughter who is home from college on her spring break. Perfect timing, all went well and it felt so good but I did get tired very easily and it was straining so I only had about a good ten minutes to give it for today. I have been having trouble with gas the last few days and have not had a bowel movement since the day of my surgery which was 6 days ago. This has caused my swollen to getting even worse. My stomach is extremely hard as well as my upper thighs, waist and virgina...that totally sucks and the discomfort is not nice at all. I called my PS on his cell and was very impressed that he picked and and gave me feedback right away on what to do. He told me to rest, elevating my legs higher than my stomach. He also said to send someone to get a laxative for the bowel movement and a pill for the gas. He told me to start to massage the stomach and place either cold or warm towels over my stomach as well and this would help also. He advised that I should be careful if I decided to use the warm towel cause my stomach was numb and had no feeling and if I placed a towel that was to hot on it, it could burn the skin....Thanks Doc for the immediate assistance on a saturday One of my girlfriends came over today to visit. She had a TT done on July of last year and as i was sharing with her my problems, she told me that my gas and bowel movement issue was normal when a TT has been had and that she too had the same issue. She told me to get some "Dulcolax for the bowel movement and to get some 100% lemon juice and drink it in my water. She said to alsp get some dried up prunes and eat those and advised that oceanspray with be the better tasting ones to eat. I read ealier on someone eles comments to get some "GasX" for the gas and she agreed with the as well. She was a life saver as she gave me a compression garment she used when she has her TT done cause as you all know this has been a big complaint for me, the ones my doctor gave me has been so uncomftable and had me in pain in certain areas as well. The one she gave me wrapped around the stomach only and feels much better oppse to the ones my doctor provided which went in between the legs and had straps on them. So I have taken m y shower, ate some rice, took my medicine and am now waiting to see of this gas will start to be relieved and if I can make a move to the bathroom sometime soon. Im still in a little pain but at this point, not near as much as I was going through the first few days but I am still taking my Vicodin faithfully for now. I have posted some pics for you guys that I had my daughter take for me today as well. My daughter was like mom, you and your new found freinds on that website are so funny posting naked pics of yourselves but I think its really cool you have others suppoorting you through this. lol.... I think things are looking pretty good considering the swelling and bloating Im having and my PS advised that within the next 3 months I will see much improvement as my stomach continues to go down. I am like Doc are you serious, my stomach is going to go down some more, yay me.....Updated on 4 Mar 2012:Hello ladies, it's 6 days post op and still no bowel movement and the gas has not subsided yet. Still in some pain but mostly from these 2 concerns along with this darn draining tubes and stitches. The good news is is that I am currently draining less than the 30 ML my PS told me I had to be in order to have the drains removed, so I'm really looking forward to my 2 post op appointment tomorrow. It's 7:12am now and I did sleep better last night than I have since my surgery but with all this gas, swelling, bloating and discomfort Im having I'm not to sure what kind of day it will be today. Please let the laxatives and gas x pills kick in soon, talk to you ladies later :-|Updated on 5 Mar 2012:Ok, ladies so after my post yesterday morning things went all downhill. I was in so much pain I did not know what to do. I had even comtemplating going into the emrgency reoom later on in the evening. The gas and constipation was ridicilous. I felt like I had surgery all over again. I sent my daughter out for stool softners and 2% milk to drink warm to help with the constipation and it was taking its sweet tiime working. I was also taking the Gas X and a bowel laxative and it was helping some but not enough. I literally had turned into another person cause I was under so much pain. My PS hsd told me to keep pressure on my stomach and continue to massage it while taking the medications I had gotton. None of this was working and I could not take it. I had taken all the pain pills I could have witout overdosing and thought I was going MAD. I literally went back and forth to the bathroom all day trying to move my bowels and sat on the toliet so long the circle was imprinted on my butt. I finally went at 1:30am and it took a while cause my bowelss were still not soft and I felt like my scar was about to burst open but it did give me some relief right after.I went again this morning and the stool softners had finally kicked so it was not difficult at that time and things are now back to normal. Had my 2nd post op appointment today and my drains was removed. It was a little pinch and that was a good thing cause I had prepared for much worst especially considering my drains was coming from the from on my VJJ. I had told you before in another post that I had changed my compression garment to the one I got from my friend and my doctor said that was also a reason I was experiencing so much pain cause the garment he gave me alsp protect the VJ as well as oppose to the other one which just wrapped aroound and covered the stomach. WOW, ladies Ive learned to listen closely to the doctors orders. Best wiches to all of those who have upcoming surgeries :-)Updated on 7 Mar 2012:It's been a few days for me ladies, I haven't been myself the past few days. I have to say Ive been sad and somewhat depressed. Although the pain is better, I'm still very swollen and can't get around and do things like normal. Though I have a lot of support and everyone around me has been great this process is definitely a mental one as well. I looked at myself in the mirror the other day and thought " how is it I look bigger now after the surgery then I did before the surgery" ugghhhh I can't take it.....I've cried several times just because I just don't feel or look like myself right now and I'm so not happy with that at all. I couldn't help but think maybe I made a bad decision with getting the TT done but everyone keeps telling me to give it time.... How much time do I need to give it before I feel self assured again....I'm so sad :-(Updated on 9 Mar 2012:Hello ladies, it's been a rough few days but in feeling better today and have promised myself to be patient and positive cause the best it yet to come. I'm still real swollen but am on my feet and getting around on my own a whole lot more. Its 11 days post op and I don't have much pain anymore unless I'm over extending myself then I tend to get exhausted quickly and start to hurt a little bit. At this point I'm completely off the pain pills until I over due it being on my feet in this case I may take one to calm the pain down but noticed it kerns the swelling up also so I really need to rest more and take it easier than I have been. Scar and belly button is itching quite a bit but thats due to the healing and it doesn't bother me at all. The stitches in my belly button are starting to come up which my PS says is normal and it do t hurt so thats good. Have my 3rd post op appointment scheduled for Monday 3/12 at 2pm, really looking forward to being able to get in the gym so I plan to ask my PS if maybe I can start some walking on the treadmill at a low speed for about 20 minutes 3-4 days a week at like week 3 or 4 which is closely approaching for me.Updated on 2 May 2012:Hello beautiful ladies, its been a while but Ive been so busy since Ive been back at work since 2 weeks post op. I am now 9 weeks post op and all is going pretty good. Im getting around like normal before the surgery but at times im still moving in slow motion. Im still dealing with swelling really bad. My PS okayed me to stop wearing my compression garment but I still wear it most of the time. Just started to be able to sleep back on my side about a week ago. That was exhausting for me sleeping on my back all the time cause im a side sleeper. I noticed in the morning my stomach looks really good and flat but after a few hours of getting my day going the upper part of my belling is sticking out. I even went into my PS office a few times to ask him was something wrong? He continues to tell me this process takes time and everyone heals differently. He says my belly will continue to go down up to a year post op. He says my swelling is perfecly normal and that as time goes on I will continue to see a big difference. I truly already see a big difference but dealing with the constant swelling coming and going when ever its wants is a bit annoying. Im still sticking in there ladies and holding on. Really looking forward to the final results of getting up with a flat stomach daily and it stays that way :-) I will post new pics real soon.
This is a very common question. Photos don't really allow for a full assessment. Go to at least one, but better two, in-person consultations with board-certified plastic surgeons, who do both mini and full tummy tucks. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of these procedures. You are best off discussing those with your surgeon. Good luck.
It is perfectly normal to be nervous. Your concerns are very reasonable. No, you are not crazy. Call your surgeon now and if necessary go see him/her again before the surgery. The pictures on the internet do not necessarily reflect the results you will get with your surgeon. You should go into the surgery with confidence in your surgeon. Best of luck!
I am sorry to inform you that it extremely unlikely that any insurer would cover an inner (or medial) thigh lift. It is a very good procedure if done by the right surgeon, specifically a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in patients with significant weight loss. However, it is elective cosmetic surgery and not covered by insurance.
You are ready. The decision between a tummy tuck vs. a body lift can best be answered once you have a consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in patients with massive weight loss. A body lift is basically a tummy tuck, lateral thigh lift and buttock lift all done at one setting. It is a longer scar (circumferential around your entire body) than the tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). Spend time with your surgeon and see which is best for you. Good luck! and Congratulations!
You seem to be an ideal candidate for liposuction of your neck. Of course, you need to be examined and have a full evaluation. Some areas of the body are just more resistant to weight loss and for you its just under your chin. Good luck.
