Jeffrey Zwiren, MD

Dr. Zwiren was fantastic! I met with him and he was the only doctor I have ever visited that knew immediately why I had a long scar in the center above my belly button from when I was little. He was great about going through the process and how it would be different because of the scar. He suggested lipo for some locations which I definitely took his recommendations. I am so happy with the results and I am so glad I got all the extra skin removed and abs tightened. It feels great to fit in my clothes and excercise without the belly jiggle/overlap.

Dr. Z articulated in my consultation that my breast were tuberous breasts and explained to me in depth how these breasts are abnormal. He was particular on his wording and I noticed he did not call them a deformity/deformed. When I went home after my consultation and did my own research, these type of breasts were pulling up as a deformity. I appreciated that he was careful with his wording to me as a patient. The procedure I knew would be challenging due to the shape of my breasts but Dr. Z and his team did a fantastic job. I'm 2 months out of my procedure and I love my results! I would recommend Dr. Z to anyone. And I would recommend a breast augmentation to anyone who has doubts on the shape and look of their breasts. It is an investment in yourself and that is the best investment you can make.

I absolutely LOVE my new boobs!!! I made an appt for a free consultation where he used state of the art technology to show exactly what MY breasts could look like with various shapes and sizes of implants. After making an appointment for the procedure, I went in for a pre-op where the staff was so knowledgable and accommodating, and made me feel much less nervous about the surgery by sharing their own personal experience or the experiences of other girls with very similar body types or implants. The day of, I was given anesthesia and next thing I knew I was waking up with new boobs! I got around ~325 CCs of the new shaped silicone implants, which takes a few weeks to look "normal", and I was so happy with my results after a couple months of recovery. After the procedure, I went to a post-op appointment, easily made another free appointment to ask questions, and have emailed him with a same-day response. The entire staff was just as helpful after the procedure as they were before - I definitely recommend!!

I'm finally ready for my mommy makeover. My youngest child is 4 months old and I was planning lipo around this time last year, but I had to postpone due to our little surprise.

I met with the ps yesterday, and I put my deposit down today for March 11th. Only 4 short weeks away! I decided to have a breast revision of my 10.5 yr old smooth, round, saline 350cc implants (done after 3rd child), lipo of the abdomen, sides, back, flanks, hips, inner and outer thighs, and a "lower only" tummy tuck revision (original was done after 4th child, 4.5 years ago). The benefits of the prior surgeries were compromised with the subsequent pregnancies.

This time I'm going with the Mentor memory shape textured silicone implants. I'd like to go bigger, possibly with a 475/500 range implant so that I can achieve the volume and fullness that I feel would best fill out my large frame. Ps said I could/should definitely go larger than my current 350cc, but I won't be sized for the new implant until my pre-op on March 4th. I've been searching on real self for my wish boobs and I have found some great pics.

I'm really excited to have my surgery done by Dr. Zwiren after having read many great reviews of him and his work on real self. I plan to add plenty of pics along my journey, and I would love to make some friends that have/are going through their makeovers as well.

Updated on 14 Feb 2015:
I've been searching for before/after and revision pics of BA with the mentor memory shape implants. My main concern with CPG is that I wont have enough pole volume. That's really important to me, so I am going to discuss with the ps using the mentor cpg 323. They have the most pole volume, and I really want the higher projection.

Here are some pics I found that I like of people with the same model.

Updated on 14 Feb 2015:
Here are my before pics. You can see the abdominal muscle and skin laxiscity from the last 2 pregnancies. My left breast is not symmetrical. I need a good bit more volume in both breasts. And the fat...oh the fat. My abs, waist, back, flanks, hips, and worst of all, the thighs :(

I excercise 6 days a week, eat clean, and am at a decent weight for my height (140lb and 5'6). I'm still working to lose hopefully 8 more lbs before surgery, but my thighs, hips, back, and flank have always been very thick and fatty even at my lowest weight. I'm really hoping the "mini-tuck" lower abdominal revision will be able to flatten my stomach again and that the lipo will help with my fatty problem areas.

Updated on 14 Feb 2015:


Updated on 17 Feb 2015:
I've been perusing the Internet in search of boobies to show my PS at my pre-op. That's when we will select the cc size.

With my current 350cc salines I'm a 36D in Victoria's secret bras. I have some highly padded 36DD VS push ups that are my "ideal size" goal for after surgery. I want to look that way in an unpadded bra. I have a wide and large rib cage (33"), so I'm thinking moderate or moderate plus projection and around 550cc anatomicals. (200cc's is supposed to be a cup size on my frame). Sientra anatomical round implants apparently only go up to 450cc, so I guess Dr. Z was right to recommend the Mentor CPGs. Though I like what I've read about the softness and pliability of the Sientras.

I'm really trying to not freak myself out in over-researching the anatomicals. I'm really concerned with how they appear so high on the chest on some people, how they tend to look great at 350cc or below, but above that they can look really misshapen in some people. I'm concerned that they will shift and look awful and I'll have to have them redone. I'm very active, work out 6 days a week, and have 6 small children that I'm constantly chasing, lifting, playing ball with, running around with, etc. Hubby and I have an active sex life. I'm worried that my lifestyle will be an issue for these anatomicals adhering correctly, or dislodging later.

Any advice or experience is helpful and wanted!!!

Updated on 17 Feb 2015:


Updated on 20 Feb 2015:
I think all of my researching freaked me out a bit. I love real self, but I was reading review after review of surgery gone wrong, implant issues, botched tummy tucks, etc and I started getting worried.

I called Dr. Z's office to see if I could come by some time in the next week and talk to him, and they said he was in surgery but they would talk to his nurse and call me back as soon as he was done. They called back at 12:15 and said I could come in at my convenience same day, so I hopped in the car and was on my way. Let me just say again, I truly love the staff at Prima Center. They are so warm and accommodating. They addressed me by name and got me right back to see Dr.Z. He spent an hour talking to me, answering my questions, addressing my concerns, and giving me his advice. I left feeling 100x better and knowing that we were on the same page as to what my desired end result was.

He put me at ease about the Mentor memory shape anatomical mod +, and alternately told me that if I really don't feel good about the anatomical, then he would be willing to use the Sientra round smooth High projection cohesive gel instead. The choice is up to me. So now I am just trying to research both of those, consider what he said about why he thinks the mentor is a better fit for me, and make a decision. Either way, I feel like I am in excellent and capable hands.

I am so happy that I made the choice to use Dr. Zwiren and Prima Center. This has been such an easy and pleasurable experience so far. Much better than the other local PS I used for my other surgeries. If you are considering PS in the Atlanta area I'd urge you to have a consultation at Prima Center.

Updated on 27 Feb 2015:
All of the "snow days" have helped time to fly by these past few weeks. Thank goodness.

Wednesday the 4th is my pre-op date. I made a visit to my PCP just to get checked out and have my thyroid rechecked. I've been hypothyroid for years and the dr last adjusted my meds in December, so he's cheking to make sure my levels have stabilized.

I've been reading up on essential oils and researching how they can help me through recovery. I've ordered a ton of oils and carrier oils, and I'm hoping they work as well as I've read. I've also ordered vitamins, supplements, etc that I read can help. I'm planning to eat a low sodium diet starting 7 days prior to surgery and for the following month + to help with swelling.

Did any of you ladies do the soft/liquid/clear diet prior to surgery? I've read that it can make the first week of the recovery period more comfortable with constipation/bloating. I remember how miserable that was last time and I would love to avoid it or at least decrease the severity. Saturday before my surgery I will only eat soft foods. Sunday will be liquids only. Monday will be clear liquids only, and I'll be taking milk of mag Monday morning to clear myself out. If anyone else has done this I'd love to hear from you.

Oh, and TMI,
I started my period so 1) Yay, I'm not pregnant (last year I had my surgery scheduled around this same time and I ended up pregnant and had to postpone it). 2) I'm really glad I won't be on my period for surgery. That would be a headache.

I've decirded to follow Dr. Zwiren's advice about going with the Anatomicals. Moderate plus Mentor CPG 322 implants. He was able to get my chart from my previous augmentation and we found out that I have saline 330cc filled to 375cc. He recommended 375cc again since I have a 12.5 bwd, but I definitely want to go bigger. He said he would do the 420cc. I'm going to ask if the 475cc is out of the question, and if it is then I'm going to go with the 420cc. I know I won't have "huge" breasts, but I'm okay with that as long as they fill my chest out better. I need more volume and uumph, and I want my chest to not look so broad and empty. You can always play up smaller breasts, but it's hard to play down larger ones. I tried on a few of my favorite dresses braless and my breasts look good in clothing. I tried on the same dresses with my padded VS 36DD bra and they wouldn't zip and my chest looked obscene. I think going bigger but not huge is a good middle ground for me. Best of both worlds, if you will. Plus, I'm a mom of 6. I need to not have freak show boobies at the pool, waterpark, and playground. I just hope the 420/475cc will fill in that land of empty middle chest space and help give me some nipple lift and better breast shape.

Updated on 5 Mar 2015:
My pre-op appt was yesterday. Dr Z wants me to get the highest projection possible because of my breast sag, so we decided on the Mentor CPG 323 high profile anatomicals. Nurse Cindy ordered the 445cc and 490cc and said I can let Dr Z know which one I want to use on surgery morning. I'm thinking the 490. That's the closest match to my original plan going in - that I would get HP 500+. Since I have a BWD of 12.5 the 13.0 base 490cc HP is the largest I can go. I'm a little worried they are going to look super fake, make me look broad and fat, stick out too far, or make me look matronly. Ugh, decisions, worries, and more decisions. Does anyone else have any advice or experience with these larger anatomical HP implants? I don't want to make the wrong call.

I've filled all of my meds, and I've purchased pre and post surgery friendly foods. I've continued my daily workouts and will keep them up until Sunday night. (Resting and enjoying time with the hubby and kids on the night before surgery.)

I'll start soft foods only Saturday, liquids only Sunday, and clear liquids only on Monday.

I hope this weekend flies by.

Updated on 6 Mar 2015:
Dreamed that I came out of surgery and noticed my legs were much thinner in the compression garment, but then I saw that my right thigh didn't get any lipo at all. One fat leg, one skinny leg. Lol. Hurry up Tuesday, my mind is messing with me.

Updated on 6 Mar 2015:
I wanted to post these so that I can compare my before and afters in the same bikini and shorts. I don't look all together horrible in the bikini, but you can see that my breasts need more volume, I have extra skin and sag in my front belly, excess fat at my mid and upper abdomen and waist, and my backside is in serious need of lipo. Back fat is so gross! I can't wait to have a more contoured slimmer backside. And my legs, sigh, I pray the lipo helps these thunder thighs.

Updated on 6 Mar 2015:


Updated on 10 Mar 2015:
In 2.5 hrs I will already be in surgery. Here are some last minute pre-op pics today:

Updated on 11 Mar 2015:
I made it! I'm am in a lot of pain. The pain pump has been very helpful, and the codeine takes the edge off.

My right boob really hurts, it's worse that the tummy tuck right now. Dr Z said he had to completely redo that capsule and did a lot of internal stitches and even some external stitches to hold the implant in place. Getting up from the recliner and getting back into are the worst. Lots of pain when I change positions.

I've been drinking a ton of water, tea, Gatorade, and I had 1/2 of a diet coke. My mouth still feels terribly dry. The holes where the drains are are painful too. Doing lipo on my back, flanks, upper abs, hips, thighs, and knees along with the breast revision and tummy tuck pretty much ensures that everything hurts. I was in surgery for 6.5 hrs.

Yesterday I could barely move and hubby had to help me with everything. Today I'm doing okay enough that he could go to work. (He's only 15min away, so I can call him if I need him.

I'm not allowed to remove the compression garment or the bra until my post -op on Monday. :( probably for the best. The nurse had a heck of a time getting it on me yesterday (they are supposed to do it while you're asleep, and the anesthesiologist and my husband ended up having to help. I'm in it though, looking like a sausage stuffed into a casing. lol.

I hope everything looks good under these garments. I can't wait until I can see it Monday at post -op.

Oh, and Dr Z is just awesome, so was his nurse Cindy. They were so great yesterday and put me at ease. Cindy called this morning to check on me, and Dr Z called my husband last night to check in as well. Great, great staff at Prima.

The anesthesiologist was phenomenal as well. Great guy, very friendly, kind, and helpful. I'm so glad I chose Dr Z and prima center.

Updated on 12 Mar 2015:
The day of surgery I was in a fog all day and night mostly sleeping in the recliner. I also ran a fever after surgery through last night.

Yesterday was really painful, but I was getting up alone consistently and walking a few circles around the living room. I was going to the bathroom myself and getting up. I now have a good system that works. As of 10pm last night I quit the Percocet and started just taking Advil. Percocet puts me in a drowsy and nauseous haze. Advil and the pain pump are handling things just fine.

Today is a much better day. Honestly what hurts the most are the drains. I am constantly having to readjust them and the pulling feeling from changing positions really hurts. I feel like I have a lot of gas today. Took some simethicone, so hopefully that will help.

My thighs are so swollen, they feel way bigger than before the lipo, but I'm thinking it's just normal swelling. Hand swelling is much better today. Feet are still swollen.

My boobs sound like they are floating in water. They feel "bubbly" and there is a ton of fluid in my chest. Not painful, just worried about a seroma preventing them from attaching to the capsule correctly. I find myself constantly worrying they will rotate ( I went with the mentor anatomical CPG 323 high profile 495cc). I'll be happy to get a peek at them on Monday!

Updated on 13 Mar 2015:
Feeling much better today. Legs are really sore today, but they feel more like they're just really bruised than actual pain. I'm able to walk more often and for longer periods today vs. the previous days. I'm standing a little taller than previous days too.

Boobies are feeling good, except I feel and hear fluid sloshing around through my chest. The cleavage gap is obviously swollen and fluid filled. Kind of concerned about it being a seroma, but I know the first week or 2 the fluid can be normal. My main concern is that I'm really worried they won't adhere correctly and/or they'll rotate. So I'm trying to not move my arms until I see dr Z on Monday and can let him see/feel what's going on. They don't hurt, it just feels like my chest is a big waterbed sloshing around and the audible noise of the sloshing is really weird.

The drains suck. That's probably the worst part. They are just awkward and uncomfortable and I'm constantly having to readjust them in my crotch just to be able to tolerate them.

I coughed yesterday and ouch, I could definitely feel the muscle plication. That's the only time I really feel or notice it though.
The lower incision is a little tender in 2 places on each side, but I think that's where the drains are coming out from. I guess I'll see when I change garments.

I finally was able to have a bm today. Thank you milk of mag. Start taking the MoM day 1 post op and get off of yourpain meds, Xanax, and nausea meds ASAP and it will help you regulate much faster. Much less bloated and swollen in the stomach today because of that.

I 100% recommend buying or renting a power recliner if you are going to have a series of procedures done together (lipo, TT, BA). You'll be so much more comfortable and independent sooner if you have the help of the chair. My husband helped me the day of surgery, but I've been getting up and down by myself since day 1 post op. It really makes a world of difference.

Updated on 16 Mar 2015:
Woke up feeling so much better today. I can stand straighter, I'm in less pain, and just generally starting to feel more like myself.
At my post op, Cindy removed my drains (thank goodness - I swear the drains are the worst part of TT). She took off all of my bandages and tape, and took out several lipo stitches. The pain pump did not want to come out, so she had Dr. Z remove it. All of a sudden I started feeling incredibly dizzy and lightheaded and was pouring sweat. I almost fainted. I have no idea what happened. I wasn't scared, it wasn't from pain, I think it was just lunch time and my sugar had dropped. She got me a diet coke and some wet rags and I started feeling better.
Dr. Z had to do some external stitches (like quilting) on my right breast after surgery to hold it in place. It kept wanting to fall too much to the right. So he removed those stitches as well, and put a new piece of plastic sheeting in place to hold it where it needs to be.
I go back on Friday to get the other stitches removed and the plastic sheeting off of my breast. That will be interesting. I hope I don't have the crazy fainting thing again.
I get to have my first post op shower tonight! I can't wait to wash my hair and get a real shower. Ladies, make sure you buy dry shampo before your sx. That helped me not feel so disgusting. I'm still all marked up, so I'm going to work on cleaning up with some nail polish remover before I shower.
I got a peek at the boobies when we got home. I think they are going to look good! Just need to settle in over the next few months. My compression garment is in the wash so I'm wearing a squeem cincher and sports bra until they are dry.
I'll post boobie and tummy pics after I shower.

Updated on 18 Mar 2015:
I'm sorry I didn't take any more pics on Monday. The shower was not pleasant. Not at all. My right boob has definitely been a problem. When I took off my bra to shower my right boob felt like it was ripping internally. This is the same one that Dr Z said Gave him a bunch of trouble. He did extra internal stitches and the "quilting external stitches" on it. On Monday it still wouldn't behabe so he put the plastic sheeting on it for support. Well, if it's not in a bra I feel like I have to hold the sucker in place or it is seriously painful. I ended up having to put a sports bra on to shower in because I couldn't move my right arm with out this breast hurting and I was using my left hand to try to support it.

The left boob is doing great and I can tell the swelling is already going down. But the right one definitely has me worried. I just hope it's doing better on Friday.

Anyways, the shower... My husband had to wash my hair for me. My boob felt like it was going to fall off. So I washed up with soap as fast as possible and got out. I'm still very marked up with marker. I scrubbed as much as I could get off with nail polish remover before I got in, but I'm sure it's just going to take several scrubbings and showers to fully remove it all.

My surgical CG is now too big. A good thing, but also not good because it needs to be squeezing me tight. Hubby ran to target and got a Sarah Blakely assets (spanx for target) high waisted panty for me. He helped me cut a crotch hole in it and I now wear it over my surgical CG. Much better! But now that the leg swelling is going down it's getting loose in the legs too. (It was so tight after surgery it took a nurse, the anesthesiologist, and my husband to get me in it). So I'm wondering, should I buy a smaller stage 1 CG, or when will I switch to the stage 2?

Updated on 18 Mar 2015:
Recovery wise I'm springing back from this surgery SO much faster than my 1st TT. Crazy considering I had a lot more done. Yesterday I started keeping my 5 month old again for the day. The one year old is still going to daycare. There's no way I can lift her. The baby weighs 13lbs and I can lift him (carefully and slowly), feed him, change his diaper, etc. I'm really glad it worked out according to my plan. I've been getting my 1 year old dressed in the morning for the past 2 days. My oldest daughter gets her out of the crib and I can undress and redress her.

Each day I stand straighter and have more endurance to stand and walk longer. I haven't driven yet, but will have to later today to pick up my son. I think I will be fine.

Emotionally I'm feeling really good. Excited to continue healing and see the changes in my body. I'm looking forward to trying to get out of this recliner and back in my bed this weekend. A little anxious about the right boob, but trying not to stress. It will be what it will be, and if it's totally messed up then I know Dr Z will fix it.

Oh, so for those of you having this surgery I want to share some observations and tips.

- First thing in the morning you will feel like you are 90 years old. You will wake up sore and stiff. Drink some water, take your Advil, and get up and moving. It helps to loosen things up.

- Buy or rent a power recliner. Just factor it as a part of the cost of surgery. You'll need it.

- for at least a week before and a couple of months after surgery, eat a VERY low sodium diet. No processed, packaged, or restaurant foods. It has helped me not to be so swollen. I messed this up with the first TT.

- Drink water like it's goon out of style. 14+ glasses a day if you can. It will help the swelling, help your bowels, and flush all of the bad stuff out of your body.

- Plan to have your support person there with you at the first few follow ups and during the first few showers. You're going to need help, and you never know how your body is going to react. You may not be able to drive if you end up dizzy/fainting like me, and you very likely can't shampoo and thoroughly clean yourself alone for the first 2 weeks.

Updated on 18 Jan 2017:
Dr Z is doing some additional work for me on 1/27. I still have some tummy, flank, back, and thigh fat that needs removal, so he will be doing a combo of tumescent and smart lipo as well as a scar revision on the right breast and a scar revision on the right hip to smooth things out from the prior surgery. Here are my pics 2 years post op from the tummy tuck, lipo, and breast augmentation. My goal from the upcoming surgery is to narrow my waist and give it some great definition, eliminate back fat thus improving the rear view, and thin out the thighs.

Updated on 1 Jun 2021:


Updated on 1 Jun 2021:
July 2017. Happy with my results. Highly recommend Dr Zwiren!

I'm very impressed with how Dr. Zirwen, changed my life. It motivates me to keep losing. I feel a lot better about myself. I never thought I would look as amazing as I do. He really have changed my life for the better. During the surgery, the doctor took off more than I expected. The down time was 6 weeks and it was worth every bit.

I always knew I wanted a breast augmentation but I had to work up the nerve to have a consultation. I am so glad I did! I went to prima center and everyone was so nice it made me feel as ease. I had the consult with Dr. Zwiren he was GREAT. He really took the time to explain the whole procedure to me and helped me understand everything. I was most concerned about which size implants to choose before going into the consult. The 3D imaging machine help so much! It showed me what I would look like with implants and I was able to compare several different sizes on the computer. There is nothing like seeing yourself with implants BEFORE you have surgery. With the help of Dr. Zwiren’s expertise and Vectra (3D imaging) I made a choice that looks amazing. Once I made the decision to have surgery I was very excited. The day of surgery came quick. Surgery went very smooth and recovery was easier then I anticipated. I had surgery on a Wednesday and by Friday I was having dinner with friends. Dr. Zwiren and his nurse Cindy are the best. They took very good care of me. He even called that evening after surgery to check on me. I am very happy with the decision I made to have surgery. If a breast augmentation is something you have been considering make an appointment with Dr. Zwiren he will answer all your questions. I would not trust anyone else but Dr. Zwiren to operate on my body.

My Decision with undergoing a BA experience has been running through my mind for several years, and after searching for a PS for awhile I found Prima Center (Duluth, Georgia). My experience with the staff and my thoughts about the facility has been amazing. I am extremely happy about my decision with doing the procedure with Dr. Zwiren. My Pre-Op date was on October 1, 2013. He explained the procedure thoroughly, and spent quite a bit of time going over every detail with Silicone and Sailene. He had slides, pictures, and offered to answer my questions anytime. The facility is beautiful, and they had a 3D imaging system that showed the possible CC's. After the pre-op was finished the nurses and the Dr. handed me a folder that had his credentials, certifications and experience with the procedure. They were truly organized, and down to the PS coordinator (Wanda DeCamp), her customer service was one of the nicest I've experienced. They had dates set, constantly made sure all my questions or concerns were answered.
On October 10, 2013, my surgery was set. I arrived and was greeted nicely by the receptionist. The nurses down to the anesthetist were very personable and sweet. When I arrived to the pre-operative room (where they hook the IV and anesthesia up) they explained what would happen next, basically it made me feel extremely comfortable. From what I remember, it really helps to wake up with compassionate, "smiling" faces. Nurses were truly attentive (Cindy, cant remember them all but they were very personable and nice), and made sure I was alright. The next evening Dr. Zwiren called my fiance to check on how I was doing.
TO SUM it all up: Absolutely happy with my procedure, I will definitely return to do minor procedure in the future.

Dr. Jeffrey Zwiren, MD in Duluth, GA was extremely thorough and very detail oriented . He also was very honest about what would work and what wouldn't. He never pressured and always took all the time & more to make sure all my questions were answered completely. He had been recommended by my dermatologist and after reviewing all his and 5 other Drs credits on the internet & watching his video of my procedure & meeting with him for a free first interview, I have always been extremely satisfied with his preparation, his actual work and his follow up..even more than 1 yr later!

I'm excited about having the procedure completed. I am preparing my body for the surgery and the recovery. I've been doing alot of research on expectations of the recovery. I know its weird but I'm looking most forward to the recovery the most.. It means I'm closer to getting the body I want and back to life!

Updated on 6 Aug 2013:
I have so long to wait... 4 months! I'll be glad when I can say tomorrow... Tomorrow will be my day. I'm so excited for the ladies that getting theirs done, and posting information about the recovery. To me the recovery says its over and on to where I want to be. I'm doing my research and trying to prepare my body for the day, I'm staying hopeful for a speedy recovery.

Updated on 7 Aug 2013:
For those ladies that have had their surgery...

Having the tummy tuck and the breast work done at the same time, what was your experience with getting up and down. What is the best way to be helped out of a chair, bed or toilet? On YouTube a lady showed how she was helped up, crossing her arms and her husband pulled her crossed arms and she got right up. To what extent did you need help, could you wash your own face, brush your teeth, wipe your butt? How many days after your surgery were you able to be left at home alone? This are just some of the things I wonder about.

Updated on 19 Aug 2013:
OM Goodnesss, So finally I posted photos. It took a few drinks to get this far. You have to know that I'm so self conscious of my body. I look good with clothes on and I've spent many years hiding behind many many layers of clothes. Many of you ladies make it seem so easy to post photos. I'm growing, but wait until after the recovery I'll be showing alot more...;)

I'm thankful for RealSelf and TummyTuckTalk, I don't know how I would have made it this far, I still have months to go before I reach the "Flatland".

I've told a few more people about my decision and I'm not getting "face frown". I don't really care what people think but its nice to know that they are supportive.

I'll be checking in soon.

Updated on 23 Sep 2013:
I am 42 years old mom of 5 (2 by birth - C-section) and 3 by marriage. My two pregnancies were large babies, both weighing 11.4 oz. My oldest son is 24 and my youngest is 21, so I've lived with my stretch marked skin for more than 2 decades. I've always had an issue with my weight and never a flat belly, but 2 years ago, I lost 30lbs... from 180ish down to 150ish, a comfortable 14-16 down to a comfortable 8. I can never remember being in the single digits. I love the way I look in clothes it’s when the close come off and stuff starts flopping over other stuff, is when I want to cry. I thought that when I lost the weight the belly would shrink, but it didn't. All the kids are grown up and moving on, I'm ready to get my sexy back!
One of my girlfriends had a mini tummy tuck when I saw her stomach I knew I had to have a TT to have a flat belly. I found my doctor, he and his staff was really great! I'm scheduled to have my procedure done December 13th 2013. He explained to me why my stomach was the way it is and why it will never be flat, which explained a lot!
After I scheduled my procedure, I was super excited and wanted to talk about it all the time, with my bestest friend in the world (my hubby), but after 2 weeks of hearing my same issues he was starting to have the "glassy eyed" look. I've muddled through a couple of months trying to forget about it and not talk about it.
Finally, I told a couple coworkers about what I had planned and the reason for my absents from work in December, everyone is very happy for me.
Today I marked the days on the calendar, 80 days to go.
Thank you ladies on RealSelf and Tummy Tuck Talk for having an open ear and encouraging words, I couldn't have gotten this far without your help!

Updated on 3 Nov 2013:
Still counting down until the HUGE day... yaaahh for me! I have been prepping for my time of recovery, I have my lift recliner, walker, toilet riser and etc. I've been on a special protocol of supplements (prescribed by my holistic Dr.), detoxing, exercising. I'm fall cleaning and sanitizing the house, preparing meals doing everything I can to make this recovery easier for all of us.

Updated on 16 Nov 2013:
I have about 27 days until I'm on the flat side! I've been on a raw food shake diet during the day and in the evening I have a sensible meal, have really been enjoying that. I like to eat but I don't like to cook, or stop moving to eat. I take my shakes on the go so its a win-win for me. Next week I go to my primary doctor (holistic) to get the protocol I am to take prior and after my surgery.
I know I haven't told you guys that I am a smoker and I have been really, really trying to put down this habit. Well, I haven't had a cig since Monday (11/11) and I'm so proud of myself. I think I haven't mentioned it because I'm a little ashamed of having a habit. I feel good and Its really nice not being chained to those little monsters.
I would like to know from those that have had the surgery, what was your diet like the first weeks after? I want to make soups, because I'm afraid the raw veggies will cause me to have gas. So let me know.

Updated on 20 Nov 2013:
I get emails of comment or updates on the Realself friends that I'm following, but I'm not getting emails when I receive comments on my page, I want to get my friends words of encouragement immediately, am I missing something?

Updated on 25 Nov 2013:
OMGoodness, I love Thanksgiving, it’s usually the only feasting time I get. Healthy eating and living goes OUT the window, for the few days, I can just pig-out. On Monday, December 2nd, I'm back to reality, gallons of my green shake and water.
My doctor gave me my surgery supplements for me to start 2 weeks before the surgery and then after the surgery. I forgot to bring the list with me; but I will get it posted later today.
I have so many things going on 1) preparations for the Holidays 2) A huge cleanup effort after Thanksgiving gathering 3) Our first Grand baby shower during this weekend 4) Our Oldest son started his search for his first house 5) school work 6) husband… 7) getting my office prepared for me to be gone for 2 weeks. I just keep smiling, and moving forward because I know that year 2014 is going to be a better; I say, 2014 is going to be a GREAT year for ME, and all of you!

Updated on 29 Nov 2013:
Oh my, Today marks 13 more days to go before I reach the Flatland! Funny, I'm not excited, nervous, anxious, I feel a little numb. I think I'm prepared, I have all my supplies, this week we will start putting "recovery" items in place... The raised toilet seat, the lift recliner, recovery table set up! I guess this whole thing will become a little more real then. We had the family over for Thanksgiving so the house is CLEAN, now keeping it that way is the trick.

When I scheduled this appointment in July... It seem the days were inching by so slowly, now their zooming! My preopt appointment is Monday, 12/2. I'll keep you posted.

Going to get my cashiers check today.... OMG! $8,970.00 is a lot of money to part with at one time, but I can do this. So no Black Friday shopping for me this year, 1) its too cold to be out and 2) I don't need more crap. :)

Updated on 2 Dec 2013:
Today was my Pre-opt appointment… OMGoodness! I’m so excited! Where do I start, well I get to the office and Jennifer is my nurse she is going over my paperwork and asking questions and I’m confirming the information she is giving me from my good TT friends on Youtube, Realself and TummyTuckTalk.
I take off my cloths and put on their gown to have photos taken. (I felt like I was auditioning to be a cast member on the next [RS bleep] movie. LOL.) After that Dr. Z come in and he starts telling me what to expect at the next meeting like how far the TT scar will be on my body, what kind of scar to expect from the breast lift, and the leakage will be from lipo done on my flanks (woop woop… That’s just extra, NO CHARGE). I just starting sing out loud “The Thong Song”. I’ve had two c-sections so my scar will be there and just a little longer than that scar, so no hip to hip for me! I got my post-surgical prescriptions, their at Walmart 305.00 to get them filled! I need to find me a prescript card!
Lovenox – for Clot Prevention
Xanax – for Anxiety
Promethanzine - vomiting
Azithromycin – Z pak antibotic
Percocet – for Pain

I’m instructed to be at the office at 7:00 am 12/13/2013, (I plan to be there earlier than that), my procedure will start by 8:00 am. The procedure will take 5+ hours, done at their accredited facility. They will release me once I’m up walking around, and used the bathroom.
I’m so excited, it’s hard to contain myself! The time is here! I’m counting down… I have 10 days and a wake up to reach my destination… FLATLAND!

Updated on 2 Dec 2013:
OK I forgot to give you the list of holistic supplements my doctor instructed me to take. This is Pre - SX (2 weeks ahead) I'm taking these now.
Chorophyll Complex – by Standard Process (Chlorophyll Complex supports multiple body systems.)
• Provides antioxidants
• Supports vascular health
• Supports the body's normal inflammation response
• Provides cardiovascular support
• Maintains skin and hair health†

Dermatrophin PMG – by Standard Process (Dermatrophin PMG supports healthy skin and connective tissue.)
• Provides uniquely derived nucleoprotein-mineral extracts that support cellular health†

Chronagesic – by Desbio (Celeragesic™ is formulated for acute pain. It contains 27 established ingredients to provide relief for joint pain, muscle pain, sports injuries, and other injuries. It works with the body's natural pain-relieving functions to help improve mobility and flexibility of the musculo-skeletal system safely and effectively. Celeragesic is available as drops and as a topical gel.

Post SX i will be adding Gotu Kola (it has been used to treat many conditions for thousands of years in India, China, and Indonesia. It was used to heal wounds, improve mental clarity, and treat skin conditions such as leprosy and psoriasis.)

I will also be taking the Noni Leather, it has so many healing properties.

Updated on 8 Dec 2013:
STOP the madness! My turn is almost here... I dream't last night that I wore a halter blouse with no bra and I looked stunning, funny that was the only thing I remember from that dream!
I spent this weekend setting up my recovery area, I'm loving my recliner chair and I understand about the back hurting sitting in it for long periods of time, got to figure out how to remedy that before Friday.

I got my prescriptions filled yesterday, thank you Flexible Spending! I put up a medicine schedule to help me and my hubby remember when and what medicines to take. He is a stickler for that type thing, I will skip doses in a heartbeat. Its been about 7 years since I've taken a prescription drug, I'm really not liking the idea of it, I will suffer through the 5-10 days.

I had a convo with my "extra belly" this morning, "this will be the last weekend we will be together", I think she took it ok! she didn't shrink or start to look better, we've made our peace and said our goodbyes. No tears were shed.

I'm sure this week will fly and before I know it I'll be on the otherside! FLATLAND here I come!

Updated on 12 Dec 2013:
I came to work today to help me take my mind off the fact that tomorrow is my day to get my body back to sexier. So today I’m a little numb, like my bones are bubbling but my skin is cold. I’ve waited on this day for so long and now that it’s here I don’t know how to react.
The last few days I’ve been wanting to post something but I’m lost for words.

Updated on 14 Dec 2013:
The day after... This s&^%$%$# isn't for the weak of heart!... I'm hurting all over, I can't tell when the meds have worn off. I have not enjoyed this one bit!

I my parents came over today, My mom insisted on changing my gauzes... I'm still lifting tape.

Updated on 15 Dec 2013:
Today, I had a lot more energy. I slept for about 6 hours total last night 2 wake ups. Monday I slept in what seemed like 20 min increments all night long.

Back is sore, been putting ice packs on the lypo spots. I had my first solid meal today, scrambled eggs and bacon, delis!

My compression garment isn't tight is that normal. nor is the bra.

I've added the photo of my mom's wrap job. I love her so much and she just wanted to help us. But damn the tape and gauze!

Updated on 15 Dec 2013:


Updated on 16 Dec 2013:
Friday, I had TT w/MR and BL completed. Holy damn! I love my husband but he don’t listen to [RS bleep]! I was to have my pain meds every 6 hours I was hurting so bad and he had forget what time he gave them to me last pill, I couldn’t keep up with the time and he wouldn’t give it to me earlier. I think I went 8 hours the first day, the pain was so unbearable. I cried most of the day. Before the sx, I told him that I didn’t want to be dependent on the drugs NOT realizing that I needed to be totally dependent on the drugs!
Today is day 3… I had a better day, I’ve been in charge of the pain meds! Still walking hunched over a lot, I was able to tighten my garment up a little bit more without the ouches. My appetite has increased and I had 2 poops today! Everyday is a better day.

Updated on 19 Dec 2013:
Yesterday I had to bathe and redress myself, it took about an hour to do... than I had an appointment with my holistic doctor and had to drive myself. Afterwhich I decided I should go get my hair done and I did... Now I'm sitting pretty. All of which was really tiring and slept the rest of the day.
My SX twin sister (BIEE) reminded me that I haven't put pics... I've put photos up from day one to yesterday.
I am still happy that I did this surgery... Wouldn't take back one minute!
I love my boobs! I mean, I love my boobs!!!! I can't wait to wear some lingerie for my hunny! I'm hot even with the drains and drains are not as bad as I thought, I realized the stitches get dry and start to irritate, I just add a little oil to them and they are just fine!

Updated on 20 Dec 2013:
I had my post op today.... Got one drain removed, one remain but it comes out on Christmas! The drain removal is no joke, dang that hurt, and yes, my doctors office will open on Christmas to do select procedures... Everything looks good and healing very well! They removed all of the surgical tapes and retaped my scars. My navel looks a little narley...but Its been so long since I've seen it on the surface of my skin
I'm getting around so good my doctor ask had I returned to work yet...lol
My job is close to the dr's office so I decided to stop by and see the gang! I miss my coworkers! I think they missed me too. lol

Updated on 3 Jan 2014:
Hey gang... Sorry for just getting updating. I haven't been busy, just LAZY!

Well swell-hell has showed up and showed out! For the past 2 weeks I wake up swollen and go to bed swollen. I'm hunched over in the morning, I may straighten out over the course of the day, but I'm dead dog tired when I get home and extremely hunched over. I'll cook dinner or wash dishes sitting on a stool.

I went back to work this week, everyday has been better than the day before. I can't wait for today to be over, mainly because I want to get in my pajamas and lay on the sofa and watch TV & do nothing!

My doctor said I don’t have the wear the compression binder anymore (x-mas day) I can’t go without it, if I don’t wear it I’m extremely swollen, wearing it has me so irritated, just raw to the touch and I’m wearing a tank top underneath it.

My husband and I went shopping this weekend, I picked up some really hot dresses can’t wait for the spring to wear them. I still can’t wear my jeans even my lose one, I can’t fasten them. If I could fasten them I think I would be in some serious pain. I have been in yoga type pants and dresses. Questions ladies: how long was it before you were able to wear your regular clothes?

Would I do this again... HELL YEAH! I love my new body

Updated on 14 Jan 2014:
I had my month post op appointment last week, so I asked Dr. Z when can I start working out (not like I really wanted to but hey) he says "go ahead, just wear good support". I started Saturday got on the treadmill walk - jog... 27 min - 1.5 mile, I felt ok! no soreness. Today I decided I wanted to get outside and fair'd better in distant and time 2 miles in 30 min. Slow but I feel great!

Question... Anyone notice an uneven healing?... My right side has less swelling than my left. I'm messaging the left side like crazy and still there is a noticeable unevenness.

Updated on 13 Mar 2014:
I know its been a while since I've updated, but here I am....

I'm still in my compression garments; I have been dealing with swell-hell darn near everyday... The swelling don't let up! (nope, I still don't regret having the procedure!)
Been so busy with school, 1st grandbaby, working an internship, working a full time job, hubby, kids and lastly this GA weather can't make up its mind. I haven't worked out at all, trying to eat clean... but Red Velvet Cake keep coming home with me, gained about 5lbs. I'm not sure its weight or water.
I've been sleeping on my stomach for about 3 weeks now, still slow moving but I can fall asleep there. Boobs are still looking fabulous, Navel isn't looking like I thought, it just doesn’t look natural. TT incision has darkened up its very smooth on the front but the sides are raised, at the 3 months point I'm supposed to stop itching, somedays I can scratch the skin off my boobs. I'm now experiencing the boob pain (sharp pains), but I know it’s just nerves reconnecting. Belly is still numb, right side is getting more area of feeling then the left side.
Dr. Z, said at my last appointment he may have to do a little lipo on the front and the sides. The sides have little fat pockets that get sore from being folded by my CG but the front bottom I have a little pooch I believe it’s swelling. I haven’t really experienced the flatness in the morning and swelling in the evening stage yet. I long for the days of right after surgery when I was super sunken, BUT I still look better than I did the day before surgery!
I don’t think I’ve been through the depression stage nor will I… I look in the mirror everyday and say “DAMN, I’M FINE!”
Truly Loving Me and All Of You!

Photos will come later.

***My surgery was performed in January 2013. I had Allergan silicone gel implants, 475cc in one and 450cc in the other.***

CONSULTATION

I went to two other consultations with very popular surgeons before I found Dr. Zwiren's office, and I am so glad I did. My other consultations went sort-of okay, but they were nowhere near as thorough as Dr. Zwiren was and they wanted close to $1,000 and $600 more each for the same surgery. (I received a discount on operating costs through a winter cosmetic surgery special Gwinnett Medical was running.)

I felt like the first doctor was more interested in capitalizing on my excitement for the procedure to secure a surgery appointment than she was interested in being a doctor and talking to me as a patient. It was kind of like "Pick a size and sign here!" The second doctor had a pretty cold personality and downplayed all the known risks of surgery, which made him seem untrustworthy. Dr. Zwiren was an improvement over both of them. While his personality is a bit stoic, I feel confident saying that he is extremely knowledgeable in his craft and is genuinely interested in the patient's well-being. He spent much more time with me than either of the other doctors and didn't so much as glance at his watch (I left after his office had closed!).

He provided thorough, thoughtful answers to every question I had and perhaps most importantly, did NOT gloss over the complications and risks of the surgery. I want a doctor who will give it to me straight, and any girl who has gone to a few breast augmentation consultations will realize that some doctors seem more like salesmen than physicians when it comes to elective cosmetic surgery. They're out to make money so downplaying the risks is what lines their pockets. Not so with Dr. Zwiren. He is very honest, realistic, and has an excellent presentation during their consults that is extremely thorough and delves into every aspect of the surgery that I can think of, citing specific data and numbers from studies that have been done to determine the frequency of specific complications. It also has video of a real BA surgery (eek!) and contains lots of pictures that help a patient visualize the placement of implants, how the surgery is performed and how that will effect the healing process. He also took careful measurements, told me so many things the other surgeons didn't about my specific anatomy, and some things that I hadn't seen online in my countless hours of research. He reassured me with the steps they take during surgery to prevent complications like capsular contracture which keeps their statistics for that complication very low.

But one of the neatest perks about choosing Dr. Zwiren was their use of the 3D software to develop a true-to-life preview of what different sizes and shapes of implants would look like on me. He says that for the average patient, their final post-op result is accurate to the computer-generated preview within millimeters. I have an asymmetry, so this was especially useful to me to see how the implants would look when all was said and done. Doing all this during each consult must surely take a lot of his time, but I left feeling very confident in my decision and knowing without a doubt that I had chosen a knowledgeable doctor. I'm looking forward to my pre-op visit today to finalize my plans with Dr. Zwiren.

P.S.,
A few words of advice for other women in their search for the right doctor. Something I've figured out in my travels, it's common sense, but....if you walk into a plastic surgeon's office and it looks like the Buckingham Palace inside with elaborate chandeliers and expensive paintings and furnishings....there's a reeeeeeally good chance you're being overcharged for the procedure, haha. Dr. Zwiren's office is nice, but not TOO nice, if that makes sense. By no means am I the type to skimp on something this important just to save a buck, but if you can find a better surgeon who charges less with just as many satisfied patients.....why wouldn't you? Also look out for fake reviews....so many surgeon's offices looked so good when you Googled them, but if you actually READ the reviews, look at the dates they were posted, note the style of the writing / some of the phrases used etc., it becomes pretty apparent that someone with a vested interest wrote them to optimize their search engine results. Bad bad bad!

PRE-OP

I did my pre-op yesterday and I can't believe that's the last time I'll be in there until surgery date, which is LESS THAN A WEEK from now! Yikes! We went over what to do and what not to do prior to surgery, I was given a packet of some kind of anti-bacterial wash to cleanse 'the girls' the night before and morning of surgery, they gave me all my prescriptions ahead of time so they'd already be filled, and we took my pre-op breast photos. I also discussed increasing my size by 25ccs in each breast with Dr. Zwiren and he went over the pros and cons with me until we reached a decision. (We will go up in size.) He also took the time to re-do my 3D Spectra results with the bigger implants, which he didn't have to do, and printed them out so I could show others. When I asked for warranty information on the implants just before leaving, he searched high and low until he found the pamphlet I'd asked for. I paid for the surgery before I left and that was it! Next time I'm back in there, it will be 10 AM for my surgery. I'm still more excited than nervous, but I know the morning of the surgery, I'll probably go into panic mode and second guess the whole thing, haha. This time next week it'll all be finished!

5 WEEKS POST-OP

5 weeks out and I couldn't be happier with my decision. I was pretty nervous the day of, but they gave me IV meds before surgery to make me loopy and not long after, I woke up in post-op feeling like I had taken a hammer to the chest. It sounds awful, but the pain was manageable, it was just uncomfortable. The worst pain was perhaps the next day and the day after that, but it seemed to taper off after the first week or so. I did have to call Dr. Zwiren once because my pain meds kept wearing off too quickly, but when I followed his suggestion to take the nausea pills alongside the pain medicine, that somehow seemed to help extend the useful life of the pain medication. I did feel nauseous post-op, and allllllmost puked when I walked from the car to the house after surgery, but that went away within the first 48 hours or so.

The first 2 or so weeks were the most uncomfortable...I didn't like showering much because of the incision and the water hitting the tightened skin on my breasts, sleeping was uncomfortable because the implants still felt like bowling balls under my skin, and I most certainly hated having the tape over the incisions, that was very uncomfortable for many reasons and removing the tape was highly unpleasant and made me quite squeamish. And the adhesive hangs on for dear life - I'm now at 5 weeks out and stopped the tape at 3 weeks and I *still* have icky gray adhesive residue under my breasts that just won't go away, not even with alcohol or nail polish remover. Sitting up in bed by myself was pretty hard for the first week or two (I got used to scooting on my butt to reposition myself) and leaning forward (i.e. to sit or reach for something) was uncomfortable for 2+ weeks. The implants just feel really heavy and cumbersome when the skin is still so tight. But from what I remember Dr. Zwiren saying, the weight of silicone implants is very closely comparable to the weight of natural breast tissue.

My breasts were actually what I would call presentable immediately after surgery, which was a pleasant surprise. They were up high, but did not look freakish or overly square like I've seen in some post-op photos. They were quite firm, however, especially at the top of the cleavage where the muscle is. But now 5 weeks out and I can confidently say they really do look completely natural. They have a good natural position on the chest, don't stick out too much or sit up too high, and don't have any sign of the telltale roundness that gives implants a bad name. Even better, I can't even feel the outline of the implant under my skin. I didn't think implants could be this natural, but the silicone gel is amazing stuff. They are already much softer than they started out, but apparently I still have a long way to go with that which is impressive. I think now if a stranger walked up to me and squeezed my boobs (and let's hope they don't, there's laws against that....) they wouldn't know I had implants. Each week is an improvement over the last, and I'm still getting better and better with the skin relaxing enough to allow the boobs to migrate together to form decent cleavage and they're just now starting to be bouncy. Sleeping on my side is much more comfortable now that the breasts can rest against each other rather than them being too stiff and just being suspended outward like a Barbie doll on its side. Sleeping on my stomach is still uncomfortable usually unless I have a very soft pillow under me, but that is improving as well.

The only issue I think I've had is some burning in the incisions and numbness on the surface of the breast, which is minor and I anticipate that will be temporary. I have seen some improvements there. I have a 2 year old and lifting her or anything heavy makes the incision and muscular pain flare up. It's uncomfortable to reach high or put strain on the incision area. But overall, this whole experience was a breeze.

An added bonus: I received a free box of Lastisse from Allergan in the mail about two weeks after my surgery, just for purchasing their silicone gel implants.

My only very slight gripe would be at one of the post-op visits, a nurse or assistant was touching the area around my incisions and trimming the stitches with no gloves on and without washing her hands after she walked in the room. I think the risk of infection or complications from this is probably very low, but it would just have made me feel better to have her wear gloves since she's touching an area that, by her own admission, is still vulnerable to infection. I guess another gripe would be that the gentleman administering my anesthesia the day of surgery was humorless and no-nonsense almost to the point of being rude (my husband even noticed). At a time when I was so nervous and unsure of what was happening, I would have really appreciated more warmth from him, but the other nurses in the OR and especially the one tending to me in post-op were very sweet and reassuring. I appreciate how the girl at the front desk refers to me by name at each visit and asks how I'm doing. I otherwise have nothing but praise for Dr. Zwiren and his staff.

Bedside manner of Dr. Zwiren: 7/10 (I can tell he sometimes forgets the details of my surgery, which is understandable given the number of faces he sees, and again, he's a bit stoic, but I still like him.)
Bedside manner of nurses and assistants: 7.5 / 10 (Not the most outstanding and welcoming personalities but no serious complaints.)
Receptionist: 10/10 (Polite, smiling, calls you by name, tries to accomodate you with scheduling appointments.)
Wait time at appointments: 10/10 (I'm usually seen no less than 5 minutes after my arrival, even if I'm a little early.)
Results of surgery 5 weeks post-op: 8.5/10 (Still a work in progress but I feel that the results are very satisfactory so far.)
Overall satisfaction: 9/10 (I'm so glad I did this!)

I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Dr. Zwiren to a friend considering cosmetic surgery. I hope my review helps someone trying to find the right surgeon and drives business to a deserving practice! I will update this review if anything changes in my post-operative progress or my experience with Dr. Zwiren.