Joseph R. Barnthouse, MD

Hi! I’m getting a tummy tuck in a couple days and I’m very nervous but also excited! I think I’ve chosen the right doctor and my expectations are high.
I hope to share my experience in an effort to help other women make this difficult decision. The women on this site have helped me tremendously, so thank you! Specifically Dr. Barnthouse’s patients. I hope to pay it forward :)
I’m attaching my before photos and I look forward to sharing the afters

Updated on 18 Feb 2021:
I had my tummy tuck today, I can’t show you any pictures yet, though I’d like to. I will as soon as anything is visible. It’s all bandaged up and I haven’t even seen it myself. Just to recap: I’m 5ft 6, 130 lbs and very active. I do HIIT about 3 times a week and run ~6 miles on a good week, 2 on a lazy week. I also do English style horseback riding once a week and it’s an intense workout for the core and thighs yet I see zero improvement in my abdomen no matter what I do. My legs, arms, and butt are slim, firm and toned though it doesn’t show to look at my before pics. I blame babies and genetics ;)

Side note: get yourself an electric lift chair off Facebook market place or Craigslist if you aren’t too big of a germaphobe. They’re realitively cheap (mine was $200), you can of course choose not to get one from a nasty house. Check it for anything gross before purchase and vacuum/ sanitize the hell out of it yourself the. Cover it with bed sheets. Bonus, resell it afterwards, elderly people need them often, you’ll have no trouble finding another buyer. Mine has been a godsend today and I’m sleeping in it tonight paired with a good neck pillow.

I arrived at the SurgiCenter at 6:45 and my husband and I went in as instructed after calling. They stopped us at the door for temp checks, checked my husbands phone number info and then let him leave. I was taken inside to check in which room about 2 minutes. Then waited about 5 minutes in an empty waiting room to be taken back.
-let me take a second to comment on how much of a clean freak I am and how reassuringly pristine this place was! I mean, even the trim along the floor had nary a dust bunny to be seen. Spotless.

Upon going back I gave a urine sample (I was worried because I stupidly forgot and peed before leaving home and I got scared I wouldn’t have enough), she told a few drops would suffice and it did! Then she asked my height and weighed me.

We went to my private room next. The nurse was named Linda I believe and she was wonderful. My through the roof anxiety fell every minute while she talked with me and got my mind off things. She was such a sweet lady. She got me a gown and 2 plastic bags for my coat, purse and before/after clothes. I brought a dark colored (in case it gets fluid on it) big fuzzy bath robe and snow boots to wear home at the doctors recommendation. It was perfect and I’m still in it now!

Next, she left while I changed into a gown and then she got me into bed with a warm blanket and a heating air thingy (? Lol), it was delightful and I felt coddled and comforted. I was given a teensy cup of water and one capsule to prevent nausea, which I was all for! Linda put my IV with the swift fingers of experience and I barely felt anything. Hands down the best IV experience I’ve ever had. All the while we were blabbing on in the most easy going pleasant way and my stress was plummeting.

Then the anesthesiologist came in to go over any allergies or other basic info. I had read that people who use Marijuana regularly can require more anesthesia so I was certain to mention to her that I have used it once a day for many years but stopped a few weeks ago in preparation for surgery. I wanted her to have alllll info. She seemed pleasantly surprised by my candor, told me not to worry one bit about it and thanked me for being honest about it. That was a huge weight off my shoulders.

Dr. Barnthouse arrived to mark me up, he used multiple colorful sharpies which I found amusing. He set to work, focused like a master. He was all business, measuring with his little tape, pinching my flesh and then letting it fall, marking some spots related to that..? Idk.. but it was interesting to watch. I had to stand on a little step stool as he did this and then rotate periodically. Took about 10-15 minutes. I appreciated how thorough he seemed to be with this step. I had expressed concern about my flanks / haunches, wtf ever awful name side and back fat blobs go by. He strongly assured me he would be using Lipo as far around my back as possible though he could not access the very center. This was fine with me and the same thing he told me in my consult, I just wanted to remind him. I decided to wear one of my favorite pair of panties for him to mark me up in (they ask you to bring a bikini bottom). My my panties are bikini cut, I own loads of the same exact pair and I knew that would be my ideal shape to have a scar concealed under. Dr. Barnthouse did hike them up just slightly before marking me. He said they were pretty low and I had to give him a little more space to work with. I was okay with that, I’ve seen his before and after pics and I know i won’t be disappointed.

My next visitor was a nurse from the operating room and another gentleman anesthesiologist. He also told me not to worry about my pot concerns and that he attended college in the 70s so he was pretty cool about it ;) Each new interaction I had with someone made me more and more certain I was in the RIGHT place. They helped me get my hair piled into a net cap and rolled me off to the operating room. This could have been a stressful time but instead we all chatted and laughed about how we deal with our messy kids around the house and what it’s like once that go off to college. (I haven’t experienced that yet but it sounds clean).

Upon arrival in the OR another team member introduced himself to me, asked me to verify my birthdate and procedure. They helped me move over to the operating table and triple checked my comfort. I had a nice squishy soft pillow under my head, another under my knees and a warm blanket. They all informed me that this was MY day and it’s all about making it good for ME. Not too shabby ¯\_(?)_/¯ I suffer from TMJD (jaw joint disorder) and the staff were extremely accommodating about it. The anesthesiologists took time to explain the different glide tool they would use on me to avoid undoing years of dental appliances, treatments and healing. They said they deal with lots of TMJ patients and they don’t seem to have issues with it. I was so pleased.

Last bit I recall is them putting on my oxygen mask and explaining what they’d do next. They inserted some sedation into my IV and told me I should start to doze off in about 1 minute. I relaxed while they told me they’d take great care of me, said Dr. Barnthouse is a pro and a great guy then said “have a good nap!”. I literally passed out with a smile on my face.

Next thing I know I’m in recovery with my eyes closed and I hear mellow sounds of others stirring about and nurses. I notice some soreness in my upper abdomen and a general tightness (but no pain at the incision for now! Seriously)nothing too bad. My throat feels dry and soon a new nurse comes over to held a straw up to my lips, letting drink as much as I wanted. She was an angel. She leaves me be to gradually wake up after that and eventually I’m alert enough to talk with her. She lets me know that Dr. Barnthouse has called my husband and he’s heading over to get me but they aren’t rushing me out either. Next she gives me some animals crackers which sounded surprisingly good and I ate half the bag in no time. I got an injection into my IV for nausea which I really appreciated. After this she removed my catheter without an ounce of pain and assisted me into some hospital panties and a maxi pad. Of course my period was triggered the moment surgery ended lol, she said it’s super common because of the stress leading up to. I sucked down 3 glasses of water, eventually stable enough to hold it myself, plus 2 pouches of applesauce. She helped me into my bathrobe then teased me about what a fashion statement snow boots and bathrobes are right now :D It does hurt to laugh btw. My husband had been allowed in by this time and my lovely nurse filled him in on all my post op instructions.

I can’t deny i was terrified to move. I’d been fairly comfortable in the bed since I woke but the time came to go. Nurse helped me pivot around and supported me so I wasn’t using my core muscles at all while I sat up. It was indeed tender but it wasn’t that bad. Next was standing, she helped there too as I was waiting wobbly from meds and utterly incapable of standing erect. No shocker there. My incision line still didn’t seem to hurt, just the lipo spots giving me some mild to moderate burning. I was able to get out to the truck ( we decided on our truck bc of snow, 4wd capabilities and the need for my husband to drop my at the front door to avoid all stairs). It wasn’t too bad getting in the truck just a little weird and uncomfortable getting used to this new tightness and restrained rage of motion. I should mention our truck is not lifted, it’s a pretty low height compared to some. I used my puffy coat as a pillow between my abdomen and the seatbelt, it worked great.

Since I’ve been home my husband has emptied me drains 3 times, administered my meds to me every 6 hours and I’ve emptied my own drains the last few times. After watching him do it several times it didn’t seem intimidating anymore abd I realized I’d been over worrying about dealing with them. They don’t hurt or bother at all.

I set our Alexa to remind me every hour and a half to get up and walk around for 5-10 minutes per doctors instructions. It’s FOR SURE helping. We have hard wood floors with area rugs around and I’ve been using a plastic chair with socks on the legs. It’s not too heavy to maneuver across the rugs and slides easily on the wood. Once I get to the open I make laps on the wood portions. This first time it was difficult, weird and awkward to feel so hunched. Finally I surrendered to the feeling and even allowed my chest to rest on the back of the chair a little while I sloooooowly shuffled about. This made it was easier. The next time I didn’t need as much support, and so on. By the last time I did it at 10pm tonight I was scooting around, holding onto the back of that chair (still slow) but much easier. At the end I almost forgot myself and sat down in the chair to chat with my kids in the living room. I was comfortable! And the walking was to thanks. I recalled suddenly that I’m supposed to be in beach chair resting position so I scooted back my recliner and got a pillow under my knees.no was rewarded with a lovely dose of pain meds. Alas it is time for bed and I’m optimistic about tomorrow. Even though I hear it’s typically the worst day. Ehhh :-/

Updated on 19 Feb 2021:
I slept great last night, woke up at 4:30 for an applesauce pouch and some pain meds, went pee then dozed in my lift chair until 6:30. I’ve heard the 2nd and 3rd day are the worst so I’m not slacking off on pain meds yet. I’m usually a minimalist when it comes to medication but not for this ordeal.

I started having more burning pain which I assume is from the lipo so I took my pills one hour earlier ( I was doing every 6 hours and this time I did 5, I want to keep ahead of it). I’m still walking around pushing a chair, (holding onto the back of it in front of me) every hour and a half, but it hurts just a little more today. Hence the speed up in my medication. I accidentally swallowed my water wrong and coughed, that was the worst pain I’ve felt since the whole operation :/ I emptied my drains and settled down with my cat and a heating pad on my lower back. Time for a couple hours rest and zero movement. I think today will be manageable. I was mentally prepared for the worst so anything better than that will be a pleasant surprise.

I’m trying very hard to ward off constipation issues. I’m not experiencing any discomfort in that regard yet but I want to take a preventative approach if possible. Last night I ate raw broccoli, apple slices and a bowl of oatmeal to try and amp up my fiber. This morning I had 4 egg whites with avocado slices and hot sauce, so that’s more fiber and some protein to help these muscles heal. I also had an organic chocolate protein shake, a cup of strong coffee, 2 stool softener pills and ex lax. So far I have zero urge to poop. Not a very exciting update, I know! I’m so anxious to see what things look like but I’m probably better off not seeing for now anyway.

Oh, for the hell of it I weighed myself. I usually fluctuate between 128-130, weigh myself naked for accuracy. Today with a heavy winter bathrobe on I was 133. Not that it matters much but I was just curious.

Updated on 20 Feb 2021:
Today I woke up at 3:45 and had accidentally missed a dose of pain meds through the night. I was hurting pretty bad. My husband helped me get them. I struggled to the restroom and then back to my recliner until 7am. I felt much better upon waking then. I’ve had Miramar and stool softener again, egg whites and avocado, protein shake with added fiber powder but still no bowel movement. Which is okay, I’m not hurting from it but I’m having lots of gurgling in my tummy so maybe it’s getting closer to happening. I’ve also being having healthy choice power bowls for lunch, I bought the ones with the lowest sodium and highest fiber ahead of time.

The walker I ordered arrived in the mail last night and my kiddo assembled it for me. It was worth every penny of the $30.

I started out walking today folded over at 90° and as the day has gone on i gradually moved up to a fairly elevated position. Still not standing up straight thought.

I can’t emphasize enough how much I love my sleeping situation. The lift chair with the travel neck pillow has been ideal. I add one pillow under my knees and I’m perfect.

My after pictures aren’t much to look at yet but I’ll include a couple of me sitting, drains and all. I don’t feel quite coordinated enough to stand in front of the mirror and snap them.

Doctor Barnthouse said he wouldn’t put me in a compression garment yet because he didn’t want any restricted blood flow. I think that might be added after my next appt.

Updated on 21 Feb 2021:
Woke up to a tickle in my throat, which quickly progressed to a need for coughing. Oh. My. God.

I grabbed for water, but it couldn’t stop it. I clutched a pillow, to no avail. Tears began streaming down my face and I understoood at last the comments of others about post op coughing/ sneezing.

Woke my husband up with desperate apologies and begging that he get me scalding hot water from the kettle ASAP. Which he did thank goodness. He returned to find me fully crying in the most controlled manner I could manage to avoid further pain.

I had fallen happily asleep in my recliner with my neck pillow. Mouth evidently agape and warm furnace air drying out my throat. Some pesky drainage began to tickle my throat and that was that. I coughed some small pitiful coughs and thought nothing had ever hurt so much . I’m Afraid to go back to sleep now but I’m so so tired. Probably take a bathroom break, get more hot tea and then try sleep again.

Updated on 21 Feb 2021:
Had a really bad dream and it was my first since the operation and I don’t frequently have them on a normal basis. I am suspecting this is because I stopped taking Valium yesterday. I decided to take half a tab of Valium when my alarm went off and I’m going's to continue a gradual decrease with it each time I take the pain meds now. I would likely be considering a decrease in the Percocet had I not just experienced my coughing /searing pain/crying ordeal. Probably gonna stay on the pain pill wagon a teensy bit longer.

*disclaimer: addiction runs in my family and I’m hyper aware of the risks that go along with taking this crap. I don’t take it lightly at all and I don’t get pleasure from needing them.

Updated on 22 Feb 2021:
I slept really well last night. Taking my medicine every 6 hours now, hoping to do every 7 tomorrow. Standing up straighter, and feeling decent but really fatigued. Today is this first day I didn’t take a nap, but I probably should have. Still no significant updates or photos because I won’t be going to the doctor until Wednesday abd im all covered in bandages.

My drains are really slowing down, they still don’t hurt or bother me. I laughed a lot earlier and that was very painful.

I think I’m missing something on this website because I don’t seem to know how to find other women who’ve had the same procedure as me near the same time? Is there a way to search for that? It would just be nice to see what someone else has to say who’s dealing with the same symptoms. Even if they hadn’t done it recently I guess I just don’t know where to view the reviews. All I come up with are the endless before and after photos.

Updated on 23 Feb 2021:
I think my drug induced goofiness made me list my old posts as 1 day off. I was pretty out of it.

So just to clarify I had surgery on a Thursday and today is Monday. I guess I was including the day of surgery it’s self and then some. Who knows what I was thinking lol.

Anyway! Today has been my strongest day yet, I’ve been cutting my pain pills into chunks about 2/3 their size and taking them an hour farther apart. I may be full of crap but I believe stopping gradually will be with best for me.

I am still having egg white/avocado/chicken sausage, protein shake w added fiber powered, 3 stool softened gel caps, and one dose of miralax in some Gatorade each day. I also have a healthy choice power bowl for lunch and sometime nothing or very little for dinner bc im just not that hungry.

My pain has been super tolerable. It’s there but it’s not incapacitating. I most likely did way more than I should have today picking up the house. My mom and sister are helping but no one does it like I would and I can’t help myself. Yes, I’m one of thoooose annoying people :) I was just please I got by with it allZ the main obstacle is my aching back. As soon as I sit down and rest my back I can get up abd do something else in short bursts.

Imma pass out in a second because I took Benadryl tonight so gotta be fast. My follow up appt is tomorrow abd I had my husband wash my hair for me and baby wipe me clean tonight in preparation. It was so nice EXCEPT—the itching. I’ve felt some itching for a day or two and I chalked it up to healing sensations. Well today during my nude wet wiping I noticed a loose corner of bandages. Peeled inside and saw a nasty red it my rash that looked like tiny blisters. I naturally over reacted and wanted all the bandaging odd like..yesterday and a thick application of hydrocortisone cream. My husband spoke reason to me and we called the dr. Doctor said some people do have a blistery reaction to the tape. He said it would be okay and to take 50mg Benadryl. I did this about 40 min ago abd I’m getting so sleepy but still itchy. Tomorrow he assured me he’d removed it all. I can’t get there fast enough! I’ll have my husband take photos at the appt tomorrow ( assuming he allowed in) and share them later. Nasty rash and all.

Updated on 24 Feb 2021:
Cant get to the dr soon enough today, my bandage tape is so itchy. I’m feeling really wiped out from yesterday’s activity. I overdid it in a compulsive desire to clean up the house. I don’t think I did any major damage but, learned a lesson. I’m not exempt from the “take it easy or you’ll slow down your healing” rule.

The staples at the ends of my incision are a little irritating today. Probably also a result of my overactivity.

The fluid in the drains is really slowing down, it would be nice if they were removed today but I’m not expecting it.

I’m going to be taking it easy and resting as much as possible today.

Updated on 24 Feb 2021:
At some point I developed an awful itchy rash underneath my bandages. My doctor emphasized that it is NOT an infection. My skin reacted something they used on my but we aren’t sure what. In several places I even have blisters. It wasn’t the tape, because I have large areas where tape was and there’s no rash there. The white goo on me in the photos is the ointment Dr. Barnthouse applied today. He said to treat it similar to a diaper rash, airing it out and letting it dry. Based on what he said this is not a very common issue. At all. It’s just my sensitive skin I guess. Now it’s putting a real damper on my binder wearing because the itching is outrageous if anything rubs against the rash. I’m taking Benadryl tonight and we pick up a prescription tomorrow for itch relief that won’t cause drowsiness. My goal now is to allow my skin to air out as much as possible and then get that binder on nice and tight. I’m really disappointed that I can’t do that today. When I do I’ll be wearing a clean t shirt under it and changing it often.

The Dr said everything else looks great and that this isn’t a huge deal it’s just a pain in the ass we have to deal with. I agree. He also emphasized the importance of moving around every hour to hour and a half. I told him I’ve been pretty active, maybe even too active at times but he didn’t say slow down so I’ll try and keep it within common sense range.

My family thinks I’m standing up a little straighter, still feels super stiff and uncomfortable to me. The dr took out my staples, it’s only felt the ones near my hip bones and they did sting but it wasn’t that bad.

Sorry the pictures aren’t better. I feel pretty irritable and it’s hard taking any pictures when I’m so disgusted with how I look right now. I’m extremely swollen, covered in tiny blistered blotches and itching like a %#&*!$@!

I’m sure my mood will improve as this skin condition does.

Updated on 25 Feb 2021:
I can actually see a little bit of improvement in my silhouette today. It was very encouraging to look past this damn rash and see the potential of what’s to come. I think my belly button might be quite cute and youthful in appearance at some point, and though swelling is still prominent, the front of my stomach already seems significantly flatter. It will be some time before I can see the results of the lipo on my sides/love handle area.

The rash isn’t better in appearance but the itching is significantly less. I think it’s mostly due to nothing (no bandages or compression garments) rubbing against it.

Updated on 26 Feb 2021:
This skin reaction has really got me down mentally. It’s irritating if I become even the slightest bit over heated, then the itching goes from barely noticeable to all I can think about. The doctor called tonight to check on me and he said that he would see me Monday and to be frank it would still likely be quite red at that time. He said it’s just going to take some time to get rid of. He also said he could put me on a steroid pack called medrol but he’d rather not because of all the side effects. I read about it and I’m glad he didn’t out me on it.

On a positive note, my body shape is clearly looking promising. I’m still clearly swollen all over though, which makes my whole waist bigger and my butt look non existent.

Updated on 26 Feb 2021:
Feeling really hopeful, my itchy rash (that was under bandages) is going away. Or at least it appears to be. I’m getting around decently, and my primary complaint would be back pain. I go back to the doctor on Monday. If my skin has improved enough my belly button sutures will be removed. I don’t know for sure but I’m guessing that maybe the other sutures will dissolve on their own. I plan to ask. If my drainage has reduced enough the drains will be taken out as well.

My next thing to look forward to will be walking up right. At this point I can get around but it’s obvious to anyone who sees me that something is not normal. I’m still hunched over but gradually improving. Once I can walk normally I feel comfortable being around people again if necessary.

Updated on 27 Feb 2021:
Today it feels like it’s not worth it. My two year old hurt himself and I can’t even hold him when it’s all I want to do in the world. My rash is still awful, seems to be a bit between my breasts now. I’m pretty irate about that. I don’t know when I’ll be able to stand up straight again and I’m near worthless at helping with anything. The recovery time on this procedure is no joke. I’m barely over a week in and I’m already losing it over being so incapacitated. I’m an extremely active person and this is a huge struggle for me. I just had an awful bad dream that involves my frigging drains. I can’t laugh, cough or sneeze without pain. Reading about not being back to normal for months and months is one thing, but living it is a while other. And it’s barely been more than a week! I still have 3-6 more weeks before I can resume some normalcy and how hard will it be? 6 months before my final results are even visible and how good will they be when I can’t even wear a compression garment or scar tape because I’m covered in a rash that worsens rapidly upon covering?!
So ya that’s today.

Updated on 28 Feb 2021:
My energy level is gradually increasing. Last night I slept decent. I’ve tried sleeping in bed a couple times but my lift chair is still the most comfortable option it seems. I do think it’s helping me straighten out as I sometimes stretch my legs out pretty straight in it and pass out that way.

My lame rash is definitely a yeast rash and is now way way better. I realized this a couple days ago and I decided upon no advice other than my own (and years of dealing with kids wide variety of rashes) to start apply clotrimazole to the entire area twice a day. I’m a little annoyed my dr didn’t tell me what it was. Either he didn’t know (which seems kind of odd) or chose not to (which I don’t like) and did not offer me an effective solution. He told me to “air it out”. WTF it’s a yeast rash! I’ve dealt with these in the kids’ diaper areas countless times. It started spreading from the original area to between my breasts, the inside of my arms where they rubbed against it my torso, my sides, back and even my crotch. It was miserable! I bought a large quantity of the above mentioned anti fungal cream (the largest container of clotrimazole available at Walmart Is labeled for athletes foot, monistat works on this rash too). It takes a lot to cover the entire area and then the surrounding outlines (to prevent spreading). The first couple times it almost itches worse and then it slowly started to dry up. No more blisters, no new areas. The difference is really noticeable today. The oldest areas are dark and sort of scaly like dry surface skin. Hopefully nice new skin underneath will soon be visible.

I think this whole fiasco was caused by the antibiotic cream they applied to my incision prior to bandaging me, and the oral antibiotics I’m taking. It totally screwed up my micro biome and killed all the good bacteria that keep the yeast in check. I haven’t been able to wear a binder because of this but I’ve ordered two as things are clearing up significantly. As past experiences indicate I’ll have to continue using the cream for a week or more after it disappears to really kill it off. I take my last antibiotic tablet tonight and I have been taking probiotics already. I have a new better probiotic arriving tomorrow and ill be trying to reverse the impact of the antibiotics as fast as possible with it. And avoiding any antibacterial soaps. I can’t decide if I want to mention the clotrimazole cream to my dr or not when I go tomorrow. He may not like that I did this without his permission, but it could also help someone else in the future so I might. I should also say that my tummy incision appears to be healing really well and hasn’t been hurt at all by the treatment of the yeast rash. In fact I think it’s been helped a lot.

I’m excited to get my compression garments and be well enough to wear them. I’ll share some photos once my incisions and drains are out tomorrow.

Oh last thought, my drain fluid has really decreased to about 15ml in each one (emptying and checking morning and night) but the color is still dark. I’m hoping it’s okay that I’m 10 days out and it’s still not pink or more clear. I’m also hoping the dr doesn’t see it as any reason to keep them in longer because I’ve had it with the drains! :)

Updated on 28 Feb 2021:
I forgot one more thing, I felt good enough this morning that I woke up before my whole family, made coffee, started cooking breakfast and did some dishes. It wasn’t too bad and I was happy I was capable of it.

Updated on 28 Feb 2021:
Here are a few 10days PO pics, excuse my outfit. I’m enjoying thigh high socks (that I was too lazy to pull back up) and large t shirts these days. Pants or any waist band is unfathomable at this point.

Updated on 1 Mar 2021:
I’m so happy today. I got drains out and belly button sutures removed. I wouldn’t have believed it but neither item hurt. At all. Not even a pinch. I’m so glad to be free of those damn drains. I’m also able to wear a compression garment for short periods of time today and it feels great.

Updated on 2 Mar 2021:
Today I’ve been able to tolerate my binder most of the day and I walked almost 2 miles. Dr.Barnthouse emphasized that walking was very important to healing. It was difficult at first but I kept at it and I gradually realized I was walking slightly faster. Then I realized I was walking slightly more upright so I got excited and tried harder. I made a conscious effort to walk as upright and with as normal a stride as possible. It was really rewarding. I keep looking in the mirror every few hours to check my posture, I’m basically in a slightly slouched position now. Hopefully in the next few days I can be standing up straight. I wish I’d made myself walk sooner.

The doctor also told me I should be walking as much as possible but NO twisting and not really bending over to pick things up. He said the two layers of tissue need to heal back together and twisting and bending can slow that down or prevent it which will encourage fluid build up and the possibility of me needing to have some drained with a needle. Well, THAT motivated me to do whatever he said so I can avoid being drained with a needle. I’m doing my best not to twist or bend at all. If I need to pick something up I use my leg strength (thankful for my leg workouts rn).

I have a 10 year old and a 2 year old so I am getting back into diaper changing and some light meal prep at this point. I wanted to list the modifications I’m using to manage my two year olds care in case it helps someone else.

1.) I’m bribing him with Swedish fish and Zollipops (no sugar, good for teeth and yummy). He wouldn’t come in from playing outside to eat lunch. I offer a sucker and suddenly he comes running inside. He won’t lie down for a diaper change, I offer a single Swedish fish and he’s lying down right where I asked and holding still. With this system he also puts himself in the car seat. Just doing what I’ve got to do until I can pick him up again.

2.) I drag a bar height chair over to his high chair so he can get in and out while I hold his hand. After meals I let him climb out and he gets on a regular height chair to wash his hands. He does have to touch the chair with dirty hands but that’s the price I pay.

Overall this has been a great turning point in my recovery. 12 days PO feels like I’m mostly myself again, not really in pain or mopey. I was even willing to drive my kids to McDonalds as a treat today and I felt fine. I even realized I didn’t have anything to cushion the seatbelt and it there was zero discomfort.

Updated on 3 Mar 2021:
Tomorrow will be my 2 week post op mark. I’m feeling decent. My main discomfort is just general weird feelings from my abdomen. Not pain, but weirdness. Swollen all over, hard/firm flesh that I wish wasn’t hard so I try really hard not to feel of it, little spots where my drain was are scabbed up and healing but still icky to think about, and my incision is a lot to take in. It’s enormous, but it’s not painful thank goodness, just gross to touch or look out.

I took a full standing up shower today. I’m wearing my compression garment all the time and only taking it off to care for my recovering skin issues). I don’t feel comfortable without it on now. I’m still not all the upright with my posture but I’m trying. I walked more today and it helps. But I can feel the really hard part of my stomach rubbing against the binder and it grosses me out quite a bit. I know it’s from the lipo and I know it’s normal but I can’t help not liking it.

I’m taking Benadryl at night for the itching and the incredible sleep benefits. I have to sleep in my recliner for several more weeks and I’m pretty sick of it. I can’t wait to cuddle with my husband again, and roll over from my side to my stomach in a bed. I love stomach sleeping and I want it back someday.

Updated on 5 Mar 2021:
I’m 2 weeks out now and I feel pretty good. I would really be in good shape if I wasn’t still struggling with this awful yeast rash I got after surgery. I tried to wear my compression garment for a couple days and I think it was a mistake. I’m hoping I won’t have any seroma issues at my follow up Monday.

I slept the best sleep last night that I’ve had since surgery (excluding drug induced sleep). I’m not taking any medicine now other than probiotics and vitamins.

I’m still slightly hunched over but it’s tolerable and I can walk around quickly if I need to. My incision is only uncomfortable at the outside edges. I’m hoping by three weeks I’ll be able to stand up straight again. My family said I was up straight yesterday (when I tried as hard as I could), but looking in the mirror I could tell that it still wasn’t all the way straight like I would normally be.

I’ll try to add some more photos later. It’s sorta not satisfying because my skin is still all discolored from the yeast. I know it’s fading though, but I expect it to take at least another whole week.

Updated on 5 Mar 2021:
Still swollen, can’t wear garment bc of stupid rash, but overall things are looking decent. Due to my efforts to eat healthy post op I’m down to 125 lbs, so that’s a nice side effect of all this. I’m still eating 3 meals a day and snacks here and there. I even had a Swiss cake roll yesterday. My portion sizes are way smaller than before and my food is much better nutritionally. I’m drinking a protein shake w fiber added 1xday to help facilitate healing and it does fill me up.

Updated on 5 Mar 2021:
Before after side by side. It’s encouraging for me to look at these two images. Even though healing is a slow deal this is a huge difference. It’s exciting to look at this and know I’m not even close to “as good as it’s going to get”.

Updated on 6 Mar 2021:
My recovery is pretty irregular. Most women will never have to deal with the skin problems I’m having, and lucky them! I am slowwwlly making headway against this damn rash but I can’t stand it anymore. After talking to my husband and being miserable and itchy all day again I’ve decided to get in to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. I have been trying to read all I can about cutaneous candidiasis (skin yeast rash) and sometimes I see them describe cases as severe. I think mine may be severe. I’m struggling to get rid of it and stop it from spreading. The front of my torso was nearly covered in tiny liquid filled itchy blisters when this started. I need help! I’ve read that in severe cases an oral medication may be necessary to get it under control. I don’t know if that applies to my case or not it I’m hoping to find out.

I am disgusted and all I want to worry about is healing from my surgery. I do not want to continue struggling with this awful side issue.wish me luck.

Updated on 8 Mar 2021:
Just because these are fun for me to look at now. I’m still very swollen but I am starting to see slight definition in my stomach. I can’t wait to be at the 3 month mark, I’ve read that 90% of the swelling will subside by then and the rest is usually gone by 6 months-1year. I can live with that.

I go the doctor again today to have a couple small stitches taken out. They are the suture knots at each outside edge of my incision. They do catch on clothing occasionally so it will be nice to have them gone. Those are the last stitches to be dealt with.

I’m trying to take it easy today and wearing my compression garment as long as itchiness/rash allow. I’m trying to keep swelling down. If dr barnthouse identifies any seromas I’ll be poked and drained. I’ve read that this isn’t painful but I’m a chicken and I hope to avoid it.

I do think my yeast rash is improving. It feels like it’s going so slow but I know it’s only been ~10 days since I started treating it with clotrimazole. I’m super anxious to see the results of surgery without this unsightly 4” red band around me. I can’t decide if I want to go to a dermatologist or not. My husband is convinced it’s really looking better and I read that oral antifungal medication can have some harsh side effects. I may try to heal it on my own a little longer, but I change my mind by the hour.

Updated on 8 Mar 2021:
Had my follow up today. Dr Barnthouse cut off the little knotted stitches at each end of my incision. He also thought I had an area of fluid near my incision that he attempted to drain. It was tolerable but to be honest I really didn’t enjoy the process. He numbed me with a little shot first and that wasn’t too bad. Then he pulled out a large syringe and and I stopped looking. I felt some pressure as he attempted to suction out some fluid but none came. He mostly got thick dark red stuff that wouldn’t easily drain. Basically nothing. It was unpleasant and fortunately he didn’t continue to try. He said my skin issues look much better than last week, which was encouraging.

Updated on 10 Mar 2021:
The last two days I have been ridiculously tired. Both days I have taken a nap in the middle of the day, and I’m extremely luck to be getting away with it. I need to make myself walk more so that my goal for tomorrow. I just haven’t had it in me.

Updated on 10 Mar 2021:
Accidentally submitted my last post prematurely. I am including some 3 week pictures, not much difference but I think it will be nice for me later to look back at the healing process and see how far I’ve come. Cant wait to feel energetic again.

Updated on 10 Mar 2021:
I keep trying to upload my pictures and then my post shows up without them. Hopefully this time is a success. I have to meet the 200 word minimum so I will tell you about how I have been eating really lousy the last two days. Yesterday it was pizza rolls for lunch, today corn dog nuggets. Not really conducive to a slim flat tummy. Do better than me.

Updated on 21 Mar 2021:
I’m feeling good, I have more energy and I barely hurt at this point. My scar is looking better but still get raised up from swelling. I am still swelling but I notice it isn’t nearly as bad on days where I drink a ton of water. I suck at remembering to sip water so I make myself chug a big glass many times throughout the day, starting before breakfast. It’s easier for me if the water isn’t too cold. I also take a water pill, spirinolactone, for acne and pms. It’s a water pill and it may be helping reduce swelling too but I don’t know for sure.

I’m a little dissatisfied with my love handle lipo areas because they look exactly the same. The doctor tells me it will be at least 3 months before I can see a difference there, so I’m trying to have optimistic patience.

My rash is still getting better but sometimes I freak out if I feel particularly itchy and I think maybe it’s getting worse again. It is still visible and I for sure have to put medicine on twice a day for a good while longer. That’s probably the biggest inconvenience I have right now, so not too terrible.

I’m walking at least 2 miles a day and it isn’t difficult now. The nice weather coming back has helped my mood tremendously.

Updated on 21 Mar 2021:
This photo shows the complete lack of improvement to my love handle area so far. I’m still hopeful of course that’s it’s going to look better In The coming months. This was one of my most despised areas and Dr. Barnthouse knew it. He assured me he would be able to get most of that area with lipo. I worked out a lot prior to this surgery, it just never looked like it in my mid section and it was depressing. I hope hope hope this area changes. When I asked him at my last appt about the lipo results he laughed at me and said I had a good long while until I’d see results, I’ll take that as encouragement.

Updated on 26 Mar 2021:
At 5 weeks I’m feeling really good. I am able to pick my toddler up again and that feels amazing. I’m still cautious of my make repair and I’m trying hard not to over do it with the lifting. I need to start exercising a little more than I have been, I think I’m still feeling sort of tentative. Plus the idea of sweating with this healing rash horrifies me. I’m trying so hard to get rid of it before the weather gets fully hot. I suspect it would be even more difficult to vanquish in mid summer.

I’m able to do most things round the house as normal now, just no really heavy lifting. Laundry baskets seem fine. I’ve been able to have intimate moments with my husband, cautiously. No issues.

My scar looks good. I’ll take a closer picture of it next time I am undressed. I do have one area in the front where my old belly button piercing is still visible just above the incision. I may get that revised someday down the line because I don’t like it at all. I will need to get a new swimsuit eventually, as my scar is very visible in my old ones, but I barely go swimming so it’s not a priority.

At this point I’m happy with my overall results but it feels contingent on my waist eventually getting slimmer. If it stayed just like it is now I would be fairly dissatisfied and bummed. I do think I’m just being impatient though, as I know that final results are not supposed to be visible for months. That’s just hard to remember when I am starting to feel so good otherwise.

Updated on 26 Mar 2021:
I failed to post pictures with my update again. Text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text text

Updated on 8 Apr 2021:
I’m feeling great at this point and I have almost no residual pain. A little lingering soreness in my sides from the liposuction. I have started working out again and ran 6 miles this week so far. I’m doing a low level 15 min HITT workout, modifying it as needed to go easy on my abdominal muscles. I was able to very gently do a high plank for about 30 seconds and about the same amount of time do some mountain climbers. I was pretty excited about this. Squats are fine, no pain. I do need to wear my compression garment while running. The jostling and impact makes the tissue in my love handle area hurt. As mentioned, it is still sore from lipo. Really hope this means it’s also still swollen and will eventually look smaller. I’m still not thrilled with the appearance of that specific area after everything I went through. I’m still having some swelling around my belly and incision but i can tell it’s lessening.

Updated on 4 May 2021:
These photos are from 2 months post op. I am now 10 1/2 weeks post op. I feel well and I have lots of energy. I can run without my binder but I still choose too because it’s less jostling. I’m healing well and it seems like I am back to normal or very near. I can’t hang from my kids playset by my arms now, but I used to, random detail I’ve noticed. I have almost no pain or discomfort anymore. The only exception: a couple times I’ve had some slight burning sensation in my abs and I’m not sure why.
I’ve been pretty active since recovery but I’ve also had those days where I can’t make myself do a thing. I try to tell myself it’s okay, I am still healing and occasionally I may take a nap on the middle of the day if I really feel like I need it.
I’m very satisfied with my results at this point, though I’m still excited t see the 1 or two year results. I can’t wait to see my scar fade and soften.

I’ve wanted my breasts done since I was 18 years old. My breasts were always saggy. After four children, one breastfed, and numerous yo-yo weigh losses and gains, my breasts appeared to be approaching my waist. I’m turning 51 in a few days, I’m doing this for myself.

I just had a breast lift with 415cc hp implants and I am beyond happy. I needed this done before I even had children and after having 2, I was in desperate need for a lift. Like any mother, I felt a lot of guilt wanting to have an elective surgery. I heard of Dr Barnthouse through word of mouth. I believe there are a lot of great surgeons in Kansas City but only a handful that can master a lift with an implant. I am only 5 days post op and am so happy. He spent an hour and a half consulting with me and truly made me feel comfortable and that he cared. His staff is amazing along with the surgicenter the surgery was performed at. So talented! I’m excited for the implants to drop and they will look even better!!

I’m turning 40 years old this year, and I’ve had three big babies which I breastfed. I had also had a lumpectomy several years ago, leaving my breast very asymmetrical. I interviewed several surgeons but even another reconstructive plastic surgeon here in Kansas City recommended Dr. Barnthouse. I also had several friends that had used him. His experience is second to none.

Dr. Barnthouse is extremely professional, knowledgeable, and considerate. I appreciate the time that he took to carefully explain my options. He did it a terrific job, and I am very pleased with my results! Highly recommend!

Finding a plastic surgeon is stressful. You are determining who will be your guide through a major life change which is typically a choice in healthcare different from phrases experiences. I struggled as I looked at Kansas City, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Dallas, Columbia an Dallas. I did not want to be a botched job. I met with 4 providers in the process. Dr. Barnthouse educated me, gave me time for my questions and invested his time Ithaca me whim could have selected someone else. I am almost 2 weeks post op and wanted to take a moment to say selected the hit professional and would say to those out there searching take a serious look at Dr. Barnthouse. I chose him because: 1) documented results an expertise (check out his photo gallery) and clinical experience in the areas you want to address 2) communication style, we clicked- he was honest, perceived trust and great manner about working with my needs and 3) I trusted the referral source who is a local plastic surgeon board leader. Going through the selection process is hard work emotionally and time commitment, I hope I have helped you and encourage you to get going and don't put off your health goals for you!

After losing weight my boobs dropped and I longed for younger looking breast. I knew there would be a day where I would go through this surgery. I still am going through a weight loss journey however getting a BA/BL has only driven me more. Yes I can't workout for awhile but I still can eat healthy and get where I need to be. I've lost 50 lbs so far, what is another 25? Here are my before pictures

Updated on 23 Sep 2017:
I was very tight and wrapped up. Doctor said I couldn't peak at them until I see him 5 days later.

Updated on 23 Sep 2017:
Went to the doctors today to finally take the wrap up. Thank God cause it was so tight and going 5 days wearing it was not fun. Doctor said everything looked great. Back is killing me more and more each day.

Updated on 23 Sep 2017:
Less bruising. Still sleeping on back which for me is horrible. Boyfriend has been a saint and my advise to anyone that is considering this procedure is to make sure you have a great supporter and helper. Go to the doctors Monday to change tape.

Updated on 26 Sep 2017:
Had my second post op yesterday and everything went great! Dr. Burnthouse is seriously the best! I thought we were going to remove all the tape however he just did two on one of my nipple since it has scabbed pretty bad so I could put cream on them to help with the healing process. He did say everything looked normal, was worried about my nipples but he reassured me I was healing just fine. My nipples are like a rug burn he said and after my shower this morning it looked like everything is healing great. I'll send updates as I go.

Updated on 6 Oct 2017:
It’s been three weeks and I’m still healing. Soreness is really only in the morning and at night. My T incisions and one of my nipple is getting extra loving with Silverdene (antibiotic cream) just so it heals better. Doctor told me it’s normal. Have some parts on the arreolas where the color isn’t matching my color and it’s just cause of healing, doctor said that comes back with time. Other than that I love them! Have been going to the doctors every week and I’m hoping next meeting he allows me to workout, fingers crossed!

Updated on 17 Oct 2017:
My healing has been slower than I thought. My left breast on the T incision is having some complications. My PS is still saying everything is great and is normal. I 100% have no doubt that he is right. He’s been great and I do love them, just ready to wear normal bras, workout like I used to, and not wear a bra at night. He did clear me to workout last visit but of course listen to my body and stuck to low impact. Since my surgery I’ve lost only 5 lbs but I guess it’s better than nothing :) . Here are some pictures (trust me they look better in person). I go tomorrow for another visit, I see him every week and was told we might start just once a month after this one. Kind of sad cause I like to see him!

HELLO BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE?? I am a mommy of 2 kids and I need my sexy back. I use to club a lot and I feel like I wouldnt have gotten so out of hand if I just kept working out.. Junk food and ???? cookies every night didnt help at all. I set up my date and sent my deposit in with Dr. Llorente in october. Elena is my coordinator. I felt very pleased and happy with how my experience has went so far with speakin with Elena and writing Dr. Llorente. I have not spoken to him yet but he is very kind and always responds to me even when I wait so long to hear back from others. As of right now I am only getting a tt. But I might add on a breast lift as well. Its very needed. I go to tge doctor on the 8th od December to check and make sure everything is okay still then Ill go back on the 16th to get my labs sent over to NEW LIFE COSMETICS MIAMI FL.??
Updated on 29 Apr 2017:
Hello Sexy ladies. I have been looking and researching doctors and there dolls for the last 4 years and Its like it never ends. I don't want to die getting the body I want. I don't want to look deformed I just want A doctor that has the same views as I DO WHILE GIVING HIS CUSTOMERS RESPECT BC AT THE END OF THE DAY YOURCUSTOMERS ARE THE ONE'S PAYING. well I look no further after almost 2000 bucks I have lost like deposits on different doctors and always 1 month before surgery I cant do it and there is a feeling I have about these doctors. Do I really trust a Stanger to put me to sleep and do what he claims he will do. DO I really want to go forward and he use to be a different doctor and not many years experience. Do I really want to risk it. Naw I thinks not. #1 give me a doctor who wanted todo this from day one. #2 doctor who went to school for this #3 a Doctor who don't mind talking with me on the phone/ person ( many times) so I can ask more questions if needed #4 a Doctor who's office staff is courteous and willing also RESPECTFUL AT ALL TIMES # 5 A doctor who can show his work with no problem. that sums most of it up. I have found the one and I cant be more on point than this. He meets all my needs and I like every thing that was shown to me. to the drains being on the poom poom and not on the incision line. smh (how do docs expect you to heal and you have drains on the sides. scar is very very low. nd my BB wont be 3 inches away from the scar. lipo my flanks also my back and tummy so I wont look like I have a beer belly after sx. I can go on an on but My new boo has everything on lock and I am so excited. thank you if u have any questions please ask. stay beautiful



Updated on 30 Apr 2017:
Nice flat tummy with nice curves that all lol that is all....I have picked many doctors and gave de[posits and this may feel like its never ending bc your mind will keep changing smh. but do what you must because at the end of it all your still going to have to pay and your going to have to live with the decision you've made for the rest of your life. stay beautiful ...


Updated on 9 May 2018:
Thank you thank you thank you Dr.B. my life is off to a new start with my beautiful TT. You always talk to me with care and respect and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. Thank you so much. You checked on me after I was at home. I have made the best decision to have you as my surgeon. I am 1 day post o.o now and I do feel a lot better than I thought I would. I can feel my silhouette under this garment and that means Dr. B gave me a coke bottle shape. I'm beyond excited. I walk around every 3 hours. I have my huge jug of alkaline 88 water that I have been drinking. And I also drink my smoothies. NO SALT WHAT SO EVER IN MY DIET. Thank you Miss Wendy and Miss Adriane for taking care of me at the office.I have a post o.p appt Monday and I will be able to see my new tummy.

Updated on 10 May 2018:
The first day I got home was hard but I could deal. My pain was a 6 on a 1 to 10 scale. I have my fiance help me walk every 3 hours and he drained my drains lol. He rubbed my back and butt. Everything is super tender. But that 2nd day baby is serious. I was out of breathe just by talking. I cannot laugh bc it hurts. But I do not regret any thing at all. I look way better than I did going in. Thank you so much Dr. Barnthouse you have changed my life. I have confidence even with tape and drains in. I am on my way to Wal-Mart with my family to get a walker. To help me once my hunni goes to work. Also I went in at 219 pounds and after sx 2 days post op I weigh 209. Wow. So so so happy and blessed.

After several consults, I scheduled my surgery with the doctor I felt most comfortable with. I was torn between 345cc and 360cc. I got scared so I went with 345cc. Now that I'm post op, I could have safely gone larger however I still love my new girls! I was a small B and I'm currently a 36 D. I'm only 6 days post op so this might change.

Updated on 16 Aug 2016:
Here are some pictures of my progress. I'm 1 week post op today.

I am 36 years young and nursed both my children for 10 months each. Over time I have gotten back into shape and my breasts look very tired. My bra size is actually a 34D but it's a lot of tissue with no volume. I have wanted to do this for a very long time. I was mostly worried about what others would think. I don't care anymore because I am doing this for me and no one else. My husband talked me out of it for a while but realized after years of talking about it I really was ready. He has been very supportive on this journey and I have no regrets. I am very excited to have breasts that are dull again!! Yay! I was lucky enough that I didn't have to have a lift. One PS said I would and the other said absolutely not. He was the one that was recommended by many ladies I know. I went with his recommendation.