R. Samuel Bryant, MD (retired)

He completed a breast augmentation for me three years ago (from 32A cup to 32DDD) and everything went perfectly! They're beautiful and natural looking, no one ever guesses that they're fake before being told. He was very professional and nice. Couldn't ask for better!

I had Dr. Bryant as my surgeon for a recent breast augmentation and could not be more happy with the whole thing! I look great, he was easy to work with, prompt, competent, and reassuring. I felt confident that I was in good hands and have had no problems. I'd highly recommend Dr. Bryant! Will update this again at 6 months, but I'm definitely happy so far! Everything has healed up fantastically in a short amount of time.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993 at the age of 35. In 1998 I was given options for the breast reconstruction since 5 years had elapsed since undergoing my Radical Modified mastectomy. Dr. Bryant has proven over and again to be the perfect medical expert to help put my body back together again. His open hand shake, bed side manner, and kindness built a trust that can't be broken. If there were 10 * that is what I'd click on for you Dr. Bryant. Sherrie Speidel

Built small, ok with size, but way too floppy from getting preclampsia during pregnancy with cause extreme weight gain (about 25 pounds) in just a few hours, causing skin to stretch severely. I was 130 but had to quit smoking to in order to have surgery safely, during the process of quiting I gained 10 pounds so I weighed about 140 during surgery. I have had 2 c-sections and was pretty nervous about the surgery. Many people I have read reviews on complain about the pain of the tummy tuck and in my case there was very little pain so far in recovery, I am 2 weeks out right now. I don't know if the fact of having a prior c-sections helps prepare for the pain or if I am luckily responding well to the procedure.

Updated on 21 Nov 2014:


Updated on 21 Nov 2014:


Updated on 21 Nov 2014:


Updated on 28 Dec 2014:
Still swelling alot. I have put on 15 pounds since surgery which makes me sad and still can fit into old jwans. Was size 3/5 now size 7. But GoinG to start light cardio this week and hoping the swell weight and lazy weight disappears.

Updated on 28 Dec 2014:
Getting better

Updated on 31 Dec 2014:
Feeling really low today. Can't stand weighing over 20 pounds than what I call normal weight for me, not fitting into my jeans still, and went to gym yesterday so swelong up more than usual. When I look at 2 weeks ago till today, I do see slight improvements, I don't eat as much as I use to but still seems to be packing on the pounds. I just want to hit the gym hard but I can't :-( I try to tell myself myself to be patient with my healing and that it's mostly swelling but it's so hard to be ok and happy 100 percent of the time. My problem with being completely satisfied is.. is it swelling or fat? I thought I paid to get rid of that fat?

Updated on 13 Feb 2015:
Working out with out swelling as much

Updated on 13 Feb 2015:
I am 13 weeks today, I still swell a bit but not too bad. I feel myself getting small but still have alot of weight to lose. it is frustrating because yesterday i weighed 145 and today I am back to 150. My "normal weight" is between 130-135 so to me this is alot of extra weight. I am working out alot and can see small differences which I am happy about but wish the scale would start going down and stay there. I am pretty happy with the way I look right now at 150 so very excited to see what I will look like when I lose this extra weight and am back down to 130. It's an emotional rollercoaster but totally worth it. I will try to keep my pictures updated as I know looking at other's pictures and the process of healing for them has helped me deal with my challenges. I hope to be a solid 145 with small days at 140 by the end of the month :)

Updated on 24 Mar 2015:
Should I be concerned about belly button scar

Ever since I had my second (and last child), I was so uhappy with the way my body did NOT go back together. I had lots of loose skin and a wrinkly belly that sagged. Besides the extra weight I gained, the belly made me the most unhappy. After dropping a fair amount of weight, I spoke to a couple of plastic surgeons several years ago who told me that no matter how hard I worked on my belly (crunches and push ups), I would never be able to correct the saggy, wrinkly, loose skin. After years of pondering and summoning up my courage to go under the knife, and being unhappy- I went in and saw another surgeon who I felt very comfortable with. My surgery was done on February 18th. So that makes me 10 days PO today. Despite the blood clot in my right leg that I'm being treated for, I'm recovering nicely. I wasn't sure I'd ever get to feeling better! That first week PO was not too much fun. The pain, not being comfortable, and all of the PAIN! But, I had heard that the first week was the worst and to just hang on. It is true! That first week, around day 7, is when I started to feel better with the incision site and comfort. However yesterday, when I was told I had a blood clot due to my surgery, I felt like I was kicked backwards in my recovery. But, after talking to the several Doctors who I had to deal with, I realized that clots are common and easily treated so long as you catch them early. Today, my spirits are high (even with that stupid pain in my leg!), and I'm able to almost stand up completely straight. Each day I feel stronger and am looking forward to the says ahead when I'm able to get my drain out, stand up straight at 100%, and to be able to resume doing all the things I did pre-op. I go back to work this Monday (13 days PO) and am looking forward to it. I know that it will be a slow trasition, but I also know that 3 days from today I'll be waking taller and much stronger! Good luck to all of you that I've been talking to in this site and you all of you newbies!

Updated on 7 Mar 2014:
Today I'm about 2.5 weeks postop and feel pretty good. My drain comes out today, I'm back to work, I have a pair of pre-op jeans on and they are comfortable, and today I stood up completely straight for the first time. Life is good today. This weekend I hope to post updated pics post op.

Updated on 8 Mar 2014:
Here are a few pics through my recovery. I am very happy with today's (day 18 PO) pic. I finally found the 'Flat Side'. Things at starting to look up :)))))

Updated on 25 Mar 2014:
Wow! Didn't think I'd make it this far without more hurdles. But, knock on wood- I'm doing pretty good. Despite everything that I've gone through and after looking at my 5 week PO pics (taken today) I'd do it all over again. I'm already to start my second (and final) body project...liposuction on my inner/outer thighs and rear. Happy Days ahead. Good luck to all you New tummy tuckers!!

Updated on 12 Feb 2015:
So, tomorrow I go in for my long awaited liposuction on my inner/outer thighs, flanks and public area And a revision of my belly button. I'd be lying if I wasn't nervous, I am. But I'm looking forward to the end results. I've loved the results of my tummy tuck, which was very painful. I figure if I could tolerate the pain that came with that procedure and the DVT I ended up getting, this should be a walk in the park. Here we go again!

I'm a mommy for FOUR healthy boys! I nursed all four of my boys and gained 80 pounds with 3 of my 4 boys. I feel like my body has done it's job of carrying and providing for my boys, now I'm ready to have my body back! I have always been very athletic, played all sports, played college sports, am in the fitness field, run and exercise almost everday....My tummy skin is sooooo stretched that no matter how far I run or how many crunches I do, it's not going away. I'm sick of feeling embarrassed about it, to the point of where I don't like my husband to see it or for sure touch it, ewwwww! The rest of my body is pretty toned, but the flabby ol' tummy. My breasts are about to hit the ground, always have had large breasts-DD. Although after nursing they have slowly gotten smaller, I believe I'm about a C cup now, which is perfect for me and my activity! My husband wouldn't mind if I also did implants, but I really think I'm going to stick to a lift. I live in the middle of South Dakota, so finding a close doctor hasn't been so easy. After finding I believe a great doctor, emailing pictures, and doing phone consultations I'm scheduled for my surgery and I can't got dang wait!!! July 24 is my day, I'm not nervous or scared..as of now, but very excited and overwhelmed with the support from my husband and my mom....my two biggest support systems!



Updated on 4 Jun 2012:
I forgot to add that I'm 5'5-5'6 and weigh 137-145 on any given day. I have been looking at all the different pictures, reading other women's stories, talking with other women and I think that I'm going for the implants also. I was going to just do the TT and breast LIFT, but I think I'm loving the look of the FULL perky breasts. Dr. is sure that he can make me a C-D without the implants but if I want the superior fullness on top, he would go for the implants. I have always been a D cup and I would like to stay at a D, my husband really wants me at a D!! Imagine that :) 49 days until pre-op appt and 50 until a more confident ME!! :) I'm so happy that I'm doing this and I love this site for all the support and love!!

Updated on 19 Jun 2012:
Hi beautiful ladies! 35 more days and it's my turn, YAY!! I'm so ready, I'm beyond ready :) Today is our 8 year wedding anniversary! On our 9th I'll be smoking, although my hubby says I am already..what a great guy. Have read a few posts on husbands that are a lil insecure with the MM and how some aren't very supportive. My hubby and I had a good talk about this and he actually feels like he may be a lil insecure after, but is very open to talking about it...which I think is GOOD! This is also coming from a very handsome man with a smoking hot body, talk about being insecure...I am when I'm by his side. I think I'm getting things lined up for surgery. I'm gone the first two weeks in July for vacation and home a week, then off to surgery, so these next two busy weeks in June I'm trying to get as much put together as possible. I have met a wonderful lady on here, Cornhusker who had the same PS as me, so she has been great help and is probably getting sick of me!! Ha ha ha :) I'm traveling 6 hours for surgery, so I need to take lots of pillow/blankets... My PS really doesn't have a list of things that I need to purchase, so as of right now I don't have but a few things on "The List"..... All my husband is saying is "I'll get the frozen peas" LOL I'm so excited and it seems like the time is going by fast, which is good :) I love reading all the stories and I feel like a lil kid in a candy store with all my questions!! Happy healing to all and I hope the time flies for us who are waiting :)

Updated on 28 Jun 2012:
Hellllllllooooo ladies! Hope you are all healing wonderful and for us still waiting that the time is flying by! I have 26 days until the rollie pollie is GONE! Come on July 24 :) I'm ready! I'm a lil emotional, just because I'm finally doing this and I want to feel sexy and I want my husband to see me naked with the lights on, I want to look down and see my vajay jay without moving my tummy out of the way, I want to be able to wear a swimming suit-not even a bikini (I hope I can) but just a swim suit and not hide under a t shirt, I want cute tops, lil dresses, etc!....I deserve this and I'm doing it!! I'm not scared of the surgery or pain, I'm worried about the nausea...I get soooo sick from pain meds, even motrin pm knocks me out and makes me sick. Anyone have suggestions on some reads for my hubby, I would like him to READ what to expect from me, what his role will be, etc. He is 100% behind me and happy for me, but if he reads what to expect he will be prepared. Kinda like a what to expect when expecting .... :) July ladies our time is coming!!!

Updated on 12 Jul 2012:
12 more days!! I'm on vacation with my family and could not stop thinking while I was sitting at the pool that this time next year I will be rocking a swimming suit and swimming until my lil guy's hearts are content! That makes my heart over whelmed with joy!! I hate not wanting to swim because of my flabby tummy. I feel like my own insecurities are taking away from our expierences and memories, that makes me sad. I'm so excited and over whelmed, emotionally ready!! I bought myself the granny gown that zips and some pajamas that button. Need to get the supplies like gauze, maxi pads (unsented), ointment, etc. My mom picked me up a shower chair and toilet seat thingy! I was gonna go without, just cause..glad she has the brains! My question for ya'll is: What stool softener do you think works best? I would really rather have a pill, I can hardly swallow liquid meds..gag me! Thanks and happy healing to all you lucky ladies on the flat and perky side!! :)

Updated on 16 Jul 2012:
8 days!! I'm loving the before and after bikini pics a lot of you beautiful women are posting! I would love to do that, but guess what? I don't even own a bikini.....would you if you looked like me? HELL NO!! Next summer I sure will ;) I still hide behind my maturnity swimming suit, I think I'll toss that sucker in the trash on my way out the door next Monday!! Have a great day :)

Updated on 22 Jul 2012:
Well I'm close-real close, 2 days close! I'm excited, but am very relaxed tonight in my own bed, sleeping on my side, snuggling with my lil' man! I'm concerned about our snuggle time, he is a snuggle bug. Going to have to find a safe/comfy way to snuggle after a few days. A nurse called me yesterday from the hospital and went over the can and can NOT do's up to 48 hours before surgery...talk about got real, real quick! I shaved my arm pits yesterday for the last time until god only knows when. That was odd to me, never heard that one before. Took off nail polish and have to find some special "soap" to wash my body with the night before and the morning of. I'm staying one night in the hospital, hubby gets to stay with me!! That made my day, his too :) We are leaving at 7 AM tomorrow, have a pre op appt tomorrow afternoon, have about a 6 hour drive. Not exactly sure will happen at the pre op. After pre op we are going to go out for supper with Cornhusker and her husband, she has been a book of info for me and I'm thankful for that! Nice to meet great women on here :) After supper I think that we will go to a movie, won't be doing that for awhile and not very often we get to spend time together-alone!! I have to be at the hospital at 6 am on Tuesday, Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, it came FAST! Seemed like it would never come, now it's like HERE. I think I have my bag packed to go to the hospital and for the long ride home. Lots of pillows and blankets, a bucket (hope I don't need that-ugh), ice bags (plan on using ice-OFTEN. Been in athletics many years, I know how great it is for swelling), zip up top and sweats for the ride home (I may run to walmart and see if I can't find something a lil' cooler that zips), and cough drops. I was told I would have enough gauze or pads to get me home, so I'm not taking extra supplies that I won't need. If I forget anything else, I'll pick it up in Lincoln. I had a great last couple days, cleaning and getting laundry done. I haven't prepared any meals for husband to cook, he is a great cook and during the summer does most of the cooking! My mom will be around a lot also to help with house chores, thank god! I'm the "home keeper" and do a lot of the cleaning and laundry and it drives me nuts when it's not done....this will pry be the second stress builder for me!! It will get done when it gets done, because I won't be able to do it and I have to tell me myself that. My mom will be really good with that part because I get that from her, she likes a clean home :) Not sure where I'll sleep when I get home. Would like to sleep in my bed with lots of pillows behind me and under my legs, but may have to use my recliner. I have read that women have used both. Better finish getting my pillows and blankets rounded up, feel like I'm forgetting something! Happy healing and good luck to all the ladies this week!!

Updated on 23 Jul 2012:
Hello beautiful ladies! I had my pre-op appt today and it went perfect :) I had my first appt with doc over the phone and with pictures so it was nice to meet him and his wonderful staff face to face. He thought he was going to have to do the lift that he has to use another cut or two (don't remember the name right now, sorry) BUT it turns out he won't have tooooooo, whooooooooo and I'll have less scars!! We are using a 250cc implant and my tummy blubs will be gone with "a very low" scar!! Sounds good to me!! Dr Bryant is easy to talk with, answered all our questions again, husband feels even better after he met with him!! After appt we went out for supper, went to a movie, got some lovin' (sorry TMI, but it will be awhile before we can again), I showered with my pre-op soap and now I'm actually very tired and ready for sleep. I'm sure I'll be a happy emotional wreck when I say "see you soon" to my hubby as I leave to the operating room, but I know I'll see him after a lil nap!! He is ready to take care of me, my boys are in good hands and I'll be in good hands :) I can do this and I'm ready for the confidence that awaits me :) Say a prayer for me, my doctor, nurses, medical staff and my family...good night!

Updated on 30 Jul 2012:
Helllllo, I'm back, I'm alive and I'm better! Whew. I'm hear to tell you, this surgery is NO joke. I'm healthy, in shape and it was HARD. I couldn't imagine doing this if your body isn't in shape and your body isn't healthy. Let me tell ya a little bit about what I remember, excuse the typos, After surgery I don't remember waking up at all in recovery, I woke up when they were moving me from bed to bed and the burn in my stomach woke me up, I woke up kinda screaming. I then slept the rest of the day and that night, only to wake for pain pills, every four hours. I know they made me get up to go to the bathroom, don't remember when but that hurt like hell. I couldn't sit up alone at all, I had to use nurses and my husband to pull myself up, I guess I asked the nurse if I could just pee the bed and leave me alone. Opps! I woke up post op day 1 to eat a lil breakfast and take pills in the morning. All I wanted to do was sleep. Drugs really knock me out and usually make me sick, they ordered an awesome pain pill that I have had no problem with and an anti nausea pill that really helped also. My pills are in the other room, I'll look and let you know what I was on when I get up. After I ate and slept a lil more on post op day 1, the nurses told me it was shower time. UGH, shower time, I just wanna sleep. I got up, which was a tad bit easier, not much but a tad. My husband and nursed helped me get to the shower and I took a some what shower. I could not wash my hair,,,,my husband tried but I just didn't work so well. I have long/THICK hair and needless to say it was a tangled mess, nurse tried to comb it out, she was getting no where, so i told everyone to leave it alone, I just wanted to sleep. They got be all bindered back up and I layed back down, only to sleep through the discharge directions. Hubby asked if I was ready to go, shoot I didn't know what was going on, Got loaded up, slept the 6 hours home, got home and went straight to my room and back to bed, Hubby kept me on my pills that night, Slept well that night, didn't wake up much. Post op day 3, was TUFF. Woke up grumpy, un comfy, sore, stiff, burning, wanting to see my baby, couldn't sit up, didn't want to eat, bad taste in my mouth, shortness of breath (nobody told me about this), etc etc etc, I had a hard day, I was stuck in my room because we didn't want the baby to see me, I was in no shape to even try and talk to him. It was like he knew I was in the room, he would knock on the door, broke my heart.. When he took his afternoon nap, hubby brought me to the living room, where I sat and watched my baby sleep and cried, well kinda,,,my body wouldn't let me...weird. Went back to the hell hole (room) for the rest of the day and night and felt like I was locked in there, I hated it. I broke down, got mad, wanted to my fat tummy back, I just wanted out and wanted my kids. Couldn't get comfy in my bed, hurt to sit up, sucked...I was over it and wanted to be done. Drugged up and slept like [RS bleep] that night, was up before anyone post op day 4. I got myself up scooted to the kitchen to look around, to the living room to see my hubby. Told him I can't be in that room anymore, I need to see my kids and that's how it was going to be. So as my kids got up, I got much needed hugs and kisses, baby woke up and looked at me and looked at me again and smiled a half awake myself said "momma" and got up and walked over to me. Hubby put him on my lap and my heart melted as my tears ran down his face. Spent the day out in the living room, had my turn around on day 4 and had a BM!! Day 5, took another shower, ate a great meal, watched olympics and cut back on meds. Forgot to mention that on day 3 I tried to cut the pain pills, I was so out of it that last few days that I just felt gross. Tried extra strength tylenol and I wasn't ready for all that.....that added hell to day 3. Day 5 was good, finally got my hair combed through, mom's are the best. Now it's day 6, I'm feeling like I want to clean and wash clothes and I can't my body isn't ready and that is really bothering me now. I get bored and I'm getting bored. The recliner is where I have slept the past two nights, much better then my bed! But I want to lay on my side. I can't even reach my arms up above my head yet. I am walking better, I'm ready to be better. Very thankful I feel better though, now it's time. My boobs don't hurt, what hurts is under them....I got 250 cc, so I'm not so big, actually just about what I was before just not saggy!! I know I am missing a lot,, but if you have any questions just ask! I would say though...for those of you that have a mile long list, you can cut back there is a lot that you don't use. I know picking up the supplies, gives you some light, but save yoru money!! I'll try and get some pics up soon... Olympics all day today, I guess!

Updated on 31 Jul 2012:
Hey beautiful women! I'll pick up where I left off...day 6, I didn't do much all day-olympics! Was feeling good around supper time, so I got up and cooked most of supper with help from my husband, felt great to help out!
Day 7, got up before everyone, cooked breakfast ALONE, had a cup of coffee-first one since surgery, was delish! Rested after I ate, iced, took a tylenol and then I even did some dishes! Went outside, had my son drag the hose for me and I watered my garden and flowers, took some nice deep breaths outside and smiled! Felt good to be outside for a bit :) Came back inside and gave myself a shower, ALONE! Hubby got shower seat for me, but I washed my hair, shaved my legs and ARMPITS! I couldn't shave my arm pits for 48 hours before surgery, not sure why, so I was beyond grossed out and my boys were loving making the jokes!! Hubby helped me dress and binder up, I was tired after that. Got my water jug, pillows, blanket, ice and sat back down in the recliner for more TV, Rested the rest of the after....started getting restless again, so I cooked a very simple supper, ate and sat my lil butt back down for the night! I'm feeling much better, walking better and moving my arms better. I could barely lify my arms up the past days, so that is much better! Talking with my hubby today I asked him what the doc said to him because I didn't speak to him at all since. Dr said "she did great, took just about 3 hours for surgery, had over over two inches of muscle seperation in abs (he fixed), she didn't need lypo :), and we can do follow up with pictures and phone if you don't want to drive 6 hours back and we can get the tube takin' out closer to home" Hubby thinks that he was confident that I would do real well by my physical and over all health, that's awesome but a little laid back also. I guess if I have questions or issues I'll bother the heck out of him, which he told us to do anyway, lol! I think I'll like the size of the girls...they are pretty flat pancake like right now, but thinking they will be fine. Didn't want any bigger then my normal size, just fullness! Hubby thinks my tummy repair is already just amazing, is anxious to see finished product as am I!! I also have been eating what I want, haven't noticed any problem with salt and swelling, I'm already swollen...doesn't seem to make it worse! My BM's are fine and never hurt, thank god! I did cough yesterday and accident and about died.....wow! Almost sneezed today, but I caught that quick!! NO WAY! Time for more ice and feet up, have a good night all! Happy healing and a quick count down for all of you ladies waiting. I was going to take pics after shower today and completely forgot, I will try again....

Updated on 3 Aug 2012:
Hello ladies! I'm doing better, healing...slow, but healing! I'm energy is much higher and I have slept a TON better these past two nights. I left my recliner for my sofa that reclines and that seems to be much better :) I maybe take a one Tylenol a day and I do take one pain pill right before bed, helps with being some restless. I can tell the days I have doing a lil too much, but I also feel like the more I move my arms and walk the stronger I'm getting. Today I woke up feeling the best yet :) I would rather take motrin to help a lil with the swelling but not sure if I can. All I remember anyone talking about was "Tylenol"....I'm adding some pics today, finally! As you can see, still swollen, that will go away not worried about that! I think even know my pics look better then my before! Boobs are still odd shaped, like someone say on them, not worried about that either...they will even out and at least I'm not getting nipple road rash from them dragging on the ground :) My belly button looks a lil funny too, but I can see it and she isn't sad anymore! I think my scar is low and should cover with undies....again not worried about it. Even I have to wear a ONE piece suit at least I'll be confident in it. I'm looking to the skimpy lil suit, I'm looking to be able to be comfy in one and swim and with my kids and not feel like I'm hiding. I think my boobs are going to be the perfect size for me, maybe even a lil smaller then I was before surgery, which is fine also. I have had big boobs my entire life, I'm over them....and I didn't want to come out of this looking "fake" or "huge"...and I think that I have gotten what I asked for!! I'm sick of the drain, but I'm not really in a rush to get it out...it's there for a reason. I am a lil confused on some "tricks" I can use with my binder....it seems like with the gauze pads it slips around a lot and has rubbed and hurt my incision in a couple places. I heard pads work great, just really worried about the slipping. Maybe pads, then a tight tank top, then binder? Any suggestions? Happy healing ladies and good luck to all waiting! Life is good :)

Updated on 3 Aug 2012:
Is there a way to go back and edit a post? Holy typos....sorry!

Updated on 7 Aug 2012:
I'm two weeks post op today, already. It is a SLOW healing process, but I can't believe that it's been two weeks already. I'm feeling a tad better everyday. I know that it takes time and a lot of it! I have pains in/around my breasts more then anything and I guess my back, but that is from walking funny :) BUT my back is much better as is my walking. Not being able to do my normal every day activities is what kills me most, more then anything. I still have my drain, if that's at 15cc tomorrow it gets to come out and my husband will be the doctor that takes it out!! I'm kinda scared to take it out, but I know that it can't be any worse pain then what I have already been through and it's quick. I'm ready for it to be gone!! I started back to work yesterday, lil tired yesterday from that but feel fine today. Haven't really been lookin' at my tummy or boobs, just waiting waiting waiting to heal heal heal!! Hope all is well, keep healing ladies!! :)

Updated on 28 Aug 2012:
Hey everyone! Wowzers I have been busy. I'm 5 weeks post op and I'm back to doing all normal activities, but exercising. I'm a mom first and I need to lift my son now and then. I'm still getting better every day. My tummy is swollen still by my incision, like I have a little muffin top. I hope it goes away, it still looks better then it did before surgery. My boobs haven't "settled" yet I don't think. Dr said it would be 2-4 months, I hope my shape is a little different when they settle. I do think they look pretty natural, they even kinda flatten out when I lay on my back! I thought they would stand straight up, oh well! I'm sure they are swollen still also, they are bigger I think now then before surgery. Maybe they are just up more. I tried on some no underwire bras and VS and the DD were toooooo small...hopefully swelling! I'm ready to start running, few more days :) my husband loves the new body and sex life is back-carefully, but it's back!! Hurts to laugh hard or sneeze still, but tolerable. Have put on jeans and they are big around my tummy area, feels great! Already am more confident in jeans and a tank top, so great! I'm glad I did this, pry would do it again, but this is a
NO joke surgery and recovery and I dont want to go through it again, ever!! Ugh!! People at work have NO idea, I hid my tummy well and always have had big girls!...I'll get some new pics up soon! Haven't been back to the Dr office since surgery, doing email, phone and pictures. He wants to see me in the next couple months, as well as I want to see him. Been nice because we are so far away. Hope you are all well :) excuse typos, I'm using my phone :/

Updated on 6 Sep 2012:
Hi all! I'm 6 weeks post op as of Tuesday, yay! Tuesday I started my exercises again!! Thank god, I was about to die not doing anything. Today is only my 3rd day back at running, but I'm running 2.5 miles and it actually feels like it's easier now then before surgery. I wonder if it's because I don't have my flabby tummy rockin' back and fourth? I'm going to start strength training next week just because I still feel like some of my movements are stiff and I feel like I'm going to hurt something, soooo I'll take my time! Everyday gets better! I'm feeling fab and sexy!! My husband CAN NOT keep his hands off me and I love it :) My clothes feel better, I'm wearing cute tops now and am searching for a sexy dress for an even I have coming up later this month. I'm also down about 9 lbs since surgery. I still have swollen in my tummy and have the "muffin top" line right above my scar. My nurse said that can be months, but it's swelling and my scar, so I can rub that carefully to help with that. My girls are coming along, still a different shape that I had in mind, but I do think they look more natural and they still look better then they did. Hope are all well!!

I had fluctuated with my weight and had a child, my stomach was hideous! I had had a breast reduction in 2003 and really needed a lift plus volume and fullness. Dr. Bryant did a tummy tuck from table to table, breast life and augmentation with saline. It was a 475cc bag filled to 500cc! Also, lipo of inner and outer thighs! LOVE LOVE LOVE! Would do it again tomorrow!

I'm a 36-year-old mom of 3 boys. I am 5' 9" tall and am back to my 150 lbs pre-babies weight. I started thinking about a mommy makeover 7 years after my first son was born. I gained at least 50 lbs with each baby. Now after my third and final son, I knew it was time. I spent the last year strategizing and getting back to my ideal weight so I would be ready for surgery. The most frustrating thing right now is finding underwear that fits my body. It has to be exactly the right height to not be seen over my pants, and not fall under my hanging skin while exercising. And my breasts ... have seen better days. They are deflated pancakes. I began as a 36C and when I was nursing I was usually a 36DDD. Now I am back to a 36C size, but everything has shifted ... downward.



Updated on 3 May 2012:
As the days are counting down and the date draws near, there is so much nervous excitement.

Updated on 5 May 2012:
What gear have people found most helpful? I have read Walkers and Adjustable Beds. My parents have those, so I may spend a couple recovery days over there. The hospital told me I would want to go home in a shirt that buttoned or zipped. I'm sure a lot of things I have never heard of. I've been reading recommendations for raised toilet seats and shower chairs ... we already have some of those. I want to be sure I have what I need so I don't have to run out to a store right after surgery.

Updated on 8 May 2012:
Surgery went great today. The doctor removed 4 lbs of skin and fat. The pain has been very minor so far. I found out why it takes a few hours before you can pee much .... your bladder is still asleep.

I was worried I would feel depressed after surgery since the fear this last week was taking a hold of me. I couldn't eat much and I was starting to wonder how crazy my decision might be. It is such a relief to be post-op. I am elated.

I haven't seen much of the results yet and I'm fine with that. I got a glance at my new belly button. That might be my favorite part.

Updated on 9 May 2012:
Recovery is going REALLY well. Better than expected. I can't stand up straight yet, but most everything else I can do.

Updated on 14 May 2012:
It is amazing how this process is relatively pain-free. Yes, there is mild discomfort, but really no pain. Pretty much after coming home from the hospital I switched over to regular Tylenol. My friends warned me how the hospital narcotics can constipate. The Tylenol has been more than enough to put me at ease. On the second day home from the hospital I went for a bike ride and it felt great. I couldn't stand upright, but I didn't need to. The next day I discovered that walking my toddler in a stroller was even better than trying to walk with a walker. I had something to hold on to, and a reason to be hunched over.

The strangest thing I think is looking down and everything seeming so different it's hard to believe it's me ... I've never seen a tummy so flat. Even my belly button is higher. I suppose like a new haircut, it takes time to adjust to.

Today was the first day I drove. I took the kids to daycare and met a friend for coffee. I am lucky my doctor didn't put a lot of restrictions on me. He said I would know whether or not I was ready to do things or pick up things, so I've been going on instinct. He's right, if I have to pick up the toddler for something like taking him out of his crib ... I do it. But I am also likely to strategize around carrying him around much.

Updated on 22 May 2012:
Well, I was already to tell everyone that I was having another great day. It's been two weeks since surgery and I was trying to keep up with my normal pace of watching the kids, carrying the toddler, running errands, picking up toys. I did really great. But somewhere between 4:30 and 5 I snapped. I just did too much. Too many kids screaming and crying. I just can't be as fully functional as I was before surgery yet. I am worn out. Still looking fabulous ... and still no pain ... but completely worn out.

Updated on 26 May 2012:
I'm looking forward to drain-removal-day. The doctor wanted me under 30ccs for a couple days in a row. I figured Friday was the first day I was safely at that point, but the office is closed until Tuesday. Bummer.

Updated on 29 May 2012:
Whoo hoo ... got my drain removed today! Does anyone have tips on how to keep scars looking good?

Updated on 1 Jun 2012:
Today I'm uploading a bikini pic. As I was pulling out baskets of old summer clothes that haven't fit me in years, I found a bikini that has NEVER fit me. I put it on and it fits great. I think I am going to have to get rid a lot of jeans that are now too big ... I have gone down several clothing sizes. I was a size 10 ... and have come down around a size 6.

Updated on 2 Jun 2012:
Today was a great day. I served lunch at a soup kitchen for homeless. And I even jogged a little ... slowly. I'm sure I'll get my stamina back soon, but I'll have to work my way back bit by bit.

The only thing I'm curious about now is my cup size. I'm wondering if I'm more of a small C or a full B. I should get measured, but since I don't know when I can start wearing underwire bras again, and that's usually all I wear, I haven't bothered stopping into a VS to get measured. My exact size might depend on the bra style, too.

Updated on 5 Jun 2012:
I finally got measured yesterday ... Victoria's Secret claims I am a 34D. The size is very similar to a 36C, so I think I could wear both. But I am stunned. I thought for sure I looked smaller.

I'm glad VS has some non-underwire styles. Anyone know how long we should avoid underwire?

Updated on 9 Jun 2012:
Has anyone noticed losing hair? It reminds me of the 3-month mark after having a baby when you start noticing more hair falling out when shampooing in the shower. I don't mind much since my hair has always been super thick. Just wondered if this is a common occurance.

Updated on 15 Jun 2012:
I am still noticing some hair shedding, but have decided it has less to do with being post-op and much more to do with it being the beginning of summer vacation for three very active boys. Stress is a well-known cause of shedding hair. Now how do I live life without stress? I don't think it's possible.

Updated on 17 Jun 2012:
I can't believe it's almost 6 weeks since my Mommy Makeover. The last few weeks have really flown by. I'm feeling great physically. I've been noticing that I'm able to stand up straight now. And I can reach things on high shelves without any pain. My fitness level isn't where I would like it to be if I'm really going to run/walk a 5k in a few weeks. I'm certain I can work up to it. My stamina has been slower to return.

And now after a busy Father's Day, I am exhausted.

Updated on 24 Jun 2012:
I can't help but feel like in the whole Game of Life, I'm totally cheating. All my old pre-baby clothes fit, even clothes that never fit me before. I have the stomach of a supermodel. And if I happen to overeat at a meal, it still stays flat. I'm wondering why I haven't gone on a shopping spree to buy new clothes yet. I'm guessing three reasons: 1) Maybe it will take away the element of surprise when everything I try on looks good. 2) I will have to learn all new shopping rules. I learned lots of tricks for camouflaging my old figure. Not sure what to look for when I go shopping now. 3) I think I still don't quite feel worthy. I'm still in disbelief. Total denial that this is really me. When do I wake up from this dream?

Updated on 13 Jul 2012:
It has been a while since I posted. Everything is going well. Scars are still about the same. I did the 5K last week with some friends. So fun! I was glad it wasn't timed and wasn't competitive. Everyone jogged about the same speed and we walked part of it. I was a little worried since I didn't get much training in, but it was fun to just get out there and get a few miles in.

My sister is staying with me this week. It has been fun to go clothes shopping with her. I was in need of an entire wardrobe makeover. I am now a size 4 and before surgery I was an 10. Only 4 pounds different, but worlds different in the sizes. Instead of a Medium, I can now grab a Small or Extra Small. I have never been a size 4 in my life. In 5th grade I was a size 7 and stayed a 7 through junior high. But NEVER a 4.

Until a week or two ago I really didn't feel like shopping. It required extra energy I didn't have after mediating my 3 kids. I bought everything for Father's Day online. Everything else I needed, I looked online first to avoid a trip to the store. Now energy is good. And clothes shopping is fun. I went in to stores I haven't tried in 15 or 20 years. My teenage nieces and nephews like American Eagle, so I found some cute jeans there. The Limited had some great finds. No more frumpy mom stores for me!

Updated on 15 Jul 2013:
It's hard to believe it was only a year ago that I had my tummy tuck and breast lift. It feels so much a part of me that it seems I've always been this way. I have to remind myself I wasn't always so blessed, and for that I'm glad I have photographic evidence. I have to try not to fall back into frumpy clothes patterns or too much junk food. Though it's kind of funny that my tummy stays flat no matter what I eat.

Very nervous about this procedure coming up. Second guessing myself some what. I am getting under the muscle saline implants. I told doctor that I wanted them to be bigger and still jiggle and bounce. And does areola size get bigger with implants? Just want a idea from others what I can expect from my appointment coming up.