I have two beautiful kids who wreaked havoc on my belly. One is 19 the other is 17. I've wanted a tummy tuck for at least 15 yrs. Prior to surgery I was 175 lbs and I'm 5'8" tall. My PS estimates that he removed 6-7 lbs of tissue which is just crazy to me.
Over the years I've lost and gained weight and tried to embrace my belly as the beautiful vessel that bore my children. Tummy tuck surgery isn't for everyone and its a very personal choice. I've heard both sides of the argument but for me it's what I chose. I'm tired of my belly flapping when I try to run. I'm tired of my belly roll showing in my pants when I have to tuck in my shirt for horse shows. It didn't feel like a part of me, it was like this extra appendage that appeared after having kids.
I was so sick of not being able to wear what I wanted and this belly flab was always there no matter how fit I was. My family and friends have all been supportive although I know some of them question my decision. I didn't do this for anyone but me.
I'm now two days post op and feeling very tight, gassy and my back is killing me from walking hunched over. I had two drains placed and at my appt today my doc decided to leave them in another day. So I'm feeling grungy and want a shower. But overall I'm super happy that this is done and now I just have to heal.
Updated on 7 Jun 2013:
Feeling better every day. Drains were removed today.
Updated on 9 Jun 2013:
I can stand up straight today off and on. Feels really tight and weird but good on my back!! Taking it easy for a bit now, walked outside slowly this morning and felt great but now tired again.
Updated on 9 Jun 2013:
I feel like I need to wear a sign that says, "This temporary inconvenience will mean long term relief." I'm all bruised up like a truck hit my belly now and I have a low grade fever. I can't totally stand up straight again and I'm exhausted by the end of the day. Can't wait to be healed.
Updated on 12 Jun 2013:
I'm not sure if this is normal but it took a few days for my bruises to really show along the incision. Also I have some new bruises along the MR up pretty high. Hope nothing's wrong, I'll call the PS office tomorrow just to see if I damaged anything or need to be concerned.
Updated on 12 Jun 2013:
Updated on 19 Jun 2013:
I still have a ton of bruising and my right side is more painful and swollen than the left but I'm still glad I did it. I'm still healing and the lumps and bruises will go away. The swelling is already much less than last week overall and I've lost about 4 lbs. I wore jeans all day for the first time since surgery and have no more muffin top!! I miss being active and can't wait to be able to run and ride my horse again but I'm not going to risk pulling another muscle or popping stitches by starting too soon. I'm more swollen and tired later in the day but am no longer taking pain meds and can help around the house.
Updated on 30 Jun 2013:
I'm still trying to wrap my brain around the fact that I don't have a flabby belly anymore. I forget sometimes then notice things like not having to set my belly on the bathroom counter when I'm doing my makeup, no belly bulge in front of my pants, etc. It's incredible! I need to get a new two piece swimsuit, I've hesitated because I want to get back to working out and know I'll drop a few sizes. This is my tankini just folded up to show my belly. I'm very happy with my results and I know it'll just get better from here. Only 4 wks left until I can start running, weight training and riding my horse again. I can't wait!!