David L. Rayfield, MD

You need to make a consult apt with him. If you are looking to have anything done I suggest you go to Dr Rayfield. This practice is the whole package! And His team at AtlantiCare is great. My experience was one that I felt I was in good hands from start to finished, I just had my surgery today ! Pain is uncomfortable and that is what I expected. Updated on 4 Sep 2020: Liposuction: today is day 9! Stitches are out today and I am Feeling good. Considering I only really had 2bad day and really it was 1 , due to not having enough fluids .so drink water prior to surgery and after that will help and the 2nd day everything medication wise is gone so yes I was uncomfortable in a little pain! I do not like taken pain medication ! So that just meMy legs are looking good and my flank looks great I ware a compression every day now . Which feel great on my body !This is surgery was a little different then the ones I Had before ! And that was mainly because of me.Before I was 7 days a week at the Gym and now gyms were closed and I wasn’t working out as much ( no spinning) ! That to me is the key to any recovery is being active at the gym before and after ! Even though I was walking 5miles 5days a week it not the same as treadmill Elliptical and a spin bike. That enabled me to get my body in perfect shape but as you know there will always be areas that no matter what you do you cannot get ride of that FatDr. Rayfield is a great doctor & you should go to him but you have to be serious. As for my pictures I will add later. Once all my swelling will go down etc.Doing something that makes you feel good about yourself is a great gift, to yourself and getting this done just makes me happy and it helps me a lot because of certain Areas of fat I can never get off of my body! Thank you Dr Rayfield you are the best Updated on 25 Sep 2020: Well it will be a month On the 26th. And to recap Dr Rayfield did lypo on my legs and flank. At this point I have no more black and blue my legs and my flank look great. On my 10th day I started walking Hard . about 6 miles with incline inbetween. So I lost 10 pounds from the procedure, Dr Rayfield is great with all of his Patients he make you understand what is going on and how much he will be able to take and go over the outcome. His price was reasonable and worth every penny I spent. I believe having anything done is a joint effort which means you need continued working out to get the full effect of what you want. The pain was uncomfortable the 2nd day and I was light headed due to medication from surgery which I Cannot take it effect me differently so I stopped . But I was good the 3 days I went to walk my 5 miles ok. But I did take it easy because he suggested to wait 10 day for working out but walking was fine . So I took my time and followed his request. But the 10 day I went back to working out hard I fell I am 12 pound thinner and I have a better control my legs. Which looks good but my flank area ( side) look great You need to do research before having any procedure. Look up your Doctor and if you are close to south Jersey you need to pick my Dr Rayfield in Linwood he has an associate. Their phone number is 609-601-1000 Picture will come later Updated on 22 Jan 2025: Between diet, exercise and procedures, I am at the weight that I am happy with. The only thing I need is since I had a necklace in 2014 with Dr Rayfield. I still need a little tweaking in that area today. It’s something I’m gonna be working myself into. Updated on 22 Jan 2025: Through the years lypo! Tummy tuck! Leg lift! Lypo on my legs and saddle bags! Neck lift Eye lift All this was done from2012-2014 2020 I had my saddle bags done But all in all when losing n 45 more pounds this past year. I saw so much more that Dr Rayfield worked enhanced my looks. And I am so happy Updated on 1 Jun 2025: It funny after all these years of my procedures that they show so much more now that I am happy and it been 12 years or more and Dr Rayfield work held good and I am so happy with what I’ve had done !

Dr. Rayfield is simply the best! Great bed side manner...conservative approach , high end value and well priced ! Best of all ... wonderful esthetic !! A Totally positive experience is what you will have with this highly educated & experienced surgeon.

Although I don't feel quite 53 years old, my face needed a mini uplift. Dr. Rayfield was honest with me, and said I wasn't ready for a face lift; however, he provided me with a liquid facelift, utilizing several various injectables. I didn't look fake; I looked like I just got back from a week at a spa!

My tummy tuck and lipo was very much needed! I am very pleased with my doctors' work! My drains were out in 3 days no pain meds and standing straight up since day 3????. From all the reviews I have read the closer I got to my date I was scared and wanted to call it off ,but I'm glad I didn't I'm glad everything worked out well and I'm now 14 days post opt . Still a little sore but nothing really to complain about. I guess it all depends on your health and your body I must seem to have a high tolerance for pain because I really didn't have any. My doctor and the hospital was great I can't express it enough. Updated on 21 Oct 2014: Feeling great!

I was heavy and lost some weight but my thigh were like I had two foot balls ! That is how big they were. I started with lypo in April of this year and went to the gym and lost more weight and they were hanging ! I talked to dr Rayfield and he did the procedure ! Again I had two drains and I did need to stay overnight in the hosp I keep myself walking around all night Because I wanted to keep walking My thigh were tight! And look great ! I felt I was almost there for having the shape I wanted ! I never had any problems with pain I only took Advil if I needed it . But I went to the gym and started walking on the treadmill and I was back to spinning in. 2 wks! If you hate your thighs like I did and to this day I lost more weight and all I need it to have a little lypo in the back of my thighs for stubborn area that I cannot lose at the gym! And I feel good about my legs. . Again I cannot stress how important a gym is to help you maintain the work Dr Rayfield has done ! He is the best Updated on 28 Mar 2014: I still need more work on my legs in the back I do not have a before Updated on 2 Sep 2015: I had lypo This is what I looked like Updated on 2 Sep 2015: I was 175 pounds here This is before my yummy tuck in 2012 Updated on 2 Sep 2015: This is me after my leg lift Any tummy tuck Updated on 2 Sep 2015: Me today I still cannot get those fat pocket down But I work the hell out of them in spin Updated on 2 Sep 2015: 9/2025 Updated on 3 Sep 2015: Updated on 24 Dec 2015: Updated on 11 Aug 2020: It has been a while and I gain weight I am now having liposuction to my legs and hopefully this will put me back on track Once this is done I will post a before and after pictures! I am still going to Dr Rayfield, because I trust him and his work, The reason I am posting this is to let anyone who is going to do this to make sure they keep in track with your weight.

I lost a lot of weight and decided to get a tummy tuck! Wow the proceedure was good I had to stay overnight in the hospital, I had 2 drains! That I went home with that I needed to attend to . It was not a bad procedure. Knowing how much skin was removed. I had to ware a tight garment around my tummy and I went back to the gym in about 2 wks or 10 days! My tummy is flat and I can feel my hip bones which I never could and dr lifted my private area and that was another area I never saw!! Funny talking about this! All I can say is I love my results When you hate your body and do something to change it you work hard to keep it that way! And that is why the gym is so important to me. That is important when having a procedure done you must have a gym that you love this will only help you in keeping his work looking the best I still need a little lypo in the mid section and that I will get down the line but my tummy is flat and I am so very happy! Updated on 28 Mar 2014: I only can give u an after picture I have lost more weight But my tummy is still good to me Updated on 28 Mar 2014: After photo I lost more weight so my mid section need lypo Updated on 28 Mar 2014: I wanted to add this to above But I hit save too fast This is after Updated on 8 Aug 2015: On the 12th it will be 3 ys Updated on 8 Aug 2015: This is me now in clothes I have lost weight and I Still have about 10 pounds more But I was 175 when I had it done 3yrs ago on the 8/12:2012 And I 136 now I want to lose more Updated on 9 Aug 2015: Just to show u it has been 3yrs Updated on 9 Aug 2015: Updated on 9 Aug 2015: Updated on 2 Sep 2015: I was 175 pounds here I had lost 35 pounds before my tummy tuck Updated on 2 Sep 2015: 3mo follow up Updated on 2 Sep 2015: 2015 this is me today I still have about 15 pounds more to lose Updated on 2 Sep 2015: Now 9/2015 Updated on 3 Sep 2015: These are all pictures I got from my dr office Updated on 3 Sep 2015: After Updated on 3 Sep 2015: Before surgery Updated on 19 Sep 2015: Having lost weight my mid section Needs toneing! But all in all it has been 3 years and I weight 175 before the tuck dr took off 10 pounds and I went down to 165 and now I am at 135 I still have 15 pounds I need to lose and that is my upper thighs! I am happy with my outcome 3 yr later !

Having lost a lot of weight, I hate that my neck made me look old! I am so very happy I had this done. My neck is longer and no skin hanging . The procedure was not bad. I did not need to take any pain medication . All I took was Advil and I was back to the gym in 2wks! Wow Dr Rayfield work is the best .. My neck is longer . I am so happy. Updated on 26 Mar 2014: It has been 10 mo since my neck lift! My neck looks so good and I always felt that my neck was too short! Now I am loving my results Thank you Dr Rayfield Updated on 29 Mar 2014: This does not show much Except how heavy I was Updated on 29 Mar 2014: I posted before I added the picture Updated on 13 Apr 2014: This month will be a year that I had my neck done . I am happy with my results . This picture is not that clear, but u can see my neck looks great . Very happy. Updated on 13 Apr 2014: Updated picture ! My neck looks good, so happy with my results Updated on 7 Aug 2015: I am posting my picture again Showing how my neck lift held up Very happy Updated on 8 Aug 2015: Just wanted to add this photo Updated on 14 Aug 2015: Updated on 8 Sep 2015: Updated on 21 Sep 2015: I had my eyes done and my neck This is my before the beginning When I was heavy Updated on 22 Sep 2015: Updated on 26 Nov 2017: I have gain a little, my neck needs a little tweeking but all in all i still do not look 62 Updated on 26 Sep 2020: I never posted me when I was at 280 pounds. This is back in 2003. So my Journey been a long one , and I also will see myself at that weight. Because of so much fat on my body , I worry that I gain 25 pounds which now I have lost again and I will keep on losing. So having procedure helps me accomplish What I need. I went to have my first procedure on my eyes and lypo on my legs I was down 220. And my legs were too big as you can see. That enable me to lose 45 pounds the. My tummy tuck which took off 10 pounds but my skin was hanging. I lost more weight afterwards another procedure my leg lift which I had at 155. Then my neck at the end. I still have fat pockets and I will always see myself like this, so I do not l Use plastic surgery to lose weight but to get it off area that I can never lose due to my orig picture and that where it deposit on my body. Updated on 24 Jan 2025: This is my neck today it has been 11years since I had it done Still not Bad! May need a little tweak but all n all thing are good Updated on 2 Feb 2025: Botox kick in. Dr Rayfield is the best

**Breast-Lift**Breast Reduction** Scheduled February 12, 2014 I began my self improve long before I ever entertained any type of cosmetic surgery. ***LoveLoveBelieve+*** is my profile name and my attitude toward life. September 16th 2013 I had my Tummy-tuck at 60. Read my profile it was one of the best decisions ever. I connected with so many wonderful woman I Thank You all. I am now a 61 year of old woman with a positive , youthful attitude, and a good sense of humor. I am preparing for a Breast-Lift Breast/reduction scheduled February 12, 2014 My entire adult life my breasts have been oversized, Like two-pendulums never firm ,very flat (not a pretty picture way to much weight up-top... When I'm naked my nipples are uneven. Perky never has been in my Vocabulary. LOL My friends, I ask of you, any advice, share your stories advise me how to prepare for this Procedure. I'm just starting to prepare myself both body and mind but Still a clueless. I will add a couple pre-surgery pictures of the girls...I wear a Size G cup and the underwire is pure pain. ((((Hugs to all ))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 20 Jan 2014: Updated my profile ******23 days Pre-Op******* ***Breast-Lift***Breast-Reduction Just over 3 weeks away, I am preparing trying to become stoked. The pain from underwire bras hopefully will fade. I've decided to make this body altering decision, not by myself but with the love and support of my husband (aka my Wizard) For now I'd like to connect with other gals and share What do I need to do to prepare Best surgial - Bras any advice Welcomed Thank you, (((Hugs))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 22 Jan 2014: Yep, After having such a successful TummyTuck just 4 months ago, my results are better than this old broad would of hoped for.... I joked about by sagging Boobs shortly after my Tummy Tuck...my girls 34G Boobs lost their resting place, ( they used to rest nicely on my upper belly roll ) they now are hanging lower than ever. TMI LOL I started contemplating a Breast-Lift-Reduction shortly after my tummy tuck Sept. 2013 . Reading my friends profiles here on RealSelf , so many successful surgeries opened my eyes wider to my possibilities.... Smaller Breasts might be in my future. At that time my husband ( AKA my Wizard) didn't even want to enter into a conversation with me about my Boobs.... Well this 'Ol gal now 61 years ain't gettin' any younger. Why not.... Grab the Brass Ring So my last TT appointment with a Doctor Rayfield I also scheduled a consult to be coincided for a Breast-Lift. I scheduled my Breast-Lift-Reduction surgery that day. (FYI after almost 41 years of marriage, my Wizard knew it was fruitless to try and discourage me once my mind is made up) I did let him know before I signed the contact LoL Surgery 3 weeks from today 2/12/2014. I am beginning prepare myself once again for a life altering positive change. I am not clear which review I should post this on....Tummy Tucks or Breast-lift-reduction. I'm gonna put it on both profiles for now.... ((( hugs to all who are healing))) (((good vibes for all preparing for surgery))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 24 Jan 2014: I'm very relaxed with my surgery coming soon. Need to figure out what Post-Surgery bra to buy... My surgeon said I will most likely be a generous C , I have dreamt of smaller breasts so a Generous C will work for me. I was an overweight child, when I developed as a young girl/woman my breasts were fatty, but never firm or Perky....after nursing my children gaining and losing weight over the years the girls just started to deflate , hang low sitting on my upper belly LOL ( ya gotta have humor) WELL the Belly is gone since my Tummy Tuck 4 months ago...9/16/2013 Soon my B@@bs will be sittin' Pretty. :-) Thanks for letting me Babble. ((((Hugs)))) I love being able to out it all out here on RealSelf!!!!!! (((Hugs)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 28 Jan 2014: Had Pre-Op appointment today 15 Days time is ticking 2/12/2014 will be here be I know. I was relaxed talking with my doctor, he went over exactly what is going happen the day of surgery. He said he feels my Breast-Lift-reduction will be really successful, a big change for me. Got scripts to be filled for antibiotics to start the day before surgery, already had pain meds from my TT ( they are still good) During my Breast-Lift, Doctor Rayfield is doing a revision ( tiny dog ear) on my TT incision. A result from healing after my tummy tuck. We talked about a having him do a bit more Lipo on my flanks (My Love Handles ) while I was already in surgery the anesthesiologist and operating room were already included in my original estimate ....Scheduling allows for up to 3 hours ....the timing would work out.... Doc would have to add an additional fee $$$$ ( I really expected that.... Only $600 additional ) I felt that fair, for what I was asking. I'm thrilled, I don't think I ever would schedule this by itself.....: why not tweak it during my breast-lift. More Lipo and compression binder again what ever was I thinking LOL More later (((hugs))) Updated on 4 Feb 2014: Got my Post-Surgical Bra it's the Marena Surgical Bra with 2" Elastic Band (F5 Certified Compression Garment). I thought I'd post pre-op pictures wearing it. Feels cozy, I don't think I could find a bra better than this.. I also took a few pictures ***side by side*** pictures showing areas my surgeon is going to "tweak" during my Breast-Lift surgery. It's funny last week....the morning I was going for my pre-op appointment , I said to my husband (aka My Wizard) I felt that my Flanks ,my Love Handles on my right waist and back .....were a bit lopsided since my TummyTuck, ( my right side considerably is ........ for lack of better words (more fatty). He just snickered and said "I KNOW...." Hummmmm Unless I approached this subject My Wizard would of never said a word about my extra FATTY RIGHT LOVE HANDLE area...... When I said, I was going to mention this FATTY area to Doctor Rayfield & I wanted to l@@k into getting a bit more Lipo , My Wizard grinned he said he knew it was only a matter of time... Damn after 40 years of marriage this man knows me all to well.LOL I STILL Totally LOVE MY TUMMY TUCK...so glad I am on the FLAT SIDE :-) Only 8 days now and my B@@bs will be a normal size... I am prepared once again to wear a compression binder after the Lipo Why am I not Freaking out ? I'm calm almost to calm.... XXOOXX (((Hugs to all who are Healing))) (((Hugs to those of you wanting smaller Jugs))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 7 Feb 2014: Morning coffee and B@@B Humor 7 Feb 2014 5 months post My Wizard ( oh yeah for those of you who don't know that what I can my Hubby) just brought morning coffee and this joke...on a tray. He finds haha's is just about everything of course B@@bs have been pretty much daily chatter with us lately LOL Just got a call from my surgeons office , my surgery time got moved to 10 am this coming Wednesday 2/12 . It had been scheduled in the early afternoon....I am happy going earlier in the morning :-) I haven't gotten many supplies in for this surgery except post-surgial bras & some soft flannel to keep the bras from rubbing (thanks HappySuzy) what else do I need? Oh yeah I have Arnica . Ahhhh what am I forgetting ? Times -a-tick-tick-ticking•••••••••• I'm a bit Anxious , more excited to get these girls under control Enjoy my Wizards Humor (Hugs)LLB PS. I posted this on my other profile twice MUST BE MY NERVES Updated on 11 Feb 2014: Tomorrow morning Wednesday 2/12/2014 is my Breast-Lift 10am, I am ready.... I am confident and relaxed that I have a brilliant Doctor. Luckily for me time did't drag...this last week flew by. This morning I got a phone call from the surgical center , giving me all the details for tomorrow arrive 10am no jewelry photo I.D. Comfortable clothes **yada yada yada.....I must have someone to drive me and bring me home, Of course my Wizard will be with me. Thankfully my nerves aren't getting the best of me (((No sign of getting Hives))) for me that's a big deal usually my body acts out and hives take over....so far I'm controlling them :-) shhhhhhh anxiety drug help! LOL I wanted to take a couple of last minute pictures of the girls this afternoon. I will post one ( I used a measuring tape ) Hummmmmm. It will be interesting to see an after shot once I get my Girls Lifted ..... My Wizard has provided comedy relief all day, he wanted to have a going away party everytime I walked past him. He brought GROPING to completely new levels...what can I say HE's Italian. TMI Hands down, I refused his offer to help me take pictures, just another way of hanging around me trying to say FAREWELL to the girls.... What is it with Men And B@@bs ?????? I'm in big trouble once these puppies are PERKY... LOL. said with my normal touch of humor girls. I want to Thank everyone for caring and sharing here on RealSelf. I'll do my best to update soon......when I'm able (((Hugs to all who are Healing))) As always, LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 12 Feb 2014: When I was awaking from surgery my right eye wouldn't stay opened, not from the surgery appeared sore like an eyelash in it but worse sight in the eye seems fine :-). Thank goodness !!! I couldn't keep my eye opened and it hurt ...scratched??????? At the hospital they tried to flush it, called an eye doctors gave Me Medicated drops if it's no better in the morning I'll go to a eye doctor Something is going on ....grrrrrr as a results I have to Keep it Closed, can't read much , tying on my phone way to hard.... This sucks it certainly. It is taking my mind off any Breast pain. LOL. I will be in touch when I am able my friends . Thank you for all the well Wishes Details will have to be another time LLB While I was writing this my surgeon called to check up on me. I filled him in on what was happening. he said my surgery was perfect... Well that made me smile. Good night my friends LLB Updated on 13 Feb 2014: 13 Feb 2014 Day of Breast Surgery... We arrived at the surgery center 10am all my medical information was completed on the computer earlier in the week, it made checking in a breeze....paid with plastic (of course we are usually all self-pay). Within a few minutes my name was called, I kissed My wizard goodby, went into the back I was put into Cubby #4 that my waiting area.... There was a cozy chair and a gown, the nurse took vitals put the shunt in my hand. Within a few minutes Doctor Rayfield came in the cubby, he marked my body, he agreed my right flank needed the additional Lipo ....it needed to be resized. He did his drawings on my Breast, we talked again about what Breast-size I wanted to be. Final decision, a Full C-cup to do what he has to. I feel so comfortable with Doctor Rayfield, even standing in for of him in my birthday-suit very much at ease... I literally was about to put my body, into his very gifted hands to sculpt by new Breasts. Doc. asked me about my hives , I've been trying so hard to keep them under control, taking chill pills for the last couple of weeks. It isn't easy keeping a chronic condition under control......I showed Doctor Rayfield a big hive on my forehead the size of a half dollar...the anesthesiologist was in the room listening ( the anesthesiologist said that if I had others he would have to cancel surgery.) Well, I shut up quickly because I knew my hives were in their hatching stage and I would be getting more.( in fact I had some hives thru my scalp..that's what happens when my nerves get the best of me. Today, I have hives right now....day after surgery...it isn't anything unusual for me...just a itchy-bitchy-Problem I deal with. After Doctor Rayfield marked my body for surgery , I got my camera and snapped a couple if pictures. I'll post a couple pictures one pre-surgery and one of me wrapped like a mummy. While I was waiting to go to surgery I put myself in a G@@d place.... relaxed my body & mind .........closed my eyes did breathing exercises and meditated ... Soon a nurse came to cubby #4 to bring me to the operating room. I got into a relaxed position, on the operating table.....time pasted Doctor Rayfield and his trusty nurse Rachel worked together , I remember nothing, time passed & the surgery was over....My wizard was in cubby#4 waiting, as I began to wake up (it was obvious something was wrong with my right eye ) the nurse Larry, washed my eye our with saline , they called an eye specialist he suggested Neomycin & Polymyxin B sulfates & Dexamethasone (I just read it's a Ocular steroid. ) All the fussing with my eye prolonged the afternoon, finally My Wizard helped me get dressed and we went home....I began nesting in my recliner...my body was sore, I have been keeping on top of the pain meds... It was so frustrating last night, I needed or should say I wanted to write a little on my profile....grrrrrrr after futzing around I finally was able to write a little , just to let ya all know I survived.....it was hard to hold my eye opened I almost forgot about my b@@bs .... Unbelievable distraction...woke every 4 hours during the night for meds and walk This morning my eye still felt a bit funky, but my vision was fine and I can keep it open. Today was totally a day of healing......l I slept most of the afternoon, all I did was relax. I need to force myself to stay awake right now. Doctor Rayfield has me taped and wrapped tight, Tomorrow , I am allowed to take the tape and compression stuff off, get a shower.....OMG I GET TO SEE THE GIRLS! I have no idea what to expect... After I get cleaned up tomorrow, I'll take pictures A NOTE TO Everyone who sent me good wishes YESTERDAY AND TODAY THANK YOU!!!!! I I have made the personal choice to Keep my Breast-Lift surgery private, not sharing details with very many friends and family... It Makes well wishes from all you girls that much more SPECIAL....IT MEANS ALOT , THANK YOU SOOOOOOO MUCH....we really share a common thread...... G@@dnight my RealSelf friends, As always , ((((hugs)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 14 Feb 2014: 14 Feb 2014 I couldn't wait to unwrap myself this morning 2 days after my Breast-Lift-Reduction Surgery....I swear it felt like Christmas morning LOL My Wizard put a heater in the bathroom to warm room, he's thoughtful like that :-) Of course I grabbed my camera, taking pictures every step of the way.... I had a compression binder around my lower body, sterile pads, gauze, and tape....I couldn't wait to get it off my skin. We carefully peeled the gauze with dried blood off my body, the tape encompassed my body, we pulled it slowly & carefully not knowing what to expect .....I was lucky I didn't get any blisters from the tape that was directly on my skin. We removed everything except the steri-strips that protected (covered) the incisions. At that moment I was feeling tired so I decided not to wash my hair, just a quick rinse ....it was good enough...we tried to scrub some of the ink off, from my Doctors marking pen. It felt so good to have all the wrapping off, I had totally l@@ked like the Michelin Man...I was l@@king at my Little B@@bies.....OMG!!!!!! Is that really my body????? I have such a good feeling & I am very HAPPY.....my B@@bs look PERKY and I already have feeling in my NIPPLES. My hubby, just smiled his words "they L@@k GREAT. I snapped a couple of selfies... ALL THat activity wore me out....I finally put my post-surgical bra on....put squares of sterile gauze along the incision so nothing rubs.. Put on cozy clothes, hubby brought me my second cup of coffee with another JOKE..... I LOVE THAT MAN, my Wizard........I AM A LUCKY WOMAN. THats it for today, I LoVe my new b@@bs ...Doctor Rayfield Thank you! As always, ((((hugs to all who are Healing ))) LiveLoveBelieve I dedicate the rest of my day to healing.....thanks to all my RealSelf friends Oops! Forgot to post the Cartoon from My Wizard?.. 14 Feb 2014 5 months post My Valentine morning humor served with my second cup of coffee :-)from my Hubby.....LOL Updated on 16 Feb 2014: I needed to take the tape off my Breast-Lift incisions , and my nipples. Partly because it looked so gross. & of course was curious. I have quite a bit of oozing and very raw red skin, (not where the incisions is but on the side of my breast) I felt like the tape just collected germs. I SLOWLY removed the tape, on both sides of my breasts. The raw red areas (it looks like the skin under a blister that loses the skin, ) well that needed to be exposed to air....smothered under all that tape wasn't gonna help the healing process..not that I'm a nurse I thinks it's just common sense . My boobs are bruised, my nipples looks pretty good to me, my incisions sore, there are a couple of spots oozing, so I am putting medicine I had leftover from my TT surgery ( I used to use it on my BB......)and I'm using sterile gauze pads . I tuck them inside my compression bra. I thought tonight I'd post a couple of pictures feel free to make comments after all it's my first breast lift .... I slept a lot today...stopped taking OXY. Tylenol is all I've used today. Posting 3 side by side photos I think they really show how high up my girls are now. (Hugs). LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 17 Feb 2014: Today, 6 days post-surgery :-( Bloated-Constipated-Tired-Sore-with a Low Grade 17 Feb 2014 Most of the day I have been dragging just haven't been myself all day. Tonight I took my temp, it's low-grade not quite 100degrees.( I took 2 Tylenol that should bring it down) I'm bloated,probably just full of poop (nothing seems to be working) psyllium husk is usually my go to fix. (I'll take some more colace & MOM at bedtime ) My body is swollen a bit of (swell hell) perhaps the Lipo,or surgery in general...I've been keeping my compression binder on most of the time. With out saying , of course my B@@bs are bruised and tender( they are oozing a bit, I am tending to the open blistered areas & keeping the area clean & dry. Tomorrow morning, I have my first Post-op appointment with Doctor Rayfield I've already taken all the Steri-strips and tape off...without really knowing if I should of. The tape was wet from body fluids, seemed like a breeding ground for infection really pretty gross. ( Common sense kicked in ) I was extra careful taking the tape off around my nipples, I had no idea what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised the nipple area. The rest of the incisions are tender. I'm keeping it covered with sterile gauze pads next to my skin. I'm hoping for a better day tomorrow , expecting another snow storm here in New Jersey. (((Hugs ))) LIveLoveBelieve Updated on 18 Feb 2014: 18 Feb 2014 After being so Grumpy last night thought I'd share. :-) Sure got rid A lot of my BloATinG. LOL It's a good day! I don't seem to have a fever, shower time !!! It's snowy & icy outside will leave early for my Doctors appointment ((( hugs ))) LLB Updated on 18 Feb 2014: I swear I never have to wait more than 10 minutes when I go to see Doctor Rayfield. I was taken back , got into a gown, a few minutes later, Rachel came in the room ( Rachel is Dr.Rayfields surgical nurse). Well she came in to remove the tape.... OOPS!!!! (. L@ks like I did her job. ) I had no idea that I wasn't suppose to take all the tape off & the Steri-strips. I explained to her about the oozing , and wanting to keep it dry and clean.... NO HARM DONE. The good news Dr.Rayfield came into the room, he reassured me that (I DID NO DAMAGE They just like to wait until the first appointment ) he was totally pleased with his handi-work my nipple height exactly what he wanted. Once swelling & the bruised areas heal looks like i'll end up a NICE C-cup. He did point out to me, bruised areas near my armpits Doc said , he added a bit of additional Lipo to thin it out....an eye for detail my doctor has. The Lipo he did on my flanks, Dr. Rayfield seems to think it will balance out the unevenness I had...I know I'll be happy to have a bit less fat there (I'm glad I added it.) we really didn't talk about the stitches in the area I had the dog ear revision, but it looks,better. My next appointment is this coming this Friday morning Dr.Rayfield is going to remove 2 stitches at the base of my B@@bs. Apparently those 2 stitches are the only ones needing to be removed, the rest of the stitches that hold my b@@bs together dissolve as I heal, and my skin begins to smooth. I know my incisions from my TummyTuck healed just fine, With my B@@bs it should work the same ......but for some reason it makes me nervous That's my update today! Tonight my b@@bs feel swollen and tender... I don't seem to have a fever right now, Dr.Rayfield said, low grade under 100 degrees was nothing to worry about my body working to heal, take Tylenol Tomorrow I'll take some more pictures..... (((Healing Hugs))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 21 Feb 2014: Pictures of healing my B@@Bs 10 days post-op they feel Sore & Angry.....DoctorRayfield says I look good :-) Updated on 21 Feb 2014: 9 day Post-Op Breast-Lift B@@bs. fell Angry & Sore but I'm healing nicely, I went this morning 2/21/2014 for my second Post-op for my Breast-lift. I told Doctor Rayfield that by breasts felt angry and sore, I took a couple of pictures, and I'll post them. After examination he said I'm doing great, I Will improve daily, call the office if I need anything at all. Next appointment 2 weeks. On a 1- 10 scale I'd say I'm a 8...... Big hugs to all healing... As always LLB. ps adding another. Picture Updated on 25 Feb 2014: Just a quick update, my b@@bs are feeling much better than they were last week, my incisions are still sore but the healing is coming along. Keeping busy with family matters, taking for focus off myself a few hours a day. For the last several days My Wizard and I have been spending most of our days with an elderly Aunt who just turned 94 yesterday ( she has been on Hospice, she is failing, her time to transition is close, She is the last family member of her generation, she is ready to move on. Being able to spend time with a loved one at the end is sad but at the same time it makes me feel good, surrounding her with love puts LIFE into prospective, LIFE is Precious.... Thinking on that line.....We only go around once, we who have made decisions to improve our physical bodies....We , show-ourselves LOVE and Courage to improve our quality of life, be in control of our physical bodies, improve our Self-Esteem for OURSELVES, because we love ourselves. Our futures are unknown, living in the here and now are what we are doing. It's all good.... For all that are Healing or preparing for surgery..... ((Hugs)) AS ALWAYS LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 2 Mar 2014: "A picture is worth a thousand words" ~~~~ VISUALIZATION ~~~~ It's been just over 2 weeks now since my Breast-Lift 2/12/2014 I've been getting some side by side photos together.... Loving my Smaller B@@bs!!! I'm feeling strong and healing nicely a few raw and tender areas (honestly I think my left Boob is a bit larger than righty... I'm not all that concerned just two weeks after my surgery...time will tell) My pictures show I am still healing....my skin is shedding old layers of skin as I heal....I am peeling as I had a bad sunburn, I haven't read this for other gals, have other had layers of skin peel away on their breasts? Also I had additional Lipo...on my right flank... two weeks into recovery I am not sure the Lipo even made a difference...definitely going to chat with Doctor Rayfield I paid additional $$$$ was hoping to see a change, it's only been two weeks ...the JURY IS STILL OUT! Updated on 2 Mar 2014: Showing my Tummy Tuck incision....Almost 5 months post-op.... OH how true..... Ya gotta agree LOL LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 4 Mar 2014: I think I have a BULGING LIGAMENT Under my Breast down running down towards my Belly button 4 Mar 2014 Good morning ladies , I am looking for answers today and WONDERING if anyone has had this happen after a Breast-Lift. I think I have a BULGING LIGAMENT Under my Breast down running down towards my Belly button.... A few days ago I felt bruised or tender underneath my left boob, after giving it a bit of attention I realized it was a raised and tight ( it's really tender) running down my tummy towards my TT incision.( It feels hard like a piece of solid rope, pulled very tight.) My right side has a similar bulge but not as painful, & it is only under my breast.....( SO FAR ) It's interesting I Googled my symptoms..... No big surprise it brought me to REALSELF...... I am pretty sure this is what's going on....it's referred to as Mondor's Disease of the Breast. If that is what's going on, it'll go away hopefully cause its a bit painful (just a little bit) Picture from google of area affected. ( just an illustration ) hummmmmm Anybody else dealing with these symptoms ? Updated on 4 Mar 2014: The pictures really aren't very good. Posting pictures faint raised lines under the skin ~~~ maybe ya can see what I'm referring to~~~ I called my surgeon I have an appointment tomorrow morning at 9:30.... It really is not painful I'm just curious what could be causing this A very strange anomaly LLB Updated on 4 Mar 2014: Forgot the picture Updated on 6 Mar 2014: having these swollen ligaments looked at yesterday makes me feel reassured, this will go away by itself, Doc wanted to be sure there were no bleeds under the skin ruling out clots etc. He sees this from time to time after BL & BA, also, I have seen other gals here on RealSelf who have similar swellings . Heat & massage are effective treatments but not necessary. It'll go away in due time. Okay I guess I panicked, Doctor Rayfield checked to see how my Breasts are healing.... He was pleased and said to give it time... I can't believe it just over 3 weeks since my girls were downsized. I don't have any true restrictions, I can return to the gym, light weights & swimming next week. My friends I need motivation.. I have the winter doldrums and a bit of Lazy LOL LLB

I am 60 years old.....in years only... My TummyTuckJourney begins with this entry "Hello everyone!!!!!" TIMES A TICKING!!!!! Less than 2 weeks September 16th is my surgery. I am amazingly calm, a bit unusual for me because I tend to be hyper and a bit anxious at times....I am totally on board with my surgery, knowing it is the right choice for me...dropping over 50 pound fron 210 lbs. to 156 lbs. over the past year.... the old fashioned way....DIET, lifestyle change and good choices... I have been learning to live everyday to its fullest, loving myself because I am worth it, and believing in myself, MY REALSELF..... that's is why I chose my user name LIveLoveBelieve L@@king forward to getting my Tummy Tuck as well as Lipo on my flanks the all so mushy LOVE HANDLES;)..... As the days are crossed off the calendar I have mixed emotions my thoughts are like the wind, wrapping my mind around my thoughts , I am taking this Giant Leap.....and it's for Me! Any helpful suggestions will be totally WELCOMED.....the minutes a ticking away quickly I don't know anyone who has personally walked this path... THE TUMMY TUCK PATH....Realself is wonderful it opens up a forum to keep us connected with wonderful peeps! Hoping to connect with others. :) I had my pre-op doctors appointment 2 days ago and my pre-op testing today.... As they say in the game of poker I'm ALL IN....... Thanks everyone for letting me rant on......... Updated on 7 Sep 2013: I got a phone call from my Doctors office yesterday, some of the blood tests I had done pre-op stuff concern them High Potassium and something about my calcium levels..... I am totally FREAKED that this is going to interfere with my Tummy Tuck surgery scheduled 10 days from now.... The doctor needs the lab to repeat there tests...... Of course I went bact to the hospital yesterday right after I got the phone call ....for more blood to be drawn Pre-op. I spent way to much time last night, trying to figure out what could be happening. G@@gle is a great tool......but one that could paralyze you, if your allow it to .. Hopefully it has nothing to do with my Kindeys......High Potassium levels are connected.....gotta shut down the Internet......overload of information...... Anyone else ever have High Potassium Levels Pre-op? I should of listened better to my doctor when was reviewing my blood test results, I didnt write the details down about my calcuim levels just that it is also concern. #1 Rule take notes... Breath deeply, Stay postive, Reach out, Chill....... Doc said that these level world concern my anesthetist prior to surgery ...... NOT GOOD!!!!! Enough to even cancel..... AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! What is going on?????? I am so ready to have my surgery.... TRYING to be Positive but now I am totally worried..... I keep l@@king at my rolls of fat....they need to be gone,,,,I need this surgery to move forward..... I'll know on more Monday, once the new bloodwork is studied..... Thanks everyone for letting me ramble...... Updated on 9 Sep 2013: I had addition pre-op Blood work on Friday because high potassium and questionable results.....I've been on pins and needles all weekend waiting to hear from my Surgeon hopefully early-up in the day. I am so ready to have my surgery, I have been fearing there will be a delay,or worse. Help... I need suggestions, a list if the most important things to get prior to my TummyTuck. I have a shower seat, toilet riser, regular recliner, baby wipes, arnica....pretty short list I need suggestions! Just pacing the floor until I hear something about my blood work, then i'll deal with it. I will update later once I hear from my doctor..... Updated on 9 Sep 2013: I am totally thrilled to say...all my worries..... I had over last weekend have vanished. I was so afraid my surgery would be postponed, but it's not. The second set of Blood Tests were perfect. EVERYTHING will move along as scheduled THANK GOODNESS! I even took the time today to bring all my houseplants inside to my sunroom, and decorate for Halloween. I won't be climbing into the attic later had to do it now. Getting my ducks in a row as they say! Updated on 10 Sep 2013: It's only 6 days till I get my Tummy Tuck, then I'll understand everything I've been reading here on RS, and need everyone's help and wisdom even more.... I am trying to remain Calm, but that is not easy, when my mind and nerves are start to get the best of me I take a deep breathe, I remind myself be positive, My TT journey is just beginning.... then I try to keep busy , been sorting thru my clothes finding loose and cozy things to set aside...to make it easier for my hubby to find when I want them, ( I am the person that has to find my hubby's stuff for him most of the time for time LOL ....I'll have to pass the torch, let him take care of me during this new and exciting CHAPTER IN LIFE.... We've just celebrated our 40th Wedding Anniversary.... I'm looking forward to the sequel...... Title: Post TT. :)) Big Smiles :)). ((Hugs )) Updated on 11 Sep 2013: Good Morning Ladies! { 5-4-3-2-1 } Blastoff!!!!! I mean Tummy Off!!!! LOL I've been reading reviews since the wee hours of the morning!!!!! I guess I have to much time on my hands, and excess skin on my tummy... Hoping the next 5 Days speed by quickly.... After reading about swelling post-op I know I need to cut back radically on sodium in my diet, I've stopped eating most sugar in foods, except a few fruits .... SALTy foods are my guilty pleasure ...green olives,sharp cheeses, I love Crazy Janes salts (every flavor made). I add salt to everything, guess I have to change that habit for the next several months starting today, it won't be easy. Hummmmmmm! Any suggestions Updated on 12 Sep 2013: Only 4 days now Monday September 16th TT Day! I've been to busy to worry thoughts of my upcoming surgery,thoughts do creep in and out of my subconscious... Mostly positive happy thoughts....excited that I am doing this for ME. I posted picture of me in really tight pants LOL , I think my belly looks like a Butt, and girls I know you'll agree IT NEEDS TO GO! Yes!!!! IT REALLY NEEDS TO GO!!!!!! I Picked up these pants at a yard sale and decided to try them on....will use this pair of pants one of these days post-op...time will tell Until tomorrow. ((((Hugs)))) Updated on 13 Sep 2013: Still HANGIN' in there 3 day countdown. Just got a phone call from the hospital reminding me to be there Monday Morning 11:30 am. No food or drink after midnight I know it's just a Blink of the Eye in the big picture of life, BUT in the ( here and now ) it's a biggie....perhaps the BIGGEST Personal Choice I've ever made for myself concerning my body, except my choice to change some of my ( old learned behaviors,) Starting to eat healthy was the first thing for me....totally learning to except me for me. ( I yam who I yam ) Love myself..... Everyday unconditionally! It took me 6O years ....I guess I'm not a quick study BUT I'M getting there. LOL I guess I need an overnight bag for the hospital... Hummmmmmm! Slippers, robe, I'll wear their gown. Hair Brush, toothbrush/ paste Cozy clothes, slip on shoes. Pillow for the car ride home What am I forgetting??????? Suggestions Thanks (((( hugs )))) Updated on 14 Sep 2013: 2 days Pre-Op Lots of Distractions! Thank Goodness! It Helped passed the day! It's late Saturday night i am physically exhausted and that's a good thing. I know I'll sleep we'll. Tomorrow will be the day before my TT.... I am going to pamper myself, eat light, rest, make sure I am ready in body and mind for sure!!!! (dot my i's and cross my t's) good night and well wishes to everyone healing! (((hugs))) Updated on 15 Sep 2013: Thanks for the well wishes from everyone... Tomorrow September 16th is my Surgery!!!!! 1:30pm BE POSITIVE,CALM and LOVE YOURSELVES It has been wonderful reading everyone's profile on RealSelf.... A huge help for me personally following everyone's progress... To know we're not alone. My husband of 40 years is a quiet, gentle man with a great sense of humor, he is supportive, and will care for me Post-Op, BUT he will NOT talk with me 24/7 about my TummyTuck ..... RealSelf has been the most wonderful outlet for me prior to surgery.....KEPT ME CALM! To know, I we can reach out to each other. It's such a great feeling....(sorta like a Congo line at a wedding ) holding onto everyone.( Sometimes I crack myself up with my scenarios LOL!!!!!) Tomorrow is my surgery, I am 60, not exactly a spring chicken! LOL I don't feel 60, Pre-op I've been told I look better than I have in 25 years ..losing more than 50 pounds just got the ball rolling! I have learned so much in the last year ....most of all how to LOVE MYSELF that is where my journey began GIRLS, That is the best advice I can give you, Our lives can only get better...once we open our hearts to ourselves .....the rest will follow I'll update soon. Relaxing is my plan for the day!!!!!!!!! Till tomorrow ((((Hugs)))) Updated on 15 Sep 2013: BELLY BUTTON, This is our LAST NIGHT TOGETHER! A moment of silence for my 60 year old belly button and all the surrounding skin on my belly and more......tomorrow we are going to be separated! We're going to stop sleeping together & waking up together. My TummyTuck Surgery is scheduled for 1:30 pm THANKS FOR ALL THE GOOD ((((Vibes)))) I will update again tomorrow Good-Night Ladies... (((Hugs))) Updated on 16 Sep 2013: Surgery not till 1:30..... No coffee this morning, what's a girl to do? I am ready for "the flat side" I will try to post tonight when I'm up to it ! All you gals have been wonderful Thank You!!!! (((Hugs))) Updated on 16 Sep 2013: Surgery went really well..... Thank you for the good ((vibes)) Updates to follow I am now On the Flat Side now BABY!!!! And very tired Picture of my new friend. It is great to hug ! Pain buster Updated on 17 Sep 2013: My 1st Post-Op day!!!!! Times a Changin' I am now on the Flat side it is UP Hill from here. I can only take Baby Steps... One Day At A Time to Healing!!!! My 60 year old classic frame just got out of the Body Shop (that's how I'm looking at it today ) Yesterday my Tummy Tuck journey became official. My husband just wanted my surgery over with ( he was worried for me) My brother,who has always been supportive, always here for me since we were ida is so instrumental in my weight loss, truely my Jiminy Cricket That a a story in itself , Flew in from out of town to help. All the good (((vibes))) love and (((prayers))) have been prior to Surgery the Best Rest this evening good night Updated on 18 Sep 2013: It's uncanny how relaxed I was yesterday and still am today Day 2 Post-Op Yes, there will be pain....Mostly when I am getting up and walking It is a ***bee-otch*** I know the outcome is sooooo worth it....lts the cherry on top, the brass ring..... OH SO WORTH IT!!! The day of surgery I was in such a good place mentally, the nurses and my surgeon made me feel so relaxed, especially the DRUGS... LoL.....very relaxed.... My surgeon marked my body, I pointed out a couple of zones to Lipo we had not talked about....my Doc even marked my package zone for extra Lipo to smooth the fatty area down below my incision .... Wow!!!! I referred to my surgeon as my sculptor I think he got a chuckle out of that.....then to the operating room... I don't remember anything after that. I was ready.... I woke up after surgery wrapped like a mummy.....and two days later I am still wrapped up... After surgery my doctor was pleased.... he removed about 5lbs from my Tummy and another 2lbs ++++ from flanks.... Now that weight loss one o one! I will make an appointment today for tomorrow ..... I think all the bindings and surgical tape will be removed ....my unveiling. I can't wait to share the experience and pictures... Real-self has empowers us women to understand and help others AT THIS MOMENT IN TIME! We can share our experiences, pain,fears,and knowledge to comfort,and support each other. We have been given this opportunity to lean on each other. ( Damn I sound like a preacher) ...LOL ( I really am not.....) thank you everyone and RealSelf... Now if I could only PASS GAS.....and Poop! LoL ((((Hugs)))). B back Later My pesky brother is giving me a hard time girls....he found my hubby's candy drawer & he can't stop eating it LOL. My Jiminy Cricket Thinks I am going inhale it all in my first Post-op depression. Girls ......what are your thoughts... Updated on 18 Sep 2013: Tomorrow afternoon I see my surgeon 1st visit Post-Op.... It's gonna be like "Christmas Morning" unwrapping the new me ,I will post some pictures... I am very excited (((Hugs))) Updated on 19 Sep 2013: My brother left early this morning after giving me love and support the last 7 days before and after my Tummy Tuck....he cooked enough high protein meals for the week...being here to help me,supporting my husband so he didn't have to go it alone before and after my surgery , providing comedy relief ( example) ....he said, "THAT DRAINS WERE THE WORST LOOKING set of GONADS HE HAD EVER SEEN. (Oh it hurt so much to laugh) all of the above and more....... PRICELESS!!!! I slept fairly well, forced myself to get and walk,and pass gas LOL 24/7 Hope to get it movin' ( ya all know what I mean ) Astonished I feel as strong as I do. I get my surgical wrap off late this afternoon.... Can't wait for see "THE FLAT SIDE" ((((HEALING HUGS)))) TO ALL WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE ME AND THOSE PREPARING THEMSELVES TO BE TRANSFORMED.... BE BACK LATER GIRLS Updated on 19 Sep 2013: My first peek......i really am on "THE FLAT SIDE" Day 3 post-op I've been waiting all day....and I'm not disappointed... I had no idea what to expect...I think my new belly button is quiet a bit higher than my incision OH YEAH! That's a good thing... My friends I am exhausted tonight my witty side needs a rest......i can't find WIT WHEN I HAVE to Sh-- !!!!!! LoL......I will return tomorrow with a new attitude.... (((((Hugs)))) to all who are healing. (((Positive Energy )))) ((((Good Attitude)))) Good Night Updated on 19 Sep 2013: Oops! I forgot the picture that's the best part "it's Christmas morning" Present to myself wrapped and unwrapped Updated on 19 Sep 2013: Updated on 21 Sep 2013: I'm back tonight after a couple days of REFLECTION .... It's all good!!!!! I am now 6 days post-op and I feel wonderful... I am so happy :-) I have had Quite a bit swelling in my belly,legs and feet, I understand it happens... I cut my sodium intake & kept my legs elevated .....things are a bit better tonight. I napped more than I probably needed to throughout the day with my kitty cat.....she's great to cuddle with, usually she sits on my belly, today I found it curious she didn't even try to climb on me....like she knew I was (((healing))) I took off my CG a while ago, I needed to breathe damn it's tight..... i was rubbing my new belly..... kinda felt like I was rubbing Buddha I LOVE MY NEW BELLY Updated on 22 Sep 2013: Can't do much else but ((( Heal))) Sooooooo I'm writing "MY STORY" I'll post it soon Updated on 22 Sep 2013: This is my story how my journey began.... The husband.... (aka The wizard) and myself (aka the frog) working in my garden... Yep that me sitting down on my butt.. I weighed over 212 pounds. I got tired very quickly and had to sit down often, The Summer of 2012 ,I was not in very good shape .... ya think? LOL ...The old woman across the street in her 80's Asked if she could take our picture ... Because we were working so hard On that hot summer day. Of course we said she could take the picture. A few days later The old woman in her 80s thought we might like a copy of the picture ...OMG! Who was that Frog faced woman,Sitting on a milk crate? Reality smacks me in the face OUCH!!!!!! Bam,Pow, Uck!!! It was totally in-your-face moment!!! That was me sitting there on the milk crate , for sure ,It be me hummmm. That picture the old woman brought me was one of the best gifts I ever Received . I use this picture as a tool. I look at it often, I remind myself no one got me fat but me. No one Forced me to over eat But me ... I allowed it to happen to myself. I took responsibility. I wanted to change. That was August 2012 My eyes were wide open ... I began dieting again ....dieting really never worked for me... I needed a total change.... My brother who I call my Jiminy Cricket came to visit August 2012 Shortly after the dreaded picture was taken. We about my weight, He knew I needed help ,he needed help As well He was going to have major foot surgery that following week. Jiminy Offered to help me get my life back... I packed my bags and off I went for three weeks.. The wizard was fine taking care of himself .... I would help Jiminy and he would help me... The beginning of intense Boot Camp! My first lesson was how to "Love" myself... Perhaps the hardest lesson I had to learn. I was resistant to loving myself but then I opened my heart... I finally said "I love me" And I meant it!!!! I started to believe... my self-esteem needed attention .... Emotional baggage was put to the curb. My inner healing began During those three weeks I changed my eating patterns Jiminy Cricket Helped me to decide on Atkins-based nutrition..... I read two books : 1) Gary Taubes ( why we get fat) 1) The new Atkins for a new you I read These books over and over chapter by chapter. Over and over Finally what they were saying in the books Started to sink in ... Boot Camp with my brother was very very intense... My brother gave me unconditional love & support.... After Boot Camp .... I made a 100% lifestyle change... I've always had a good sense about Nutrition I learned that FAT does not make FAT burns FAT ya gotta read the books!!!! The weight came off slowly And has stayed off. For the first time in many years I totally began to LIVE It's now the summer of 2013.... I saw The old lady who took my picture that hot summer day 2012.. She walked over again came up my long driveway ( a bit out of her way) to tell me how good I was l@@king .. She noticed how much weight I have had lost. I thanked her for Taking that picture that hot summer day August 2012..... I told her how instrumental she was it was having that picture. Well almost 60 pounds later , Here I am. It's been a journey My biggest lesson learned was LiveLoveBelieve the end Updated on 22 Sep 2013: Picture The summer of August 2012 Updated on 23 Sep 2013: This time last week I was just leaving to go to the hospital For my tummy tuck surgery... Hummmm! Now I am 7 days post -op I am feeling wonderful, Proud, Almost pain-free, Ready to embrace the rest of my life! That might be pushing it.... let Me change that.... the rest of the day!!! LOL Yesterday I shared my story... While posting on someone else's profile, I Cracked myself up... She was dreading putting her pictures on her profile page... The pictures That we post are truly a diary of our future.... I said To her ...Do you remember the movie The GOOD, The BAD, and The UGLY I said, us girls here At RealSelf have a few things backwards.... We Start with The UGLY, THE BAD, and The GOOD...... Think about that, There's As saying "Till I've walked in your shoes" We are all different sizes... Shapes, Colors, Ages, And the list goes on ..... In the case of a Tummy tuck....We all have to start somewhere....lets call that a BBD (bad belly day) When we embrace in our body and mind, What we want for our future.....hence "The Bad" "The UGLY" That's an easy one..(Us GirlsLoveYes) Yeah! we'd Love to see Ugly Go away! Finally, "The GOOD" hummmmmm Well I, think I've run out of cleverness.... I guess because GOOD is different for everybody.... _ _ _ _ !!!!! You have to fill in the blanks yourself. We all want to be our personal best... So for the rest of the day I guess I am going to LiveLoveBelieve. Wink Wink (((Hugs))). (((Healing)) (((Good Vibes)) When my daughter is home and we have a kitty cat sitting on our lap We say I'm stuck!!!!! Well I am stuck!!!! LOL Updated on 24 Sep 2013: Yesterday it was day seven post-op It was just one week ago that I had my tummy tuck... I went to my surgeon late in the day Yesterday . Doc took out my Drains I asked him what exactly to expect ,He told me it might pinch or burn a bit I took a breath, The one on the right came out very quickly not much of a big deal ... The one on the left The drain must of been much higher up in my abdomen.It didn't really hurt But felt so odd....My left hand was resting on my Buddha Belly (I call it that because I'm still quite swollen) I felt the drain hose moving down under my skin.... Not painful it just a really felt weird.... Just part of the Tommy tuck experience... I asked how I was healing ... Compared to much younger girls ... I was reassured I was doing as well or better than most having a tummy tuck.... I think he likes my Spunk... I sure feel like I have it Spunk!!!!! Doc thought my bellybutton looked great... His nurse Rachel removed the stitches She was so gentle I didn't feel a thing..... It's official I have a newborn bellybutton.. It's a Cute One!!!! Oddly, All that made me a bit nervous.... I was a concerned that That area might not be healed enough.... I was wrong Everything is looking just right Reality Just smacked me in the head I am not a doctor... Just trying to be a model patient. LOL I love my new flat belly!!!!! I'm starting to look to buy a new compression garment.... I do not want one With legs and a crotch.... Any suggestions. Perhaps a corset type!!!! Suggestions welcomed Sending warm hugs, And healing to everyone Updated on 25 Sep 2013: I just posted pictures of my Buddha Belly ( all bruised the Lipo suction) I'd like you to meet my "new bellybutton" I think I've got a winner! Girls I haven't had a bellybutton that could see the light of day for years ........omg..... I love it! Hugs to all who are healing!!!!! Remember, LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 27 Sep 2013: Finally...a good night of sleep at least 6 hours straight ......yesterday, was a long day with moderate activity. OUTSIDE the house, when I got dressed I kept my compression garment on under my clothes, making me aware, that I am still healing!! Tried to pull pro-op jeans , no way were they going to ZIP ....(under my CG my Doc wants me to keep extra pressure in certain areas...so I also have a good sized hand towel spread across my body ,...cinched under my Fashionable "necessity" AKA CG (quite the fashion statement) Digging into a pile of Jeans.....earmarked to pass onto a charity ....I was delighted to find a larger pair jeans .... I was able to easily pull up and zip with ease ....It was shocking....even thought I felt like I had a "FAT SUIT ON..... " My Belly was FLAT....it didn't even l@@k bad....my waist was defined.... It was out the door .... The first stop was back go Doctor Rayfield my surgeon... 10 day Post-op... He checked my stomach....he was making sure fluids were NOT building up under my skin , he seemed pleased, Doc told me to keep wearing (the necessary) aka CG for another week or so..... He said it was unlikely I would get any FLUID at this point, but not impossible... He took the tape off that was covering my incision( that did not hurt at all) WOW only 10 days since I had my Tummy Tuck.......the incision is totally healed.....my stitches will devolve over time and the skin will flatten..... It's an ongoing (((healing))) process. Doctor Rayfield said call it anything looks different or if I had any questions call... HE WISHED all his clients were as cheerful as me. return in 2 weeks.... I guess my GUSHY side was showing ......how can I not be totally thrilled.. y'all know I LOVE MY NEW BELLY .........I really REALLY do....... In my mind when I say to myself.... I DO " I really REALLY Do" I kept hearing it with a little LISP..... hummmmmmmmmmmmmm Then I had my Ahhhh haaaaaa moment..... One of my childhood favorites PORKEY PIG Ahhhhhhh. Haaaaaaa. Mystery solved I loved thar little pig LOL We my hubby and myself .were out and about the rest of the morning ,visited an elderly aunt....she kept looking at me and finally said (" you've lost weight"). I see her often , so the fact that I did drop over 50 pounds would not of been why she complemented me. Even with my Fat Suit on...the necessary CG. I don't why. Hummmmmmmm. It made me feel good. My response to my aunt was yep. I'm still working on it....I'm a work in progress. My inner smile was beaming!!!!! I really am trying to fly under the radar...being that I have told so few people..... Girls.....I just might have a problem. I Can Tuck.... Yes ,I said TUCK..... OH !!!!!! TUCK IT...... ALL YOU ON THE FLAT SIDE TUCK IT The Word of the Day. TUCK IT.......TUCK IT....TUCK IT..... You over there....just Tuck it ok enough of that......When I got home I Zonked out... 3 hours later...I felt better ... It 11 says post- op now and I am posting this...... I hope you are enjoying my journey Took pictures .......hope ya like my [RS bleep]. ^..^. Just kiddin Happy Halloween (((((Hugs)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 27 Sep 2013: Oh tuck it. It was ELMER FUDDDDDDDD. I blew that one. I DO. I Really REALLY DO. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I really DID !!!!!! LOL Girls ... Porky pig HE COULD USE A TUMMY TUCK..... What do you think ???? My hubby just said..... In his words " Dear SOMETIMES YOU CAN BE A Real LOONEY TUNE !!!!!!!! " And that's why he live ME LIVELOVEBELIEVE Updated on 28 Sep 2013: Good morning instead of the adrenaline rush, (I'm living my dream..) running on an overdose of caffeine... As I was preparing for my tummy tuck, Several months ago.. feeling my Jelly belly Flip-flopping Side to side in bed ....Easing into slumber. ... I would think about Dorothy, (that was my mother's name) But not That Dorothy.... I would think about Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz... I would think about, What it was going to be like.... Having my tummy tuck... I would Lay there in bed feeling my loose skin, Anticipating what it would be like, Not to have all that skin..... But like Dorothy, When morning came ..........I wasn't in OZ Anymore..... And that skin , Well I still had it.... Just hanging around.... On September 16, 2013 ( That afternoon I journeyed Back to OZ....) My wizard waited for me, Along with my Jiminy cricket... I went into surgery... I was confident I had a brilliant surgeon... a Talented man, With his Steady hands... With his skill He Would be Able to sculpt my body, To make my dreams come true . The anesthesiologist made me feel very comfortable.. In fact they really knocked me out... In no time at all... I woke up...... I was on the outside looking in..... I was not in Oz anymore .....I was on the Flat Side of OZ...... the end. Oh yes, and on the flat side OZ I still have my Wizard after 40 years of marriage he's a keeper..... Okay now to talk about my compression garment.... My first thought was to call it my depression garment..... No girls were not about depression we're about healing...... So that one went out the window... I will now call my compression garment "The necessary" The definition Mirriam Webster.... "Absolutely needed". Yep that be it..... "The necessary" I like the sound of that. All you girls have a wonderful day... Me and my little buddy "The necessary". Are going to do the same. One More subject: I've had so much time the last 12 days.Since I had my tummy tuck To reflect... Got me thinking about a saying my pop used to say: "The jig is up" I think I now understand what it means...(This scheme of Deception is revealed....((( Foiled ))) ) Hummmmm I'm have been feeling so good, becoming more active , Slowly easing back into daily routine. I know I'm still healing.... I really Shouldn't push Myself ...after all I am 60 years old. LOL I am improving does this mean my husband's not going to wait on me hand and foot.... Will he figured out that I'm really doing much better, stronger day by day. After 40 years of marriage I'm going to try to milk it a little longer..... But I am pretty sure "The jig is up" It's Saturday, I'm going to take a ride in my car And if The car happens to stop at a yard sale.... That's just out of my control.. To my friends that are healing, & those Preparing themselves for their day .....To wake up one the flat side of Oz (((((Hugs))))) (((There's no place like flat)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 29 Sep 2013: I'm usually bright eyed and bushytailed a true morning person.... But this morning, I think I'm still in recovery... Hi my name is LiveLoveBelieve ..... (This is tummy tuck anonymous Isn't it ) I thought I Knocked on The right door... All along I've said , " I am not the preacher " In fact I know I'm still in recovery... We all can't be like my #1 Competitor .... Y'all know who I'm talking about ...BBNM ......hahahah I think she's actually part android... Just kidding!!!! I'm so happy, She is such a strong woman For being in the 60++++ Club. We rock!!!!! I'm only 12 days post – op Whatever was I thinking !!!! Yesterday I felt like I got (a get out of jail free card) You know from Monopoly..... My husband was leaving for the day, To help a friend... Like a little kid reaching inside the cookie jar... I felt so good I Got dressed, Grabbed the car keys... I decided to go shopping... My day didn't start or end with shopping ... For some unbeknownst reason my car kept stopping....I Must've gone to a dozen yard sales.. In and out of the car , Of course I knew I had to be careful Slowly carefully getting Getting in and out Of the car . Yard sales are Just one of my Secret addictions.....I love yard sales ,I love junk. At 60 years old I truly need nothing... It's the thrill of the chase... $3.00 A very sweet princess dress for my granddaughter.. I got my bargain for the day.. $10.00 For the gas I spent driving around... Hummmmmmm Then off to target... Found two very nice camisoles, lots of spandex.... With the hope that "The Necessary "aka CG Won't be necessary for much longer... But I do think I'll be wearing it for a while...blahhhhhh Well, You all know that when you get a store like Target .... They have everything... I needed creamer, Fresh fruit, I never thought I'd be saying Sexy bikini underwear.... Well they just happened to... fall in my cart.... LOL Then I stopped by our friends house to see how my wizard was doing His carpentry skills ...Still intact I found a yard chair sat under a Maple-tree, And relaxed .... Sitting there Was lovely The sun was warm, With a nice breeze... And no mosquitoes! (I just had to add that) By then it was After 4 o'clock.. I was exhausted .. I started scheming in my brain to get takeout food For dinner. Totally too exhausted to cook.... At least that was my plan and I'm sticking to it... By 6 PM my wizard put away his tools, On the way home picked up takeout at a new seafood restaurant... Broiled seafood combo Platter for the both of us to Share,(I still don't have much of an appetite but I was hungry) Finally I was home in my recliner... Like Nancy Kerrigan saying whyyyyy Whyyyyy. FYI (If you didn't know Nancy Kerrigan was the Olympic ice skater that was beat up Back in 1994. ) I guess I am my own worst enemy At times... a self abuser... Just call me Tonya Harding( Tonya Harding hired the hitman that beat up Nancy Kerrigan .....) LOL Blogging to you girls About healing, Taking it easy, Not taking my own advice... Totally Insane ..... by 8 o'clock Last night I felt like crap... So tired I couldn't think straight... I sat in my chair To read my emails.... I had not the mental energy, physical awareness.... Oh crap I got that one backwards..... Meant to say "mental awareness..... Physical energy." LOL I sat quietly... Reflected on my day... Told myself, This healing things a process..... So today my friends.... He and my new best friend "Recliner" Are attached at the hip.... So that's what I did yesterday, Way too much activity. I don't think I'm any to Worst Updated on 29 Sep 2013: It Ticks ...me off when I post my update And I'm still babbling on...& on.... And I didn't get to edit the last paragraph... I was saying I don't think I'm any worse for wear ..... But I did learn yesterday.... All us girls at "Tummy Tuck anonymous" No matter what step of the Tummy Tuck Ladder we are on..... Either preparing for surgery or healing... We Must be kind to Ourselves Prepare our minds and heal our bodies.... For me , My name is LiveLoveBelieve .... And I've been on the flat side for 12 days. Like I said yesterday The flat side of OZ. :-) No matter what your age.... There's a lot going on both inside And outside.. We all should just be so proud of ourselves... That we've made this decision, To love our bodies.. And live our lives to the fullest... ((Hugs)). LiveLoveBelieve Okay, BBNM. Tag you're it!!! LOL Updated on 30 Sep 2013: OMG! Same PANTS same place ...... the wall of shame....the wall is now my "HAPPY PLACE. ......just renamed..... Saw the pre-op Pants ( my yard sale find $1.00 ) this morning...the ones from previous pictures that I was adorning.... The pants that my BUTT BELLY just looked like Jelly..... "Why not try them back on ....." I said to me....try them on and we will See... Check out the pictures....and you will see me...the pants they fit....hehehe Good morning all my friends ...... Word this morning is "BREVITY" Brevity is the soul of Wit..... Composing in my mind....more to come later.... ((((Hugs)))). I Love Being ME...... HEALING TO ALL...... REST AND DON'T OVER DO!!!! LiveLoveBelieve. Updated on 1 Oct 2013: 15 days Post-op. Good Afternoon everyone...I had a good night sleep, It was the first night In 2 weeks , I got to sleep In bed next to my WiZard... I can only lay flat on my back, I might add , it's an aching back, propped with a wedge and pillows... It's difficult , it burns and causes shooting pain at at the edges of my incision to lay on my side.... Whenever will I be able to roll over, just lay on my side ? ( I am a side sleeper) Getting up to Pee during the night, was easier than I thought it would be.... 5am wide awake, I did not want or disturb My Wizard , Back to the recliner..... iPad by my side... At that time, early in the morning my mind starts to churn .... Sleep no longer an option!!! I've Enjoyed writing ( Some would say rambling ) & reading Daily entries here... on RealSelf ... Such exciting times we are sharing. Crossing over to the The Flat Side! we don't walk alone.... Tummy Tuck anonymous, A sisterhood TT ers , Live Interaction Real time...were walking in the same shoes .... Okay enough of that... Ya get the idea :-) Somewhere in what I write, I think there is a message. LOL My wizard, just thinks I'm full of hot air... Telling me like it is, Says I'm obsessed with this Blog. Blah blah blah..... I just started thinking about a word : "rationalization" We all Rationalize.... (We Make excuses) ... On occasion we sabotage ourselves... By rationalizing...When we rationalize, then we pay for it. (We justify Our behavior....) I used to think whether or not I. could eat that one piece of Chocolate... After all, chocolate is full of antitoxins.... And they're good for us right? I would say to myself , "self" I'll take that extra mile walk Tomorrow... I can eat These two extra pieces of pizza. "Not" We can't help ourselves it's , what we all do it... It's human nature. If you flip, the way you think to Self-awareness & consciousness Can make for change .. Then we become accountable.. Moving on..... How many of our husbands are gadgets guys, buy the newest phone...the fancy car...motorcycles , & all of that leather stuff that goes with it ! ( Hummmm Nothing wrong with leather LoL ) ....Xbox ... Video games.... Play golf ... On and on and on.... I think you get my drift.... It's okay if your men indulge Themselves it's human nature. (FYI I love men) so many of us feel like we have to Control our excess spending ....but then we. buy that new CD of pair or earrings any way.....the money could or should be used or saved..... Grrrrrrrrrr RealSelf women want to improve our bodies, Live our dream, make our fantasy come true, Move onto the flat side... Indulge ourselves...... We agonize about spending such a huge amount of money on ourself.... We feel self-indulgent ...... We want to heal our inner spirit follow our dream .... Spend the money, Live the dream. I say yes!!! We should and baby I did... It didn't send us to the poorhouse it did cut into our retirement... But my pop used to say "You can't take it with you" Now to continue.... Really I'm not done chatting it up yet!!!! My blog really does have a punchline... Now I'm going to rationalize....... No Nix that word.. Hypothetically Speaking I'm going to be self-indulgent!!! I am like the old car, The 72 Oldsmobile 442 ...(the one my wizard indulged himself with When he got out of the Navy) ,when we first met In 1972.... It was a Beautiful yellow muscle car, it could blow anybody off the road... Back in the day When we were young and carefree.... My scenario is: I am that OLD CAR 60 years old Model ..... I'm not a motorhead but I know that old cars can be renovated...... Some can be priceless! I have a lot of good years left in me... My chassis was a little rusted rough around the edges..... My inner tubes were overinflated (It was evident by the way I overflowed my pants) I put myself in the body shop.. September 16, 2013 My surgeon Dr. David Rayfield .....Laced up my interior like a fine Victorian Corset (Thank you Dr. Rayfield) Removed the X-cess In my case skin (My overinflated tires..) Removed excess fluids. (Lipo) (Again thank you) Merci Tusind Tak Gracias !!!!! Wrapped me in a sham And placed me in a recliner... My new Refurbished finish almost showroom quality.... Garaged me in a recliner to Heal..... Available for a ride around the block in a month... My wizard can't wait!!! Wink wink I told my Wizard ......to justify spending the money for my tummy tuck, Baby, I am the new car that we are NOT getting!!!!!! I'm the old car that you Loved so much, When we first met in 1972 Renovated almost Mint condition!!!! Ready to get on the road again!!!! (((Hugs))) The end...... LiveLoveBelieve When I first started my journey and decided that having a tummy tuck I didn't realize it would be the first day of the rest of my life. We are wealthy by no means My husband's been retired and we been on a fixed income for the last seven years. I knew We were going to be spending quite a pretty chunk of change... My wizard has never begrudge me anything I've wanted.... I'd be looking at things in jewelry cases or in fancy stores and he'd say if you want to get it... I am like that old car,, The Oldsmobile 442 I see myself, My true self, Time too, check out the renovations Updated on 2 Oct 2013: This morning I went without my compression garment... Put on my bathing suit hummmm 3 weeks ago that sucker was tight... My bathing suit fit nicely today... Car is Renovated and out of the shop.... 10 minutes Road trip to the Beach . Yes it is that hot in New Jersey!!! 84°.. Water 69° In fact this is the best time of year the tourists have cleared out...the beaches are very private . Oh yeah and it was a great feeling.... Walking down the beach with my Wizard... I Jokingly said to him, " Can I be your trophy wife? I snickered a little.... He looked at me and said,"You already are". And how damn cute is that.... He always says the right things :-) Sitting with my chair in the water Not even three weeks since my surgery.... Life is good! Almost 6 PM I'm back home now in my recliner ....ahhhh, The Necessary aka CG back on I Didn't think I'd say it feels good putting the necessary aka back on It gives me such a secure feeling ,my belly Is swollen again like Buddha ... I'm home. Exhausted.. Relaxation Is the plan for the rest of the Evening..... After sitting in my wet bathing suit a Portion of the afternoon... I did have a bit of a burning Sensation along my incision.... Skin Along the incision is healed completely , I believe the salt water Is good for healing. I am No worse the wear. Tomorrow's another day ((( Hugs))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 5 Oct 2013: Good Morning, My disclaimer...( These picture were made available, because of my Sister Tummy Tucker BlubberBelly No More...who shared with all us gals her latest updated photos...) she is one "Funny Flat Tummy Tucker...." Hehehe If anyone is following our TRUE Journey.....Well, her and I have a bit of "ONE UPMANSHIP going on...... We both are +60 year old women who in the AUTUMN of our Lives literally. ( Fall 2013 ) We have been blessed ..... We have WONDERFUL lives, & supportive husbands...we have on our own terms embraced our inner WOMAN..l ( no one else ) endeavored over to " THE FLAT SIDE OZ....." That is a description about what my journey has become....written about ( Day 12 Post-op ) I know these pictures have been previously been shown. But SIDE by SIDE.... I'm even blown away.... For me I wear " the necessary" CG, at night and most all the day,.in the morning FLAT Belly...... I am still swollen in Flanks...either my Doc didn't Lipo enough fat out. I'm hoping that's not the reason... Nevertheless puffy.... There is a lot of swelling on my LOVE HANDLES.....I think I'm just worrying for. Nothing....it hasn't even been 3 weeks... All my TT sisters are reassuring....you say it's gonna get better, take shape, Well my waist is pretty funny.....like the LARGE Hourglass the Evil Witch turns over in the Original Wizard of Oz....... My WAIST is on the HALF HOUR.... One side of me is contoured ....if I do say so QUITE nice....my left side....NO SHAPE at all.....like down the top of a Ski Slope....STRAIGHT....hummmm no contour yet!!!! I imagine my DOC took equal amounts of fat.... I hoping the contour will take shape in the future.... Yesterday I used a warm washcloth and soap...to loosen tiny scabs....around my New Belly Button...( I'm still have a love affair with my new BellyButton) in fact I knew it was LOVE AT First Sight... My Old BellyButton had become a recluse....hiding in my caverns of fat for years....hidden in the darkness... My excess skin enabled the 'Ol BellyButton to hide from the light of day barely able to be seen.....SOOOOO Ya can't miss something ya can't see!!! LOL I took a warm washcloth soapy water to loosen tiny little scabs on the outer rim..... I said " BELLYBUTTON. You clean up pretty good....I said...." It took only a couple of minutes and the crusty stuff dissolved....I'll have a BB photo shoot within the next few days. I've been rubbing both BIO-Oil and Palmers onto my incision.....I don't think it will hurt to change it up and use 2 different products .. The incision needs stimulation. it is numb and thick in areas. It needs to smooth out...... it's looking good to me... A Side by Side photo will be posted soon.... My mind is like a soap opera.. "Days of our BellyButtons " "As the Bodies Changes" " General Anesthesia ". okay enough.... Hehehe I am a an Old bored Broad with alot of sitting around healing to do...... your have to forgive ME after-all ...... "I am old enough to know better... Young enough not to give a TUCK... "Oh yeah I think it was suppose to be care......LOL A lot of YOU are young TummyTuckers could be " ALL MY CHILDREN ". LOL anyone reading my semi-daily BLOG already knows..... My mind is a whimsical, yet a serious place....willing to give emotional support all ya ......Ya just have to do is open up....SHARE.....yet more with the personality of Jekyll & Hyde ..... Heckle & Jekyll ..... Mutt & Jeff ..... Tom & Jerry.... The coyote & the Roadrunner....etc.... On the same Soap Opera theme....WE all made this CHOOSE as WOMEN....what channel to put on...preparing to make these change to our bodies WE WALK TOGETHER..... I might be dating myself I am a Child of the 1950's...their Titles hold True: for all us women around the world... Search for Tomorrow.....Love of Life....Valiant Lady....Woman with a Past...The Best Years... North of 60.......Crossroads....Take the High Road....The Cut....The Newcomers...,The Brighter Day....General Hospital...Bright Promise...The Best of Everything...The Bold & the Beautiful....Love is a Many Splendored Thing..... And finally.........Where the Heart Is All.....Titles that could be used describe........our Journey here at RealSelf....akaTUMMY TUCK ANONYMOUS Today is another slow paced day in ((( healing )))) Sending (((( healing hugs ))))). ((((( good vibes ))))). Be kind to yourselves... LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 6 Oct 2013: For some of you girls this may have a "R" rating...reader beware!!!!! Just when I was going to ask my surgeon about resuming physical married activities in the near future........yes it's true just because we've been married over 40 years..... I certainly am not dead ( in fact I'm pretty sexy ....with my cute little Betty button and Flat Belly.... and my Italian Wizard hummmmmm well he's Italian...that should say it all. LOL Something like this has occurred at this time in our marriage.... to keep us apart...in fact forcing us to sleep I separate rooms.. Why now, when I am feeling life a songbird flitting around....Proud as a Peacock... Lovin' Life....... My Wizard...aka Husband while helping a friend several days last week outside....exposed himself to a massive amounts of Underbrush .......my Wizard caught Poison Ivy...what started as a few blotches..Now the ugly truth.... his arms and upper body...covered with poison Ivy oozing, itchy... I am scared to death it's going to come over to THE FLAT SIDE... The Wizard has to sleep alone: ( as in the old rhyme ) ....the wizard sleeps alone--- the wizard sleeps alone ----high ho the dairy oh The wizard sleeps alone.... I am Truly afraid his Poison Ivy will spread and I'll get it on my binder or clothes ..etc... I am washing everything ....yuck..... I am treating him like he has leprosy... I do feel bad for him....having to be so distant.... Just when I am at the point of my recovery that we could of gotten together. ..( If ya get my drift ). Wink wink It ain't happening now!!!! LOL Thru out the weekend I stopped at several yard-sales...I love flea markets, but mostly yard sales.... Finding treasures, discarded items...giving them a new meaning... Got a laundry basket full of little girls clothes very lightly worn and all the right size.... for about $6.00 for my granddaughter. What a bargain My stamina is getting stronger.....My body healing well....my BellyButton is lookin' pretty good.... I'll post a side by side later ) both my incision and belly button... I am starting to put a very soft EAR plug like ( memory foam) in my belly button to give it an open appearance.... If anybody knows how long i should keep it in my navel daily....I don't want to use a marble like others before me have used ( I think a marble would be to big...) I don't know why I want to do this ...l just think it would be more defined... Any feedback ??? I am also going to check with my surgeon Monday.. About swelling in-between the top of my pubis and the incision...there is one area that is excessively swollen looks like a Walnut under my skin... is it fluid buildup ???? Any feedback?? That's all Folks.... Gotta wash the Wizards bed sheets..... Can't get the lyrics out of my brain!!!! The Coasters - Poison Ivy Lyrics Poison ivy, poison ivy Late at night while you're sleepin' Poison ivy comes creepin', around A common cold'll fool ya And whooping cough can cool ya But poison ivy, Lord'll make you itch You're gonna need an ocean of calamine lotion You'll be scratchin' like a hound The minute you start to mess around La da la da la da La da la da la da ((((Hugs)))) ((((Healing)))) (((( Good Vibes )))) ((((Positive Attitude)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 6 Oct 2013: Having fun with the camera side-by-side updates...... This is the shortest Update you're going to get from me!!!! Enjoy the pictures I am. ((((Hugs)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 7 Oct 2013: Hi girls it's been three weeks since my tummy tuck Surgery. My body is still healing, a bit of swelling, I still require wearing The necessary CG... My belly button is awesome and my incision is healing well! I had fun taking side-by-side photos here's one of my belly button . Before surgery and three weeks after surgery! Old belly button Is a frown ..... A smile upside down. :( I think I like my new belly button ! In fact, I love my new belly button! Being able to share my story, Getting to know a lot of you girls has been wonderful part of my journey. A huge part of healing... It is a sisterhood of sorts Helping each other , Listening to each other ,working through the pain, Sharing laughter, Healing and Encouragement.... it's all good!!!!! anyone wondering if they should do this for themselves.... It's only been 3 weeks a mere 21 days.... I reach down where is my rolls of fat used to be .. I am Flat... I know I will be forever changed... I catch a reflection of myself In the mirror.... I truly like who I see... it's not only me who has this feeling, It's all you girls who've walked this path before me!!!! Thank You for letting me read your stories & For being so selfless..... sharing , caring, it all helped me make the decision to move forward... If I can help anyone all you need to do is ask... (((Hugs))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 8 Oct 2013: I am OVERWHELMED.....trying to loosen the Load....the load of oversized clothes in my closet, my life.... Totally overwhelmed, losing weight and gaining weight so many times over the years.... You know girls what I'm talking about...if the pants are tight ( maybe next month....they'll fit then..., I'll lose weight they'll fit....GOTTA SAVE THEM... When you'd lose some weight ( better save the loose pants...might GAIN... Might need them again if I gain...... Hope not, but better save them too. The UP & DOWNS.... Boxes,containers,closet full of the WHAT IF I NEED THEM...oh that's such a nice sweater, OH I wish I could wear that again... Then like most women Oh a SALE.... we buy more ...and more...every season more Weeding is something ya do in the yard....can't toss those clothes...get a grip... I always pushed the larger clothes to the back of the closet and that is why I am S-C-R-E-A-M-I-N-G. TIMES A CHANGIN'. I'm on the FLAT SIDE till death do us part!!!! LOL I'm 60 years old....just had a life changing ahhhhhh haaaa moment.... My BODY has changed...I will never wear these oversized garbs.... I FEEL so good ( and without sounding totally conceited ) for a old woman, I'm kickin' it .... LOOKING pretty good. I might even push the envelope and say... "SEXY AT 60" ( old baggy,unbecoming oversized garbs....) shouldn't be part of my future... I need to give myself permission to let all these garments gooooo Truly MATERIAL items, a little PUN FUN..... Making piles, filling boxes, saving WHY..... OH Please let me figure this out quickly... Anybody else have this problem.. For the remainder of the week .....cleaning out the closet..... Not related to my Surgery.... I am posting pictures and a Video "My Wizard rescuing ^..^ my GOOFY long HAIR CAT. " last night....Meow. ^..^ Meow he was missing all day it rained most the day... ^..^ I heard him, it was dark, finally UP in a tree 35-40 foot up there was our Goofy Cat... Meow. ^..^ I called for my Wizard, who came toting a large ladder.He could not reach the goofy cat who was crying Meow-Meow. ^..^ My Wizard got a cat basket and attached a 6 foot extender ( a 6 foot 2X4 ). ^..^ Hoping the Goofy Cat had 1/2 a brain... Video....GOOFY CAT does have 1/2 a brain Rescue complete....and not even THANKS Once again a cat ^..^ gets his humans to serve him! Good night girls ((((Hugs)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 8 Oct 2013: Pictures of goofy cat rescue Sorry girls I'm trying to post the video and I'm not having much success try later Updated on 25 Oct 2013: I have to brush the cob-webs off my keyboard...Time has gotten away from me Sorry.... I really didn't fall off the face of the earth, maybe a bit of post-op depression---maybe not... I tried to sit down and post quite a few times, but one thing lead to another and I blew if off, keeping busy with everyday things, at the same time feeling a bit guilty... Sorry to all my RealSelf friends....I feel like I've been detached, and that isn't who I am :-) ******* I get the prize for being the worse communicator ******** I think I had a bit of a Pity Party going on and I was the only one on the guest list.... GEEZ LOUISE I'm back girls....it irks me that I've been such a poop! Now I got that out of my system...how are all my friends healing ? I have thought of ya all often... It's Friday, in 3 days my Wizard and myself leave for 2 weeks in Ireland, to stay with our daughter, husband and grandson... I am so happy that my body has healed so well from my surgery and this trip is possible. I took a couple of NEW pictures to update my - incision - and my belly button. Most mornings I wake up and it's still a bit surreal....The Flat Side OMG!!!!!! My closet is emptied out of most all my "Big Girl Clothes" such a great liberating feeling... I am comfortable in a Size 8-10....Girls,I definitely can live with that Later Friends ((((Hugs)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 27 Oct 2013: Itchy Bitchy Venting....Grrrrrrr This is what's going on with me again tonight...Hives itchy bitchy hives.... I've been getting Hives on my head under my hair & along my incision almost daily for a couple of weeks....they settled in on my New Flat Belly again tonight Grrrrrr Sharing pictures....cause I can .LOL I've coped with Hives for many years they are my achilles' heel...my body acts out..... I totally think it's caused by stress...,it's been a challenge getting ready for our trip... But it has finally fallen in place. Bags are packed,passports and everything ready.... Trying to Relax, and remain Positive.. I know this to will pass... Thanks for listening...tomorrow night off to Ireland (((Hugs to everyone)))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 31 Dec 2013: NEW YEARS EVE 2013 update!!!!!! Hello Everyone, I know it's been a long while since I've posted As the minutes tick by and this year 2013 ends.... An afternoon of Reflection... Sitting in my recliner silently being grateful for so much. I decided enough is enough. At different times in my life since I've been in my 30's.... I have allowed hives to rule or ruin moments in my life. The past two months, I've stayed to myself wallowing in self pity...it really hasn't changed a thing... Still itchin'& bitchin' LoL I thought about the saying... "If I cant't say something nice don't say anything." Hummmmmm ya might ask "how's that working?" Well it's NOT!!!!! After smacking myself along side my head I've woken up opened my eyes grabbed my iPad and here I am :-) Sharing the good & the bad is really what this site **RealSelf** is..... isn't it my friends. The simple word SORRY....sums up my silence. HEALING from my September 16th TummyTuck Surgery has been remarkable I will post new pictures early up in January 2014. My weight is maintaining under 155.... Although it is up 3-5 pounds..... I do question how with all the holiday temptations that were constantly surrounding me, I highly recommend the almond Biscotti... LoL! New Year Eve 2013 reflecting on myself...... My new flat Tummy reflecting back at me in the mirror OMG........BEAT DECISION EVER!!!!! New Years Eve 2013 reflecting on my Friends and Family.... I am grateful to everyone who supported me thru this journey.... Please know, even if I haven't written to you...you've been in my heart!!!!!! Happy New Year 2014 to all my **REALSELF** friends THANK YOU (((((Healing & HUGS))))) LIVELOVEBELIEVE Updated on 19 Jan 2014: Hello to all my RealSelf friends!!!!! It's now been four months post-op I feel wonderful, very happy with my choice to have had a TummyTuck at age 60. I wanted to post a couple of new updated photos of my results. My scar is beginning to fade I do have a ripple (dogs ear) on my right hip area ( this is going to be repaired/fixed next month during my next surgery...... Yes girls..... Surgery Feburary 12 I am going to have a Breast-lift /Breast reduction. My G-cup breasts are going to be down-sized and lifted ..... Doctor David Rayfield my trusted skilled cosmetic surgeon will once again do the surgery. I will add this procedure to my Real-Self profile. I need a crash course of what to expect ......from all you wonderful woman who have walked this path. Enjoy my updated pictures of my Tummy. (((( Hugs to all ))))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 22 Jan 2014: Yep, After having such a successful TummyTuck just 4 months ago, my results are better than this old broad would of hoped for.... I joked about by sagging Boobs shortly after my Tummy Tuck...my girls 34G Boobs lost their resting place, ( they used to rest nicely on my upper belly roll ) they now are hanging lower than ever. TMI LOL I started contemplating a Breast-Lift-Reduction shortly after my tummy tuck Sept. 2013 . Reading my friends profiles here on RealSelf , so many successful surgeries opened my eyes wider to my possibilities.... Smaller Breasts might be in my future. At that time my husband ( AKA my Wizard) didn't even want to enter into a conversation with me about my Boobs.... Well this 'Ol gal now 61 years ain't gettin' any younger. Why not.... Grab the Brass Ring So my last TT appointment with a Doctor Rayfield I also scheduled a consult to be coincided for a Breast-Lift. I scheduled my Breast-Lift-Reduction surgery that day. (FYI after almost 41 years of marriage, my Wizard knew it was fruitless to try and discourage me once my mind is made up) I did let him know before I signed the contact LoL Surgery 3 weeks from today 2/12/2014. I am beginning prepare myself once again for a life altering positive change. I am not clear which review I should post this on....Tummy Tucks or Breast-lift-reduction. I'm gonna put it on both profiles for now.... ((( hugs to all who are healing))) (((good vibes for all preparing for surgery))) LiveLoveBelieve Updated on 23 Jan 2014: Hello All..... Put my Jeans on this morning, tucked my tank, put on a belt, grabbed my iphone Snapped a couple of pictures. 4 months Post-Op.... Feeling like I l@@k pretty TUCKIN' good for a 61 year old Broad..... Ya know were always checking out our incisions... l@@king closely at ourselves since our Tummy Tucks. Well, I wanted to send my brother ( my Jimity Cricket ) an updated photo of my results...I've never showed him any Half/Naked shots.... SERIOUSLY GIRLS . He's my Bro

Ok... I'm in checking it out phase. Went over ten years ago for consults after my first child and waited until I was done having kids. I am. Turning 40 and in decent shape. I'm 5"3 150 lbs . I have my " divot ". I can't get rid of.. I love running and am very content every where else. I work in a school so am contemplating .... Do I wait till next summer or cram it in the end of this one? If I did it by the 20 th... I'd be up against the 2 week mark at Labor Day. Consult on Wednesday.. I don't smoke... Thoughts? I'm nervous and almost want to do it so I can start next summer with it done and healed...dont know cost yet will update when sure Updated on 9 Aug 2013: I really like Dr Rayfield. I won't update this much as my surgery wont happen until next June. But after speaking with him I am all in. He had said due to my c section scars that look really good, my weight, and the shape im in. I am a good candidate. I have some time to save $$. I will update next spring as I get closer but so excited to do it! Updated on 19 Jan 2014: So, I have put my deposit-dates locked in, and keep reading how people are doing. Looking at the first days and weeks - there are so many vast recovery stories from horrible to not so bad. I keep looking at what people are saying as far as vitamins- seems to be some suggestions on how some help in the healing recovery. I need to start putting together a list of what I'll need pre- op & post op. Anyone who has been through it, "Anything you wouldn't do this TT without? " Also, I am staying overnight in the hospital so at least my first 24 hours I'll be watched and taken care of-- nervous but still can't wait-- Updated on 20 Feb 2014: Trying to be busy so time flies- following so many stories and I cannot wait until I can tell mine Updated on 15 May 2014: I wish I could say it's settling in but its NOT! I have been on WW and trying to lose the last few lbs. I am down about 7 lbs. I was only looking to go 10 total- so I am almost there. I am so satisfied with my legs, arms, etc....but that belly. Ugh. Its the only thing that bothers me and no matter what the weight it goes no where. So my pre-op is in 2 weeks. I go through the day trying to push it back- but it sneaks up on me. I just cannot imagine me without my Divot, but I'm patiently waiting. This decision was made a year ago- and its rounding the bend. I guess after my pre-op I'll start shopping for some things...ok I'm rambling talk soon! Updated on 25 May 2014: So I'm wondering~ I was up and moving~ recovered great. Wondering if that's an indication how I'll do~ ordered Arnica~ got my walker~ slow but steady Updated on 28 May 2014: Went well~ thinking I'm over thinking~ need to calm down being completely obsessed on here~ 19 days Updated on 7 Jun 2014: I have been looking at a tt for over 15 yrs and now I'm days away. Funny I'm only excited..not nervous. I'm down 10~11 lbs. Everyone is commenting how great I'm looking ( just wait..I got more: ) )I hide that divot well. I have stared at my Calendar my hubby and I organizing running the kids or me organizing him running the kids lol. I bought a few supplements but won't start anything till after. My doc said don't do anything but the antibiotic the day before and metamucil a few days prior....I have my hospital pre op Monday. I have already paid everyone. Here's what I have left to buy ( based off what I keep hearing people on r s suggest) toliet lifter, grabber, underwear~ I already have a walker, Brolemein, Arnica, hip o clense, dial: bar & liquid, metamucil, dropping off prescription today. I just keep looking at myself thinking~ ~ my stomach may actually be flat for v the first time in 20 yrs. I'll have to buy new pants they always either to big on legs but waist it good or good on legs too tight on waist....can't wait to say they're perfect on both! And I can say that in 9 days!!! Updated on 8 Jun 2014: Yay. I bought grabber thing and toilet riser. Cannot wait. I have my hospital pre op tomorrow. I am having sx next Monday. Did I mention I can't wait! Updated on 9 Jun 2014: It's real got a time & a run down on procedures....This time next week I'll be recovering! Updated on 14 Jun 2014: okay, so we're two days away got the meds ,got the equipment ,got a few books ,got some puzzles~ biggest worry I'm gonna be so bored sitting on the couch for 2 weeks.... keep reading everyone's posts ...everyone sounds so positive its not as bad as others were saying and I know all I am going to be so excited when I see that flat side. I'll start cleaning like crazy Sunday so on Monday I don't have anything to worry about ~~~did I mention that I was excited Updated on 16 Jun 2014: Just looking over site. I had a hard time falling asleep. I'll catch up when I'm knocked it..Lol. excited~ lil nervous~ look at my saggy skin..gonna be weird that it'll. Be gone...worked to lose a few me lbs.~ready ~ Updated on 16 Jun 2014: So I'm at hospital for the night....definitely recommend that. Laid i n bed all day. Thinking because of that my back hurt....tight in stomach but really not unbearable. When I got up to pee~ it felt good. So I walked the floor with the nurse twice. Slow but it felt so good and the nausea went away since I was breaking the bubbles in my stomach. My back.....and the anesthesiologist gave me a blow thing to 're expand my lungs... the walk Helped that too. Being careful not to over do it~but so happy tho be on the flat side Updated on 17 Jun 2014: Not on heavy duty pa i n meds. But the anti inflammatory helps a lot. I woke up a few times to pee. Needed assistance getting up and Down. But walking ok~ just slow. My drains are doing good...not in too much pain just tight. Updated on 18 Jun 2014: Last night tried bed/ no comfortable spot. Ended up on couch sitting position.took a perk had the best nights sleep. Home alone...quiet by myself. Feet lil swollen. But i m doing good. Not any much pain just tight. This binder had tape like stuff under. I feel like I could stretch if it wasn't on but it's probably pin so I won't lol. Can't wait for a shower...I have first post op visit tomorrow drains are about 18 every 8 hours. Last time at 1 and I have barely any drainage....any way thanks for reading~~~I hear day 4i s the worst~~holding tight Updated on 19 Jun 2014: Because I'm home all day - I am well relaxed- my sleep is off- the thunder was so loud-woke me only me right up I see my PS today- Im draining less than 20 on each side- not sure if that means I'm getting them out- but boy I'd love a shower. I have been on top of the ibuprofen- but only did one Perkie 2nd night. Slept on couch half laying down- it's just easier for me to grab things and help myself up- plus getting up is such a procedure I don't have to wake anyone else-... I have to say this recovery has been a lot better than anticipated- I don't want to jinx myself- but what I read I was expecting a nightmare. Am I tight? Yes Pain? not really-- well let you know how my appointment goes Updated on 19 Jun 2014: Drains out, tape off~ ~~ wow.feel so much better. Drains were a lil wierd coming out. But not too bad~ can't wait to shower. I washed my hair in the sink earlier and a sponge bath....even that felt better. I got a birds eye view can't wait to get home and really see it. Doc said~ nicely hydrating, skin color is great, I was really healing well~ no sit ups for a month~I can drive~ and I have follow up Monday to check if any collection~ let me say I was so scared of all of this~ but it's been great. Updated on 20 Jun 2014: Ok so I am on day 4- my first outing by myself- did good driving and walked the store very slow. But it was nice getting out. I took my first shower last night-- wow- I love showers :). My stomach felt wierd- I was barely touching it- just so scared and there is no sensation. I looked it up that you regain your sensations from the outside going in. Which means my side- working its way in toward ( which explained why the tape removal was painful lol). I have a full length mirror so I really got a good look- wow. I can look down and see my feet- not just my belly. It was unreal. My husband kept staring at me saying wow. Then apologized and I said, " all that money- keep saying wow!!". He's so great. I'm definitely swollen but every day my weight goes down letting me know that my swelling is going down too. So on day 4 what do I suggest you get for this- what do you really need 1. Pillows- couple of them. You will not sleep laying down and you'll need so you don't sink into your couch. 2. A toilet seat riser- a must. 3. I had a walker ( never used)- grabber thing ( used today to pick up a few toys but could have done without 4. Advil or get prescription strength- used it religiously 5. I got arnica & bromelein- I do not know what effect they had I bruised bad but its clearing up good & I am less swollen so I don't know if I would have been worse. 6. Gauze pad & hydrogen peroxide- to clean the drain holes. 7. Hipoclense & Dial liquid/ bar- constantly washing my hands & wash myself pre- op & when the tape came off- 8. Water bottle- a constant reminder to someone like me who hates water- I was drinking it non-stop 9. I wore a pair of baggy sweats- so wear something loose- those drains are not comfy in anything tight- you do not want to bump them around 10. I had at least one protein shake a day- and brought protein bars into the hospital with me- 11. Right before I went in I dropped weight and really ate healthy. I started about 6-8 weeks prior. When I came out- all the choices I had was healthy- I think that was the best thing I could have done. 12. Last metamucil/ fiber bars/ smooth move tea (you don't want to have to push- afraid you'll pop a stitch - you won't but its psychological) So here's some final advice- if your thinking about it and are scared -- DO IT!! It's mind over matter- get up walk- focus on you- it's ok- us Mom's spend our lives thinking of others for a few weeks its ok to put you first- It doesn't hurt as bad as your hearing. If you had a C section- its the same- no easier. Updated on 22 Jun 2014: I'll snap a pic before the shower. I haven't posted only because nothing too exciting. Lol~ well I read day 4 is supposed to be hitting a wall~ ~ I must have turned around it. I have to say my recovery has been great. The first day was rough. .not painful just moving around..getting used to lift my body carefully...swollen. I put about 12lbs of swell on and am down 8~ 9 lbs. Almost back to normal. I have watched my salty intake and continue to eat healthy. Yesterday I took Advil only for bed. So it was my first day of meds~ still doing Brolemein and Arnica I don't know if they're really doing anything but hey they're not hurting. I drop metamucil in my water so I don't strain. I sit a lot and am still taking it easy...but feel really good. I wear my binder constantly it reminds me to keep moving slow. I go to get belly button stiches removed tomorrow. I went out 2 times yesterday~ 1 as a passenger~ next I drove. I have been out of house 4 times in the week...very careful moving in and out .well like I said if you're considering this~ ~~do it. Be in the mind sense that the pain is temporary..get up and walk as soon as you can. I walked the hospital floor 2 the first day and 5 times second. I think that is huge...I just kept thinking about what my bikini will look like Updated on 22 Jun 2014: Updated on 22 Jun 2014: Updated on 24 Jun 2014: Sorry hadn't updated. Yesterday, got my belly button stitches out. Lil collection but so small couldn't even drain it. Looks great- doc very impressed. I went back to work today. I took it easy spent the day at my desk. Even had my first glass of wine tonight!! Weighed myself this morning I am less weight than when I started this. I took no advil for bed last night. It was the first time and still did great. I am still taking Arnica, Bromelin, & my multi-vitamin. I don't even know if I need them but if it ain't broke don't fix it. I have to say I read such horror stories and was really nervous going in. Believe me it was well worth it- loving the fact my waist is starting to indent a little- lol. Yay...my husband keeps commenting I weigh less than him-- way less. This is the first time-- I jut smile. So happy I did this!! Updated on 25 Jun 2014: 2nd day back to work~ co workers just had me laughing all,day. It is still hard to laugh but I think laughter is truly the best medicine. I had read people becoming depressed at this point. I have to say...no regrets..I saved all year for this ..I had a part of my body which I could never diet or exercise away. It was created from many children whom I love~ I would never change that. My body was given freely So they could grow, be nourished, it had been thrown up on, amongst other things lol, I've taken hits time after time and would never change that I am blessed for them...but one time I did something for me~I fixed something that bothered me and it's ok....it's ok for you too Updated on 28 Jun 2014: Well I had a post op yesterday and I know longer need my binder. I asked about a compression Garment which he said I could buy but studies show it really doesn't Make a difference.I asked about scar treatment and same thing no studies show it really works. So yesterday i went bare but carried my binder just in case. I walked hunched nervous. .but I slept wonderful...no sore back! I can start peeling off my tape , I can go in a pool, I needed no fluid draining, ...doc said you're making this look easy lol. I will go back to him in a month. No crunches nothing to strain abdomen. He did warn me sometimes disposable stitches poke through and not to be alarmed. So I woke up this morning to tell you . I'm gonna grab a shower and go bikini shopping!!! Updated on 5 Jul 2014: Itching still there but less ( ok less then 1000%~ like 800% l o l). My tape is off and the skin Around it is red. Skin is dry~ I put some lotion on it last night...my energy is good not exactly all back but pretty close. I have to say this hasn't been as bad as I had thought. I'm still swollen but less everyday. My belly button is sinking back in. I figure if it's not all in its still swollen. But for anyone hesitant or scared...don't be. Main thing get up moving right away....keep moving. I think it Makes a world of difference~ I can't wait till all the swelling is down but already. Its a huge difference. ..just do it Updated on 12 Jul 2014: Been busy running around. So where ask I? Doc said cream for scar treatment and cg are all not shown to make a deference, so I have none. I watch that my shorts aren't tight. I'm still itchy but not bad. I'm definitely swollen can't wait to see the final results when the swelling is totally gone. Don't get me wrong It's not uncomfortable. ...I'm just excited. Updated on 28 Jul 2014: Sorry been enjoying the summer- beach- pool- bikini- my new body ;) I have dropped to a size 4 from my size 8-10. I had a 3 wk follow up last week. I can do anything but use a heating pad. still numb- but not itchy, no pain, not too swollen ( he said about 10% left). Everyone keeps saying how tiny I am- and I feel great. I started walking and hopefully will begin to build myself up to a run. Watching what I eat more for healthy reasons and am down to about 136-137 lbs. ( I was about 140 right before surgery- I had dropped 10-15 lbs right before sx) I would like to drop to about 130 ( I am 5''3). Been hard with vacations and summer bbqs- but I still just try to eat healthy ( Weight watchers). I will post pics- I did see my old pre- sx pics in the docs office ( gross) so glad I did this.... Updated on 29 Jul 2014: Tried looking for old pics- but most of my pics I'm hiding my belly...here are a few.. Updated on 29 Jul 2014: Updated on 31 Jul 2014: So I'm on here reading. I had to go in and wore my size 4s. I went back and read my journey on here. I have come so far. In retrospect, what do you need? Toliet seat lifter, grabber, prescription Advil,loose clothes, healthy food, pillows, metamucil (or things to help) , dail hand soap, hypoclense ( I washed everyday until bottle gone~), gauze~ hydrogen peroxide for drain holes (one wouldn't close~ used band aid think pulling gauze off everyday was ripping scab open) , protein shake/ bars, water bottle~ ~small but essential~