Good Day Real Self Sisters,
About three weeks during a routine check-up, I scheduled my Full Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) with Body Contouring. My PS Dr. Pollard actually recommended this surgery 2-years ago during my very first consultation and I left deflated and in sticker shock. Now that I am over it.
Today is the morning of my surgery at 11a. I woke up at 4a, have not had and food or water but I am excited
I waited to blog as the preparation was very routine.
1. I applied for Alphaeon Credit – got immediate approval
2. Purchased Post-Operative Supplies
3. Blood Test and EKG (ensure to remove your Apple or Smart Watch b/4 the EKG is administered – It can impact your results negatively)
4. Follow PS Pre-Op instructions
Yes, I’m a little nervous… the usual stuff that keeps me up at night.
• How long will the incision and scar be?
• How much pain may I encounter during the recovery process?
• Hope I do not get and infection or worst not wake up at all.
• How long will it actually take my scar to heal and fade.
I know we all have these questions. I'm considering getting a tatoo once I'm totally heal and the scar has flattened and lightened. I have not tatoos now... So that will definitely require some contemplation.
Plan to post photo after my first post op follow-up.
Well time to head to the hospital. I will write more tomorrow; hopefully if I am up to it.
Updated on 8 Oct 2019:
It is the evening of my surgery and I feeling good. All went seamlessly. The pain is low, really, I mean almost non-existent. I'm however, I do have burst of energy one moment and sluggish the next. My biggest inconvenience today dry mouth from the medication.
Have a good night.
Updated on 9 Oct 2019:
This morning I was up at 4AM(ish). Getting out of the bed at this time was the first flash of pain. I could not stand up straight. While I do not have much an appetite this was an opportune time to get a little food in my stomach and take my painkillers and anti-biotic. I noticed while my throat was not sore, it was difficult to get meat and macaroni + cheese down -- then I remembered I was intubated during the surgery. So I decided to make some oxtail soup adding some noodles and vegetables. Which is what I at today. I'm learning using the AirLift is also helpful with removing the phlegm from my thought another minor discomfort in the throat and abdomen -- I recommend pressing a pillow tightly against your tummy when coughing or sneezing.
I have already emptied my drain 3-times since I got home. This task was not without drama. Twice the drain got clogged and finally, it totally came out. I call my doctor and she was able to get me in for an examination within two-hours. I was experiencing bleeding and just running down my leg. I bandaged up when I arrived at her office she examined me, simply, cleaned the area, showed me how to apply and change the bandage as well assure me the worst was over and the bleeding would stop in by tomorrow.
I arrived home changed the bandage again, took my meds, sipped on my soup, and spent the rest of the day getting as much rest as I can making every attempt to stay comfy.
Updated on 10 Oct 2019:
I happy to say, I am sleeping more than 4-5 hours, which is the norm for me. My goal for the next 5 days is to sleep for 7-8 hours, get up take my meds, bathe or change a bandage, eat the get back in the bed until I been the next interval.
The good news is my PS was right no more bleeding from the drain hole. It is covered lightly with Silverdeen and gauze. As a matter of fact my day was uneventful. My appetite is minimal. I had approximately 12 ounces of homemade (vegetables, protein, pasta) soup - spread over breakfast and lunch. Dinner I had 1/2 of an egg-white omelette w/ham, swiss and cheddar cheese. Lots of water!
Pain Level: Only intense when lying down to standing, sneezing, and coughing. Once I am up and moving around, I feel fine.
Updated on 11 Oct 2019:
I could not get comfortable enough to sleep last night. I needed to listen to Al Green just to gently rock-a- way the pain to relax and let the meds kick it with my eyes closed. Then, I awoke with the worst pain since my surgery. My neck hurt, my incision and drain spot are had intermittent burning type pain. Funny thing was after 15 minutes of walking around my house the pain went away.
The successful, part of the day is as follows:
- I had a bowel movement.
- I was able to shower.
- Change my bandages.
- I saw my incision and new navel (bruising is minimal) :-).
- I could visually see the areas of bloating + swelling (The left side is more swollen - which is typical for me)
- The areas that requires lymphatic drainage and massage are clear.
- I know just wear to apply compression and icing.
Now I am even more committed to maintaining a low inflammatory diet and hydration. I plan to spend most of the weekend sleeping.
Stay tune, I will post photos after my 1st Post Op follow-up.
Updated on 14 Oct 2019:
7-days post op. This morning I went back to work today Standing straight and looking good with the elastic binder under my shirt. The day was chill, Mostly, sitting in meetings and catching up on emails. Walking (taking the elevator) across the street to my office and sitting wasn’t too bad. Of course getting up from a relaxed or a stationary position is the challenge at this early after postop.
This afternoon at my follow-up visit with my Plastic Surgeon I received my before pictures which I posted today. I was examined And she confirmed my incisions are healing well. I was told to stop using the Silvadene and only applying a non-stick pad between my skin and the Design Veronique compression garment that she help me put on today. The trick to this garment: it has two zippers one on the right and left side with firm compression in the abdominal area but not binding against my incision. My fear is for the next few weeks it will be a nightmare for me to put on by myself. Nevertheless, Once that garment was on I was able to stand up totally straight — it felt so good. My left side tends to swell more, so of course I have firmness on that side right around the hip area which I’m massaging with the ball and I will start lymphatic drainage massage in the next few days.
My next appointment is in two weeks my tummy. I went back into the office for one last meeting and then returned home promptly. I had some soup; totally exhausted I went to sleep for about three hours.
I will admit sleeping in the compression garment is a lot easier and reduces the tension and strain on my abdominal incision and muscles. The elastic band did not cover my lower belly underneath the incision. Thus, I’m glad that I was able to get it on in just one week. After my BBL. I was so Swollen it took two weeks to get on a garment. more pictures to come
Updated on 15 Oct 2019:
It has been 24+ hours since I jumped into the monkey suit (compression garment); This is what my dude calls it. I’m supposed to where it 20-hours a day. I’m so afraid if I take it off, I will not put it back on. Standing, walking, talking and even walking up stairs is easy. Sleeping in this bag is a beast. That means it is doing it job. Next...
When you got pee and don't want to ruin your compression garment Get a funnel or you will wash the elasticity right out of your garment. At $190 a piece I purchased 2.
Gotta keep it fresh!
Updated on 18 Oct 2019:
This week the pain has really diminished and I can fit all of my Levi's jeans size 31. I only taking my Vitamins daily and Tylenol (ES) when needed. I'm done with narcotics, and antibiotics, colace - Goodie GOODIE!
During the day I feel minor stiffness from sitting in my office. Typically, I am swollen upon returning from work. My appetite is minimal I have been indulging in a variety of homemade soups with protein 3-4 times a day and lots of water.
I'm confident if I maintain a low inflammatory diet, limiting my red meat, processed good and HH social vodka intake I will accomplish my goal of a size 27. I don't want to be too skinny.
Daily Ritual:
1. Shower in evening
2. Wipe the incision with alcohol and apply silvadene and apply fresh bandage/tape
3. Moisturize (Honey Go) and Message with Arnica (the swollen areas on my belly and flanks)
4. Put on a YUMMIE compression tank top and massage my abdomen with a Lacrosse Ball for 15 minutes
5. Apply PainCakes for 15-minutes
6. Sleep in the elastic band for 4-hour and take off a couple of hours before getting dressed for the office.
7. Awake, freshen up and put on my Fajas, tummy and flank boards; get suited for work.
8. and REPEAT.
Updated on 22 Oct 2019:
I'm 2-weeks post op and I feel good. My healing is going well and my I'm taking a BM multiple times a day thank to White Castle Cheese Burgers (Murder Burgers work every time) LOL.
I'm looking good in my clothes. I went back to work and in my heels a week ago. Getting up from a sitting or prone position take a deep inhale, smile and exhale on lift -- but I never let anyone see me sweat.
As this the third installment of my body contouring trilogy of procedures. I must admit it is easier than the BBL/360 Lipo, Breast Reduction /Lift. My post op supply expenses are relatively low. The swelling and bruising is at a minimum (my skin is sensitive so I have a few scrapes and tape marks which I know will fade) The most discoloration for me was at the end of incision on the left and right hip. Massage with Arnica is the best relief. While, I purchased 2- new compression garments, I did not need them. But it was nice to have the older garments to switch into at night or on the weekend. It was a fresh feeling to be able to change without having to wait for the a hand washed garment to dry.
While my work required metal discipline, I get to kick back physically. Mostly meeting and walking from conference to my office, on the elevator and back to my office. I cannot wait to go back to office gym. Not to mention my office is exactly 128-steps elevator to elevator (building to building). So I would only recommend going back to work early if your body and work will allow you to do so.
I will tell you my body times out at 5p. Meaning I need a nap.Yesterday, I sat through my regular appointment for a Mani/Pedi at the salon. I surprised myself and my manicurist.
About a week ago, I attempted to wear a nice bra. However, just the elastic band around my breast bone put me in a state of discomfort. That activated the sternum pain - upper abs. It is a dull aching pain, so I went back to wearing the compression tank top under my garment. I cannot even look at a bra right now.
This week the zingers are kicking in, however, I just continue to massage with Arnica, and the lacrosse ball. Followed by PainCake10-minute ice treatment all over my torso. This also prevents garment hooks and zippers from leaving marks on my skin.
Thus far, I am really happy with my healing progress and keep a positive outlook. As we all know during healing -- everyday your body will look a little different some days you love the way you look and other days you will be complaining or criticizing about every little mark, weight gain, swelling, puffiness, and or ect. making you want to call your doctor.
Just stay the course and be open to healing it will not happen overnight. Until, then my plan is to go dancing one night this week.
Updated on 22 Oct 2019:
Another day. Time to head somewhere warm and tropical.
Updated on 28 Oct 2019:
I returned from Bermuda yesterday -- I had Royal Service at the Fairmont Southampton, the butlers wait on you hand and foot. The romantic dinners, early morning long walks on the pink sand beaches and warm weather were best place for me to continue my recovery. I went out every single night and had a great vacation with my boo.
Today is Monday morning, and yes I went back to my office today. A full day of meetings, NO OTC medication.
Updated on 28 Oct 2019:
Today, I had my 2nd Post Op visit with my PS, she says my recovery is going well. No more bandages, antibiotic ointments/creams. I just shower normally.
My skin is prone to swelling and bruising (nothing cocoa butter won't heal) when I put on a Miracle Swimsuit w/ rash guard / compression it does not impact my healing and recovery. So I'm wearing a one piece. I get the support I need without the ultra violet rays. I still find myself crashing at 5p each to for a nap and I do not fight it. As my incision is healing well, I'm cleared for my next 11-day trip to Panama City for a conference / vacation next week.
On the real, I not one to complain about every bump and bruise. Healing is a process. I'm staying positive an excited for my continued recovery progress. I recommend everyone who is able to move during healing. Get mobile ASAP it is beneficial to recovery.
Updated on 3 Nov 2019:
I’m still very swollen and not letting it hold me back. I have a four day business conference in Panama City, Panama. Followed by 5-days
of vacation. I’m so excited.
Updated on 20 Nov 2019:
My nine days in Panama was great and I was able to follow my PS direction to the letter. The conference was great and while I packed three tankinis. I managed to stay out of sun, did not go in the pool or on o the beach. The company of my colleagues and fellow conference attendees was more than enough. I did go to spa for massage 5 out of the 9 days.
The humidity was real and this was an annual conference so I was not ashamed or inhibited swelling.
Enjoy your recovery in a that works for you with your PS blessing.
Updated on 21 Nov 2019:
Yesterday, I met with my PS Top Doc Emily Pollard in Philadelphia. She had nothing but good news regarding my healing and recovery.
All is going well. While I still have under belly button swelling my incision is healing well. I still have the mumbing/tingles/itches. Just one floating firm spot under my sternum. I massage both areas with a lacrosse ball. All is closed and I have been cleared to:
Stop wearing my fajas / compression garment and elastic band.
Manicure (shave) my nether regions.
Moisturize my body generously for the winter weather.
Apply medical grade silicone scar treatment NEW Gel to my incision for additional scar flattening and lightening of skin discoloration.
Go back to gym and workout (Cardio, Light weighs -- no Ab work)
Access the Spa WhirlPool, Steam and Sauna Rooms.
Get some real sunshine in my life.
My Journey Timeline event recap:
10.08 - Tummy Tuck and Abdominal Sculpting
10.09 - My drain fell out - immediately back to my PS office
10.12 - Began and anti-inflammatory diet
10.14 - 1st Post Op w/ PS
10.15 - Went back to WORK after -Week Post Op
10.23 - Traveled to Bermuda to celebrate my birthday (5-days)
11.03 - Flew to Miami for Joe's Stone Crabs
11.04 - Flew to Panama City, Panama for (10-days) 6-days /vacation and 4-days /conference
11.11 - Flew to Miami for Stone Crabs
11.12 - Work remotely and flew back to Philadelphia
11.13 - Back to work
11.14 - Plagued with a Sinus Infection (antibiotics / decongestants)
11.21 - Rid of Sinus Infection
11.28 - Plans to fly to fly to Milan, Italy for a 4-day Thanksgiving vacation (followed by work related meetings there the 1st week of December.)
My advice; With direction and approval from your PS. Keep moving and do all the things that make you happy with the people you love. If you have a Set Back. Be determined to make a COME BACK!
Updated on 22 Nov 2019:
Well I’m feeling good. My comp compression garment is an option as well as the elastic band so that’s great. Now I can dress freely. No lines or creases under my clothes.
For the first time yesterday I went to work without any compression i felt comfortable. Last night I applied the New Gel+ treatment abdominal strips on the incision. It is my plan to wear for 2-months. Out side of showering and cleaning the silicone strips. I have used the before after my breast lift. So I know I have no allergy to the product and can keep it on for up to 24 hours without issue.
After a day at the office, this afternoon I returned home and my belly was so hard and swollen. I put my compression garment back on. Got out my lacrosse ball and began massaging my torso and incision for 30-minutes and then took a nap. I will repeat these steps over the weekend. As the weather will be bad. This is my time to rest before going to Italy.
Updated on 9 Dec 2019:
Where did the time go. I just returned from a business trip in Milan, Italy. Best trip of 2019 and I have been on a few.
My healing is going well and the silicone strips are doing their magic. My scar is flat and fading every day. This photo was taken after 12 hours on a plane. There is still lots of swelling on my left side. However, very happy with my results.
Updated on 7 Jan 2020:
Happy New Year!
My recovery is going well. No major changes since week 8. The swelling comes and goes, which I know will be the case for the first 6 months or more. I have notice the lumps on my the left side of my abdomen near the incision and below the navel are gone. I continue to use a lacrosse ball to massage nightly. Thus my belly is even on both sides. It has been two months since I began using the NewGel scar treatment and my scar is flat and fading more and more everyday.
l still focus on eating a low fat and anti-inflammatory diet. Drinking more water than ever and avoiding alcohol. I'm working out 3-days a week with a personal trainer (30-minutes of Cardio) and 30-minutes of strength training (Legs / Back, Chest /Arms and stretching). My energy level is much improved. I will not be cleared to do an abdominal focused work out for another 4-weeks.
My next appointment with my PS in February 12th, 2019. I will share new photos then along with my healing progress.
Updated on 9 Feb 2020:
NewGel is scar healer and treatment that works so well. Holds up and stays on during long workouts. Simply take off before Showering, wash with a mild soap and water. Once dry reapply. I have use the same strips for 90-days now. Still I have another strip from the same package. This product is much better than scar-away and stays on for the user with good hygiene. So easy to use
Updated on 9 Feb 2020:
Time flies when you're having fun! My New Years Resolution maximize my TT investment by the acquisition of a personal trainer to help me reach my fitness goals.
I will begin with my top priorities for healing in 2020:
Charles, my trainer is great! We meet 3-d/p/w at my apartment gym. Each day we focus on major muscle groups. Chest/Back, Legs, and Arms/Shoulders and repeat the cycle the next week with new exercises and equipment. At the end of each workout, I must say the 15-stretching is the best part.
On my own I Run/Walk 7-days a week averaging 100K+ steps p/week as reported by my FitBit/Apple Watch. Entering challenges with co-workers and friends motivate me to get in gym and get in a workout.
My nutritionist Courtney, has me on a Mediterranean/Keto (with a focus on Anti-Inflammatory condiments/foods) diet. I track my FOOD points on Weight Watchers app to keep me honest. My MAX points are 16. What I really love is I can eat all the crabs (no I do not have high cholesterol) I want. Not to mention, I am drinking more than I ever have. I gave up coffee and find tea so delightful.
I feel and look good in my business attire. I can see my waist is slimmer, my low back ducktail to a my nicely enhanced bottom. and my biceps and triceps have good definition. Most of all, my tummy is flatter and I can tuck in my blouse and shirts and tees in with PRIDE.
The good news is I have no lumps on my abdomen both the left and right side are now healing as one. As expected based on my initial consultation and PS follow-up, I still have some swelling, occasional bloating, numbness and tingling below the belly button. However, I find lymphatic massage and eating anti-inflammatory foods have expedited my healing process. Everything is tight and my boyfriend cannot pinch any fat or excess skin -- even with my 8-pound weight loss.
Lastly, I could not be more happy with the healing of my incision. It has been 12 weeks since I began the NewGel scar treatment. This medical grade holds up and stays put during a workout and after a shower.
I'm so glad I made the decision to have a full abdominoplasty I have NO regrets! I am so ready for my 2020 international business travel to begin on Tuesday!
I'm very happy with the work my PS performed. I see Dr. Pollard next week for my 4th Post Op visit.