46 year old female tummy tuck 5'5 160 lbs

I had surgery yesterday (1/23/17) at Charlotte Plastic Surgery with Dr. Michael Beasley. I had consultations with several surgeons before I chose Dr Beasley. He had all the correct credentials and a state-of-the-art operating facility. But the main factor was he cared about me as a patient and was very conservative in his treatment. For example I asked him if I can have Lipo on other parts of my body while I was out and he said no because that would be too traumatic for my body. I liked the answer because so many other doctors try to upsell you. He has a certified nurse anesthesiologist who is excellent. In addition to finding the best doctor for me, I read real people's TT experiences on this website.

So far, the pain has been very manageable. The best advice (besides finding the correct doctor) is to stay on top of your pain meds. Set your alarm to wake you up and take your pain medication during the night.

Other hints: have lots of pillows on hand you will need them to try and get comfortable, drink a lot of liquid and take stool softeners, you will need someone to cater to you immediately after surgery.

I'm 5 '5, 160 pounds, & have 2 teenage sons. Even when I lost the weight for each of my pregnancies the loose skin and little layer of fat around my tummy would not go away.

When Dr Beasley ask why I wanted a tummy tuck I told him I just wanted to button my pants. I had to either buy a size up in my pants or wear elastic waist garments. I was fed up with it, so decided to go through with the surgery.

I had the surgery yesterday at 8 a.m. and not much pain, but a lot soreness. It feels like I've been kicked in the stomach or did a thousand sit-ups. This is due to sewing the ab muscles together, not the incision itself.

Honestly it is not as bad as I thought it was going to be. That's why I wanted to share my experience. It's been less than 24 hours and soreness is my only complaint. Dr. Beasley uses drains and that is a good thing. Instead of the fluid staying in your abdomen region it is drained out. I've emptied the drains five or six times already. I go for my follow-up procedure tomorrow and I can't wait to get a peek at the results.

Today is day 5 after TT. Today has been the worst day, but not due to pain. I am very swollen, bruised, & numb. I was concerned something was wrong, so I drove myself to the drs office. He said it was healing normally & was NOT happy I had driven by myself. I am anxiously waiting for the tightness & swelling to subside.