52, 5 Kids, 2 C-section Later. Tummy Tuck, BA, LIpo ABD, Flanks, Chin

So day 12 I experienced some muscle pain all over and in my stomach so I lounged on the couch most of the day. I'm disappointed I'm not doing more. My house is becoming a mess! I can't find the energy to do much. I think I'll feel better when I get my drains out. It keeps me from leaving the house. It's hot outside and I have only one outfit that covers my drains and it's long sleeves. Urgh.
I was reading other reviews and it seems there are a lot of issues and swelling that I want to avoid by not getting my drains out too soon. I was told by my doc that I have to go two days in a row with less than 20ml total from both drains. They told me to expect the drains for 3 weeks. I've read on here that some get drains out at 5 or 6 days! but then I see where some people get oozing out of their wounds. I'm willing to wait. Well I got down to 20ml for 2 days in a row. They said I could remove one of them, but then I got a day of 25ml total. Sooooooooo I guess I'm okay for now. I do not want fluid buildup under my skin. I can wait a few more days though I'm SOOOOOOO sick of them. But, my husband is taking my younger kids camping so I've got less motivation to get my drains out. I've been still sleeping on the couch because it keeps me from sleeping on my side and pulling my drains. I'll move to my bed when drains are out. I'll be patient, I want the best outcome.
I think it would be difficult to go back to work with drains, though. I have a friend who wore a fanny pack and kept them in there. Drains would be much easier to deal with in the winter with large sweaters, blazers and leggings to tuck them in. I expect I'll be done with the drains by 3 weeks like they said.

I tried posting these lifesaver photos in my last edit and they didn't show up. We'll try again. The Fiber I take as 1TBS once a day with water. No pooping issues. Squatty potty, also for pooping. Handheld Bidet for easy "refreshing".

I thought I would be doing more day 12. I think I'm not because I'm tired. I don't sleep through the night. I'm a side sleeper which means I'm not loving sleeping on my back. I'm still sleeping on the couch because I get up to pee so many times during the night and I don't want to wake up my husband who needs to sleep so he can work to pay for this adventure of mine. I am catching up on some binge watching.

I'm posting some photos of items that I feel have helped me tremendously.
I've read complaints about constipation. I have not had this problem at all. I take Psyllium husks with water once per day about 3 hours after I take my Tylenol. This is because the Psyllium soaks up what's around it. I don't want it absorbing any of my disolved pain meds. Yes it's gross, but hey, we're adults, I mix it with water and down it fast. If you wait too long it turns to a gelatinous mush and tastes like shredded wheat. I guarantee. One tablespoon per day with water and you will have no problems going to the bathroom. No pushing or anything.

Along that note, I love my squatty potty. You don't actually squat on it, it just allows a place for you to set your legs to release muscles in your rectal area. I've used it for years, it is especially useful now. Pooping has not been an issue.

Further along that note, I have a hand-held "bidet". I actually have a built in toilet seat bidet, as well, but the hand-held helps you rinse yourself off with precision. I've had this for years as it was helpful after having babies, cleaning off toddler bottoms, rinsing soiled baby clothes, etc. If I can keep my nether regions squeaky clean, it makes me feel more normal. I do not have to take my bodysuit off to urinate, poop, or spray down. Lifesaving. Taking the bodysuit off is a real pain. But cleanliness is still important, just to maintain that feeling of normalcy.

I'm still days away from getting drains out. I don't think I'll really feel better until the drains are out.