So Far So Good - Burlington, ON

Well I guess I'm close to a month and a bit PO. I moved to NYC this past weekend. I was dreading the drive 8 hours, but took a few breaks and somehow managed quite fine. I will post pix of stomach when my husband is home to help, I'm so tech adverse.

I have had no real swelling or seranomas ( touch wood). My scar looks good. I know this is still considered early days of recovery but I hope it continues like this.

My PS said I didn't have to wear a binder after my last appt. I was wearing it for support, but realized when I was driving to NYC that it was really uncomfortable and causing me discomfort. I took it off adn I haven't worn it since, and that was 4 days ago. I've read that some PS's advice is to wear a compression garment for a longer duration, and some PS advise you don't have to. I suggest you go by what your PS advises.

The tightness in the stomach is still there, but very dull compared to early days. It reminds me to stand tall. This is THE best thing I have ever gifted myself..and my husband is reaping the rewards!

Good luck to everyone on their journey, as this really is one.

How time flies while surfing RealSelf. My photographer leaves for university tomorrow, so I needed him to take some photos for here. I like how I can compare the previous photos with these, I highly recommend the new patients to do the same.

I am far more active, but know when to take it easy. Overdid it on Friday, and paid the price yesterday. Big Time, alot of tightness in my stomach, couldn't get comfortable, etc. But woke up today feeling refreshed and back on track.

I have always had an athletic shape ( ie no waist) but could never get rid of the stomach particularly the part above the belly button. So I am thrilled with the result.
The scar is puckered etc, my doctor told me it was on purpose and each pucker disappears as the healing progresses.

My back occasionally reminds me that it is sore, but that's closer to bed time anyways.

For those who don't know who to tell, in the end I told my parents the night before. My parents aren't the type to come down to care for me, but I was afraid I would get the "why would you pay all that money....." which I didn't get it, a nice surprise.

I "confessed" to my girlfriends in NJ before I move to NYC, because I am going to see them soon, and if they see me now and I said, "oh, I dieted" they would call bulls##t in a heartbeat. They are happy and jealous at the same time.

As my husband lives in NYC and only comes home on weekends, it was my kids who were the superstars in my recovery. They walked the dogs, brought me soup, etc.

My girlfriend across the street, got the phone call the first time I saw my scar and I said "what did I do to myself" and questioning my decision. (a very bad day) But 5 days later when I walked across the street to show her, all she said was "It was worth it".

I need to thank who ever termed it the Frankenbutton, I love that nickname.

At my visit with the doctor today, I had my stitches removed. Everything is healing nicely. These photos are of me 12 days po. The first week of recovery is really a blur now. I wish I had of done this earlier...