10 weeks PO: And I thought it was over...

10 weeks PO: Finally, I have the time to write an update on my page. After several weeks of being overwhelmed with my results and an easy recovery, going back to the gym and feeling great, putting back all the pants from pre-op and looking good, things started to change as of 1-2 weeks ago. Bloating and swelling have reapeared, but in a way that really freaked me out. I started to get the pre-op belly back, you know the one that looks like a balloon (see pre-op pictures), but minus the skin. Results: my skin started to stretch like crazy, my upper abdomen was super swollen, most pants couldnt barely fit. WTF???? I was reading through this website that most TTers get that, but we are like that, we think we are worst than others and I thought there was something wrong. I even posted a question in this site for doctors to answer me (see photos through the link of my profile) and most were telling me it might be a seroma. At 9 weeks ??? OKKKK! Couldn't really believe it, but decided at this point, I should go see my non-talkative, yet straight to the point surgeon. I made an urgent appointment to see him last Friday. Of course, my belly was kind of flat that day, like when you go to a garage because your car makes noise, and once you're there, the noise suddenly disapears. Anyway, he saw my pictures when I was way worst so he got an idea of what I was talking about.

Of course, there was nothing wrong. No accumulation of fluids, no muscle repair broken, all is good. I got the "you are still in recovery mode lady" speech, the one he tells patients at least once a day for the last 5 years. Rolling his eyes and telling me I probably have done too much in the last days prior to the major bloating. Well...Thinking about it, I might have moved few things around the house that were a bit heavy. Im in the process of moving, so yeah, I need to lift few things. But really, after 9 weeks, still swelling and bloating like that? Yup, he answered. "Don't run lady, don't try to get to the finish line before the recovery is over." Then he asked me when did i started to exercice..well, hum...few weeks ago..There you go. He almost got mad at me.I knew I had to leave. I had all my responses, thank you doctor. I felt stupid, yet reassured.

When you are feeling great since week 4, you forget. You forget your tummy has been through a major surgery and it takes months to recover. You forget that when you are doing too much, you are swelling. Sometimes, its normal swelling, sometimes you feel like your belly is about to explode. I know now. I know I have nothing to worry about swelling and bloating in the next 4 months as I will still be in recovery mode. I shouldn't panic like I did. It almost went back to normal. I put back my binder for few days and all is good. Really, no need to worry. Will post pictures when that bloating/swelling will be over. Going to Florida next week, how about some bikinis pictures on the beach? OH YEAH!Take care [RS bleep]

At 6 weeks PO, im finally starting to see what my final results will be! And i have to say i like it a LOT!!! I noticed this morning my swelling is not as bad as the last couple of days and decided to try on pants that i didn't even think of trying last week: i was able to button them all up, which is awesome!!! Its still tight, so i know there is still swelling, but im getting there! I have some curves and tummy still look nice and flat. Still numb in the middle of my tummy, but sides are ok and not sensitive anymore.

I have also took it up a notch with my daily workout, about 45 min each day, and feeling really good. I noticed some swelling in my upper abs when im done my aerobics, but it goes down very quickly. No abs exercice though, don't want to screw it all. Im planning a trip to Florida next month and need to be in top shape for the beaches!!! I still put some silicone gel every morning and evenings, but the scar is the least of my concerns right now, as it is low and thin. I know it will take a long before it heals so im not worried, as long as i can cover it up. Hope all is well with your recovery!

Post week 5: for the last couple of days, I started to exercice again. I started slowly, first day, i did light weights for about 20 min and a bit of leg stretching and waited to see how i would feel. No side effects, so i did it again the next day and added 10 min cardio. Yesterday, did 20 min cardio and 20 min light weights (5 pounds) and felt a bit stiff but ok. Will do it again today. OMG, does it ever feel good to move again!!! My next plan is to get rid of those flabby arms but that, i can work it out!!! I found good Ipad apps on upper body and its perfect. I did some pilates, but there is definitely some moves i can't do yet, or i am afraid to overdo it. Yes, im working out again, but im being very careful of what i do and what exercices i pick, as my recovery is more important than the rest. Im also back on track with my diet and seeing results on the scale, so really, the tummy tuck is sure a great motivator to keep me focused.

Sensitivity on the sides is now gone, swelling still there though. All Ttuckers that have been through this know it is our biggest downer. God, is this ever long!!!!!!! Few pants are fitting and it really frustrates me because i feel my surgery happened a long time ago and want to show the world how good i look, but i feel restreint by what i could wear. Patience is a virtue i certainly don't have, its a chance i m not alone ins this, otherwise, i would become crazy!!!