1 year - TT, MR and lipo

The Buddha, my Buddha, and I have been life long frenemies. I've had a belly my whole life and have always wanted it to be gone. But I fear pain (will whine about paper cuts) and am cheap. Also, when I cross my arms, I like to rest them on my belly so I may miss that. But after running a marathon a few weeks ago (my one and only) and still having my stomach fat bouncing while I run, I decided to go for the tummy tuck. I haven't worn a bikini since I was 4 years old and don't think that will be changing after the TT, but I would like to know what a flat stomach is like and not have to wear mu-mu shirts for the rest of my life. I am 36 with 2 kids, about 5'3" and 126 pounds. I met with Dr. Niki Christopoulos. She was great - knowledgeable, professional and down to earth. I didn't feel judged (I feared it would be like the cosmetic counter at Nordstroms). I have never "blogged" in my life, but I am thankful to all you ladies who have shared your stories and hope mine will help someone too.

Some before pictures... I've been struggling with feelings of guilt and embarrassment for wanting to do this. Your stories have helped me, but please feel free to share any advice. My parents were once supportive, but now are not. My husband has been awesome and supportive. But I feel guilty for making him take time off work and taking on all the household/kid stuff and guilty that I won't be totally available for my boys.

Had my pre-op appointment. I have been so anxious, nervous, freaking out about recovery time, money, pain, swell hell, burden on my family, etc. I have been telling the people who know about my surgery that if I die (and I know logically chances are lower than low) during surgery to tell my boys that I was a cool and loving mom and that I was not a totally vain person who died to look better. I am mortified by the idea that my boys would have to tell friends that their mom died getting a tummy tuck. Silly, crazy brain of mine.

It was SUPER comforting to talk to Dr. Christopoulos. She took the time and answered all of my questions, even my admittedly out there ones. For example, I am afraid if I gain weight after surgery that the weight gain will go to my already round face. Weird thing to worry about.... I know. But flat stomach and huge chipmunk face. I fear that. I know these outcomes are unlikely, but I needed to ask them or I would fester on them. Also, it was comforting to hear from a board certified plastic surgeon that no, you will not grow chipmunk cheeks. Anyway, I feel so confident in Dr. Christopoulos that I'm really not worried about my results. I know they will be good. One less thing to worry about. I feel lucky about that!

Sending positive thoughts to you ladies healing or in surgery today! You all have helped me so much with your experiences! December 13th is my day!