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POSTED UNDER Tummy Tuck Reviews

41 Year Old, 2 Kids, Finally Getting my Belly Fixed! - Cleveland, OH

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I am 2 weeks away from getting my tummy tuck. I...

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indiana6
WORTH IT$8,700
I am 2 weeks away from getting my tummy tuck. I am very excited but very nervous about the pain. I am 41, have 2 kids and am 5'7" and weigh 148. Why is it when I read other reviews, I feel so much bigger than others who weigh more than me? I guess I don't carry weight well. Can't wait to finally get rid of this belly. I have very low self esteem because of it. I know I shouldn't, because I have two kids, but I still feel awful about it.

I had my pre-op with my PS on Friday and he answered all of the questions I had. He puts drains on the side, not in the pubic area. He also will place a binder on me, but he doesn't want to use any compression garments. He also does not believe in using any supplements or vitamins or anything. I expressed my fear about the pain and asked if i could get something stronger than percocet for the first couple days after surgery and he said there was nothing stronger in pill form. Is he correct? He did say that he could give me double strength percocet so I hope that it is enough. I'm really nervous about the pain... He does not give the prescriptions until the day of surgery. He says I can get them filled right at the hospital.

indiana6's provider

Jason E. Leedy, MD

Jason E. Leedy, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 243 Reviews
PROFILE

Replies (5)

August 4, 2014
Don't stress about the pain! I'm 34 days pre op and of course I think about it but we have to focus on the final outcome! You'll be fine and you're going to look fantastic!
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August 4, 2014
I don't know what you have heard about Percocet that has you worried it won't help with pain, but I had it after 3 c-sections and believe me, it is fabulous for pain! I was sweeping, doing laundry, cleaning the bathroom, all on day 6 after my last c-section because I felt awesome on Percocet. It was when it wore off I had to pay for pushing too hard. Lol! You'll do fine. No worries! Good luck!
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August 5, 2014
Thanks! I also had percocet with my last c-section, but I am thinking this is going to hurt more than that, since I'm having my muscles repaired and getting lipo. Oh--did I mention I'm a wimp, LOL?
August 4, 2014
I'm three weeks PO with Dr Leedy! Love him!
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August 5, 2014
He is very nice and very straightforward!
August 4, 2014
But he have me four drains... In the pubic area.
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August 6, 2014
You're not a wimp. My doctor did tell me he was impressed with how quickly I got up and about. I kind of handle surgery like a badass ;) I sure hope this isn't worse than I c section.
UPDATED FROM indiana6
10 days pre

41 Mom of Two--11 Days Until the Big Day!!

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indiana6
I just wanted to write a quick update. I ordered and received a toilet seat lift--hoping that helps. I had my last physical therapy session yesterday and another follow up with my orthopedic surgeon today and all is good with my recovery from fracturing my L1, sacrum and tailbone, then after getting out of my brace, my core was so weak that I really injured my hamstring on the right leg and have high hamstring tendinopathy--very painful and long injury. I got a platelet rich plasma injection there back in June and it is starting to help me feel somewhat normal. I'm going to call 2014 as the year for crazy pain. I ultimately decided to do this for myself because my muscles will be repaired so I can really strengthen my core. I can't wait until I can recover from this surgery and start running again! I haven't been able to run since december 18, 2013! That's they day I fractured my spine...

I am so excited--the nerves are turning to excitement because I will really be able to get back into shape with my belly fixed! I even went to Victoria's Secret and got a very pretty bra and panty set for post surgery...

Replies (3)

August 8, 2014
Exciting, your surgery is the day before mine, best of luck
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August 8, 2014
good luck to you too!
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August 8, 2014
Much luck hon!
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August 8, 2014
thanks!!
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August 9, 2014
Thinking and praying for you. I have Dr Leedy performing surgery Monday. You will look amazing. I wish you the best with your healing of your back . You WILL be running again. How did you fracture it ? Dr Leedy said I can use Motrin post-op to help with the pain.
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August 9, 2014
Thanks Suzy7504!! I fell on ice in a parking lot--it was like a slip on a banana peel fall. I read your review and am so glad to read that Dr. Leedy has a great surgical reputation! I'm in the nervous phase and worried about blood clots and anesthesia. Does Dr. Leedy give compression socks to wear? I didn't ask... I can't believe you're surgery is 2 days away!! Are you getting everything performed in 1 surgery? You are gonna look awesome!!
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August 10, 2014
Thank you.! I want to look awesome too :). It will be one surgery 5.5 hrs. He does his work at Marymount Hospital. Yes we will get the compression devise while in surgery . I am sure if you ask they will get you stockings too. OMG just did a countdown. I always get nervous. He will do great work on you. Say goodby to your tummy.
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August 10, 2014
Wow, I'm very excited for you! Thanks for putting my mind at ease!! Do you suggest I ask him for valium for night-time in addition to percocet. I see a lot of ladies on here saying they got it and needed it. I asked him if there was something else I could get for pain that was strong in case I needed it and he aid percocet was it. I am so wimpy and afraid that won't be enough.
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August 10, 2014
Hi Girl, I asked too he said he did not use it. Ask for Toradol for strong non narcotic pain relief. Praying for ya !
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August 11, 2014
Thanks! Good luck! Can't wait to hear from you after your surgery... :)
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August 12, 2014
You are in my thoughts and Prayers today. As you know DrLeedy is exceptional. My surgery result is fantastic@. Only took 1or 2 percoset.the pain is not as bad as I thought.I am in the hospital now. Going home after I pee.scopaline patch for nauses .I have no nauses at all.
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August 12, 2014
So glad you're doing well!! Did you stay overnight? Can't wait to hear more!!
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August 12, 2014
Yes I stayed overnight because I had such a long anesthesia time. I got a Toradol injection before I left. It is given IV.Pain is ok. I use ice under the armpits 20 min on 20 off.Our Doc doesnot want ice on the belly cause it is numb and it can cause frostbite.I took a nap when I got home. My head feels funny.kinda drowsy.It is hard to move around esp going from laying on the couch to standing.I cant use my arms to bear the weight cause of the implants.The tummy by itslf should be better.Good luck tell me all about it
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August 13, 2014
From the way you are writing sounds like you are doing well. Fantastic recovery wishes. Not to excited anymore about mine. Don't know why. Anybody else feel like that too?
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August 13, 2014
I went to Cedar Point today with the hubby and kids plus a niece and one of the kids brought a friend. It was a long day. I should have stayed home and slept to prepare for surgery! I'm now icing my right hamstring--I injured the tendon and tore the muscle in April after having been in a back brace for 3 months... Too much walking today! I only rode the pirate ship for fear I'd re-injure my back. I imagine you are very drowsy and woosy! I will be in your shoes next week! Stay strong ladY!
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August 13, 2014
I think I'm more nervous right now. Only 5 days till surgery and I feel like I have so much to do to get ready, I feel guilt that I won't be able to care for the kids... All of those things running through my mind. I know it will be worth it, though. Maybe you're nerves are getting to you too!
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August 13, 2014
Yes I think you just get to the point that you are gonna do this. It not as bad as we all imagine :)
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August 13, 2014
I really did not get ready as others did. I got the basics. It must be hard having the young ones but you will love them from the couch or recliner. They will understand. Its not as bad as I thought. Dr Leedy called me to check on me at home. He is such a great doc.Took 3 walks around the house so far.Had a BM peeing.Just taking motrin too. I overthink everything and felt nervous too. You will be so happy when your healed.
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August 13, 2014
Thank you for your wishes .so sweet. I tried not to think about it cause i was so scared before my surgery.
UPDATED FROM indiana6
6 days pre

Pre Admission tests were today!!

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indiana6
Well, today I went to the hospital for my pre admission tests. I also had to pay the hospital and anesthesia fees. So--I'm all paid up and ready to go. A week from right now I will be in surgery!

The testing was mainly just asking medical history questions, a short physical exam, I didn't even have to give blood! The nurse showed me a drain and how to empty and milk it. I also got a bunch of cleansing wipe things that I have to wipe myself down with before I go to bed next Sunday, then also have to do again when I wake up Monday. I am not allowed to shower Monday. I guess these wipes have some sort of chemical to deter infections...

On a separate note, I am anxious! Ben having anxiety dreams. Last night in my dream, my husband's secretary did my abdominoplasty in a restaurant bathroom and didn't finish and someone was coming so I grabbed these three flaps of skin she cut off and stuffed them in a shopping cart, LOL!!

Replies (5)

August 11, 2014
I think our surgeries are the same day, August 19. I can't believe it's so close, best of luck to you:)
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August 15, 2014
Thanks! Good luck to you! Mine is Monday the 18th! I have to be at the hospital at 8 AM!!!
August 15, 2014
Mine is the 19th and I have to be there at 7:30, getting close now:) I will be thinking about you
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August 13, 2014
Good luck on your transformation!!!!
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August 15, 2014
Thanks!! I'm so nervous... It's down to the wire now!
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August 14, 2014
Best of luck! I'm having my tummy and boobs done in Dec, I can't wait!!!! Just scheduled my appt yesterday!
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August 15, 2014
Yay! Thanks and congrats!!
August 15, 2014
Love your anxiety dream! I am having them too. Night before last, I dreamt that when my husband brought me home from surgery, he had moved all my belongings to an apartment and left me. And I had to take care of myself, without any help. He would never do that, so why do we have these crazy dreams! LOL My surgery is Tuesday, so I will be right behind you! Good Luck!
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August 15, 2014
I think we have these dreams because we feel guilt deep down. I know I rarely do something for myself and certainly not anything like this!! You are gonna look great! With both of my pregnancies, I gained 90 lbs!! With my last one 2 years ago, I looked so big--like I was about to give birth to the county fair prize winning watermelon or something!! The first one wrecked my belly, but the last pregnancy wrecked it even more and I didn't think that was possible! I read your review and I can relate with skinny friends who have had kids flaunting their bodies while you try whatever you can to hide your belly... Well, soon those days are over for us both!! Congrats!
August 15, 2014
Yes they are!!!! I cannot wait for the 3 full days to pass for my surgery.
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August 15, 2014
Dont you worry Dr Leedy will make your tummy soooo beautiful ! The hospital staff was amazing too. You are in good hands.
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August 15, 2014
Thanks lady! You are super strong--I read your posts and you only took the strong pain meds for 2 days!! Wow, I, unfortunately am a wimp! I'm soo nervous about the pain! Having fractured my spine, sacrum and coccyx last December, I was in severe pain for months and was on vicodin 5/325 for 3 months 4 times a day!! Was glad to stop it, but it only touched the pain for me. I don't know how people can get addicted to pain pills though because they make me nauseous! You look awesome, by the way!! I got the call this morning and have to report to the hospital at 8 Monday morning... The nerves have really set in now! I just had day 1 of my garage sale and made $150 LOL! It's a good distraction and I'm getting rid of junk!! Thanks so much for you're reassurance--it really helps me! So glad I found this site!
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August 16, 2014
You will be fine. Dr Leedy will numb your muscles really well. The pain is different. muscle tightness , soreness and mild burning. You can do it.. The bone pain is much worse. I hate opioids too. It does not really take the pain away, It makes me tired. Today I feel like an ol lady my boobs are swollen and I am hunched over and super tired.You got this ...I know how scared you are .Its the unknown that is the hardest.
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August 18, 2014
I hope you're doing better and that you're ladies aren't so swollen! Tomorrow is my big day! I just wrote letters to my husband and kids in case something goes wrong! I'm sure things will be fine--just nerves. I am enjoying my last meal of a chocolate shake right now too LOL! Did you get a compression garment from Dr. Leedy? I was wondering about that since he said he doesn't use them but I paid for it... Well, I'm going to try and go relax for a few...Talk to you soon!!
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August 18, 2014
I wish you all the best.The staff at Marymount will take excellent care of you. Dr Leedy is truely amazing too. You will be great. Take Care ... Hugs and Prayers. Thaks my boobies are still swoll. It takes time.