Tummy Tuck and Large Volume Lipo After Weight Loss

I've been lurking on this sight for many months, reading reviews of people who have had similar procedures. It has been exremely helpful in my decision making process, as well as preparing myself for what is to come.

I had gastric bypass 13 years ago and lost 140 lbs. I have gained back 30+ lbs. over the years, and have a great deal of trouble losing now. I just can't get more than 10 lbs or so off, and that is only by greatly restricting my diet, and then I start to gain again if I increase my intake ever so slightly. I got off the yo-yo roller coaster over a year ago, and my weight has remained stable for about 9 months. I have a large, very saggy stomach which causes me lots of trouble. It makes it difficult to exercise, the weight of it creates problems with my back, and I can't even get a decent lower back stretch because my stomach prevents me from being able to fold over. So, I am having the skin and remaining fat removed.

I will have surgery in 10 days, the day before Thanksgiving. My turkey day won't be traditional! I am scheduled for a high-tension extended abdominoplasty with muscle repair, as well as lipo to my flanks, hips, lower back and bra roll. The high-tension facet will create a bit of lift for my hips, outer thighs, butt and upper pubic area. The incision will be extended well into my hips, which will allow removal of excess there as well.

I will post after photos as soon as I can post-surgery. I live 2 1/2 hours away, and will not be going home right away. I will be staying in the area for 5-7 days, and won't have access to my computer.

I'm excited and nervous!

I can't believe the day is almost here. It seemed so far away for so long, but it has snuck up on me. I've been busy preparing, both my physical and emotional self, purchasing the things that I need for surgery and recovery time, and preparing my home for after.
My pre-op appointment is behind me. Got my prescriptions for pain meds, anti-nausea meds, and anabiotic filled. I already started taking Arnica and bromelain, and bought a few button down shirts and drawstring pants for after surgery.
I will be in the care of a nurse for the first week or so, until my drains come out. We will stay the first couple of days in a hotel near the surgeon's office, and then move to her house until my drains come out, Then I'll come home and my teenage son will help me.
I had my first bikini wax yesterday! I've always wanted to do it, but I was very self-conscious about my fat and loose skin. I just decided to bite the bullet so I wouldn't have to worry about itchy painful razor stubble around my suture line right after surgery. After reading reviews on yelp, I found someone I believed I would be comfortable with seemed highly skilled. Both were true; she was fantastic! I got a Brazilian and feel like a fat [RS bleep] star! LOL
Got a pedicure today. Tomorrow, I'll touch up my roots, clean house and do laundry. Monday night after work will be any last minute stuff and packing. I will leave Tuesday after work to drive to L.A. to spend the night in a hotel near the surgery center, since I live a couple hours away and have to be there early Wednesday morning.