I finally did it! Tummy tuck at 54.

Dr. King says to start massaging lightly above scar to help with swelling. It’s worse now maybe because back to work this week and no naps :( Or laying down during daytime. He doesn’t think the binder will really help the swelling or impact results if I wear it now, but was happy with how my scar is healing. My upper abdomen on either side of (but not above- is completely numb there) belly button feels really weird when I touch it like I’m touching it with something hot. He said this is normal. Also no sit-ups or ab work for a long time (6 months!) but cleared for driving - woot! Happy weekend everyone!

Wow - time does fly and work is so overrated ;) went back today (remotely) and feel exhausted- did not factor in the lack of nap time that I’ve been doing 1 1/2 - 2 hours daily and so plan ahead guys! Block out the nap times. I am done with the pain pills and got my constipation under control by taking Metamucil every day and dialing back the pain pills. Ended up with crazy painful hemorrhoids though, and now trying to get rid of those :/. Suggest starting the 2tsp per day Metamucil ‘before’ the surgery and keep it going to help prevent constipation. Been walking a outside for the past week. Started with around the block only and this was very hard at first and slow!, but today walked a normal pace about 1 mile and felt pretty good. :) I am taping my scar and can’t believe how much it improves each time I see it. I started with just plain Hypa-fix tape and then would add Aqua phor to keep it moist. It’s now completely closed and so I have started adding biocorneum (the tape is porous so you can apply aqua phor and silicone over the tape. I can’t believe how well the tape stays on! Im also trying the sensitive (silicone) version of the HypaFix tape today and will keep you posted. Swell hell- big spare tire and drinking lots of water. Do you guys think lymphatic massage is worth it to reduce swelling?

Surprised and ecstatic to get both drains out today at check-up. They had slowed down quite a bit so did their job. Very slight stinging when removed and no big deal at all. The constipation and back spasms are giving me grief though. Doc said lay off pain meds for best relief from constipation and to start trying to stand a little straighter to help the back. He said the wounds look great! Yay!