I'm Ready for a New Start with a New Body! - New Post Op Pics

Wow. SO much has happened to me since my surgery- new, amazing man, new life and new accomplishments. It’s hard to believe it has been two years. I'm still amazed with my results, and truly believe the decision to go through with this surgery was one of the best decisions I've ever made. My confidence has skyrocketed. At age 40, I'm able to rock the cutest bikinis, lingerie, workout gear and fitted clothing that I never would have considered after having my kids. I love to show off my abs now! :) In fact, I competed in my first fitness competition in May of this year (Yes, on a stage in a tiny, sparkly bikini!) and won both 3rd and 4th place trophies in my divisions! Far cry from the shy woman I once was - wearing tank tops over my swimsuit to hide the "souffle".

From a healing perspective, my scars are barely visible. They are now very fine white lines. I do have a tiny “dog ear” on one side that I’m considering having the Dr. revise, but it’s not very noticeable. I may just leave it alone. My lower belly still has a tiny bit of numbness in certain spots. I also notice when I overdo it at the gym, I can sometimes get a little swelling that goes away quickly after I rest. But truthfully, I’m pretty much back to normal. My core and my whole body is stronger than ever before. I’m heading out on a cruise in two days with my honey, and you can bet I will not be wearing a tank over my tiny bikinis! Actually, I may be naughty and skip the bikini all-together while in the islands- LOL! If you are on the fence about this decision, do it. Choose an excellent surgeon, follow the instructions you are given, and take good care of yourself. You will be thrilled with the results.

It's been a a while since I posted, but wanted to give a quick update. I'm a little over 3 months post op. Feeling amazing except for some weird itchiness in my belly region and a twinge here and there. This is all normal as the nerves reconnect and heal. The itchiness is a very weird and annoying sensation, because I cannot feel where to scratch- belly is still slightly numb in spots. In terms of cosmetic appearance, what a major difference. I love my new shape, the swelling is almost all gone (except for right above the scar line sometimes) and it's been so fun wearing yoga pants and a sports top and knowing my tummy looks good! I'm getting more and more excited for bikini season! The scar is healing nicely, but I do have a bit of puffiness still on my left hip- it looks like it may dog ear. I'm going to keep watching it in the next couple of months. I know it takes 6 months to see the full results. Dr. says if it does dog ear, it's a simple procedure done with local anesthesia. I'm not looking forward to that, but we shall see. I hope all of you are doing amazingly and are enjoying your new tummies, or are getting ready to embark on your journey!

5 weeks, 3 days and wow.. I'm feeling awesome. My PS took my surgical tape off on Monday and said that I'm doing beautifully and am right on track. I am able to see my full scar which is a little scary, but I know with time it will look better and better. Today, I actually put on my jeans for the first time since surgery and it felt really different not to have that overhang of skin. I took a good look in the mirror tonight when I was changing into pajamas and actually squealed! I look so different! Things are starting to fall into place nicely. I can now stand up completely straight and stretch my core. When I do, my waist looks so tiny! And, I'm back to wearing my beloved high heels, which I missed while recovering..:-) The swelling is almost gone except for a bit near the incision line. I'm also noticing that the end of day swelling is less and less each week. My Dr. said I can go back to light workouts now, but to take it slow. I'm so glad I can start working on my flabby booty now! This Saturday is my company holiday party and I'm looking forward to rocking a fitted dress. Hmm..maybe a hot little number I might not have worn before because of my souffle! I can say at this point that this surgery was totally worth it. It's hard to believe it will only get better from here! Next steps is to start scar treatment. My Dr. told me to start applying silicone strips in another week. I will post some new pictures soon!