Drainless Tummy Tuck Jan 16, 2014 - Grand Rapids, MI

31 year old mother of two. 5"3, 140 lbs. I've always had a bit of a belly. Early puberty made things worse. As a pre-teen, I was asked why my belly stuck out, if I was pregnant... kids are cruel and the harm was done. I started to hate my stomach.

My dislike has grown over the years as my body has changed- I developed a somewhat rare rash in the third trimester of my first pregnancy that make my skin so tight and sensitive that it erupted into deep, painful stretch marks that couldn't snap back from afterward. When I pull the skin taught, the scars make it look like Freddie Kreuger. I've also had several abdominal surgeries, one of which left a scar above my belly button that created a shelf that skin hangs over.

I hate the way it looks, the way it feels and how uncomfortable clothes feel. Clothes that fit well everywhere else hurt when I sit and my skin pools around my middle. I want to be able to have my stomach match the rest of me- to not have to hide it, control it, or feel like "I'd look great if it weren't for this"

I consulted with Dr Ringler three years ago but shortly after had to have my gallbladder removed (the surgery that messed up my belly button). Since then I also had surgery to correct reflux, a laparoscopy to remove endometriosis and a hysterectomy. Now that those are behind me and I am feeling healthier than I have in years, I want to treat myself to the procedure I've always wanted- my tummy tuck.

I had three consults once I decided it was time, but ultimately decided to go with Dr. Ringler as I felt his results were fantastic and he is constantly finding ways to improve his technique. His advances will allow a drainless recovery which I am pretty excited about.

Surgery is Jan 16th. I'll be recovering in winter, able to be active again in spring and ready to rock my bikini in public by summer. I can't wait to go to the beach with confidence, to go for a run and wear my sports bra when it is hot instead of having to throw a tank or tee over it to hide the jelly belly.

My mother and I arrived at the surgical center just before 6:30 am this morning. I couldn't believe after the years of planning and waiting, the day was finally here! I was nervous and excited, I'd had trouble sleeping the past few nights.

Everyone at the surgical center was top notch- friendly, laughing, excited for me. I asked a nurse who went over my discharge instructions with me how long I needed to abstain from sex. She pointed out on the instructions a bullet about waiting 2-3 weeks for aerobic exercise. She said depending on how aerobic I am during sex, that'd be a good guideline to follow, but to listen to my body. She also said if Brad Pitt happened to come by sooner than 2-3 weeks to just use my best judgement. :)

Dr Ringler came in to mark up my incision lines and was very pleased that he'd be able to remove nearly all of my stretch marks. Next thing I knew I was being wheeled back and then woke up in recovery. I did it! I made it to the flat side! Doc told my mom that I am very fit, that there was hardly any fat at all, just a lot of loose skin. He is confident that I will be thrilled with the results.

I'm very sore, my abdomen aches like when you cough too much. It is worst when I move from sitting or standing to the opposite position. I received norco for pain and was advised I could take ibuprofen instead, which may help more with swelling. I napped off and on all afternoon, then briefly took off my compression garment to change the gauze and put some lotion on my back as it was itching me really badly! Took some pics while it was off and am already very please. My skin is flat and tight, I have a new belly button and my labia got quite a lift with the skin removal. I know I have a long way to go in terms of healing, swelling, being able to stand straight, etc. but as of now I am so pleased i finally did this for myself.

I am more mobile than I thought I'd be. I switched from norco to ibuprofen as norco makes me feel a bit nauseated and loopy and doesn't seem to help as much with swelling. Walking like a hunchback, but walking. Used the hand shower to clean everywhere other than my torso, feels good to feel clean again. Mom is babying me and making sure I don't push it. Moms are the best. It's humbling at 31 to have your mom help dress you, but I certainly appreciate the assistance!

I have no drains, so far so good. I do have a small electromagnetic device to wear. I put the wires so it loops around my belly area. It supposedly sends a constant pulse to help with pain and swelling. I'd never heard of it before, seems a bit gimmicky but doesn't hurt to try it and if its what is making my recovery good so far, then I approve. :)

Can't believe how much tinier I am already even with the swelling. Mom says she can tell from the back as well that I'm smaller. Looking forward to losing the swelling and being able to stand straight to get the full effect.