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I'm 44, 5'4" and 205 lbs. - Mommy Makeover - Houston, TX

UPDATED FROM bathwaterbaby
1 month post

Five Weeks Post-Op

bathwaterbaby
$14,000
Been battling an infection in my right breast as well as in my belly button. It wasn't terrible looking but the breast pain was really bad. Looks like it's clearing up nicely now with the help of some powerful antibiotics from my doctor.

So far my biggest challenge is keeping this compression garment on like I'm supposed to. I feel like I can't move around enough to get anything done and I've woken up several times in the night and had to strip out if it as quickly as I could due to severe panic attacks and feeling like I couldn't breathe. Hate. This. Thing.

Overall, I'm feeling really good. I still have pain, numbness and a couple of hard swollen lumps in my thighs from the lipo but it's getting better every day.

I've been doing lymphatic massages twice a week and I want to say they're working but It's a slow process. I read an article today about dandelion root tea that's supposed to be great for ridding the body of toxins and I plan to pick some up tomorrow and give it a shot.

I'm confused as to whether or not I still have swelling. I'm hoping I do because I will like my abdomen is a little thick up top. Lord knows, anything is an improvement over what I had previously! Just wondering how you know when you've reached that point.

bathwaterbaby's provider

Wilberto Cortes, MD

Wilberto Cortes, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.5 | 843 Reviews
PROFILE

Replies (5)

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December 29, 2013
Wow lovely results I kove that little black dress! Have you got your garment on under black dress?
December 29, 2013
No. No garment under there. I just tried it on because it looked good on before surgery but I was definitely lacking up top. Much better now!
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December 29, 2013
You look fabulous !!! How must be thrilled with your results. I haven't had my procedure yet but the doctors and I have read from RS ladies that it takes months for the swelling to completely go away.
December 29, 2013
Thank you so much! I'm very, very happy. I look in the mirror a lot. Ha!
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December 29, 2013
Looking really good. I am still a bit thicker at the top and I've decided its not related to swelling. I'm just going to keep compression and working out at the gym and hope it goes away.
December 29, 2013
That's what I'm thinking. I was big all over, except my breasts, to begin with. I'm trying to eat better and be more active. Too much money to spend to not do everything you can to look and feel your best.
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December 29, 2013
Wowww what a major difference! You look really good! I just love how Dr.Cortes gives his signature, "hourglass". I was comparing your before and after pix, he REALLY cinched that waistline! I'm praying that get gets me as close as possible to my wish photos. However, I know I'm going to be happy with just getting this apron off of my thighs...Anyway, if you can commit yourself to a rigorous waist training routine for 6 months (wearing Squeems, cinchers and other compression garments) you will see several more inches drop from your waistline. I know you are probably at the stage now in which the mere idea of staying in your garment for another day is a nightmare!lol but seriously, consider it because you have invested too much financially to not come out with stellar results. Dr.Cortes has done his part, now the results can be maintained through good eating habits, exercise, compression,and massage. Have you seen Suchaladie (Another Cortes patient or bigbootytinywaist)? The latter has a very detailed waist training program that she has shared with plenty of photos of her results, which are unbelievable! You are right when you say we are all the same in regards to having those negative self image demons riding our minds. Regardless, of our size or shape, we all struggle with our imperfections. Well wishing you a smooth recovery and happy healing. Enjoy your new body!
December 29, 2013
Dr. Cortes is amazing! Love him. I truly hate the garment and find myself making excuses to be out of it. However, I ordered a couple more from amazon and I'm looking forward to receiving those tomorrow. I'm hoping they'll be a bit more comfortable. I'm sure he will do wonderful things for you! Best of luck!
January 25, 2014
How are you doing? I've been following your journey! Any updates?
UPDATED FROM bathwaterbaby
10 days post

A Few Recovery Pics

bathwaterbaby

Replies (5)

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December 2, 2013
Hope all is well. Ant wait to see more pics
December 2, 2013
Thx for the update. I've been thinking about you. Hope you are feeling well. You look awesome. Love love the curves.
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December 2, 2013
You look fab
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December 2, 2013
Looking good :-)
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December 6, 2013
Congrats! Looking good!
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December 6, 2013
How many hours was your surgery?
December 29, 2013
I think it was six hours.
UPDATED FROM bathwaterbaby
1 day pre

Twelve Hours To Go!

bathwaterbaby
I can't believe I have to be at the hospital in less than 12 hours! Even though I just created my profile on here a week ago, the information and support I received from others has been incredible. I appreciate being able to follow everyone's story and lessons learned.

I'll update as soon as I can. Prayers are welcomed!

Replies (1)

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November 21, 2013
Good luck