POSTED UNDER Tummy Tuck Reviews
44 Yr Old Mom, 5'4, 189 Lbs Ready for my Much Needed Tummy Tuck, Muscle and Hernia Repair!
UPDATED FROM MyBodyWish
14 days post
2 Weeks Post Op
MyBodyWishSeptember 5, 2015
WORTH IT$9,000
Today is 14 Days Post Op. Can you believe that 2 weeks has already passed? I was feeling a bit down that my healing seems to be going so slowly. I honestly thought that I would be so much further in the recovery process than I am now. I feel like I'm behind everyone else and that really makes me feel bad. I am so lucky to have you guys and an amazing supportive family. My PS and his staff are also amazing and very supportive as well. Dr. Smith made me feel better at my last post op visit on Wednesday. He told me that some people take longer to heal than others and that it OK. I was feeling like such a failure, so that really helped keep me positive. I am not sure what I expected to be able to do right now, but it definitely was much more than I actually am doing. It is so hard to walk any distance. I start cramping with muscle spasms and have shooting pains. I also get winded very easily. I was walking 3 miles a day and doing a Burlesque Dance DVD so I don't understand why I feel like I can barely move. It really seems like everything I do is such an effort. I still sleep in the recliner, love the toilet seat riser, use my walker for the longer walks, am so grateful for the shower chair, and use lots of pillows. Maybe I'm just old? lol Or Maybe it is the swelling?
Boy do I have swelling! It feels like a huge hard ball is trying to poke through my tummy. I have fire pulling by my incision and I could have sworn I hurt my pelvis bone. I mean...there was A LOT done to me, so I suppose it will take awhile to heal. lol Anyone have any ideas on what I can do to start to do my normal activities again? How did you do it? Did you feel exhausted all the time too? I am finally sleeping 3 or 4 hours straight at night which is GREAT news! I was so exhausted from not getting much sleep. I am so happy that sleep is now becoming easier and I didn't even have to take sleeping pills! :) Progress, right? :)
The pain medication actually works well now and I am going longer periods without having to take it. I definitely have a better, positive outlook since Dr. Smith talked to me about it being okay that I may take longer to heal than others. Now I am hoping to be doing A LOT by next week. I sure am going to aim to get out of the house at least.
I am posting pictures from yesterday [13 Days Post Op}, so that you can see the swelling taking place. I am HUGE and so very swollen! How long did this painful swelling last for you guys? What did you do to make it go away or ease up? I am drinking nothing but water since surgery and watching/cut out salt. So, I'm not sure what I am doing wrong. I know that I should walk more, but walking and riding in the car are torture for me. Literally, it kills my stomach. How do I get passed that so that I can move forward? ANY tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!
I am definitely ready for another garment though. I am not sure about Spanx as I have worn them before, but hated them. I have ordered the SPANX Higher Power High-Waisted Mid-Thigh Shaper (032). I am hoping that it is comfortable and doesn't squeeze me. Have you guys tried these? If so, what was your experience after tt surgery?
I am trying to find a garment that isn't too tight, or hot, or scratchy. I wish I could find one that feels like 'clothes". Like cotton or cotton lined. Smooth, soft, and easy on my very sore and swollen body!
I am about to get a Maidenform Flexees Women's Shapewear Wear Your Own Bra Singlet. I know they also have the Maidenform Flexees Romper, so not sure which one I will actually try. Still reading some reviews.
* I am also looking at the Maidenform Flexees Women's Shapewear Minimizing Hi-Waist Boyshort Has anyone tried this? What did you think?
I am looking for something comfortable enough to sleep in if I want. Any ideas?
I'm also looking at the actual surgical garments like :
Isavela Womens 2nd Stage Body Suit With Suspenders Mid Thigh Length
or
Marena Women's 1st Stage Compression Girdle.
I just want to make sure they are comfortable and worth the money before I buy them. Anyone use these? What are your honest opinions? Are they comfortable? What kind of fabric is it? Does it breathe? Do you sweat a lot in it?
Finally, what garments do YOU like to wear and why? I am a larger lady, so I would need something that doesn't roll, pinch, bind, etc. Do you have any that you can recommend that is not extra firm and would be comfortable for all day or night wear? I am needing to find something soon. I think I would do better with a shaper/garment than my abdomen wrap I have now. It is okay and does help hold me in.
My belly button is healing. It is still draining and my husband cleans it for me. What a great guy! I think he must love me! :) LOL
I almost threw up when Dr. Smith looked at it at my 3rd Post Op visit. lol I was embarrassed, but hopefully he didn't notice. :D I just can't stand to look at it. I guess that is why I don't mind that my surgical tape is still on my tummy tuck incision.
I am showering every day now and starting to get on our normal schedule which is good news. I am enjoying meeting all of you lovely ladies and sharing our journeys. Brightest Blessings and Happy Healing to all of you!
Boy do I have swelling! It feels like a huge hard ball is trying to poke through my tummy. I have fire pulling by my incision and I could have sworn I hurt my pelvis bone. I mean...there was A LOT done to me, so I suppose it will take awhile to heal. lol Anyone have any ideas on what I can do to start to do my normal activities again? How did you do it? Did you feel exhausted all the time too? I am finally sleeping 3 or 4 hours straight at night which is GREAT news! I was so exhausted from not getting much sleep. I am so happy that sleep is now becoming easier and I didn't even have to take sleeping pills! :) Progress, right? :)
The pain medication actually works well now and I am going longer periods without having to take it. I definitely have a better, positive outlook since Dr. Smith talked to me about it being okay that I may take longer to heal than others. Now I am hoping to be doing A LOT by next week. I sure am going to aim to get out of the house at least.
I am posting pictures from yesterday [13 Days Post Op}, so that you can see the swelling taking place. I am HUGE and so very swollen! How long did this painful swelling last for you guys? What did you do to make it go away or ease up? I am drinking nothing but water since surgery and watching/cut out salt. So, I'm not sure what I am doing wrong. I know that I should walk more, but walking and riding in the car are torture for me. Literally, it kills my stomach. How do I get passed that so that I can move forward? ANY tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!
I am definitely ready for another garment though. I am not sure about Spanx as I have worn them before, but hated them. I have ordered the SPANX Higher Power High-Waisted Mid-Thigh Shaper (032). I am hoping that it is comfortable and doesn't squeeze me. Have you guys tried these? If so, what was your experience after tt surgery?
I am trying to find a garment that isn't too tight, or hot, or scratchy. I wish I could find one that feels like 'clothes". Like cotton or cotton lined. Smooth, soft, and easy on my very sore and swollen body!
I am about to get a Maidenform Flexees Women's Shapewear Wear Your Own Bra Singlet. I know they also have the Maidenform Flexees Romper, so not sure which one I will actually try. Still reading some reviews.
* I am also looking at the Maidenform Flexees Women's Shapewear Minimizing Hi-Waist Boyshort Has anyone tried this? What did you think?
I am looking for something comfortable enough to sleep in if I want. Any ideas?
I'm also looking at the actual surgical garments like :
Isavela Womens 2nd Stage Body Suit With Suspenders Mid Thigh Length
or
Marena Women's 1st Stage Compression Girdle.
I just want to make sure they are comfortable and worth the money before I buy them. Anyone use these? What are your honest opinions? Are they comfortable? What kind of fabric is it? Does it breathe? Do you sweat a lot in it?
Finally, what garments do YOU like to wear and why? I am a larger lady, so I would need something that doesn't roll, pinch, bind, etc. Do you have any that you can recommend that is not extra firm and would be comfortable for all day or night wear? I am needing to find something soon. I think I would do better with a shaper/garment than my abdomen wrap I have now. It is okay and does help hold me in.
My belly button is healing. It is still draining and my husband cleans it for me. What a great guy! I think he must love me! :) LOL
I almost threw up when Dr. Smith looked at it at my 3rd Post Op visit. lol I was embarrassed, but hopefully he didn't notice. :D I just can't stand to look at it. I guess that is why I don't mind that my surgical tape is still on my tummy tuck incision.
I am showering every day now and starting to get on our normal schedule which is good news. I am enjoying meeting all of you lovely ladies and sharing our journeys. Brightest Blessings and Happy Healing to all of you!
MyBodyWish's provider
Replies (5)
September 5, 2015
It sounds like you're making good progress. I know what you mean on the swelling, getting winded easily, no energy. I have all the same problems. Before my surgery I walked 10 to 20 miles every day and now I can't even walk 1 mile without getting winded and tired. I haven't been able to find a compression garment that doesn't roll or make you sweaty so if you find one please let me know and I'll do the same. Hang in there, we are strong beautiful women and we got this, one day at a time. Happy Healing. {{{HUGS}}}
September 6, 2015
Hi, denise613 :)
Sorry that you have all the same problems, but feel better thinking maybe it is "normal" and we will get better soon. I hope so at least. :)
I haven't tried any compression garments yet. My abdomen wrap I got in surgery is good about not rolling or making me sweat. I just would like something that I can wear to feel some "normal" to my day. It all says "lose a size" which makes me think that it will be extremely tight and uncomfortable. I also don't want to put anything too tight on my incision so it doesn't interfere with healing. I want something to "hold" me, but not squeeze me. I will definitely let you know if I come across any that I love.
Thank you so much your encouragement and support!! {{HUGS}} I love that you said we are beautiful, strong women and we have got this one day at a time. Yes! {{{{BIG HUGS TO YOU!!}}}
Sorry that you have all the same problems, but feel better thinking maybe it is "normal" and we will get better soon. I hope so at least. :)
I haven't tried any compression garments yet. My abdomen wrap I got in surgery is good about not rolling or making me sweat. I just would like something that I can wear to feel some "normal" to my day. It all says "lose a size" which makes me think that it will be extremely tight and uncomfortable. I also don't want to put anything too tight on my incision so it doesn't interfere with healing. I want something to "hold" me, but not squeeze me. I will definitely let you know if I come across any that I love.
Thank you so much your encouragement and support!! {{HUGS}} I love that you said we are beautiful, strong women and we have got this one day at a time. Yes! {{{{BIG HUGS TO YOU!!}}}
September 5, 2015
I am hoping to get a TT before the end of the year. I'm grateful that you've shared your experience with all of us! I like to read all the posts so I can kind of figure out what to expect and how to prepare. I've had 3 children and lost around 65 pounds over the yrs and it sure has taken a toll on my body. This is something I want to do for me but like so many others, I'm scared of the pain and swelling that comes with recuperating. It is nice to hear that most people have no regrets after they've had the procedure done and they say it's worth it. I hope that's the case with you and you are well on your way to looking and feeling great! Thanks again for posting your progress! :)
September 6, 2015
Hi, Chris83237! I am so happy that you posted. {{HUGS}} That is awesome that you are thinking of getting a tt this year. We will definitely be here to support you. Just post and let us know when you set up your review.
I am so happy that my review/journey is helping others. I was embarrassed to post photos, but I know how much other ladies photos have helped me. So, I wanted to post and see if mine could help other ladies too.
Congratulations on your weight loss! That is awesome! {{{HUGS}}} I can totally relate to how pregnancy, weight loss/weight gain, and aging can take a toll on a body.
I think that if you plan out with your plastic surgeon about your pain relief after surgery that you should be okay. I really didn't know what to expect or I think I would have stayed a night or two in the hospital on a pain pump. {IV pain meds} I think then that I would have been over the pain hump I was in and that it wouldn't have been so bad. I just underestimated it because most of the reviews were ladies saying how easy it was, etc. I forgot though that they had pain pumps sent home with them or had the pain shots during surgery. That really does make a difference. I didn't have anything except oral pain meds after I got home from surgery. That just wasn't enough. :(
At first, I truly regretted getting this done. The pain was so overwhelming and constant. I just didn't think I could do it. Now that things are getting better and the pain is being controlled, I can look at my results and say "Yay! I love it".
You are so welcome! I so appreciate you posting on my thread and saying that to me. It really means so very much!! {{{BIG HUGS}}}}} Brightest Blessings to you!
I am so happy that my review/journey is helping others. I was embarrassed to post photos, but I know how much other ladies photos have helped me. So, I wanted to post and see if mine could help other ladies too.
Congratulations on your weight loss! That is awesome! {{{HUGS}}} I can totally relate to how pregnancy, weight loss/weight gain, and aging can take a toll on a body.
I think that if you plan out with your plastic surgeon about your pain relief after surgery that you should be okay. I really didn't know what to expect or I think I would have stayed a night or two in the hospital on a pain pump. {IV pain meds} I think then that I would have been over the pain hump I was in and that it wouldn't have been so bad. I just underestimated it because most of the reviews were ladies saying how easy it was, etc. I forgot though that they had pain pumps sent home with them or had the pain shots during surgery. That really does make a difference. I didn't have anything except oral pain meds after I got home from surgery. That just wasn't enough. :(
At first, I truly regretted getting this done. The pain was so overwhelming and constant. I just didn't think I could do it. Now that things are getting better and the pain is being controlled, I can look at my results and say "Yay! I love it".
You are so welcome! I so appreciate you posting on my thread and saying that to me. It really means so very much!! {{{BIG HUGS}}}}} Brightest Blessings to you!
September 6, 2015
GIGANTIC DIFFERENCE!!! KEEP IT UP , AS YOU LOOKING FLAT AND THUS FAR HEALING WELL. NO EXPERIENCE WITH THE GIRDLES, SORRY.
September 6, 2015
THANK YOU, yari33!! I appreciate your support and encouragement!! It's okay that you don't have any experience with girdles... I just wish I had researched BEFORE my surgery. LOL
{{{{{{HUGS TO YOU!!!}}}}}}
{{{{{{HUGS TO YOU!!!}}}}}}
September 8, 2015
i see the swelling, but you are looking great! i have no advice about the stage 2 garments though. i hope you find something good.
September 11, 2015
Thank you! I am still searching. lol How are you doing? I hope that you are healing well and love your new body!! {{HUGS}}
September 11, 2015
i found a maidenform flexee in my stuff and tried it on yesterday. love it! went to my first post op appt today. still have drains-too much draining still and that's fine. dressing changed. dr says my belly button looks a little ischemic but he's not worried about it. he says the deeper part is fine-had a hernia repair there. says the skin will slough off. im up and about around the house ok, less shortness of breath, low endurance though. i focus on how far i have come this week instead of thinking too much about where i need to get to still. we will get better and this will be in the past. my shape is uneven right now, my waist is unsymmetrical one side goes in one side goes out. not time to evaluate it yet. it's a challenge to be patient.
UPDATED FROM MyBodyWish
10 days post
A couple of Before/After Side by Side Photos
MyBodyWishAugust 31, 2015
Here are a couple of pictures of me side by side/Before & Afters. I think the 'after" photos are Post Op Day 3 or 4 and Post Op Day 7. I still can't stand up straight and I'm swollen, but hopefully you guys can still see the dramatic difference. I am leaning forward quite a bit in the pink panties one. I am so pleased by how flat I am. :D I think Dr. Smith is an amazing and skillful surgeon! He sure has given me my tummy back! I have more confidence and my new panties fit! No huge ugly tummy in the way! I am truly blessed!
Replies (5)
August 31, 2015
You look great! How do you feel?
August 31, 2015
Hi, 3Chloe! Thanks so much! {{HUGS}}
I am feeling much better than I did at first. I now have stomach muscles that actually work, so I've been having muscle spasms. It is part of it though, so I just try to remember that having the muscle spasms in the tummy is a good sign. I am still having to take pain meds for pain, but they help me to be able to move around more. If I didn't have the pain meds, I wouldn't be up as much definitely. This is definitely a big surgery, but it is worth it. :)
Are you considering a tummy tuck? I didn't know about this site until after my first PS consultation. It has been a valuable resource of information and support.
Thanks again for the compliment! {Hugs} I am really excited! :)
I am feeling much better than I did at first. I now have stomach muscles that actually work, so I've been having muscle spasms. It is part of it though, so I just try to remember that having the muscle spasms in the tummy is a good sign. I am still having to take pain meds for pain, but they help me to be able to move around more. If I didn't have the pain meds, I wouldn't be up as much definitely. This is definitely a big surgery, but it is worth it. :)
Are you considering a tummy tuck? I didn't know about this site until after my first PS consultation. It has been a valuable resource of information and support.
Thanks again for the compliment! {Hugs} I am really excited! :)
August 31, 2015
I am hoping for a TT and lips in April 2016. I am really nervous about the pain but so tired of how I look and feel. I am ready to do it. I can't do it until April due to finances and vacation time. I am hoping 2 weeks off will be enough time. I am getting great input and ideas about where to sleep. Thank you for sharing about the walker. I will get one also. I don't think I'll need s toilet riser. I'm only 5 feet tall. Lol. I would appreciate any insight that you have to offer for this journey. I am so impressed by your after pictures. You look great! I have heard from some people that they are bent over for a month. They felt like if they stood upright they would pull apart. ( I'm sorry if I am too graphic). How do you feel? Again thank you so much for sharing your journey. I find it so helpful.
August 31, 2015
I hope that you get your tummy tuck & lipo in April also. It is nerve wrecking thinking about it. I felt like I was on a roller coaster of emotions before the surgery. I hear that is normal though. I am 10 Days Post Op and while I feel better than I did at first, I'm still having lots of trouble with doing things. The pain is helped by pain medication and I don't think I could move around as much without it. I try to alternate between pain pills and Ibuprofen. I get these intense muscle cramps a lot which make me have to stop and catch my breath. I haven't had them in so long that maybe they are just trying to work now? I would definitely discuss with your PS before scheduling surgery about what they are going to give you after surgery as far as pain control is concerned. I would ask the "what if" questions also. What if the oral pain meds don't work? Will I have a pain pump for the first couple of days? Things like that. I had a full tummy tuck with lipo plus hernia and muscle repair. That was a lot of work which caused me a lot of pain for the first 3 days. I wish I had scheduled to be in the hospital for at least one day/night on a IV pain pump. I believe then my pain wouldn't have gotten out of control as bad as it did.
Yes, I know what you mean about not being able to stand up straight and feeling like I will pull apart if I try. It really does feel that way. That is where the walker comes in. It keeps me at a certain height and holding onto it takes the work out of it for my back. I didn't think I would need all of these items, but I am still using them. I see using them for a long time. I am excited about finally being able to stand upright just so I can see what my tummy looks like from a side view. lol I didn't think I needed a toilet seat riser either, but believe me when you can't stand/bend/etc....it makes a world of difference. If I had it all to do over...the walker, toilet seat riser, and shower chair would have already been bought, set up , and waiting for me. lol
Thank you so much for the wonderful compliment! I am impressed as well and I am so happy. I feel like I definitely chose the right PS and I love the results so far.
I am also happy that my journey is helpful to others. I was at first too embarrassed to put my pictures up, but then I thought about how helpful everyone else's reviews were to me. Pictures really help, so I decided I would do my part as well. That makes me feel good that I can help. : ) If you have any more questions please don't hesitate to ask! Please keep me posted on your progress and when you get your review/surgery scheduled. We will be your cheer team! {{{HUGS}}}
Yes, I know what you mean about not being able to stand up straight and feeling like I will pull apart if I try. It really does feel that way. That is where the walker comes in. It keeps me at a certain height and holding onto it takes the work out of it for my back. I didn't think I would need all of these items, but I am still using them. I see using them for a long time. I am excited about finally being able to stand upright just so I can see what my tummy looks like from a side view. lol I didn't think I needed a toilet seat riser either, but believe me when you can't stand/bend/etc....it makes a world of difference. If I had it all to do over...the walker, toilet seat riser, and shower chair would have already been bought, set up , and waiting for me. lol
Thank you so much for the wonderful compliment! I am impressed as well and I am so happy. I feel like I definitely chose the right PS and I love the results so far.
I am also happy that my journey is helpful to others. I was at first too embarrassed to put my pictures up, but then I thought about how helpful everyone else's reviews were to me. Pictures really help, so I decided I would do my part as well. That makes me feel good that I can help. : ) If you have any more questions please don't hesitate to ask! Please keep me posted on your progress and when you get your review/surgery scheduled. We will be your cheer team! {{{HUGS}}}
August 31, 2015
Thank you so much for being so open and sharing. I should look for a shower seat also:) I have not had a consult yet. There are 2 different PS in the area that I am interested in and thought I would consult with both of them. Pain control is very much on my mind as well. I know I don't have a high pain tolerance. I have had an incisional hernia with mesh and am wondering how they will work around that also. I'm ready for a change for myself though. My son is on college and feel it's time to do something for me. :) please keep us posted along the rest of your journey. It is so helpful. Happy healing. I hope the pain is going away soon. Hugs to you.
August 31, 2015
Ur results are amazing !! Happy healing
August 31, 2015
WOW! What a beautiful transformation!
September 1, 2015
Hot mamma! Your results are fantastic. How are you feeling?
September 1, 2015
Awww...thanks Sweetie! :) I am feeling better. Still having the constant muscle spasms, but still trying to just focus on my results. How are you doing?
September 2, 2015
I am up and around. My parents are getting ready to leave so I have hired a housekeeper to come in a couple of times a month to get the house back into ship shape. I should be able to do it myself in October or so. My energy is returning and my swelling is going down. Are you on a muscle relaxer?
September 1, 2015
You look great. Hope everything is going great. Xoxo
September 1, 2015
Thanks so much, cj6107! Everything is moving along and hopefully I will be back to doing some normal activities again soon. :) Thanks for responding! {{{BIG HUGS}}}
UPDATED FROM MyBodyWish
9 days post
Finally....My BEFORE and AFTER Photos. :)
MyBodyWishAugust 31, 2015
Okay Ladies...Here are my overdue Before and some After Photos for you. The Before pictures were taken about 2 or 3 days before Surgery. {Except for the two where I am marked for surgery}. I posted some After photos also. They are during the first week.
I enjoyed my first shower so much! It felt great! It was on Day 6 with hip drain still in. My tape is still over my incision, so I haven't gotten to see it yet. Or get a picture of it. My bb tape is off and it started looking infected yesterday. My husband has been cleaning it for me and put a band-aid over it to keep the compression garment from rubbing on it. It is starting to look like a bb now. Hopefully we are on our way to a healed bb very soon!
I hope that my Before and After Photos can help other people with the same body shape to see what they can expect after TT surgery. Also what a great and skilled surgeon Dr. Steven J Smith is. I was a full tummy which I hadn't seen on here before. I weighed between 189/193 on surgery day. {I forgot to weigh that morning}.
I am very swollen and have been for awhile. It is a very tight feeling and it feels like a rock. I can't wait until this phase passes. I won't miss these intense muscle spasms! I definitely won't miss the pain. So just trying to focus on finally getting my tummy back! :)
Good luck to all of the ladies considering and about to have tummy tuck surgery! Happy Healing to all of us that have!
I enjoyed my first shower so much! It felt great! It was on Day 6 with hip drain still in. My tape is still over my incision, so I haven't gotten to see it yet. Or get a picture of it. My bb tape is off and it started looking infected yesterday. My husband has been cleaning it for me and put a band-aid over it to keep the compression garment from rubbing on it. It is starting to look like a bb now. Hopefully we are on our way to a healed bb very soon!
I hope that my Before and After Photos can help other people with the same body shape to see what they can expect after TT surgery. Also what a great and skilled surgeon Dr. Steven J Smith is. I was a full tummy which I hadn't seen on here before. I weighed between 189/193 on surgery day. {I forgot to weigh that morning}.
I am very swollen and have been for awhile. It is a very tight feeling and it feels like a rock. I can't wait until this phase passes. I won't miss these intense muscle spasms! I definitely won't miss the pain. So just trying to focus on finally getting my tummy back! :)
Good luck to all of the ladies considering and about to have tummy tuck surgery! Happy Healing to all of us that have!
Replies (5)
August 31, 2015
Yayy pictures! How are you feeling? The rock hard feeling lessons but still hasn't gone away for me. Happy healing and take it easy.
August 31, 2015
I hope the rock hard feeling and the constant muscle spasms go away soon. It is hard to walk around. It feels like I'm having labor contractions. lol I am feeling better than before, but things are slow moving. It seems like I'll have a time where I can move faster or something than I start the severe cramps and have to rest twice as long as the actual thing I did. lol I'm so happy to be on the flat side again though! :)
August 31, 2015
I was soo worried for u, as I had u in my mind all day Friday, day of your surgery. I've read all u been through with the pain, but iam soo happy you are ALive! And you can see the huge improvement, with only 2 weeks or so , post op. Stay positive you will be fine and looking REALLY good. Make sure to put a cotton tank top under your compression garment, to avoid burning your skin.
August 31, 2015
I can't wait for my turn , although scared of complications and pain. But iam moving forward with it.
August 31, 2015
Aww..that is so sweet, yari33! {{HUGS}} I'm sorry that I caused you to worry though. I honestly was in such misery that I just was trying to get through the pain. I wouldn't have changed anything except maybe having it worked out that 1}. I either had the surgery at the hospital and was directly sent to a room with IV pain meds for a day or two. Or 2}. That I had it at the surgery center, given pain control {I.V pain meds} then transferred to the hospital for a day or two. I am doing better than before with pain. The pain meds are working better now. They weren't working at all ,at first. So at least that is good. Will try to stay positive as there really are reasons to be so grateful and happy. :)
Thanks for the tip on the cotton tank top. They really did help me. I washed some up before surgery to have just for under the cg. I wore the cotton undershirts under the cg for about a week. Now, after showers & washing my cg, the compression garment doesn't bother me. I do want to keep my bb covered as the garment rubs on it and irritates it. I love the results even swollen and having severe muscle spasms. It just means they are able to work again. :) lol
Thank you so much for being such a sweetie! I know you will love your results. Just make sure to plan ahead with your PS about pain control and what happens if it {oral meds} aren't enough. Then I think you won't have any issues. {{BIG HUGS}} I just think I wasn't sure what to expect pain wise and the pain went a long time before getting some relief. I had a lot done, so I should have taken in the fact I had 3 different surgeries in one. {Muscle, hernia, and tummy skin/bb}. I also didn't realize for some reason{lol} that I would have constant muscle spasms. I haven't had my stomach muscles in tack since I was 19. So feeling some "new" sensations. I'm glad they are back though. :)
Your time is getting closer!! 4 more weeks! How are you feeling? Excited? Have you decided on which CG stage 2 you want to have? {Spanx, Flexees, Medena, etc}.
Thanks again for your caring support & encouragement! I'm excited for you to be on the flat side too! {{{BIG HUGS TO YOU!!}}} I can't wait to see your before/afters and to hear how happy you are!
Thanks for the tip on the cotton tank top. They really did help me. I washed some up before surgery to have just for under the cg. I wore the cotton undershirts under the cg for about a week. Now, after showers & washing my cg, the compression garment doesn't bother me. I do want to keep my bb covered as the garment rubs on it and irritates it. I love the results even swollen and having severe muscle spasms. It just means they are able to work again. :) lol
Thank you so much for being such a sweetie! I know you will love your results. Just make sure to plan ahead with your PS about pain control and what happens if it {oral meds} aren't enough. Then I think you won't have any issues. {{BIG HUGS}} I just think I wasn't sure what to expect pain wise and the pain went a long time before getting some relief. I had a lot done, so I should have taken in the fact I had 3 different surgeries in one. {Muscle, hernia, and tummy skin/bb}. I also didn't realize for some reason{lol} that I would have constant muscle spasms. I haven't had my stomach muscles in tack since I was 19. So feeling some "new" sensations. I'm glad they are back though. :)
Your time is getting closer!! 4 more weeks! How are you feeling? Excited? Have you decided on which CG stage 2 you want to have? {Spanx, Flexees, Medena, etc}.
Thanks again for your caring support & encouragement! I'm excited for you to be on the flat side too! {{{BIG HUGS TO YOU!!}}} I can't wait to see your before/afters and to hear how happy you are!
August 31, 2015
I'm excited for you too, yari33! It really is worth it! I was so scared also, but I should have asked my PS. Plus I had read some doctor's answers on the boards and just assumed they would be using the Experal or whatever the name of that pain shot they inject in your muscles/tummy during surgery. {It lasts two or three days}. Anyway..I think you should do it if you want. I am really happy about my results and how flat I am. Though I am swollen, my family & I can all see a huge difference. I love wearing all my new panties. I love that they are hipsters and I don't have my ugly fat tummy hanging over them. So some really great blessings. Sorry if I scared you with my post. {{BIG HUGS}} I am sure you will do great and not have the issues that I did. I am glad that I moved forward with my surgery even when I am in pain and complain. I do really feel blessed and am grateful to my PS for doing such an awesome job!
August 31, 2015
You look amazing... I know what you mean about the swelling and muscle spasms. As the day goes on I swell more and more and by the time I go to bed my binder is so tight it hurts around my ribs. I will be so happy once this phase is over as well. Happy and Quick healing and {{{Big Hugs}}}
August 31, 2015
Thank you, Denise613! :)
Yes, the swelling, muscle spasms, and just overall pressure are a lot to deal with. I have this tight 'ball" by my belly button. I guess it is the stomach muscles that were pulled back together. It also feels like there is a little alien running around in there before it gets rock hard. lol
Hopefully we will be getting out of this phase quickly. Happy & Quick Healing to you too!! {{{{BIG HUGS}}}}}
Yes, the swelling, muscle spasms, and just overall pressure are a lot to deal with. I have this tight 'ball" by my belly button. I guess it is the stomach muscles that were pulled back together. It also feels like there is a little alien running around in there before it gets rock hard. lol
Hopefully we will be getting out of this phase quickly. Happy & Quick Healing to you too!! {{{{BIG HUGS}}}}}
August 31, 2015
Wow!! You look SO GREAT!! I was concerned for you because of your blood clotting disorder and the issues you were having the week before surgery and then we didn't hear from you so I knew you must have been in pain. I am so happy for you that the surgery went well and that the pain is finally under control and that it looks like you are going to get amazing results from the surgery! It really is very shocking at first when you get the tummy tuck to realize that the pain is nonstop. I was comparing it to contractions before delivering a baby but even though the contractions ARE horrible pain they are not nonstop UNTIL the very end. With this surgery, I think some form of IV meds, or pain pump is necessary. Happy healing and welcome to the flat side!!
August 31, 2015
Thanks so much, TheFlatSide! When the pain was tolerable, I started to look at the results and really liked them. I was honestly surprised at how small I am. I just wanted that pregnant belly look to go away. lol
I was worried that I left it off at two days before surgery and then didn't get to post I was "ok" after. I truly just felt horrible or I would have at least let everyone know it went well, but I was having pain issues. It really does feel like contractions doesn't it? I was just telling my family that the muscle spasms made me feel like labor contractions. The tightening feels like a baby is moving around. My hubby looked at me kind of funny, but it really does. I can't see my tummy moving like when a baby is in there, but it sure feels like something is moving around. lol I definitely think IV pain meds or a pain pump is necessary, at least for the first 2/3 days. Then you can get the oral pain meds to work some.
Thank you for your support and encouragement through this! I truly appreciate it! {{{BIG HUGS}} I am happy to be on the flat side with all you lovely ladies!
I was worried that I left it off at two days before surgery and then didn't get to post I was "ok" after. I truly just felt horrible or I would have at least let everyone know it went well, but I was having pain issues. It really does feel like contractions doesn't it? I was just telling my family that the muscle spasms made me feel like labor contractions. The tightening feels like a baby is moving around. My hubby looked at me kind of funny, but it really does. I can't see my tummy moving like when a baby is in there, but it sure feels like something is moving around. lol I definitely think IV pain meds or a pain pump is necessary, at least for the first 2/3 days. Then you can get the oral pain meds to work some.
Thank you for your support and encouragement through this! I truly appreciate it! {{{BIG HUGS}} I am happy to be on the flat side with all you lovely ladies!
September 1, 2015
You look awesome!! Thanks for sharing your journey!!! How long was your surgery? Mine is in 3 days and I was just curious how long it took
September 1, 2015
Thank you, Barbaranmurray! :) I love the compliment! I was so impressed when I saw the results. I wasn't sure exactly what I would look like as I hadn't found any other RS ladies with my huge tummy. Now it is flat and I am so happy! :)
My surgery was scheduled for 4 hours. I am not sure if they went over that time though. I had the full tummy tuck with lipo and hernia & muscle repair. {Like 3 surgeries into one} :) I woke up in a lot of pain, but loving my results! :)
I just saw your review and am now following you! Best wishes for a fast and easy surgery & recovery for you! {{HUGS}}
My surgery was scheduled for 4 hours. I am not sure if they went over that time though. I had the full tummy tuck with lipo and hernia & muscle repair. {Like 3 surgeries into one} :) I woke up in a lot of pain, but loving my results! :)
I just saw your review and am now following you! Best wishes for a fast and easy surgery & recovery for you! {{HUGS}}
September 1, 2015
Thanks that's how I feel I don't know what to expect because my belly is sooooo huge!!! Thanks for cheering me on I really appreciate it!!
September 1, 2015
You are very welcome, Sweetie! Anytime! Do you know if they are going to do any muscle repair or anything? My muscles weren't even close to being where they should have been. I'm thinking that is why I have so many muscle spasms. They are just trying to get used to working again. lol
I will keep up with you and we are here for you! {{BIG HUGS}} Please continue to update your review and ask any questions that you want. You are about to join "the flat side". :) Yay!!
I will keep up with you and we are here for you! {{BIG HUGS}} Please continue to update your review and ask any questions that you want. You are about to join "the flat side". :) Yay!!
I'm sorry that you are slow healing also. I hope that your pain is gone. I can't seem to get away from my walker, but today I used the electric scooter at the store when I got tired of walking. I get home and my legs are HUGE. I haven't had my legs swell like that. I seem to have issues whether I sit, walk, or ride. I hope this phase ends soon. I was happy that I got out of the house today though. :) I am happy that you don't have to use the walker now. You are making progress. :)
I hope that you get a good night's sleep soon. The last couple of days I have been sleeping late into the day. I guess it is making up for over a week of no sleep. I am glad to finally be able to actually have 'rest". Before it was just trying to deal with all of the pain. I am glad that you had a nurse/care giver. We were going to have one also, but I thought I wouldn't need one. Boy did I miss that. Next time I will know though.
So sorry about your bb infection. Do you know that is the day that my belly button started oozing and things too? It is looking better, but I thought I might lose it with all the colors it turned. I also close my eyes when my hubby cleans it. I just can't stand watching. I can't feel most of it which only seems to make it worse. lol It is a weird sensation of touching my tummy or having someone else touch it and it doesn't 'feel' real. Is yours like that also?
I am so glad that you posted. :) I want to keep up with how you are doing also.
{{{{BIG HUGS TO YOU!!!}}}}