POSTED UNDER Thigh Lift REVIEWS
Extended Thigh Lift with a Tummy Tuck After a Long Weight Loss Journey
ORIGINAL POST
The day is almost here after struggling with...
lili2gOctober 6, 2016
$8,000
The day is almost here after struggling with weight loss since my teenage years. In 2014 I finally decided to get the gastric sleeve surgery after being diagnosed with high blood pressure. At my highest weight of 270 way before surgery i tried most diets available with some success but, with being am emotional eater I only had short bits of success but, the weight did slowly come down. Pre surgery I weighed 233 and the surgery was a success and the weight began to drop constantly. About a year after surgery I stated to vigorously work out and that made all the difference. My current weight is 160 and nobody prepared me for all the excess skin I would have after losing the weight. My goal is to track this journey so that hopefully I can provide some guidance, tips, inspiration or anything else based on first hand experience for others who may be considering these types of procedures.
lili2g's provider
UPDATED FROM lili2g
1 day post
Day one post op
lili2gOctober 9, 2016
All I can say is OMG!! I don't know if the pain or soreness is the worse. If I didn't have to get out the bed then life would be gravy but, that's not reality I guess. Trying to walk when you can't stand straight up is interesting to say the least. Really don't have much of an appetite but, I'm forcing myself to eat something so I have these antibiotics and pain melds to take. I am glad that I did both procedures at the same time though because there's no way Id come back, lol. Can't stay awake much so if this doesn't make sense sorry ????
Replies (39)
October 9, 2016
I'm with you if you could just lay would be good, I'm feeling much better today had my procedures done Wednesday.
October 9, 2016
Glad to hear your doing well. Now between walking like a hunchback and laying my back is killing me not to mention the gas pain. I started taking stool softners two days before surgery but I still haven't passed a bowel yet ugh. When did you start to turn the corner? I hear it's around day three or four.
October 10, 2016
I have good times during the day and I rest when I feel bad have people help you by bring you plenty of fluidd to drink and to help you get ip and down that seems like causes the worse pain. I can get up and down a lot easier now.
October 18, 2016
Hey, hope you're moving along in the recovery process. I'm such an independent person that I underestimated the need for help which I don't ask for often. Originally I wasn't taking in much fluids because that would mean I'd have to get up and go to the bathroom and who wants to do that in such an uncomfortable state!! But, I did pick up on my fluid intake and all though stiff when initially getting up it got better. Keep me updated on your progress!!
October 12, 2016
We made it! Yes first 3 days were the worst...lift chair helps and toilet riser holding on to a walker was very helpful! I stayed one night in hospital. Im home now and each day is better...resting a lot. I have ace wraps on thighs and a binder on. My thighs weeped for few days. I had 2 drains removed first appt and still have one for 10 days longer.
Walking little hunched still and oh my back! Aspercream helps.. i am only on tylenol. Ducolax helped have BM....
I didnt do my story here i just message a few. This hopefully was my last one. Had arms and breasts lifted last Jan. Our bodies were very similar. Glad to find your posted story.....keep in touch
Walking little hunched still and oh my back! Aspercream helps.. i am only on tylenol. Ducolax helped have BM....
I didnt do my story here i just message a few. This hopefully was my last one. Had arms and breasts lifted last Jan. Our bodies were very similar. Glad to find your posted story.....keep in touch
October 12, 2016
Oh and you got a great price!
I paid 14,000 this time and 13,000 last time....then all the stuff you need....like buying new car but its a new body!! Worth it so far!
I paid 14,000 this time and 13,000 last time....then all the stuff you need....like buying new car but its a new body!! Worth it so far!
October 18, 2016
Hey how are you doing!! I'm doing much better but still struggling. I didn't like the toilet seat riser because it was uncomfortable on my incisions in my legs but that might be because I'm only 5'5 too. The back part really sucked. Tell me more about your experience and how you're doing now. The price was great and I didn't compromise on care either, they take really good care of you. That included one pre-op night in the hotel, one night in the hospital and six more night in the hotel which had a medical floor so I got the perk of the hospital bed there and a walk in shower with a shower chair. I might get breasts next year and if I do I will definitely be going there again.
October 21, 2016
Hi! Im doing great! I had an appt on Wed and had my last drain removed and my stitches in bellybutton removed. I stayed one night in hosp but then stayed with my hubby in hotel in a handicap room....but regula rshower but had handle. I stayed there 3 nights and went for my first appt then came home 2 hour drive.
My thighs are healing well but feel so tight. My groin feels tight too. After Wed my dr just has ace wraps around my knees as they ate swelling. I wear a binder still which i hate because its so long for me. It goes from hips to boobs! But i feel secure in it. I didnt have lipo and due to an old gallbladder scar he could not get my to tight so i still have some back fat but im so much better. My incisions are doing good...my bellybutton is red and raw and so i use ointment. I only took pain pills for 3 days...i only had pain 3 days. Im swollen in hips and tops of legs and knees and ankles...
My weight stayed the same. I still like the toilet riser but i dont need it anymore. I take showers myself and shaved my legs first time today. I have been outside walking about 10 minutes and will continue to do a little longer each day. No other exercise for 6 weeks. Im tsking 8 weeks off work since i saved up my time for this.....how are you doing?
My thighs are healing well but feel so tight. My groin feels tight too. After Wed my dr just has ace wraps around my knees as they ate swelling. I wear a binder still which i hate because its so long for me. It goes from hips to boobs! But i feel secure in it. I didnt have lipo and due to an old gallbladder scar he could not get my to tight so i still have some back fat but im so much better. My incisions are doing good...my bellybutton is red and raw and so i use ointment. I only took pain pills for 3 days...i only had pain 3 days. Im swollen in hips and tops of legs and knees and ankles...
My weight stayed the same. I still like the toilet riser but i dont need it anymore. I take showers myself and shaved my legs first time today. I have been outside walking about 10 minutes and will continue to do a little longer each day. No other exercise for 6 weeks. Im tsking 8 weeks off work since i saved up my time for this.....how are you doing?
October 21, 2016
I'm doing much better now. Only issue is I have a small opening in the groin area where the incisions intersect so trying to keep that area dry and clean. Dr said that's common in that area. Other than that I get and pretty well now and feel much more secure in my compression garment plus it helps keep the swelling down. I can shower by myself pretty easily now also. I took three weeks off work and I think I'll be ok since I have a desk job. I'm so going stir crazy sitting in this house though, lol.
October 22, 2016
Glaf to hear your doing well! Yes...i was going stir crazy too so i went oit with a couple friends for dinner the
Last couple evenings...by the
Time i get home im pretty swollen. I ordered come spanx capris to wear that ate high waisted to try...if you upload more photos could you show yourself in the garment so i could order one. I think it will be better than a binder and ace wrap once i go back to work. My groin incisions are kinda like the edge of a pie like rope and they will flatten with time. I had a small opening at top of thigh but it closed now. Last time i used silicone scar strips called scaraway and i cut them to size i wanted and wore to bed. They really helped flatten out the scars....keep in touch
Last couple evenings...by the
Time i get home im pretty swollen. I ordered come spanx capris to wear that ate high waisted to try...if you upload more photos could you show yourself in the garment so i could order one. I think it will be better than a binder and ace wrap once i go back to work. My groin incisions are kinda like the edge of a pie like rope and they will flatten with time. I had a small opening at top of thigh but it closed now. Last time i used silicone scar strips called scaraway and i cut them to size i wanted and wore to bed. They really helped flatten out the scars....keep in touch
October 22, 2016
Today I finally drove for the first time to my sister's just to get a change of scenery since I've been sitting for 14 days now!! How many days post op are you? I do have some pictures a few more posts down of me in my compression garment and it helps so much and would be much more comfortable than the binder. My doctor has us wear them 24/7 for the first 4 weeks to hep with the swelling and it helps smooth out the areas. I ordered mine on Amazon it's called marena support girdle with suspenders and medium legs (f5 certified compression garment), it costs $78.13. You will love it!! How long did you have your opening and what did you do to help close it? When did you start using scar treatments? Any other advice you can give me at this stage in my recovery? Any help would be greatly appreciated!!
October 22, 2016
Great! I will look at the garment. My dr. Wants my knees wrapped as thats the only place i had little lipo. My knees were swelling...and he told me to look for a capri pant compression....maybe your type i can find with longer legs.
i had my surgery at noon on Oct 6th and it took til 5pm and then recovery 1 hour and stayed until 2pm the next day. My hubby took over from there. Mobility was harder than i thought at first but thankfully they had a recliner in the room. I tried sleeping in bed for the first time last night. I made it about 3 hours but came back to the recliner. I just felt a belly ache coming and i tried on my side but one leg on top other hurt groin area.Groin hurts on certain movements. I lifted 6 pounds yesterday as i had to put a bunch of pop in a refrig for my dad....prob was to much yet so im going to rest up today. My ankles are swelling. My dr said no exercise for 6 weeks. I teach senior fit and he said no to even attending that in chair for full 6 weeks.
i will start scar treatments at about the 4 to 6 week mark
But make sure no openings. Im allergic to all surgical tape so i just put gauze on opening under ace and now all is closed.
Also i will get a slip from dr for rehab lymphatic massage. Last time it really helped the swelling and just feeling better. Last time i went to a private massage lady that specializes in lymphatic system so i paid her. This time i found my ins will cover rehab massage if recommened by dr.....it helps your fluid find new routes to get your fluid retention back to normal....i went 4 sessions last time.
How much did you weigh before surgery? Im 5'6" and was 178 lbs. Now 16 days post op im 180....up from swelling. Last time i gained 15 lbs from swelling but lost it after a month.
Eat lots of protein fruit and veggies for good healing. I drink protein shakes. But i crave bread and sweets after surgery just like last time..lol
i had my surgery at noon on Oct 6th and it took til 5pm and then recovery 1 hour and stayed until 2pm the next day. My hubby took over from there. Mobility was harder than i thought at first but thankfully they had a recliner in the room. I tried sleeping in bed for the first time last night. I made it about 3 hours but came back to the recliner. I just felt a belly ache coming and i tried on my side but one leg on top other hurt groin area.Groin hurts on certain movements. I lifted 6 pounds yesterday as i had to put a bunch of pop in a refrig for my dad....prob was to much yet so im going to rest up today. My ankles are swelling. My dr said no exercise for 6 weeks. I teach senior fit and he said no to even attending that in chair for full 6 weeks.
i will start scar treatments at about the 4 to 6 week mark
But make sure no openings. Im allergic to all surgical tape so i just put gauze on opening under ace and now all is closed.
Also i will get a slip from dr for rehab lymphatic massage. Last time it really helped the swelling and just feeling better. Last time i went to a private massage lady that specializes in lymphatic system so i paid her. This time i found my ins will cover rehab massage if recommened by dr.....it helps your fluid find new routes to get your fluid retention back to normal....i went 4 sessions last time.
How much did you weigh before surgery? Im 5'6" and was 178 lbs. Now 16 days post op im 180....up from swelling. Last time i gained 15 lbs from swelling but lost it after a month.
Eat lots of protein fruit and veggies for good healing. I drink protein shakes. But i crave bread and sweets after surgery just like last time..lol
October 22, 2016
Wow, you're only one day behind me in recovery, my procedure was October 7th and he said it would take 5-6 hours to complete but, I have no clue how long it took because I was so out of it after surgery. I too stayed one night in the hospital in the hospital then 6 nights at the hotel which thankfully had a hospital bed in it which made sleeping easier but since I'm not a back sleeper it was still pretty difficult for me.
My compression garment is awesome since it does go all the down to the calves which is good because my incisions go all the way to below the knee and he did Lipo there as well so it covers the whole thing. The one the doctor gave me only went above the knee which was a pain since when it swelled it kept pulling up and I had an ace bandage to cover the lower area which was just a pain.
For sleeping in the bed I found that the only thing that works is putting a pillow between your legs while on your side, it makes a tremendous difference and makes it comfortable. I've been sleeping in my bed for almost a week now and although not that comfortable I was so tired of being on my butt all day that it needed a break, lol.
Not being able to exercise has been so hard for me since that was part of my daily routine pre surgery but, I don't want to slow my recovery so I'm forcing myself to sit still.
In the upper thigh/ groin area I put gauze and covered it with an ace bandage last night to try to keep the opening clean and dry and it seems to have worked!!!
I heard about the massages but, wasn't sure what they were. At what point do you start getting those? Are they painful? Do they do them on the entire scar or just certain parts? I'd really be interested in getting those if it helps.
I'm 5'5 and before surgery I weighed 165 and after surgery I weighed 163 still swollen. Probably has a lot to do with me not eating much the first week due to no appetite.
I have been drinking protein drinks to get the protein also to help with healing. I always crave sweets and carbs so I have to seriously work on that especially since i can't work out to balance things out.
Did you get the opening with this procedure or a previous one and how long before it closed?
My compression garment is awesome since it does go all the down to the calves which is good because my incisions go all the way to below the knee and he did Lipo there as well so it covers the whole thing. The one the doctor gave me only went above the knee which was a pain since when it swelled it kept pulling up and I had an ace bandage to cover the lower area which was just a pain.
For sleeping in the bed I found that the only thing that works is putting a pillow between your legs while on your side, it makes a tremendous difference and makes it comfortable. I've been sleeping in my bed for almost a week now and although not that comfortable I was so tired of being on my butt all day that it needed a break, lol.
Not being able to exercise has been so hard for me since that was part of my daily routine pre surgery but, I don't want to slow my recovery so I'm forcing myself to sit still.
In the upper thigh/ groin area I put gauze and covered it with an ace bandage last night to try to keep the opening clean and dry and it seems to have worked!!!
I heard about the massages but, wasn't sure what they were. At what point do you start getting those? Are they painful? Do they do them on the entire scar or just certain parts? I'd really be interested in getting those if it helps.
I'm 5'5 and before surgery I weighed 165 and after surgery I weighed 163 still swollen. Probably has a lot to do with me not eating much the first week due to no appetite.
I have been drinking protein drinks to get the protein also to help with healing. I always crave sweets and carbs so I have to seriously work on that especially since i can't work out to balance things out.
Did you get the opening with this procedure or a previous one and how long before it closed?
October 23, 2016
I got the opening this time in the upper thigh. I just put gauze there and tuck it up
into my panties to hold it. But its closing pretty good. My bellybutton is still red and raw looking so i use ointment gor now. Panties arent to comfy in the groin area though.
I will start massages in a couple weeks....she will massage the scar areas and all of your stomach and legs. She will sorta push fluid areas around in her special ways to get your body to form new routes to get rid of excess fluid. It feels good and relaxing. I paid $40 each session but i foynd out if i get a recomendation from dr then my ins will cover so i can get 6 sessions...twice a week for 2 weeks then once for 2 weeks....
into my panties to hold it. But its closing pretty good. My bellybutton is still red and raw looking so i use ointment gor now. Panties arent to comfy in the groin area though.
I will start massages in a couple weeks....she will massage the scar areas and all of your stomach and legs. She will sorta push fluid areas around in her special ways to get your body to form new routes to get rid of excess fluid. It feels good and relaxing. I paid $40 each session but i foynd out if i get a recomendation from dr then my ins will cover so i can get 6 sessions...twice a week for 2 weeks then once for 2 weeks....
October 23, 2016
Thanks for telling me about tge pillow between legs...i will try that. I didnt have any issues with eating. Actually after i got to my room i asked for food...lol...i had pudding and jello. Im eating to much now as im so bored sitting. My friends took me to dinner again tonight. My thighs and hips are so swollen. I made the mistake of trying on my jeans today....oh shoot! They are way too small....i know its the swelling! My surgeon only repaired my lower stomach as i dont have kids. So i didnt have lipo on my back or anywhere except knees. I think i prob should have had lipo as i still have a little bit of rolls above my pants...im just wearing yoga pants with ace wraps until i get my garment.
October 23, 2016
My opening is in the upper thigh as well, the doctor said that's the most common area for openings to occur so I guess we are average, lol. I don't wear underwear with the compression garment since it has an open crotch which is much more comfortable. When it's time to go back to work I'll probably wear underwear over the garment so it doesn't dig into my thighs.
I will definitely find a massage therapist who specializes in lymphatic massages about 4-6 weeks, thanks for the tip.
I've been avoiding eating out since I know it will be hard enough to maintain my weight without being able to exercise for a while, it's bad enough Halloween is around the corner and I love candy!!
I only had Lipo around the knees also and I can't wait for the swelling to start going down more. With the compression garment I've just been wearing dresses because they are easier especially when using the bathroom.
Do you plan on having any other procedures?
I will definitely find a massage therapist who specializes in lymphatic massages about 4-6 weeks, thanks for the tip.
I've been avoiding eating out since I know it will be hard enough to maintain my weight without being able to exercise for a while, it's bad enough Halloween is around the corner and I love candy!!
I only had Lipo around the knees also and I can't wait for the swelling to start going down more. With the compression garment I've just been wearing dresses because they are easier especially when using the bathroom.
Do you plan on having any other procedures?
October 23, 2016
When i said i only had the lower belly repaired..i meant muscle repairs. I had full tummy tuck....my scars are just like yours....
your doing do well with your diet! I have slipped a little so i have to get better!
I probably needed a complete 360....you know the procedure that goes all the way around to lift the butt....but i just couldnt stand the thought of being cut all the way around...
I will have to really work at it at the gym forever!
But...no more surgeries for me! I love my breast and arm lift! I did not get implants as i am still a 38D.....
i cant wait til my garment comes in mail. I didnt order beforehand as i didnt know size to get...
your doing do well with your diet! I have slipped a little so i have to get better!
I probably needed a complete 360....you know the procedure that goes all the way around to lift the butt....but i just couldnt stand the thought of being cut all the way around...
I will have to really work at it at the gym forever!
But...no more surgeries for me! I love my breast and arm lift! I did not get implants as i am still a 38D.....
i cant wait til my garment comes in mail. I didnt order beforehand as i didnt know size to get...
October 23, 2016
My doctor mentioned the 360 also and I felt the same way as you, lol. With the struggles I have now I couldn't imagine having that much more done!!
I can't wait to get back in the gym and then I'll be there forever like you, lol.
The last procedure for me will be muy breasts next year
I can't wait to get back in the gym and then I'll be there forever like you, lol.
The last procedure for me will be muy breasts next year
October 24, 2016
Are you getting a breast lift?
My breasts were hanging so bad! Lol.....he lifted mine and then entended the scar to my side to get the side roll and used that tissue to give me more perk.....lol
my groin feels funny with the little rope scars...like theres no crease left. My legs are getting there...i can cross my legs today but they still are stiff. My garment should be here tomorrow. Oh and hows your bellybutton? Mine is red still and feels hard when i put ointment in it. Im swelling in my front hips/thighs and ankles.....
Are you posting more photos? I should have done a review listing here but just never did....
oh and i can pick stuff off the floor now....yay
My breasts were hanging so bad! Lol.....he lifted mine and then entended the scar to my side to get the side roll and used that tissue to give me more perk.....lol
my groin feels funny with the little rope scars...like theres no crease left. My legs are getting there...i can cross my legs today but they still are stiff. My garment should be here tomorrow. Oh and hows your bellybutton? Mine is red still and feels hard when i put ointment in it. Im swelling in my front hips/thighs and ankles.....
Are you posting more photos? I should have done a review listing here but just never did....
oh and i can pick stuff off the floor now....yay
October 24, 2016
Yes I plan on getting a lift with implants next year. I hear the recovery is nothing compared to what we are going thru now.
I can only cross my legs aft the bottom due to the swelling in the inner thigh but, it's progress.
On one side of my groin I have the same rope like closure looks almost like a keloid but, the other side is pretty smooth.
My belly button is actually doing really good, I'll try to post some pictures of it tomorrow. My doctor said the most important thing is to keep it clean and dry so what I do is clean it with a q tip then dry it with one really good then I pack it with gauze when I put my compression garment on and it keeps it in place. That keeps it dry. Did your doctor tell you to put ointment on it already?
Most of my swelling has been in my thighs mainly but, if I do too much everything swells but, I've been trying to keep my legs elevated in the recliner as much as possible. The compression garment will really help you out with the swelling. Even though it's not the most comfortable you get used to it and it serves it's purpose.
Make sure you stay off your feet today and no going out to dinner tonight
I can only cross my legs aft the bottom due to the swelling in the inner thigh but, it's progress.
On one side of my groin I have the same rope like closure looks almost like a keloid but, the other side is pretty smooth.
My belly button is actually doing really good, I'll try to post some pictures of it tomorrow. My doctor said the most important thing is to keep it clean and dry so what I do is clean it with a q tip then dry it with one really good then I pack it with gauze when I put my compression garment on and it keeps it in place. That keeps it dry. Did your doctor tell you to put ointment on it already?
Most of my swelling has been in my thighs mainly but, if I do too much everything swells but, I've been trying to keep my legs elevated in the recliner as much as possible. The compression garment will really help you out with the swelling. Even though it's not the most comfortable you get used to it and it serves it's purpose.
Make sure you stay off your feet today and no going out to dinner tonight
October 26, 2016
Ohhh maybe thats why my bellybutton is red and raw. I clean it and dry it but i put antibiotic ointment in it thinking im preventing infection. I go for an appt on Monday so i can ask him.
My garment came and i like it! Its little hard to get on but not bad.
I hope im not doing to much. I do laundry but carry a few pieces at a time so i dont lift over 5 or 6 lbs...i do dishes and stuff but then rest and elevate legs. Im still sleeping mostly in the recliner. I just cant get comfy enough in bed.
My waist is 3 inches bigger and my thighs 1 inch bigger so i think its from swelling. My thighs are swollen for sure! My belly still has jiggle and rolls but its way better than before. My jeans cant go up past my knees! Lol....thought i would just try them on....i just wear yoga pants and fleece tops.....
are your steri strips still on? My dr didnt use the. All ive had on is waist binder and ace wraps on knees....i think my garment will feel good holding in my thighs.....
My garment came and i like it! Its little hard to get on but not bad.
I hope im not doing to much. I do laundry but carry a few pieces at a time so i dont lift over 5 or 6 lbs...i do dishes and stuff but then rest and elevate legs. Im still sleeping mostly in the recliner. I just cant get comfy enough in bed.
My waist is 3 inches bigger and my thighs 1 inch bigger so i think its from swelling. My thighs are swollen for sure! My belly still has jiggle and rolls but its way better than before. My jeans cant go up past my knees! Lol....thought i would just try them on....i just wear yoga pants and fleece tops.....
are your steri strips still on? My dr didnt use the. All ive had on is waist binder and ace wraps on knees....i think my garment will feel good holding in my thighs.....
October 26, 2016
It probably is. My doctor said to just clean it with soap and water and keep it dry at all times. One of my friends who got a tummy tuck did the same thing as you and has the same problem until she told the doctor and he told her to stop. She said it cleared up a few days later.
Yeah the garment takes some getting used to since it's so tight but, you'll get used to it. It took me almost two weeks to get used to mine but, I think that had a lot to do with the swelling. It makes me feel so much more together though and it keeps the gauze I pack in my belly button in place.
I don't think you're doing too much if that's pretty much all you're doing, it's nearly impossible to just sit all day literally. Has the garment been helping wth your swelling? Have you had any problem using the bathroom with the garment on?
I'm sleeping much better in the bed now that I have more abdominal strength but, it's still hard to adjust. I just got tired of being on my butt all the time and since I'm not a side sleeper the recliner was a pain for me. Just give it a try every few days and you'll know when you're ready and if you're comfortable in the recliner by all means stay there, lol.
You are definitely swollen and will be for a while. That's the part that's driving me crazy because I expected to see results but, I'm told it can be like 2 months before I see much results due to the swelling. I've been living in yoga pants and long dresses up to this point, lol.
All my steri strips are finally off, yay!!!
I did update my review yesterday with new pics so check it out!!!
Yeah the garment takes some getting used to since it's so tight but, you'll get used to it. It took me almost two weeks to get used to mine but, I think that had a lot to do with the swelling. It makes me feel so much more together though and it keeps the gauze I pack in my belly button in place.
I don't think you're doing too much if that's pretty much all you're doing, it's nearly impossible to just sit all day literally. Has the garment been helping wth your swelling? Have you had any problem using the bathroom with the garment on?
I'm sleeping much better in the bed now that I have more abdominal strength but, it's still hard to adjust. I just got tired of being on my butt all the time and since I'm not a side sleeper the recliner was a pain for me. Just give it a try every few days and you'll know when you're ready and if you're comfortable in the recliner by all means stay there, lol.
You are definitely swollen and will be for a while. That's the part that's driving me crazy because I expected to see results but, I'm told it can be like 2 months before I see much results due to the swelling. I've been living in yoga pants and long dresses up to this point, lol.
All my steri strips are finally off, yay!!!
I did update my review yesterday with new pics so check it out!!!
October 16, 2016
Hi. I am scheduled for this procedure on 11-2. See my PS on Tuesday for final arrangements and Pre surgical dates Lost 172 lbs , exercise daily but that skin on the legs won't cooperate and get into shape. Am very conserved about recovery and scars , but I need to do this for me, I also have job commitments that I am concerned about as I need to be back at work T+14 after surgery. Hope this works for you and me as well Since we are so close on dates, please keep posting - pictures and recovery steps - I will be right behind you
October 18, 2016
Congratulations on the weight lose and I totally understand the frustration. That's the same place I was and decided that the scars would be better than all the excess skin. Are you doing just thighs or thighs and stomach? 14 days might be a stretch with returning back to work since I still swell a lot even after being on my feet for only 20-30 minutes but, you'll have to play that by ear and I'll definitely update you at 14 days because things change so much day to day.
October 19, 2016
I had the breast done last Nov 10 with a pannelectomy at the same time with some modifications to the sides and am thoroughly pleased with my boobs and stomach , It is the darn legs. Please keep me posted. I have my journey posted on line as well - do you can read my saga. Be well - wish me luck! Tomorrow is PST with medical clearance next week.
October 20, 2016
My legs were my biggest problem as well so I understand your desire to get this done. The recovery is really had and the incisions in the groin area are very difficult to keep clean and dry and are very susceptible to opening no matter how much you stay off your feet. In no way do I regret the decision though and even swollen still I'm very pleased.
October 20, 2016
In the upper vaginal crease area I've been tapping gauze there to absorb the moisture and that's been working pretty good. For the lower area I've actually put maxi pads on the inner thigh of my compression garment to help absorb the moisture so it doesn't stay moist. It's still pretty hard though since the inner thighs swell which makes them rub together.
October 24, 2016
When I woke up on day 14 I felt like a new person. If you have a desk job you could definitely return at 14 days, you will just swell less the more days you wait. Going back towards the end of the work week will help you transition better also.
October 24, 2016
do you think it will not be as bad since I will not have both procedures only the thigh lift? Not the tummy ?
My surgeon is saying on your feet or reclining not sitting is the best... Is that your suggestion as well?
Also, do you have photos that you can share for the incision lines now as compared to immediately post op? Lastly, when you say swollen - do you not fit into pants any longer - how swollen is swollen ?
My surgeon is saying on your feet or reclining not sitting is the best... Is that your suggestion as well?
Also, do you have photos that you can share for the incision lines now as compared to immediately post op? Lastly, when you say swollen - do you not fit into pants any longer - how swollen is swollen ?
October 24, 2016
Doing both is probably harder on the body but honestly my tummy hasn't bothered me at all, the thighs have been the killer. Doctor says there will be noticeable swelling for at least 2 months
My doctor recommended reclining as much as possible and that's what I've been doing. You will get bored out of your mind but, it's good for healing.
The groin area has been the biggest pain and that's what I've read on here as well. I did end up getting a small opening in the area where the upper thigh and groin intersect but, I've finally figured out how to keep it clean and dry so it can heal but, it's been a bear.
I do have pictures further down on here that you can check out and I'll be posting more in the next few days. I really can't notice a difference due to all the swelling but, other people say they can. I still have steri strips covering the thigh incisions but will be taking them off in the next few days since the doctor said they only needed to stay on for two weeks. I'm trying to wait for them to fall off on their own though.
As far as swelling goes I'm pretty swollen but, I can still fit into pants since most of my pants were a little big anyways or yoga pants. I wear the compression garment with dresses since that's most comfortable but, wear yoga pants or stretch pants when I need to wear pants. If your pants fit pretty good now they probably won't fit for a while after surgery.
I finally ordered a female portable urinal last week that's kinda like a funnel because sitting to pee can be very uncomfortable at first and for some reason it wasn't straight so it was getting all over my compression garment and I love it. It's silicon and so easy to use.
My doctor recommended reclining as much as possible and that's what I've been doing. You will get bored out of your mind but, it's good for healing.
The groin area has been the biggest pain and that's what I've read on here as well. I did end up getting a small opening in the area where the upper thigh and groin intersect but, I've finally figured out how to keep it clean and dry so it can heal but, it's been a bear.
I do have pictures further down on here that you can check out and I'll be posting more in the next few days. I really can't notice a difference due to all the swelling but, other people say they can. I still have steri strips covering the thigh incisions but will be taking them off in the next few days since the doctor said they only needed to stay on for two weeks. I'm trying to wait for them to fall off on their own though.
As far as swelling goes I'm pretty swollen but, I can still fit into pants since most of my pants were a little big anyways or yoga pants. I wear the compression garment with dresses since that's most comfortable but, wear yoga pants or stretch pants when I need to wear pants. If your pants fit pretty good now they probably won't fit for a while after surgery.
I finally ordered a female portable urinal last week that's kinda like a funnel because sitting to pee can be very uncomfortable at first and for some reason it wasn't straight so it was getting all over my compression garment and I love it. It's silicon and so easy to use.
October 24, 2016
I already got the female silicone urinal. That come in the mail today, I also got the compression garment . That came today as well. I have a cane to help me get up - no walker .
So are you saying that the swelling makes the thigh about the same size as prior to the surgery. .if that is the case then I am ok. No one knows that I am having this done at work - so I am hoping it will be business as usual when I return and that the pants I wear today wills till fit Is it the legs that are swollen only ?
One other question - the compression garment I heave is to the ankle almost - I would not be able to wear this under a dress as my dresses are knee length nor ankle length Where is your compression garment to and how do you us it with dresses.
I sure hope this is worth it, as I am getting more and more paranoid and afraid of the healing process not the actual surgery,
So are you saying that the swelling makes the thigh about the same size as prior to the surgery. .if that is the case then I am ok. No one knows that I am having this done at work - so I am hoping it will be business as usual when I return and that the pants I wear today wills till fit Is it the legs that are swollen only ?
One other question - the compression garment I heave is to the ankle almost - I would not be able to wear this under a dress as my dresses are knee length nor ankle length Where is your compression garment to and how do you us it with dresses.
I sure hope this is worth it, as I am getting more and more paranoid and afraid of the healing process not the actual surgery,
October 25, 2016
You are definitely on top of things!! Most things I needed I ordered on Amazon prime which gives free two day shipping so everything was there by the time I got home. I didn't use a walker or a cane and the only reason I walked hunched was because of the tummy tuck. You walk more like a shuffle and lifting your legs easily will not happen for a while. I can do stairs but, it's slow going at best, lol.
I would say the swelling is about pre surgery size so you should be safe. Like you I didn't tell anybody at work either and when I went for training today nobody noticed anything other than I walk kinda funny so I just said I hurt my ankle, lol. Only my legs and sometimes my feet are swollen due to tyke thigh lift but, someone I message on here says her hips are also swollen but, she also isn't wearing a compression garment yet.
My compression garment goes to my calves so I've been wearing long maxi dresses. I just find dresses more comfortable especially since the garment is crotchless and using the bathroom is much more difficult when you have to haggle with pants. I would get at least one long dress or night gown just in case. All I wore the first two weeks was a gown since I was at home the whole time, lol.
My compression garment is full body and goes from under my breasts with shoulder straps to my calves so it's kinda like a body suit just really tight, lol. I have pictures in it on here also.
I think you'll be happy you did it after the first few weeks. I questioned it after because I was so unaware how hard the recovery process would be but today, I'm very happy I did it and have been told by several people on here that I'll be even more pleased a month from now when most of the swelling subsides and I can see the results. I got nervous the closer I got to surgery but, just had to remind myself of all the hard work I did to get to this point.
You'll be fine
I would say the swelling is about pre surgery size so you should be safe. Like you I didn't tell anybody at work either and when I went for training today nobody noticed anything other than I walk kinda funny so I just said I hurt my ankle, lol. Only my legs and sometimes my feet are swollen due to tyke thigh lift but, someone I message on here says her hips are also swollen but, she also isn't wearing a compression garment yet.
My compression garment goes to my calves so I've been wearing long maxi dresses. I just find dresses more comfortable especially since the garment is crotchless and using the bathroom is much more difficult when you have to haggle with pants. I would get at least one long dress or night gown just in case. All I wore the first two weeks was a gown since I was at home the whole time, lol.
My compression garment is full body and goes from under my breasts with shoulder straps to my calves so it's kinda like a body suit just really tight, lol. I have pictures in it on here also.
I think you'll be happy you did it after the first few weeks. I questioned it after because I was so unaware how hard the recovery process would be but today, I'm very happy I did it and have been told by several people on here that I'll be even more pleased a month from now when most of the swelling subsides and I can see the results. I got nervous the closer I got to surgery but, just had to remind myself of all the hard work I did to get to this point.
You'll be fine
UPDATED FROM lili2g
10 days post
Finally getting there
lili2gOctober 18, 2016
Sorry for the delay in updates but, I apparently had no clue how tough recovery would be. The plane trip back home from Mexico really sucked and not being able to elevate my all day caused swell hell to say the least. So many things to mention that I had no clue about or maybe I'm just am anomaly, lol. First I had no clue just how hard simply walking could be, I don't even think it counts as walking. It's also frustrating when you can't see results due to all the swelling. So I still can't wash my lower legs or feet nor can I put lotion on them, lol. It's still difficult to stand for long periods of time. I was finally able to sleep in my bed two days ago but, it's not the most comfortable still but, my butt needed a break from sitting on it so much since you can only adjust from one cheek to the other so often, lol. One thing I'm still struggling with is keeping the groin area dry since its such a moist area. And speaking of that, apparently I forgot that when you take antibiotics you can get a yeast infection (yah me ????). Also I really wish I would have taken the advice and bought a shee wee because peeing isn't even kinda fun and trying to keep the compression garment dry at the same time is even more challenging. The doctor put micropore tape over the incisions and says they need to stay on for two weeks so I've had to change the ones in my groin area daily since I can't keep them dry. I also had no clue that my abdomen would be numb which is a blessing in disguise because I only have to deal with the discomfort of one surgery right now and not both. The first four days I couldn't stand up straight so I walked hunched which caused excruciating back pain which I wasn't prepared for. The good news is my appetite is finally back and every day I wake up things are a lot better. For anybody planning inn doing both procedures at the same time know that nothing can truly prepare you for the recovery and make sure you have someone to help you because it's almost impossible to do on your own. Here's the best pictures I can get at the moment in what I call my monkey suit which I have to wear 24/7 for four weeks to control the swelling which even though I don't find it to be the most comfortable does make me feel more secure and like I'm not falling apart. Hope everybody is doing well!!!
Replies (3)
October 26, 2016
What is a "shee wee", and where would you find one?
Much success to your new self and may the pain lessen for you!
Much success to your new self and may the pain lessen for you!
October 26, 2016
I shee wee is a brand of a portable female urinal. I actually didn't like it because it was hard plastic so I ordered a silicon one that much easier to take with you to work discreetly. The second one I ordered is by thee-home and it was a 4 pack for only $8.99!! I've only found them on Amazon but, you might be able to find them at a camping store because apparently people use them for camping.
Thank you!!
Thank you!!
February 4, 2022
You look amazing. I'm consulting with your dr next week for tummy tuck lipo and breast lift. I'm really excited and praying I won't have to go on another waiting list. I'm also nervous but I'm ready to get it over with.
Replies (10)