Abdominal Lipo & Arm SmartLipo

Today is the day! I just had the first of two procedures done: abdominal lipo (10/4/18) and SmartLipo of the arms (11/12/18)! My doctor wanted to do them separately bc I’ll need use of my arms to help me during the abdominal lipo surgery.

I’m 34, 5’11”, have no kids, and am very active in the gym. I simply had these two trouble areas that bothered me enough to take out a personal loan and just do it!

Today I had the first procedure done under local anesthesia. I was awake the whole time, and had a fantastic experience! I literally chatted-up the doctor and 3 assistants for the entire 2 hour procedure. He worked primarily on my lower abs, and worked up, in my pubic region, and around my sides as far as he could access. He removed about 1700cc of fat (about 3-4 pounds I believe). When he said he was done and was going to stitch together my 5 incisions, I immediately became emotional and cried. I was so happy.

He wrapped me in 2 binders and sent me home. I am to leave it alone for two days, after which I can shower and put on my compression garment. So, no “after” picture until Saturday! Lots of water & peeing, standing and laying are my orders until then!

I feel swelling in my pubic region, which he predicted, and I’m taking Arnica and antibiotics. Once the pain kicks in, I’ll take either prescription painkillers or OTC pain relievers (I’m going to try to suck it up lol). I also took a pre-emptive stool softener if I have to take the painkillers.

I’ll update in 2 days!

I think the worst part has been sleeping! I’m just uncomfortable, mostly in my back. There really is no pain in the liposuction areas: I took 1 painkiller around midnight, and nothing but Arnica and the antibiotic since. I can walk around fine. The compression wrap was creating a dent in my sides so I slipped a foam pad between the 2 wraps to smooth it out. Fluids were collecting in my pubic region, so my dr recommended tighter underwear and to put a pillow under my butt to elevate it slightly.

I’m starting to feel warm in my face: I’m flushed except for my cheeks which look yellow? I’m hoping this is normal! I’m trying to take in deep breaths and drink lots of fluids.

Finally took off my binder to shower and see my torso this morning! Funny my waist measurement is the same, but I did lose 3” at my belly button. I feel like a version of myself, not completely different. I think once my arm lipo is done I’ll feel better! I’m wearing only a Mirena garment now.
Last night sucked. It felt like awful PMS cramping coupled with diarrhea cramping. I took 1 painkiller and fell asleep.
The biggest thing is boredom. My lower back is uncomfortable from Laying down so much, but I am walking around fine. Thankfully no real pain in the lipoed areas! Might try leave the house today!