POSTED UNDER Drainless Tummy Tuck REVIEWS
54 Years Old Getting Drainless TT/MR and Flank Lipo in Westlake Village, Ca
ORIGINAL POST
I have finally decided to do this after thinking...
WORTH IT$11,000
I have finally decided to do this after thinking about it for years. Reading all of the posts from my fellow RS sisters has really helped with setting realistic expectations and knowing what I should be asking my PS before the surgery. My TT date is December 18th. I'm posting my "before" photos mostly to help me with my jitters about whether it will really be worth it. Seeing these pictures is so hard. :( How did I ever get this way?
I've lost around 60 pounds over the last 18 months, working with a wonderful nutritionist, following a low glycemic eating program, and trying to exercise as must as possible. Clearly I am still overweight, but am not choosing this procedure to lose more. I just want to repair my stretched out core muscles and get rid of the excess skin flap. Keeping up with my healthy eating and exercise lifestyle will take care of the rest.
My PS will do a drainless procedure and also use an injected numbing solution in the muscle repair area that lasts 72 hours. No pain pump, no drains. Sounds good to me! So far my experience with him has been great. My pre-op is Dec 4th. Can't believe I'm doing this!!!! I'm obsessively excited and super nervous. Also struggling with guilt. My children and boyfriend are being supportive but they are worried about the risks. It's hard to justify purposely putting yourself at risk just to look good in your clothes.
Anyway, I'm not changing my mind. I'm going for it. I'll post more information as things move along.
I've lost around 60 pounds over the last 18 months, working with a wonderful nutritionist, following a low glycemic eating program, and trying to exercise as must as possible. Clearly I am still overweight, but am not choosing this procedure to lose more. I just want to repair my stretched out core muscles and get rid of the excess skin flap. Keeping up with my healthy eating and exercise lifestyle will take care of the rest.
My PS will do a drainless procedure and also use an injected numbing solution in the muscle repair area that lasts 72 hours. No pain pump, no drains. Sounds good to me! So far my experience with him has been great. My pre-op is Dec 4th. Can't believe I'm doing this!!!! I'm obsessively excited and super nervous. Also struggling with guilt. My children and boyfriend are being supportive but they are worried about the risks. It's hard to justify purposely putting yourself at risk just to look good in your clothes.
Anyway, I'm not changing my mind. I'm going for it. I'll post more information as things move along.
Redtango's provider
UPDATED FROM Redtango
28 days pre
30 Day Countdown
It is starting to get very real. Had my EKG today. Blood tests scheduled for Thursday. Just went on Amazon and started shopping for items I've seen recommended by RS posters.
For anyone in the "getting prepared" stage, here's my list so far in the event it is helpful...
Drive Medical Adjustable Height Home Bed Assist Handle - to help me get out of bed
AquaSense 3 Setting Shower Spray with Ultra-Long Stainless Steel Hose, White
Drive Medical Raised Toilet Seat Elongated with Removable Arms
Diastar Adjustable Backrest Reclining Support Bed Wedge with Pillow Cushion - looks useful and got good reviews from ab surgery patients
JigSaw Magnesium w/SRT, 240T/Bottle. - highly recommended by others on this site for helping regulate bowels and promote healing and reduce stress
Boiron Arnicare Gel Twin Pack - 2.6 oz Each / Pack of 2 - for bruising and pain management
Ez2care Adjustable Lightweight Shower Bench, White
Mepitac - 3/4" x 118" - Box - silicone strips to help with scar care
I'll post pictures of these items and let you know what I think as soon as they are delivered. I also plan to rent a walker.
For anyone in the "getting prepared" stage, here's my list so far in the event it is helpful...
Drive Medical Adjustable Height Home Bed Assist Handle - to help me get out of bed
AquaSense 3 Setting Shower Spray with Ultra-Long Stainless Steel Hose, White
Drive Medical Raised Toilet Seat Elongated with Removable Arms
Diastar Adjustable Backrest Reclining Support Bed Wedge with Pillow Cushion - looks useful and got good reviews from ab surgery patients
JigSaw Magnesium w/SRT, 240T/Bottle. - highly recommended by others on this site for helping regulate bowels and promote healing and reduce stress
Boiron Arnicare Gel Twin Pack - 2.6 oz Each / Pack of 2 - for bruising and pain management
Ez2care Adjustable Lightweight Shower Bench, White
Mepitac - 3/4" x 118" - Box - silicone strips to help with scar care
I'll post pictures of these items and let you know what I think as soon as they are delivered. I also plan to rent a walker.
Replies (5)
November 20, 2014
Sounds like you're ready. I can concur on the Jigsaw Magnesium, as I got on it due to having my gallbladder out AFTER my TT surgery. It's great. And YES, get that walker...it really helps with mobility in the first week or two, which to me, is CRUCIAL. Getting movin, even slowly, in the first weeks is key to a quicker and better recovery. Best wishes and keep us posted. :-DSuzy
November 20, 2014
Thanks HappySuzy! I also had my gallbladder removed a few years back and though it doesn't really cause any issues I am worried about how I will do after the TT. Just got my blood work done today so I think I'm all set. Getting really nervous about recovery. Don't like people troubling over me so it will be hard to let my family take over. Yikes! Oh well - just got to keep my eye on the prize. :-)
November 20, 2014
It's great you have a positive attitude!! That goes a long way. I'm 5 months post op and I feel great!! Just keep in mind that healing takes time, don't rush to do the things you used to do....and let your body rest....and drink water, water, water, lol. I can't wait to see your pics after!
UPDATED FROM Redtango
1 day pre
Two Days Away!
I haven't posted lately although I read other profiles here on a daily basis, which is kind if a life line for me at this point. ????
I've been in a bit of a fog recently and I think it's a combination of stress, excitement, and oddly enough, frustration. There is so much I'd like to get done before my surgery but I really need to get a grip! I won't have dozens of lovely prepared soups and stews in the freezer and there will probably be some laundry waiting to be folded and put away. I've had to concede and get gift cards since I've run out if time to shop. I didn't send put Christmas cards. The frustration is interesting. I HATE feeling like I have to tell people that I'm having cosmetic surgery. Unless you were to see me naked (and yes all of my RS friends have), you wouldn't know how bad it is. So telling my friends (a select few) feels like I'm saying "Hey guess what??!! I'm really F'n Fat and I'm going to have serious major surgery to fix it cuz I'm so selfish and vain". Mind you, no one has been unsupportive, but their worrying over me makes me feel bad. Not sure if this makes any sense but just wanted to vent. ????. I guess I'd probably feel bad if they didn't worry. LOL! Clearly I'm just on an emotional roller coaster so can only imagine what I'll be like after sx day. Haha.
So now I'm just running through the important list to make sure I haven't overlooked anything I'll need during recovery. I thing I'm good. I will be so glad to get this behind me!!!!
Question for those of you that are on the flat side... Did any if you feel "disengaged" from your new body? I mean, I hate this gut of mine, but it's MINE. Will I feel like I'm attached to an alien body or something? I simply am unable to comprehend what it will look like.
Ok - that's all for now. I feel better already for getting all of my rambling thoughts out. ????????????
I will try to update on sx day or as soon as I can after sx to update and post after-pictures. Wish me luck!!!
I've been in a bit of a fog recently and I think it's a combination of stress, excitement, and oddly enough, frustration. There is so much I'd like to get done before my surgery but I really need to get a grip! I won't have dozens of lovely prepared soups and stews in the freezer and there will probably be some laundry waiting to be folded and put away. I've had to concede and get gift cards since I've run out if time to shop. I didn't send put Christmas cards. The frustration is interesting. I HATE feeling like I have to tell people that I'm having cosmetic surgery. Unless you were to see me naked (and yes all of my RS friends have), you wouldn't know how bad it is. So telling my friends (a select few) feels like I'm saying "Hey guess what??!! I'm really F'n Fat and I'm going to have serious major surgery to fix it cuz I'm so selfish and vain". Mind you, no one has been unsupportive, but their worrying over me makes me feel bad. Not sure if this makes any sense but just wanted to vent. ????. I guess I'd probably feel bad if they didn't worry. LOL! Clearly I'm just on an emotional roller coaster so can only imagine what I'll be like after sx day. Haha.
So now I'm just running through the important list to make sure I haven't overlooked anything I'll need during recovery. I thing I'm good. I will be so glad to get this behind me!!!!
Question for those of you that are on the flat side... Did any if you feel "disengaged" from your new body? I mean, I hate this gut of mine, but it's MINE. Will I feel like I'm attached to an alien body or something? I simply am unable to comprehend what it will look like.
Ok - that's all for now. I feel better already for getting all of my rambling thoughts out. ????????????
I will try to update on sx day or as soon as I can after sx to update and post after-pictures. Wish me luck!!!
Replies (10)
December 17, 2014
Hi there, I haven't been on RS in a while and it's nice to see a new patient of Dr. Schwartz's. He did my MM on 10/28 and my recovery took a little bit longer than anticipated but it was all worth it. I had to go back to work after 3 weeks but it was barely enough since I was hunched over for almost 6 weeks. Most people stand straight much sooner though.
I had that "disengaged" feeling for a while early on. It had hit me totally unexpected because I had hated that extra skin for years. Today, less than 2 months later, I barely remember the before pics and I love, love, love my new shape. Best of luck to you on Thursday.
December 17, 2014
Thanks for replying Manu611. It's good to know you love the results. I just need to remember to power through the weird feelings if they come up. I also will return to work in 3 weeks so am really hoping I can stand up sort of straight by then.
December 18, 2014
I know what you mean about how it will be weird not to have the flap. I keep thinking the same thing, that it's been a part of me for so long that, although I hate it, I don't know what it will be like to not have it anymore. Reading all the stories on here, it sounds like it will be awesome!
December 18, 2014
I've also had the flap and collapsed belly button for so long I got used to it, but let me tell you, once you see your new body, you will love it! It's been 5 months since my surgery and I'm still not used to looking at myself and feeling my body. I know by next summer, I will buy a whole new wardrobe for my new body. Don't forget to send the pics....all the best. Emily
December 18, 2014
Thinking of you tonight and wishing you sweet dreams tonight! I will send positive thoughts for a smooth surgery your way all day tomorrow. I can't wait to hear about your experience with our doctor and his staff AND any last minute tips you can throw my way! All the best to you!
December 18, 2014
Thanks so much Pumpkin! That just made me feel great! I'm still awake although it's past midnight so my first tip is...don't plan on the day/night before to get last minute stuff done because you will be spending most of your time talking to and reassuring your friends and family that you've got it covered. LOL! Got to admit though, spending that time with my family was way better time spent than folding laundry. So I've made peace with what is out of my control and am ready to take this show on the road. Talk to you soon. XO
December 18, 2014
Good tip! I will remember that one! But even better plan to not worry about it....laundry will be there when you are feeling better! Fingers crossed that happens soon! Hugs
December 23, 2014
I totally get your frustration with your friends...last summer when I was going thru the consultation process, I shared with 4 very close friends (told them one-on-one, though we are all part of the same social circle). ALL four were very understanding and supportive, however, three of them gave me the same kind of attitude; it ranged anywhere from 'you don't need it' to subtle messages about risking my life when I have little kids. The one friend who I felt was truly supportive actually came with me to one of my consults- and then was a fabulous sounding board for decisions. She is the only one I ended up telling about my surgery. I'm 13 dpo at this point- I know the other three will be a little hurt I didn't tell them, and I've been so MIA of late I think they suspect.... Anyway, I eventually came to the decision that I would tell them after I was all healed and healthy. My thought is if I can be in a place where I love my results, they can see what it did for my mental outlook and then appreciate why I did it.
Hang in there- ultimately they want what's best for you and even if they don't agree with your choice, they will still love you :)
Replies (22)