POSTED UNDER Tummy Tuck REVIEWS
Finally got a TT after 25 Years! Los Gatos, CA
ORIGINAL POST
I had a C-section with my daughter 25 years ago...
WORTH IT$12,000
I had a C-section with my daughter 25 years ago and my stomach has never been the same since. Add to that an almost-40 lb weight loss over the last 18 months, and I am more than ready to get this apron removed and get my diastasis recti corrected finally! I want my outside to match how I feel inside! :)
fitdivajen's provider
Replies (23)
June 24, 2015
Oooh good to know about the indentations, thanks for that tip! It makes sense because when I put on some weight about 10 years ago, I noticed that it kind of squished around where my jeans hit me on the hips (which I clearly kept wearing long past the time where they were too small). I have several different types of CGs to continue to wear, so I will rotate through those regularly so I don't get any weird indentations. :)
June 29, 2015
My PS didn't say anything about readjusting the binder. Is that for lipo or the TT? I am 11 days PO and just had 2nd drain removed, I haven't put on any spanx yet, but put on my underwear and noticed the indentation across my swollen belly between the suture line and the belly button. It never crossed my mind that this could be a lasting problem...?
July 5, 2015
Mom04isme...so sorry, I didn't even see your comment until just now! I hope you found the answer to your question. My understanding is that you have to wear a CG all the time for months in order to ensure that your skin reattaches itself to the muscle (which gets separated during the surgery).
July 5, 2015
You look great and congratulations for embarking on this journey. I am one day behind you (surgery was 30Jun). I will say that, like most of us on here, I did a lot of reading and researching to ensure that I had everything I needed but when it came down to it -- I was wholly unprepared. lol. I was told that someone would have to stay with me around the clock for the first week. Everyone's experience is different and I probably only needed that for the first day. Surprisingly, I am very mobile. I have cooked dinner, lifted things in and out of the oven (nothing too heavy), folded laundry, climbed stairs etc etc. I feel good all in all with one very annoying exception to all of this -- I still cannot stand upright and my right side seems awfully tight. So, for me, this just shows that we are all so different and heal at varying rates. There are some that stood straight on day 2. I'm envious. lol. The list you provided was great and in my head, I knew I needed similar items but then I was overcome by events and didn't have nearly as much as I needed prior to surgery. I worked up until the day I had surgery and will return on 20Jul. The one things I did do that my nurse recommended was to get a Maxi Dress that I could just step in to since it would be difficult to lift my arms over my head -- the dress has been super comfy but lifting my arms was/is not a problem for me. :-) My PS gave me a lanyard with a little hook to wear around my neck where I can attach my drains which has been really nice and I purchased a shower stool which I know will come in handy. Other than that, I do not have any extra binders or compression garments. I am using the one my PS gave me which is bulky and itchy so I will definitely be looking to getting another one, just not sure where to look. My scar/suture is not covered by any gauze or tape. My PS told me to wear a fitted tank top or shirt and stretch it over the incision and that should be enough. I know that I will eventually need some scar silicone strips but none have been recommended to me by my PS. I will use what has worked for you guys here on realself. :-) Sorry for the long-winded post. Thanks for sharing your story.
July 5, 2015
Hi V88! Isn't it funny how different everyone's experience is? I also had no trouble lifting my arms over my head. I have had my sister coming over for a few hours when my daughter is at work but the reality is that I probably could have done without her the last couple of days with no problem. Still, it was nice to have her here for the company and for the few things that I would have had to wait for my daughter to do (lifting stuff).
I am in a CG today...I tried one yesterday and I switched back to the binder after a short time because it felt weird. Today is a different one and I hope I'll be ok in it all day as you are right the binder is bulky and itchy.
I'd get yourself interim CGs like a larger size than normal to accommodate the swelling, and then get one or two for later when the swelling goes down. You can get them online or in stores, no need to spend a ton of money. Just make sure you get one that covers you from braline to hip. I have a few handmedowns from a friend and those are the bigger ones that I am using now. There is no way I could stuff myself (at this point) into the smaller size ones that I bought new. Lol
I am in a CG today...I tried one yesterday and I switched back to the binder after a short time because it felt weird. Today is a different one and I hope I'll be ok in it all day as you are right the binder is bulky and itchy.
I'd get yourself interim CGs like a larger size than normal to accommodate the swelling, and then get one or two for later when the swelling goes down. You can get them online or in stores, no need to spend a ton of money. Just make sure you get one that covers you from braline to hip. I have a few handmedowns from a friend and those are the bigger ones that I am using now. There is no way I could stuff myself (at this point) into the smaller size ones that I bought new. Lol
July 5, 2015
Also with the CGs, it's helpful to get the kind with straps. You wear your own bra, but the CG frames the bra and straps go over your shoulders to hold it in place. It makes for a smoother compression and less likelihood that a high waist garment will roll down.
July 5, 2015
I always wear a tank under my binder along with readjusting to keep indentations from happening. I am a few days fron 4 wk po and wear spanx and the binder. With drains out i have consistently had problems with seroma. In and out about every 3 to 4 days in office to have drained with a needle. I am the 10% this happens to dispite proper drain removal. Overall feeling good being very careful and try to not overdue. Husband is anxious to have the normal me back. Misses the intimacy but wont go there till i get okay from doctor. Anxioys to start scar car but havent gotten the okay on that yet. Its a journey thats for sure but lovin my results. I commend those who have full tummy tucks and breast surgery at the same time. You guys rock !!
July 5, 2015
Qtrhrse15, so sorry you have had problems with seromas! Did your doc tell you to wear CGs and the binder together? That sounds so uncomfortable! I totally agree about the ladies who get the mommy makeover, I originally wanted that myself and didn't do it because it was too expensive all at once. Now I'm glad I don't have sore boobs to deal with on top of my gut.
July 5, 2015
I'm not trying to be obtuse, but what it the difference between a CG and a binder? Don't they both wrap tightly around your mid section to hold everything in? I am just trying to make sure I have the right items to ensure proper healing. I have a spanx that I bought that I am assuming I should use after the drains come out but isn't that considered a compression garment, too? The binder is the wrapp-y thingie that the PS gives you, right? I'm going to order a second one off of Amazon. Please let me know if I have these items confused. :-) Thanks a bunch.
July 6, 2015
You nailed it! The binder is a long (usually white) piece of semi-stretchy stiff elastic material with velcro down one side. You wrap it around your middle and it's adjustable depending on your size and how swollen you get. You wear the binder for the first few days, up to a few weeks.
The CG is like Spanx that you pull on and is meant for later in the healing process.
The CG is like Spanx that you pull on and is meant for later in the healing process.
July 6, 2015
Also, I have 2 binders, which was helpful the first few days when you have drainage. Then you can wash one while wearing the other.
September 7, 2015
WOW, that looks sore, best wishes for your recovery
September 8, 2015
Thanks summer3211966, I'm 10 weeks post-op now, so all the bruises are a thing of the past. :)
September 8, 2015
That's good to hear, hope things are going well, look forward to your next photos
UPDATED FROM fitdivajen
7 days pre
Post-surgery supply list :)
Wow, this list is really LONG and cost a pretty penny! I gathered this list from reading here on RS and from a girlfriend of mine who had a TT about 7 months ago. She had some compression garments that she passed along to me (luckily we are about the same size, score!!) but those are more for about a month post-op and to be worn under clothing like going to the office. So then my first priority was to purchase 2 CGs that were high compression to be used after the surgical wrap comes off, which I got from Leonisa.com. They are pricey, but high quality and will last a long time. I plan to wear a CG as long as I can possibly stand it, as often as possible. I waited long enough for this surgery to happen, I am going to go above and beyond to make sure my results stick for good. So I bought a power tummy trimmer which has detachable straps (you wear it with your own bra) and the bottom part of it is boy shorts, and then a pair of high-waist shaper shorts that have straps you can attach to your bra and the legs go down to the knee. The rest of the items I bought off Amazon, or I already have them on hand:
Rubbing alcohol
Peroxide
Q-tips (to clean BB)
Gauze
Surgical tape
Safety pins (to hold drains out of the way during showers)
Puppy pads (for couch and bed to catch drainage)
Cough drops
Miralax
Natural Calm (magnesium)
Smooth Move tea (laxative)
Arnica pellets
Arnica gel
Turmeric/bromelain pills (reduces inflammation)
Maxipads (for potential bathroom accidents if not fast enough to get there in time) :-\
Seamless panties
Compression socks
Large cold pack
Pickup/grabber tool
Toilet riser
Antibacterial soap
Did I miss anything??? I took a few days to gather as much information as possible before ordering. I hope I got it all! :)
Rubbing alcohol
Peroxide
Q-tips (to clean BB)
Gauze
Surgical tape
Safety pins (to hold drains out of the way during showers)
Puppy pads (for couch and bed to catch drainage)
Cough drops
Miralax
Natural Calm (magnesium)
Smooth Move tea (laxative)
Arnica pellets
Arnica gel
Turmeric/bromelain pills (reduces inflammation)
Maxipads (for potential bathroom accidents if not fast enough to get there in time) :-\
Seamless panties
Compression socks
Large cold pack
Pickup/grabber tool
Toilet riser
Antibacterial soap
Did I miss anything??? I took a few days to gather as much information as possible before ordering. I hope I got it all! :)
Replies (25)
June 22, 2015
I love having my GO GIRL made making it to the bathroom a lot easier. Bought on Amazon.
Cough suppresent might save you if you start a coughing fit after being put under. Bo ordered bed chucks to protect my mattress especially if you have LIPO as well. My Parents had me get NewGel Siliconce strips for week 3. Hope that helps
Cough suppresent might save you if you start a coughing fit after being put under. Bo ordered bed chucks to protect my mattress especially if you have LIPO as well. My Parents had me get NewGel Siliconce strips for week 3. Hope that helps
June 23, 2015
larger underwear and maxi dresses and maxi skirts that are knit or jersey fabric, large t-shirts. These items have been much more comfortable than pants or shorts as the waist wrap thing they put on after surgery is so bulky!! Ask the doctor what they put on you to wear for the first 2 weeks after surgery. Mine uses a binder and with thick foam pads underneath. It makes the waistline huge and nothing looks normal except maxi dress and large baggy shirts. I find it more annoying than the tightness and incision discomfort! I also had to send my husband to buy me a shower stool. It works great and then after my shower I use it to sit in the bathroom to style my hair and do makeup with a pedestal mirror. I don't own a makeup table, so this is service a dual purpose until I can stand for longer periods and feel stable. My back hurts a lot.
Also, I bought self-cleaning wipes that have non-rinsing soap to which you can use until get are allowed to shower. And I actually used them in the first few showers as well since I was so sensitive and struggling to shower alone. They are dry, but you put them under warm water and have a pleasant non-harsh scent. Bought them at Walgreens.
good list, though!
Also, I bought self-cleaning wipes that have non-rinsing soap to which you can use until get are allowed to shower. And I actually used them in the first few showers as well since I was so sensitive and struggling to shower alone. They are dry, but you put them under warm water and have a pleasant non-harsh scent. Bought them at Walgreens.
good list, though!
June 23, 2015
Protein drinks and bars on hand because I found I didn't eat enough so felt lightheaded and weak in the morning till I had breakfast. Protein helps in healing process so I was combatting two things. I also wore tank tops under my binder which was wonderful. Only had two though and wish I had more. They give a bit of support too so I didn't have to wear a bra. Mirlax was my saving grace !!!
June 23, 2015
@qtrhrse15 I always have lots of protein drinks, I already have packets made up with all sorts of supplements added in to help with healing. :) Good call on the tank top under the binder, thank you so much!
@44yearoldnewme, good point with the maxi dresses/skirts... I am pulling all of mine out of the closet! I am seriously on the fence with the shower stool thing, I am going to think it over in the next few days. I have tons of baby wipes which I will be using as temporary sponge baths until I can actually get myself in the shower. Luckily, my daughter can blow dry my hair for me, so I don't have to worry about that, whew!
@terra34, thank so for the reminder for the silicone strips! I will use the puppy pads and towels to catch any drainage for couch and bed. Do you think the cough drops will be enough to soothe my throat or should I dig out the cough suppressant meds? I have some on hand, so I can keep that in mind. Thank you!
@44yearoldnewme, good point with the maxi dresses/skirts... I am pulling all of mine out of the closet! I am seriously on the fence with the shower stool thing, I am going to think it over in the next few days. I have tons of baby wipes which I will be using as temporary sponge baths until I can actually get myself in the shower. Luckily, my daughter can blow dry my hair for me, so I don't have to worry about that, whew!
@terra34, thank so for the reminder for the silicone strips! I will use the puppy pads and towels to catch any drainage for couch and bed. Do you think the cough drops will be enough to soothe my throat or should I dig out the cough suppressant meds? I have some on hand, so I can keep that in mind. Thank you!
June 23, 2015
I wish i had this list weeks ago. Taking the time to make this list is sooo very kind an it will help so very many people who will be or are traveling down this road. Kudos to you for your kindness.
June 23, 2015
I wish i had this list weeks ago. Taking the time to make this list is sooo very kind an it will help so very many people who will be or are traveling down this road. Kudos to you for your kindness.
June 23, 2015
I wish i had this list weeks ago. Taking the time to make this list is sooo very kind an it will help so very many people who will be or are traveling down this road.
Kudos to you for your kindness.
Kudos to you for your kindness.
June 24, 2015
I compiled it by reading through lots of different lists on here and other PS sites. :) I am going to add the scar strips to the list too. I also have an essential oil recipe for scars that I will be using after a few months. It worked wonders on my C-section scar year's ago.
June 24, 2015
Will you share the essential oil recipe ? Had my 3 rd post op visit today and had stitches removed but told no scar therapy till there are no scabs visible. Go back in two weeks and will discuss scar therapy.
June 24, 2015
Of course! It's 2 oz carrier oil (sesame or almond oil work well) and then 20 drops each of lemon, lavender, and frankincense essential oils. Use it three days on, and three days off, but don't use it until about a month or two post-op (when the scar is fully healed).
July 2, 2015
One of the best things that helped me & still helps is one of those gadgets that you use to pick something up off the floor or reach something high up. It can be painful to be bending over while healing. My granddaughter found it for me at a CVS drug store. Also I used a cane to help me get around easier.
July 2, 2015
Oh yeah...protein drinks & bars. I like Skinny Girl bars. Found a Ingles grocery store & Target. Drink lots of water!!
UPDATED FROM fitdivajen
Day of treatment
Today is the day! Before pics :-O
I just wrote a super long update on my phone and when I went to upload pics it erased my entire post. I want to cry. :-( Not to mention, it won't let me upload pics from my phone because there is no option to pull photos from your phone's gallery. This site's functionality could really use some help.
Now I am irritated and I don't feel like rewriting my entire post, so here are my before pics. I go in at 11:30am for a 1pm surgery. Will post more later.
Now I am irritated and I don't feel like rewriting my entire post, so here are my before pics. I go in at 11:30am for a 1pm surgery. Will post more later.
Replies (15)
June 29, 2015
prayers!!!!! hope your surgery and recovery is easy. happy healing :)
June 29, 2015
Good luck! I'm 5 days post op and it's worth it already!!
June 29, 2015
GOODLUCK, will be thinking about you today!!
June 29, 2015
Hope your surgery goes well! I have also been waiting many years for my TT and finally got it on 6/18 at age 44.
June 30, 2015
Mom04isme, congrats on your long-awaited surgery!! I hope you are healing up well!
June 30, 2015
I hope all goes well. Thanks for the list. I'm counting down the days for my surgery. Aug. 10th. Good luck with your recovery.
June 30, 2015
Oh for anyone who reading. I've been thinking about the ice. I have a freezer seal machine and put ice in a 1 gal. Size baggy then put it in the size freezer bag I want and seal it. The don't leak and you can refreeze them. I use them for my chronic back pain. Works great. I don't have to get up in the middle of the night to put them up. I just throw them and the hand towel on the floor and put them back in the freezer when I get up. They are stil mostly frozen too. I use the baggy just for more strength.
June 30, 2015
Thank you, mreedy33! My doc said no ice on tummy for now. He might say something different at my post-op appt on Thu but for now I'm going to pass on ice. Good luck with your surgery in August!
I had lipo done on my upper arms a year ago, and my advice on that is to be patient...it can look and feel lumpy for a LONG time afterward, and it's only recently that I feel like my skin is finally tightening up again (a year later). For a long time afterward I was regretting getting it done because the skin was wrinkly and saggy but it's now starting to look a LOT better (yays!)
Congratulations on your weight loss! How did you do it?
I chose Dr. Lowen in Mountain View for my procedure.
I lost the weight through cleaning up my diet. I always ate very healthy, but when I cut out packaged/processed foods, I really saw a big difference. So that means I am 95% grain-free and dairy-free. The weight just fell off and it was almost effortless. :)
That is amazing with the changes in diet. As much as I work out, I'm learning that really, most of it comes down to what you eat....the quality of what you eat. Because quantity wise, you can eat a LOT of healthy food but you need to stay away from the junky, processed, empty calorie stuff.
95% grain and dairy free is great!!
I think my skin should tighten up quite well. I am not sure if you've seen my review I posted earlier this week regarding my lipo, but my skin tightened up very nicely after I shed some weight in 2013. I had a decent amount of cellulite that has gone away too which is even harder to get rid of. Also, my tummy doesn't have any stretch marks (hips do) so I think I have fairly good elasticity and skin quality and I know my doctor has pretty thoroughly taken a look at it during my pre-op about a week ago. I think he would have suggested the thigh lift if he'd had any concerns.
I'm more concerned about the initial swelling and weight gain and then the weird numbness/pain/tingles that will go with the lipo. I am hoping I don't feel too much stabbing pain and I can resume my normal activities fitness wise soon after.
I agree about the CGs, I am going to wear mine longer than recommended! I feel like I would have had better skin shrinkage if I had worn my compression sleeves longer after my upper arm lipo.
The food thing is 90% of any successful fitness program, people mostly don't get that. ;)
Along with great support.