31 y.o. Mother of 2 finally feeling confident again after tummy tuck with MR/lipo

I've been looking into having a tummy tuck done for the past year. After gaining 45 pounds with my first pregnancy I was left with loose skin and a ton of stretch marks. I knew people got stretch marks with pregnancy, but had no idea that my body would be left with loose skin. I tried countless scrubs and creams to try and reduce the appearance of the stretch marks, but of course nothing worked. My abdomen got worse after having baby #2. The weight was definitely harder to lose, and my self confidence has suffered as a result.
I started looking into the tummy tuck procedure early last year. I thought that having a mini tuck would improve my self confidence and be an easier recovery, but after reading reviews on realself I realized that my best bet would be to do a full tuck. I had my consultation with Dr. Shafer in NYC in November and am scheduled to have the surgery in May. I'm excited and nervous about the procedure. I hope to have a speedy recovery and a great result. I'm working to lose 15-20 pounds before the surgery so that I'm in the best shape possible pre-op.

Just wanted to add some pics of my pre-op belly and some other info. I'm 5' tall and currently 135lbs (just came back from vacation and gained 5 lbs). I carry most of my weight in my hips, thighs, and butt. I hope a flat tummy will enhance my figure. I feel so trapped by this stomach, I can't wait for this flap to be gone! I'm hoping to be in the 120's by my surgery date, which I know I can do. I just had foot surgery yesterday and so far so good. Not too much pain and I'm able to get around with crutches for now.

It's all starting to feel real now. Just got me surgical packet with all pre and post op info and my final balance is due next week when I go for my pre op appointment. I booked my hotel room in NYC since I live about an hour away and it's required to stay close by after this procedure. I got a really good deal through Expedia. I ended up booking the "mystery hotel" and saved about $200. I also received a call from Dr. Shafer's private duty nurse. Originally I wasn't going to use the service, but after speaking with her I think I will have someone come for 8 hours. For those of you with small children, at what point were you able to lift your children? I have a 2 year old who weighs 26 pounds. My Mom is coming to help out for 2 weeks, but just curious how I'm going to do it after she leaves.