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POSTED UNDER Tummy Tuck REVIEWS

Full Tummy Tuck, Lipo on Thighs and Back, Flanks

ORIGINAL POST

I've wanted a tummy tuck for about 10 years now....

deeryma
WORTH IT$9,000
I've wanted a tummy tuck for about 10 years now. I've always struggled with my weight...always. My doctor bluntly, yet lovingly told me that if I didn't change the way I ate it would be useless to go through this procedure because I would gain it all back and gain in places that was not attractive! He recommended me lose 15-20 lbs. before the surgery. I thought long and hard and decided that I was going to this, and not just temporary! I lost 16+ lbs. and weighed in at 151 (I'm 5'3") the morning of my surgery. I can't wait to heal to get back in the gym because I'm so scared of gaining any weight.Well about the surgery.... I was soooo nervous about going under anesthesia. But all went well and I can say that I'm on day 5 and the most pain I've felt is like a stinging pain, similar to when I had my C-section, but honestly not as bad because I have this great binder. The lipo is actually more painful - but not that bad. Some bruising and swelling but every day is getting better. I had one drain remove today along with the stitches for the lipo, a total of 4 stitches. The drain coming out hurt the worse - so I recommend a pain killer an hour before you go in. My doctor also prescribed valium to help with the nerves the night before.One problem is constipation, which is caused by the pain Rx. I really recommend starting a stool softener on day (check with your doc) one because the last thing you want after a tummy tuck is to be bound up, pressure and possibly needing a doctor to insert something in your behind to release it, uh no way!!! I also started milk magnesium - whatever works for you - just do it!!I really recommend getting on vitamins if your doctor doesn't provide them and a homeopath for bruising and swelling. Plus work-out - it has does wonders for speedy recovery. Remember you are doing this for yourself so prepare yourself the best possible way - you owe it to yourself and you'll be glad you prepared!So far the tummy tuck looks greats, need a lot more healing though. The lipo is too early to tell, or so I think anyway. Doctor says he's pleased with my healing.The cons: I have to sleep in like a jack-knife position, which isn't easy, but my doc Rx sleeping meds too - he's so wonderful! It also sucks that you can’t get the incsision wet so I have to sponge bath which let’s face, just isn’t the same so I feel gross. I had to have my husband wash my hair today (day 5) so that was gross too. Um, I’m starting to itch now – is it from healing or not being able to properly shower, dunno, but it’s temporary.

deeryma's provider

James Matas, MD (retired)

James Matas, MD (retired)

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

deeryma rating for Dr. Matas:

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Replies (12)

November 26, 2009
You look Great!!! The itching is due to the nerves regenerating, that is one of the annoying side effects of lipo. You may want to try some Aveeno or Gold Bond Anti Itch lotion. Happy Healing and Thanks so much for sharing your pictures.
November 28, 2009
Thank you! I will definately try one of those! I'm hoping to post more pics at one month, two months and then three months. These are "unofficial" pics - taken by by hubby about 30 mins pre-op and then at day 2, or maybe it was day 3. Today is Day 9 and I'm trying to wean myself off the percocet and am using tylenel extra strength - not too bad right now. I'll keep posting. thanks!
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November 29, 2009
You look amazing!!! Your bio read just like mine would - 3 c-sections, same height and weight, I work out like crazy, etcec!!I hope my "after" pic looks as well as yours (b-4 pic is similar!!)
December 9, 2009
great information, thank you.
January 7, 2010
You look amazing! How could you be anything less then thrilled with the results? Thank you for sharing the b/a pictures. I wish I had both the bucks and bravery to have this surgery.
March 1, 2010
Interested to hear how things have progressed?? Are you still doing well?