Tummy Tuck and Lower Lateral Flank Lipo After Weight Loss - Raleigh, NC

I have always been overweight with a big belly, and I have gained and lost a lot of weight (50+lbs) more than once (no pregnancies. Last year, I decided to take control once and for all, and lost 50 more lbs, bringing me to ~215 at a height of 5'9". My tummy is still really big and flabby, though, and I have a really hard time finding clothes to flatter. I had a surgery consultation as extra motivation to lose more weight, expecting the doctor to tell me that I would be a candidate if I would lose however many more pounds. I was pleased to hear that I am already a good candidate, and decided to go ahead with it instead of waiting any longer. I've gotten to the point where losing weight isn't even exciting anymore, because I just get more and more out of proportion. I'm looking forward to finally having a proportionate shape, and then getting out there and becoming more fit and active!

Question for other folks: how long did this initial phase of pain last after surgery? I think I'm doing pretty well, but if I don't get my 2 pain pills every 5 hours or so, it gets much worse. Last night I got a solid 6 hours of sleep and woke up wishing i had set an alarm to wake up to take medicine sooner.

Overall, I think everything went well! Everyone in Dr. Morea's office was great yesterday and he even called personally last night to say that he thinks I had a great outcome and will be very pleased. I picked up an old recliner at the thrift store the day before surgery and I am glad I did! I need help getting up but I can walk to the bathroom on my own and empty my own drains. After eating last night, I had some bad gas and couldn't pass it because it hurts to push those muscles, so i drank some Pepto and just dealt with the gas pain.

I am allowed to take a shower today but I don't think I will. I'm going to take off the dressing though and get a peek at what's under there though, stay tuned for pics!

Here are a couple of pictures with the compression garment on. I chickened out of taking it off to look just yet!