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POSTED UNDER Mommy Makeover REVIEWS

IT WAS SO WORTH taking the dive, FINALLY - Tummy Tuck and Breast Augmentation - Richmond, VA

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I am looking for information, experiences and...

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gypsystar001
WORTH IT$15,900

I am looking for information, experiences and general knowledge on the mommy makeover. I believe I could spend all day on google reading and sometimes I amaze myself how much I can get into it.
Ok, a little about me....I am 37, 5'8 and about 160lbs. I am getting ready to have my mommy makeover that will consist of a breast augmentation, tummy tuck and lipo of the flanks. I have 3 children ages 21,18 and 12. I also lost 100lbs about 5 years ago and have maintained it with the exception of about 10 lbs that I picked up a couple of years ago. I also work out about 4-5 times per week by doing strength training, plyometrics/bootcamp, cardio and yoga. I am in the best shape of my life but I have some skin issues now from the 3 children and weight loss.
I just did my consultation for my surgery with Dr Zemmel and loved him! My date is technically not set so what I have listed is a prospective time frame. I am still working on the financial portion as I was a little shocked by the total cost, but somewhat expected it. I know you get what you pay for in the world of plastic surgery. This is no means something I want to "bargin shop" for.
I have been toying with the idea of actually going through with the breast augmentation since I am somewhat happy with what I have (34C).However I have the typical issue that comes with children and weight loss... the sock with the ball in it look... not a good look for me. I will have to say the at the very least, the sock is a short ankle sock, lol!
I do know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I am getting the Tummy tuck. I was told by Dr Zemmel that I had great abdominal muscles and would not need the muscles tightened... great news! That will make for a shorter recovery time and much less pain. I would recommend to anyone that is considering this procedure, work on those abs because it will make a huge difference! Having better muscle tone in general will make things better all the way around.
All in all, I cant explain the excitment I have for getting rid of this lose, nasty skin. I will finally feel like I can wear things that show a little belly or that are very form fitting. I am also looking forward to not having the fat "love handles" hanging over the back of my pants. I always have to tug my jeans up over them everytime I bend over or sit. I really hate that!
Well, I will follow up as I know more details and I am always interested in any information that anyone else can provide. Until then, thoughts and prayers to all!

gypsystar001's provider

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

gypsystar001

gypsystar001 rating for Dr. Zemmel:

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UPDATED FROM gypsystar001
24 days pre

Ok I have the surgery scheduled! I tried to get a...

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gypsystar001
Ok I have the surgery scheduled! I tried to get a 2nd opinion at another location closer to home. Right away they wanted to charge me 120.00 for a consult! Then they proceeded to tell me that they would not work with any type of medical financing, which in my opinion is ridiculous! There are not many people who have 15k to throw around. So I already knew that Dr Zemmel was the right choice for me.
Now we are on the 1 month count down and I am so nervous!
I also had to quite smoking as of today... but that's ok because I was not much of a smoker and I want to heal perfectly! Besides I am a health conscience person other wos

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UPDATED FROM gypsystar001
24 days pre

Ok so I hit a button.... I was saying that I am a...

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gypsystar001
Ok so I hit a button.... I was saying that I am a health conscience person otherwise. This month is about focus focus focus... lots of good nutritious food like spinach, salad, brussel sprouts (fresh baked) lean proteins like chicken and pork. Maybe a little fish, not a huge fan. I have plans for a grilled sharp cheddar cheese on whole wheat with hearty tomato soup for tomorrow night, yumm! I also will continue to indulge in my chocolate.
As for working out, 4 to 5 times a week for 1 hour at the gym... 2 days strength training, 1 day boot camp, 1 day cardio and 1 day toss up between interval training and yoga. On a side note, I have been working out for the last 6 years but for anyone who does not stay active, becoming active will make things so much better!
Well I will update later on as my pre-op is march 22nd. Oh boy!

Replies (9)

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March 12, 2013

Thank you so much for starting your story. You sound like a disciplined lady and I have no doubt you can do this! Here's a list of supplies you might consider for recovery. So, are you getting the breast aug as well?

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March 12, 2013
Thank you so very much for that list. I have printed it off and will look through at what I already have and what I will need to get. I am also getting the Breast Augmentation, any suggestions or advice?
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March 12, 2013
Decided to give you a visit-cant believe that u lost 100 lbs! That is awesome...along with the news of no mr....wow. bigest thing I've done is quit smoking and that took a lot. March 22 is right around the corner...yippee
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March 21, 2013
I can't wait until Friday! I am so sorry again that your time did not get approved. That is really really sad. I know that is such a let down. Maybe you can work it out for another time and still get your procedure done. I really feel for you :(
March 20, 2013
So lucky you don't need muscle repair! I am debating that topic. looking forward to following your story!
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March 20, 2013
Have you done a consult yet? If so, what did your doctor tell you? I have my pre-op appt on Friday so I anticipate that I will learn more about my procedure then. I will post some more info after that about what to expect and so forth. Thank you for following my story. Its because of a network like this that we all can find comfort or understanding through others experieces that otherwise would be very scary.
March 20, 2013
Yes, I did have a consult and he pretty much does MR on everyone. I think I am gonna say I don't want it but ultimately leave it up to him if he gets in there and sees that I need it.
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March 21, 2013
It would seem that would be a case by case basis. There is no one size for all. Some people really don't need it. I would question that as it would seem that might be a reason to get more money out of a otherwise uneeded procedure. Kinda reminds me of ob/gyn's that do so many needless hysterectimys (probably spelled that wrong lol)
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March 21, 2013
Friday is the day... I cannot wait to see what the pre-op is going to be about. I have a lot of questions and I cannot believe how much better I feel focusing on my food and exercise a bit more. Fingers crossed!