49, Time for a Flat Belly

Just had my TT with lipo to flanks on Wednesday. Procedure went smoothly. I came home after the procedure and was in my own bed with lots of pillows and a wedge pillow under my legs. I was pretty confused the first night. The day after was rough. Pain pills weren't working great and getting in and out of bed was horrible. I had to go for my post-op visit. Everything looked good and my bandages were taken off and I got a clean binder. My doctor doesn't use drains, so that is a relief. I got some phlegm I had to cough up last night-I thought I was going to die from the pain. I took a sleeping pill last night and woke up feeling much better. Today, two days out, I have only used Tylenol. I'm a little itchy and tired, but much better. I'm really surprised at the difference. I'm getting more bloated and gassy, but that is to be expected, I might have to take something tomorrow like Milk of Magnesia.
Keeping a basket of snacks next to my bed has really helped. I just tell my husband what to hand me and it's right there. The first night I had to eat in the middle of the night before I could take a pain pill. He has been great. You really need someone right there. I had to get up once or twice to use the bathroom with his help and he got me food and pills.

I've made it to the two week mark. I feel better everyday. Hardly ever need any Tylenol anymore-only before bed. I still can only stand up straight a short time before it becomes too tight. Been sleeping on my side with a little pillow under my side to support my belly from the stretchy feeling. I hated sleeping on my back since it made my knees start to ache.
I walked around my block on Monday and wasn't sure if I'd be able to make it back home. Since then, I've had more of a pulling sensation above my navel. Probably too much too soon.
I woke up early this morning because my back was so itchy. I have a tank top under the compression garment, but it still rubs. Tonight I rubbed Palmers all over myself.
I think drinking tons of water (2liters or more a day) and getting up a lot from the beginning have really helped. I get tired after lunch, and definitely rest a lot, but the process is easier than I thought it would be.

Went back to work teaching this week. The only way I'm surviving is by going to bed really early, Monday was harder than I thought it would be. I have to be on my feet a lot. I was sore and so tired by 3:00! It's gettting easier, but I'm looking forward to the weekend. I'm more swollen and I can't drink at much water as I'd like while at work, due to being stuck in classroom.
I keep looking at myself in the mirror and can't believe how good I look. Totally worth it!