TT and Umbilical (Incisional) Hernia Combined Procedure - Tacoma, WA

A mesh repair should keep you nice and flat! I hear that it may take longer to heal with mesh since it is a foreign body that's very large. If you did have necrosis of the BB would there be a way to fix it? like how they do breast reconstruction after mastectomy, they should be able to recreate a navel. As far as getting ready. . .I slept on a couch with a bunch of pillows and blankets cradling me, however a recliner and preferably an electric lift recliner would be preferred if you can afford a rental. Lots of help to the bathroom mind you. And, it's really hard to sleep upright so expect very strange sleep patterns. Keep a ton of fluids nearby . . . I kept a lot of Gatorade...make sure you have gentle foods for your stomach. I was nauseous and not hungry for days so I found things like soda crackers were ok to eat. It took me 3 weeks to drive because my car is low to the ground so it was hard to get in and out of, the doors are very heavy, and steering is very hard. As for a compression garment I got Design Veronique which is quite expensive but after spending a ton whats another hundred dollars? I got an extra large, I am 5'9 and 165 lbs, and now that I have been wearing it 2 weeks it has stretched out a bit -- or maybe the swelling has gone down considerably--- but it is still good support. You should look into it. I also got a silicone strip from my doctor that is long enough to cover the whole scar. Silicone is like heaven, so soothing. It is good to walk around for 10-15 minutes a day at first if you can handle it. So nice long post sorry for that hope I answered some of your questions. Happy tuck keep us posted!

Welcome to the tummy tuckers:)   I am very happy you joined us and look forward to following your posts.  

From now up until surgery date you need to focus on rest and proper diet.  You want to be in peak shape mentally and physically for this procedure.  Be extra good to yourself now.

Sleeping is an issue after the tummy tuck.  The first two weeks are the worst as far as getting comfortable.  I personally recommend renting an electric hospital bed.  Sleeping in a chair is simply not comfortable.  If the bed is not an option them get your own bed all fixed up with tons of pillows an a foam waffle pad for under your booty.  The wedge pillow system is very nice.  The ladies are buying this off of Amazon.  

While recovering patience is a must!   Stay on top of your pain medications, drink plenty of fluids, eat healthy lean protein (important for healing), low sodium, and lots of fruits and veggies.  Rest, rest, rest all you can the first couple of weeks.  But also make sure you are walking several times during the day.  I am attaching a couple of links to my journey which will help you see what may be ahead.  

Stay positive and know things get better each week during recovery.  Healing can not be rushed.  

Tummy Tuck Survival: A Real Life Guide

Month-by-Month Diary Post Tummy Tuck

I am always here for you:)

 

Hi M.. I must be one of the very few who did not do extensive planning for my TT.. I've had 4 previous surgeries so maybe was more prepared mentally!? The only thing I was concerned about was my recliner, my pain meds and the t.v remote! My family was there to help with the rest. I personally did not eat special foods or watch my salt intake before or after.. I know everyone is different, but I just wanted to act/feel like everything was normal! I totally agree with REST! Very important to take it easy for the first couple weeks for sure! RS is so awesome, you will find women who are just like you in every aspect! Wish you the best of luck! Very exciting time! :)

Where did you rent it from?