(I Hate Swelling in Abs)Mother of 3 Lipo to Abdomen and Flanks and Bra Roll - Texas, TX

I had my lipo procedure on 05/17/2016. I had IV sedation and was not awake during procedure. The only pain i had was in my lower back. I slept most of the day and night. My husband purchased me a body pillow to sleep on and that helped a lot with comfort.The next day when I woke up, I did have a lot of drainage as expected. My pain level was about a 6 on 1-10 scale. I was just extremely sore. I really had to force myself to eat that day, due to not having any appetite. I was able to walk on treadmill for 45 min (slow pace)as directed by Doctor. After walking I went to my one day post op appointment and was told everything was fine, continue walking everyday. I am getting around a little better. I did drive today and went grocery shopping. Around day four or day five is when my pain in flank area increased. I took my pain pills and relaxed on couch all day. Also noticed major swelling in lower abdomen. I feel like I am looking worst than before surgery. It is kind of depressing at times. I keep reminding myself that this is normal and swelling will decrease. I went back to doctor for one week appointment and he is pleased with how I am coming along. I was wearing 24/7 2 binders and my compression garments. I was so relieved when he said I can only wear compression garments 24/7. Goodbye Bulcky Binders! And Ted Hose! I must admit, I get down sometimes. I see a difference but my lower abs is huge. I keep telling myself to be patient. I read some reviews and some women say they have major swelling and to me they look great. I wonder if its me, just in my head, or am I inducing this by my diet or not enough walking. Anyway, I can go on and on about this. Most of time I just try not to think about it. I think about how great I will look in a couple of months. I had a massage on day nine and what a great relief. I was kind of nervous about massage, but she was really good. I had some areas that were firm and she took good care of me. Today is day 11 for me. I am trying to be optomistic and busy myself with other things. I have been off work since my procedure and will be returning soon. Since I had the sick time I really didnt want to rush myself. My procedure is called the "weekend recovery ". I think if you had a sit down job you could go back after 3 days. Definitely not, if you have to "work". I will say I enjoyed my time off, much needed break. I was starting to feel guilty about laying around so much the first week. LOL. I am looking forward to getting back into my jeans! I have been wearing maxi dresses or sweats. I would appreciate any comments on feeling down about swelling, if anyone experienced same. Well, thats pretty much it for now. Will post update soon!