POSTED UNDER Breast Reduction Reviews
Breast Reduction - Part 1 - Includes photos up to and including Week 2 post-op
UPDATED FROM Piggles70
Pretty nervous/scared to see the crime scene this...
WORTH IT$3,000
Pretty nervous/scared to see the crime scene this aft', but am excited (of course) at the same time, primarily to be cleared for a frigging shower!!! I swear, washing my hair over the sink does not yield the same results. I know that doesn't make sense, but tough. Also, I'm thinking if he, or his nurse, or whomever, gets rid of all this damn padding, "I'll be able to test drive a few tops :) At home, I mean! No PUBLIC (ie: store clothes with OP's cooties) clothes shall touch these [RS bleep] until everything is closed and sealed. Or at least, that's my story at the moment!
Okay, I fully admit it; this procedure has turned me into a narcissistic f***. I swear to you all, I'm not usually self-obsessed, but by God, I am now. Yesterday, when I changed bras (YES, Virginia, there IS a Santa Claus!), I MIGHT have snapped a few lame photos of the new and (hopefully) improved booblettes with the bloody gauze a hangin' off. Very yummy looking, but you've been warned :) I still can't get a REALLY good idea, but I've seen enough to know they are DEFINITELY boxy. Totally cool with that as given the girth of these bad boys, I figured with an inferior pedicle that would inevitably be the case. I also have seen the extent to which this resolves over the months. In some cases, they seem to maintain a boxier shape (flatter bottom) that some of the perfect tear-drops we've seen here, but I'm totally and utterly cool with that as it's a small price to pay for the lightened load AND it's nothing that a good bra doesn't camoflauge :) So I've posted a few interim shots that don't show much but some bruising - which as usual looks about 100X as bad as it feels, but is buying me some serious sympathy :))))) The stuff you're able to see doesn't hurt AT ALL. The only discomfort is right along the bra line under my arms (Lipo) and it is still not in the least disabling, but I'm not about to slam my upper arms against my sides...if ya know what I mean. Noticing a little incision discomfort under righty this morning, so I'll be interest to see what's going on down there.
Anyhoo, off to degrease and slough, so back later, post appt. Hope everyone has a good day and to those recently post-op gals, hope you're taking it easy and resting up! Have a good day everyone!
Okay, I fully admit it; this procedure has turned me into a narcissistic f***. I swear to you all, I'm not usually self-obsessed, but by God, I am now. Yesterday, when I changed bras (YES, Virginia, there IS a Santa Claus!), I MIGHT have snapped a few lame photos of the new and (hopefully) improved booblettes with the bloody gauze a hangin' off. Very yummy looking, but you've been warned :) I still can't get a REALLY good idea, but I've seen enough to know they are DEFINITELY boxy. Totally cool with that as given the girth of these bad boys, I figured with an inferior pedicle that would inevitably be the case. I also have seen the extent to which this resolves over the months. In some cases, they seem to maintain a boxier shape (flatter bottom) that some of the perfect tear-drops we've seen here, but I'm totally and utterly cool with that as it's a small price to pay for the lightened load AND it's nothing that a good bra doesn't camoflauge :) So I've posted a few interim shots that don't show much but some bruising - which as usual looks about 100X as bad as it feels, but is buying me some serious sympathy :))))) The stuff you're able to see doesn't hurt AT ALL. The only discomfort is right along the bra line under my arms (Lipo) and it is still not in the least disabling, but I'm not about to slam my upper arms against my sides...if ya know what I mean. Noticing a little incision discomfort under righty this morning, so I'll be interest to see what's going on down there.
Anyhoo, off to degrease and slough, so back later, post appt. Hope everyone has a good day and to those recently post-op gals, hope you're taking it easy and resting up! Have a good day everyone!
Continued... to Part 2
Piggles70's provider
UPDATED FROM Piggles70
Hi Kids! What up?! Everyone doing well, I...
Hi Kids! What up?!
Everyone doing well, I hope. How are our 2 adopted kittens doing? I'm persona non grata around here at the moment because our two labs are used to some serious lap time after dinner when DH and I usually settle on the couch. And, needless to say, they are both having to make do with DH's lap. I try to explain that in a few months when they are once again accorded lap privileges, there'll be more lap to enjoy, but that concept seems to elude them. They're just pissed. If they keep up the attitude, I may just threaten them with a kitten. PNW made an excellent point about the appropriateness of kittens for we convalescents :)
So, the big news from day 4 post op (surg was Friday):
1. I WASHED MY BRA!!!!!!
2. I went to the mall
and last but not least, I went totally rogue last night and snuck onto my side for 15 minutes. The guilt and wild imaginings of blood and guts pouring forth and drowning/smothering my DH, coupled with the fact that it hurt like a [RS bleep], finally flipped me back, but damn, it was sweet while it lasted.
Even though the PS said not to take my bra off, I could no longer stand myself, so had to change. Weirdest damn thing EVER was taking it off and nothing fell out! Swear to God, it was almost.....I dunno.....I don't have an adjective. Some part of my brain still things it was the tape and gauze holding them up. Seriously. Can't get my head around that one.
The Lipo bruising has moved in with a vengeance. Still no where close to what my poor former boobs experienced in a car accident in 2002, but pretty damned impressive nonetheless. Goes down to my waist on the left side.
I was surprised to see my underboob incision seems to end at the outside of my boob; it doesn't extend across the ribs like I've noticed so many do. Believe me, I'm not complaining, but I wonder why. Perhaps because he lipo'd he didn't need to cut out side boobage? Does that make any sense? I'll obviously get a better view tomorrow because this was all seen through gauze etc. which I couldn't and wouldn't remove because it was stuck on with some dried blood. Have to admit, I'm dying to see how my nipples look. The little buggers are certainly on the ball in terms of sensation and I THINK theyre standing proud when asked, but tough to tell through the gauze, padding etc.. Anyway, what I was getting at, is that I always had very pale NACs, so now, thanks to the carving, they'll actually have a defined perimeter which will be a trip. Can't imagine what I'll/they'll look like.
Have serious cabin fever and walks through the hood just weren't cutting it. So tonight I asked DH to take me to the mall (Yorkdale for you Ontarians). Was dying to try on a couple of things at J. Crew and TopShop, but was a good girl and resisted the urge. Was able to blow right by Victioria's Secret; I think I'll always be pissed at them for excluding me from the cool girls' club for so long. (oh he'll, who am I kidding? Talk to me in a couple of months....). Anyway, an hour and a half there and I was DONE. Home, Jeeves!
Currently sitting on my butt, which, sadly, was not reduced, waiting for DH to get dinner the hell on the table. Yes, I did say that. The guy is a fabulous cook and has been overly solicitous and thoughtful, but when it comes to cooking, he's slow as molasses in January. And when I get really hungry, my inner [RS bleep] rears her head.
SO HURRY THE HELL UP IN THERE! The patient needs sustenance!
Tomorrow is first pot op appointment and that SOB has GOT to clear me for a shower. Baby wipes and kitchen sink shampoos we're cute for about 24 hours. A girl has needs.
Hope everyone is faring well and has a good day tomorrow. Look forward to everyone's update as always.
High five from T.O.!
p.s. On my phone and too damned hungry to check for typos, so apologies in advance.
Everyone doing well, I hope. How are our 2 adopted kittens doing? I'm persona non grata around here at the moment because our two labs are used to some serious lap time after dinner when DH and I usually settle on the couch. And, needless to say, they are both having to make do with DH's lap. I try to explain that in a few months when they are once again accorded lap privileges, there'll be more lap to enjoy, but that concept seems to elude them. They're just pissed. If they keep up the attitude, I may just threaten them with a kitten. PNW made an excellent point about the appropriateness of kittens for we convalescents :)
So, the big news from day 4 post op (surg was Friday):
1. I WASHED MY BRA!!!!!!
2. I went to the mall
and last but not least, I went totally rogue last night and snuck onto my side for 15 minutes. The guilt and wild imaginings of blood and guts pouring forth and drowning/smothering my DH, coupled with the fact that it hurt like a [RS bleep], finally flipped me back, but damn, it was sweet while it lasted.
Even though the PS said not to take my bra off, I could no longer stand myself, so had to change. Weirdest damn thing EVER was taking it off and nothing fell out! Swear to God, it was almost.....I dunno.....I don't have an adjective. Some part of my brain still things it was the tape and gauze holding them up. Seriously. Can't get my head around that one.
The Lipo bruising has moved in with a vengeance. Still no where close to what my poor former boobs experienced in a car accident in 2002, but pretty damned impressive nonetheless. Goes down to my waist on the left side.
I was surprised to see my underboob incision seems to end at the outside of my boob; it doesn't extend across the ribs like I've noticed so many do. Believe me, I'm not complaining, but I wonder why. Perhaps because he lipo'd he didn't need to cut out side boobage? Does that make any sense? I'll obviously get a better view tomorrow because this was all seen through gauze etc. which I couldn't and wouldn't remove because it was stuck on with some dried blood. Have to admit, I'm dying to see how my nipples look. The little buggers are certainly on the ball in terms of sensation and I THINK theyre standing proud when asked, but tough to tell through the gauze, padding etc.. Anyway, what I was getting at, is that I always had very pale NACs, so now, thanks to the carving, they'll actually have a defined perimeter which will be a trip. Can't imagine what I'll/they'll look like.
Have serious cabin fever and walks through the hood just weren't cutting it. So tonight I asked DH to take me to the mall (Yorkdale for you Ontarians). Was dying to try on a couple of things at J. Crew and TopShop, but was a good girl and resisted the urge. Was able to blow right by Victioria's Secret; I think I'll always be pissed at them for excluding me from the cool girls' club for so long. (oh he'll, who am I kidding? Talk to me in a couple of months....). Anyway, an hour and a half there and I was DONE. Home, Jeeves!
Currently sitting on my butt, which, sadly, was not reduced, waiting for DH to get dinner the hell on the table. Yes, I did say that. The guy is a fabulous cook and has been overly solicitous and thoughtful, but when it comes to cooking, he's slow as molasses in January. And when I get really hungry, my inner [RS bleep] rears her head.
SO HURRY THE HELL UP IN THERE! The patient needs sustenance!
Tomorrow is first pot op appointment and that SOB has GOT to clear me for a shower. Baby wipes and kitchen sink shampoos we're cute for about 24 hours. A girl has needs.
Hope everyone is faring well and has a good day tomorrow. Look forward to everyone's update as always.
High five from T.O.!
p.s. On my phone and too damned hungry to check for typos, so apologies in advance.
Replies (5)
July 24, 2012
My floors may never be the same after being vacuumed once in a month...
July 24, 2012
OMG! I know! Do you KNOW how much 3 shelties and 2 cats shed in a month? And mine have been vacuumed twice! Ugh!
July 25, 2012
I think it's been the worst part of the gig. And it's cobweb season with cathedral ceilings (who's idea were those, anyway?) (Golden Retriever, [RS bleep] Tzu and 2 cats..horse stayed outside against his wishes
:-)
Was slowly reclaiming, but scared the little kitty I rescued yesterday senseless when I turned on the vacuum. bloody hell...
:-)
Was slowly reclaiming, but scared the little kitty I rescued yesterday senseless when I turned on the vacuum. bloody hell...
July 25, 2012
Hide him in the bra drawer .... there should be enough excess padding in there to dull the loudest roar ......
July 25, 2012
Wait. Are you supposed to vacuum more than once a quarter? Maybe that's my problem...
July 25, 2012
LOL...already gave all the good ones away so I'd have room for the riot of color I'm starting to collect! My pretty pale green and sky blue Bali comfort revolution bras have arrived! Probably gave $400 in nearly new bras to a girlfriend. We've all got em...the ones that "kinda fit" in the dressing room, but under any of our real clothes didn't work?? :-)
July 24, 2012
Well I missed your update yesterday so I'm catching up now. You sure sound like you're in good spirits thats for sure. I'm glad to hear it. You're doing everything right so I'm sure you're going to just breeze through this thing.
I was back to work today so i'm pretty tired at the moment so i don't have much to say other than I'm thinking of you & can't wait to see the unveiling on wednesday. Also thank you for keeping the birthing pictures private. Some things don't need to be seen but trust me, I felt your joy. lol
Any way sister friend, lots of lovely boob vibes coming your way. I'm headed to bed in a bit. [RS bleep]
I was back to work today so i'm pretty tired at the moment so i don't have much to say other than I'm thinking of you & can't wait to see the unveiling on wednesday. Also thank you for keeping the birthing pictures private. Some things don't need to be seen but trust me, I felt your joy. lol
Any way sister friend, lots of lovely boob vibes coming your way. I'm headed to bed in a bit. [RS bleep]
July 24, 2012
Hey NS!!
Why was I thinking you were off for 2 weeks?
Did you catch up on rest? Read any good books, IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN???
How's everything else? How are the boooobies, especially the roll-over spot? xxoo, eh?
Why was I thinking you were off for 2 weeks?
Did you catch up on rest? Read any good books, IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN???
How's everything else? How are the boooobies, especially the roll-over spot? xxoo, eh?
July 25, 2012
Oh Piggles so excited to hear about your post-op appt. tomorrow! I am envious at your will power and ability not to peek. It looks, even through the swollen mess that he has his way with your boobies! They are gonna be a distant memory from their previous mammoth nature and whooop whooop at that thought!! Post pics as soon as possible. Can't wait, and keep doing all the right things and good stuff, and my oh my you are a woman of steel, rescuing small kitties while being bound!! :) Take care, Jo in Long Beach
UPDATED FROM Piggles70
Hi all! Well, don't have much to update, but...
Hi all!
Well, don't have much to update, but will fill you in on what I can.
First and foremost what you've ALL been dying to know - I had a poop last night!!!! Off-loaded a few golf balls Saturday night, but they didn't really count. But once that seal was broken, I knew good times were ahead. Sure enough, last night, the real deal! Reminded me exactly of first one post baby #1. I mean, they should give out medals for this stuff. Couldn't have been more excited. Left the dinner table, went into bathroom and a minute later, yelled, " It's a boy!!". My mother-in-law who had brought over dinner - she's SUCH an AMAZING woman on all levels....and she's 82... and DH, both cheered for me, but declined my invitation to a viewing. I'll spare you the posting, but I did take a photo. Yup, I'm THAT pig. :)
In other news:
Took my T3s until bedtime Friday night (Friday was surgery day). Saturday, took extra-strength Tylenol in late afternoon and just before bed. Nothing at all yesterday until bedtime when I took 2 ES Tylenols - just in case. No need for anything today yet.
Forgot to mention in first post-op update; full sensation in left nipple and at least a lot in right. Seems to be more gauze in right cup, so can't tell if the difference in sensation is surgery related or just extra padding. Don't much care either way. One'll do the trick anyway :)
Taking it super easy, but not tired at all. My energy level is absolutely no different than prior to surgery. I am fully cognisant of the downside of this - the temptation to do too much etc. and am being extra vigilant for that reason. Limiting myself to two or three walks around the block/day and that's IT.
I do NOT want to sound the least bit cocky, arrogant, self-satisfied or anything like that; I fully realize I'll hit many challenges and down days etc. over the coming weeks, and I'm fully aware there are some folks who have bad a rougher ride since their surgery on Friday, but for any pre-op gals out there, I want them to know my experience as well. I fully expect to be on here in the not-too-distant future, down in the dumps and reaching out for support - week 3 anybody??? tomorrow?? - but for now, I'm just very happy to not have any complaints at all.
I'm taking Arnica, Bromelain, 2,000 mg of vitamin c every day and confining my diet to lean protein, greens, fruit and 3-4 liters of water/day and two lemon teas. Have no idea if the Arnica, Bromelain and lemon tea are doing any good, but cant hurt, so what the hell. The peeing is a pain in the ass, but I want all the IV crap GONE. I was not prescribed any post-op antibiotics, although PS pumped me full during surgery. Taking 2 Colase every day and a tablespoon of Metamucil and one dose of Miralax. Will continue this until Wednesday and then ease off when what goes in is coming out - regularly.
PS's only instructions were to sleep on back ( no elevation necessary) and, for first 10 days, to walk for at least 5 minutes of every hour that I'm awake. Lastly, not to touch bandages or bra until he sees me Wednesday at 3:15 pm EDT. No problem there buddy!
As I've mentioned to a few of you, I'm very surprised at my ambivalence around my first peek. While OBVIOUSLY curious as hell, I'm also not in a rush to see my re-sectioned tender, white fillets. I'm not squeamish about most things, but I've read about too many people who freak when they get their first view. Makes total sense, too. Right now, I'm just so damned grateful to be in no pain and to see how much LESS freight I'm carrying, I really am in no hurry to witness the reality of blood, guts and stitches. Having said that, however, I realize that when I'm cleared to shower (surely to God Wednesday?!?), I won't have any choice and will need to be monitoring the incisions anyway.
So, that's pretty much it for now. I hope my Friday surgery buddies are coming along nicely and look forward to comparing notes.
Thank you all so much again for your outstanding and deeply appreciated support, humor and intelligence. Without a word of a lie, I would not have made it through this surgery without all of you. I chickened out in 1999 and I would have again; no question. I can't express the depth of my gratitude. Truly.
I'll be back as soon as I have anything to update. Or even if I don't. :)
Well, don't have much to update, but will fill you in on what I can.
First and foremost what you've ALL been dying to know - I had a poop last night!!!! Off-loaded a few golf balls Saturday night, but they didn't really count. But once that seal was broken, I knew good times were ahead. Sure enough, last night, the real deal! Reminded me exactly of first one post baby #1. I mean, they should give out medals for this stuff. Couldn't have been more excited. Left the dinner table, went into bathroom and a minute later, yelled, " It's a boy!!". My mother-in-law who had brought over dinner - she's SUCH an AMAZING woman on all levels....and she's 82... and DH, both cheered for me, but declined my invitation to a viewing. I'll spare you the posting, but I did take a photo. Yup, I'm THAT pig. :)
In other news:
Took my T3s until bedtime Friday night (Friday was surgery day). Saturday, took extra-strength Tylenol in late afternoon and just before bed. Nothing at all yesterday until bedtime when I took 2 ES Tylenols - just in case. No need for anything today yet.
Forgot to mention in first post-op update; full sensation in left nipple and at least a lot in right. Seems to be more gauze in right cup, so can't tell if the difference in sensation is surgery related or just extra padding. Don't much care either way. One'll do the trick anyway :)
Taking it super easy, but not tired at all. My energy level is absolutely no different than prior to surgery. I am fully cognisant of the downside of this - the temptation to do too much etc. and am being extra vigilant for that reason. Limiting myself to two or three walks around the block/day and that's IT.
I do NOT want to sound the least bit cocky, arrogant, self-satisfied or anything like that; I fully realize I'll hit many challenges and down days etc. over the coming weeks, and I'm fully aware there are some folks who have bad a rougher ride since their surgery on Friday, but for any pre-op gals out there, I want them to know my experience as well. I fully expect to be on here in the not-too-distant future, down in the dumps and reaching out for support - week 3 anybody??? tomorrow?? - but for now, I'm just very happy to not have any complaints at all.
I'm taking Arnica, Bromelain, 2,000 mg of vitamin c every day and confining my diet to lean protein, greens, fruit and 3-4 liters of water/day and two lemon teas. Have no idea if the Arnica, Bromelain and lemon tea are doing any good, but cant hurt, so what the hell. The peeing is a pain in the ass, but I want all the IV crap GONE. I was not prescribed any post-op antibiotics, although PS pumped me full during surgery. Taking 2 Colase every day and a tablespoon of Metamucil and one dose of Miralax. Will continue this until Wednesday and then ease off when what goes in is coming out - regularly.
PS's only instructions were to sleep on back ( no elevation necessary) and, for first 10 days, to walk for at least 5 minutes of every hour that I'm awake. Lastly, not to touch bandages or bra until he sees me Wednesday at 3:15 pm EDT. No problem there buddy!
As I've mentioned to a few of you, I'm very surprised at my ambivalence around my first peek. While OBVIOUSLY curious as hell, I'm also not in a rush to see my re-sectioned tender, white fillets. I'm not squeamish about most things, but I've read about too many people who freak when they get their first view. Makes total sense, too. Right now, I'm just so damned grateful to be in no pain and to see how much LESS freight I'm carrying, I really am in no hurry to witness the reality of blood, guts and stitches. Having said that, however, I realize that when I'm cleared to shower (surely to God Wednesday?!?), I won't have any choice and will need to be monitoring the incisions anyway.
So, that's pretty much it for now. I hope my Friday surgery buddies are coming along nicely and look forward to comparing notes.
Thank you all so much again for your outstanding and deeply appreciated support, humor and intelligence. Without a word of a lie, I would not have made it through this surgery without all of you. I chickened out in 1999 and I would have again; no question. I can't express the depth of my gratitude. Truly.
I'll be back as soon as I have anything to update. Or even if I don't. :)
Replies (5)
July 23, 2012
How ya' doin' today, Piggy? I'm off to see the PS for the incisions I opened up on Friday saving a cat .... don't yell! But thought I'd check in on you before I leave. The doctor is a 2 1/2 hour drive away - so It is an all day event. Hope you recoverycontinues to be smooth sailing.
July 23, 2012
Barb, WTH!?!?!? 'splain please. When you can. Ummm....are you driving or being driven? Actually, I think I know the answer to that. Don't confirm 'til you're back. Drive extremely carefully and take the breaks you need.
I'm terrific, thanks. I know something will hit at some point, but I'm taking the easy sailing while it's here :)
I'm terrific, thanks. I know something will hit at some point, but I'm taking the easy sailing while it's here :)
July 24, 2012
OK. On Friday, about all of my incisions were just about healed up and I was 5 weeks and 2 days post op - feeling great! One of my co workers decided to take me out to lunch for my birthday and we left the prison. When we got to the parking lot there were 3 wimpy women stressing over a cat that was stuck in the undercarriage of a SUV truck. They had been trying to coax this cat out for 5 hours. I thought, mistakenly it seems now, *Well, that cat doesn't even weigh a pound. I can go get it!* So I scooted under the truck and rescued the cat - thinking that if I didn't the kitty would fry on the muffler where it was hiding when they started the engine. Long story short - the kitten was less than 5 weeks old and tiny, but my body weight is definitely more than 5 lbs! I didn't feel bad until after I got back to work and checked the mirror after lunch.
I left work and hour early and called the PS's office and his assistant told me I could apply bactroban twice a day, wash everything twice a day with soap and water, let it all air dry in front of the fan (laying down with the fan at my feet) and to go in today at 1:30. She also called me in an oral antibiotic - Cipro.
When I got there she checked everything and said I look wonderful (despite these great big - I thought - gaping holes!). She said I was doing a wonderful job and even though one of my breasts is almost completely healed and the other seems to be open and gaping, she says this is normal with some patients and couldn't believe I have absolutely no signs of infection at all. She says sometimes women come in with holes big enough that she can stick her whole index finger to the knuckle inside! Ewww!
Anyway - NO lifting, NO exercise - and NO RESCUING STRANDED CATS! LOL
It was a cute kitten, though. One of those wimpy women took it home, though, thank God! 'Cuz I definitely don't need no more - 5 animals and 3 kids is plenty!
And of course I drove! Strangely, except for when I sweat and it stings and some minor healing pangs, it doesn't hurt at all unless I bump up against something or the dogs jumps on me.
And she said do not use neosporin (or it's generic). If I run out of the bactroban ( a prescription) I am only allowed to put bactracin on the holes because "Triple antibiotic ointment does more damage than good because it is oil based and doesn't allow for the wound to dry out enough to heal properly." And you know? She was right. Originally, I couldn't get them to heal up at all when I was using it last weekend. I think the fan helped a lot last week, too.
Piggy, she said the best thing I did was lay out a 1/2 hour a day in front of the fan in this heat.
I left work and hour early and called the PS's office and his assistant told me I could apply bactroban twice a day, wash everything twice a day with soap and water, let it all air dry in front of the fan (laying down with the fan at my feet) and to go in today at 1:30. She also called me in an oral antibiotic - Cipro.
When I got there she checked everything and said I look wonderful (despite these great big - I thought - gaping holes!). She said I was doing a wonderful job and even though one of my breasts is almost completely healed and the other seems to be open and gaping, she says this is normal with some patients and couldn't believe I have absolutely no signs of infection at all. She says sometimes women come in with holes big enough that she can stick her whole index finger to the knuckle inside! Ewww!
Anyway - NO lifting, NO exercise - and NO RESCUING STRANDED CATS! LOL
It was a cute kitten, though. One of those wimpy women took it home, though, thank God! 'Cuz I definitely don't need no more - 5 animals and 3 kids is plenty!
And of course I drove! Strangely, except for when I sweat and it stings and some minor healing pangs, it doesn't hurt at all unless I bump up against something or the dogs jumps on me.
And she said do not use neosporin (or it's generic). If I run out of the bactroban ( a prescription) I am only allowed to put bactracin on the holes because "Triple antibiotic ointment does more damage than good because it is oil based and doesn't allow for the wound to dry out enough to heal properly." And you know? She was right. Originally, I couldn't get them to heal up at all when I was using it last weekend. I think the fan helped a lot last week, too.
Piggy, she said the best thing I did was lay out a 1/2 hour a day in front of the fan in this heat.
July 24, 2012
This is getting weirder and weirder. I just rescued a kitten today. Poor thing was fur covered bones, so no weight issues. Wishing it had happened during recovery, because he's so tipping I'm sitting down feeding him with an eye-dropper...no urges to get up and fly like I had 5 weeks ago. sheesh!
July 24, 2012
That's ALL great news Barb! Except maybe for the kitty; see PNW's update-another kitten crisis.
And the good news is, you've learned your lesson, RIGHT!?!
Glad to hear there's no infection. Thank God. Now just cool it!! :)
And the good news is, you've learned your lesson, RIGHT!?!
Glad to hear there's no infection. Thank God. Now just cool it!! :)
July 24, 2012
Check Walmart for Kitten Formula! Whatever you do, DO NOT give it milk! They also have special puppy/kitten bottles!
July 24, 2012
I definitely did. I still think the holes look horrible, but I feel better that they are not infected!
July 24, 2012
Thanks, Barb! There's a local feed store nearby (closest store, actually). Drove straight there, with the kitten in my lap. Got an optical wash and kitten milk replacer, plus wet and dry kitten food. Little thing is too small for anything but milk replacer, but at least drinking out of a sushi soy sauce dish at this point! Vet tech buddy will bring antibiotics and know the dosages. Sweet little guy. Very spunky, despite a rocky start.
July 24, 2012
That's awesome! Stay away from those claws and I think that's great therapy! Wear a sweatshirt and you should be fine, especially with your cool weather patterns. I wish we had cooler weather. Everything here is hot and sweaty right now.
July 23, 2012
Piggles, how are you doing today? are you sleeping? any pain?......x
July 23, 2012
Hi NanaLyn!
I'm great, thank you. No pain at all, sleeping as well as possible given my back is the only position I NEVER sleep in :). Also, up 7-8 times/night to pee because I'm trying to get 3-4 litres of water down a day. But that's okay, I'm still feeling very well rested and am sitting around all day doing pretty much nothing except for a few walks around the 'hood.
What's happening with your open spots? Have you decided to ask your GP for FAST referral to another PS, or what? How are spots looking after the weekend? What's your discomfort level?
I'm great, thank you. No pain at all, sleeping as well as possible given my back is the only position I NEVER sleep in :). Also, up 7-8 times/night to pee because I'm trying to get 3-4 litres of water down a day. But that's okay, I'm still feeling very well rested and am sitting around all day doing pretty much nothing except for a few walks around the 'hood.
What's happening with your open spots? Have you decided to ask your GP for FAST referral to another PS, or what? How are spots looking after the weekend? What's your discomfort level?
July 23, 2012
Hi Piggles
We have been away off and on and MAN it is hard to keep up with all the comments! You are so funny!!! Also LOVE your new avatar. I can honestly say post-surgery I would be picking my own stitches out to be able to keep going back for follow-ups if I had Dr Doug Ross as my PS.
I am curious about two things
How are you managing with back sleeping ?
Where did you find your post-surgery bra ?
We have been away off and on and MAN it is hard to keep up with all the comments! You are so funny!!! Also LOVE your new avatar. I can honestly say post-surgery I would be picking my own stitches out to be able to keep going back for follow-ups if I had Dr Doug Ross as my PS.
I am curious about two things
How are you managing with back sleeping ?
Where did you find your post-surgery bra ?
July 23, 2012
Hey London!
Marginally funny story.
The other day, someone (sorry, can't remember who at the moment) posted something about being envious about Doug Ross being my PS. I responded by suggesting they had the wrong person; my PS was Brett Beber. Because you just did same, I googled the good doc. Ha! I never watched ER - I was a Chicago Hope fan - and never knew Clooney's character's name. So, joke's on me!
In answer to your questions:
1. Back sleeping. Was actually truly worried about this.
First night (day of surgery) was SO wired (in a good way) that I read 'til just after 4:00 am and then slept "okay" til 8:00 am. I had decided to forgo the anti-gravity chaise in favour of bed because I wanted to be able to get up at will. The chaise requires too much arm-effort and DH would have to help me up every time. So put big pillow between him and I and another big pillow on outer edge of bed. Had two big down pillows behind my head with wedge on top. Was......okay.
Night #2, said screw the wedge, but kept all other pillows where they were. Much better. Still on my back, mind you, but better. Slept well enough.
Last night - night 3 - slept best yet. Sort of turned sideways from hips down every now and then. Gave me the illusion of partial side sleeping. Bottom line, you simply do what you have to. I feel perfectly well rested, and no one is more surprised than I. Now, I'm really loading in the water - trying for three-four'ish liters a day, so 5 or 6 pees a night. But it's worth it to hustle all the IV crap out of my system.
So if you're not a back sleeper AT ALL, rest assured, you WILL sleep. You know you have no flipping choice, so you just DO. Having said THAT, ya, I'm counting the days. But it really is doable because...it has to be.
Bra: from Make Me Heal. I'll go check style name/number and pm you. I chose it because it is front closure, has 2-inch band at bottom, so prob wouldn't ride incisions and it has adjustable shoulder straps; hook and eye, no less. I'll get info to you in a sec. :)
Marginally funny story.
The other day, someone (sorry, can't remember who at the moment) posted something about being envious about Doug Ross being my PS. I responded by suggesting they had the wrong person; my PS was Brett Beber. Because you just did same, I googled the good doc. Ha! I never watched ER - I was a Chicago Hope fan - and never knew Clooney's character's name. So, joke's on me!
In answer to your questions:
1. Back sleeping. Was actually truly worried about this.
First night (day of surgery) was SO wired (in a good way) that I read 'til just after 4:00 am and then slept "okay" til 8:00 am. I had decided to forgo the anti-gravity chaise in favour of bed because I wanted to be able to get up at will. The chaise requires too much arm-effort and DH would have to help me up every time. So put big pillow between him and I and another big pillow on outer edge of bed. Had two big down pillows behind my head with wedge on top. Was......okay.
Night #2, said screw the wedge, but kept all other pillows where they were. Much better. Still on my back, mind you, but better. Slept well enough.
Last night - night 3 - slept best yet. Sort of turned sideways from hips down every now and then. Gave me the illusion of partial side sleeping. Bottom line, you simply do what you have to. I feel perfectly well rested, and no one is more surprised than I. Now, I'm really loading in the water - trying for three-four'ish liters a day, so 5 or 6 pees a night. But it's worth it to hustle all the IV crap out of my system.
So if you're not a back sleeper AT ALL, rest assured, you WILL sleep. You know you have no flipping choice, so you just DO. Having said THAT, ya, I'm counting the days. But it really is doable because...it has to be.
Bra: from Make Me Heal. I'll go check style name/number and pm you. I chose it because it is front closure, has 2-inch band at bottom, so prob wouldn't ride incisions and it has adjustable shoulder straps; hook and eye, no less. I'll get info to you in a sec. :)
July 23, 2012
Piggles, That was me who thought you had my ..fav... Dr. Hottie.. Dr Doug Ross. Actually I had to Google him because I couldn't remember his character's name on the show ... was a avid watcher of ER mainly because of George.
How are you holding up? I hope pretty good. :)
How are you holding up? I hope pretty good. :)
July 23, 2012
Hahaha! I'm SUCH a loser! If you're going to use a character as you're avatar, it'd be good to know his/her name!
I'm doing well, thanks Rosie, other than crazy-jealous at your on-deck life! What a summer, eh? Hope you're on a semi-extended excursion; can't remember weather like this! Breezes included!
I'm doing well, thanks Rosie, other than crazy-jealous at your on-deck life! What a summer, eh? Hope you're on a semi-extended excursion; can't remember weather like this! Breezes included!
July 24, 2012
Piggy .... My doctor gave me 2 bras - 1 with all the velcro for the drains and 1 to wear home after they took the drains out. Well, I seeped on the original bra so much that I stopped on the way home and bought other cheap sports bras from Walmart in 3 different sizes, and was I glad I did! They even had bras almost identical to the ones he sent me home in!
It was nice to have a couple of different bras in each size to switch everytime I changed my bandages and I don't mind the seeping as much as I didn't spend a fortune on them anyway. Plus, as the swelling goes down and I walk I experimented in the sizes to see what was comfortable and supportive enough, depending on the activity and swelling. Of course, the cup size isn't an issue, but the change in band size really helped!
It was nice to have a couple of different bras in each size to switch everytime I changed my bandages and I don't mind the seeping as much as I didn't spend a fortune on them anyway. Plus, as the swelling goes down and I walk I experimented in the sizes to see what was comfortable and supportive enough, depending on the activity and swelling. Of course, the cup size isn't an issue, but the change in band size really helped!
July 24, 2012
Sounds like a good plan Barb. Can't wait to see how many of these silly little bras I bought pre-op are actually wearable!!
July 23, 2012
You had me fooled GOOD Piggles!!! LOL.
Glad to see you on the other side..wasnt that bad huh? These next few weeks are going to be quite interesting for you. I hope you have nothing but a smooth recovery :) Keep that BRA ON! I had my torture bra on for 7 days before I saw the girls! Its worth the wait though. Alot of my discomfort or "pain" was from being "bound" that long..so get your ice packs ready..and dont do too much...or your cleavage area will literally blow up like a balloon. Cant wait to see them! :)
xoxo WC
Glad to see you on the other side..wasnt that bad huh? These next few weeks are going to be quite interesting for you. I hope you have nothing but a smooth recovery :) Keep that BRA ON! I had my torture bra on for 7 days before I saw the girls! Its worth the wait though. Alot of my discomfort or "pain" was from being "bound" that long..so get your ice packs ready..and dont do too much...or your cleavage area will literally blow up like a balloon. Cant wait to see them! :)
xoxo WC
July 23, 2012
Hi Westie!
I hear you! I see PS on Wednesday for first post-op and am looking forward to a shower as much as anything.
Fortunately, he's not into compression, so the bra I'm in is just comfortable supportive, not binding. Thank GOD. And believe me, I'm in NO hurry at all to take it off. Incredibly surprising to me is the fact that I'm in no hurry to see my after-boobs either. I mean, of course, I'm curious as hell, but the more healing they manage to do before I see them, the better! I wish I had the stones to not look 'til the 4 week mark, but we know that's not going to happen - lol! Nor, I guess, should it. Gotta watch these babies and make sure they behave and do their healing thing by the book. For now, I'm happy to have them sealed off and off limits.
Pics, I
I hear you! I see PS on Wednesday for first post-op and am looking forward to a shower as much as anything.
Fortunately, he's not into compression, so the bra I'm in is just comfortable supportive, not binding. Thank GOD. And believe me, I'm in NO hurry at all to take it off. Incredibly surprising to me is the fact that I'm in no hurry to see my after-boobs either. I mean, of course, I'm curious as hell, but the more healing they manage to do before I see them, the better! I wish I had the stones to not look 'til the 4 week mark, but we know that's not going to happen - lol! Nor, I guess, should it. Gotta watch these babies and make sure they behave and do their healing thing by the book. For now, I'm happy to have them sealed off and off limits.
Pics, I
July 23, 2012
..sorry, hit "submit" by accident.
Pics, I guess, will come on Wednesday because I assume he'll be letting me shower, etc after first post-op.
mmmmmm.....shower...
Pics, I guess, will come on Wednesday because I assume he'll be letting me shower, etc after first post-op.
mmmmmm.....shower...
July 23, 2012
I announced my first poop as well..it was def a highlight in my recovery. LOL It does not surprise me that you took a photo. ;-)The shower will be interesting. Im sure you know that it can go very good or very bad. I was glad I had a week to prepare myself. I cant imagine some of the girls that take a shower the day after! Eek.
July 23, 2012
Seriously! Thought about putting a birth announcement in the paper!
Yes, I'm going to be very cautious re: shower. Chair at the ready and DH on deck. I'll have had a look by then, so HOPING the first wave of shock will be over and done with :)
Yes, I'm going to be very cautious re: shower. Chair at the ready and DH on deck. I'll have had a look by then, so HOPING the first wave of shock will be over and done with :)
July 23, 2012
I read on here somewhere to ease into showering facing backwards, which I did. Kind of let water drizzle over my shoulders for the first couple showers and used very mild soap. There wasn't any pain, just my own paranoia. Happily, I'm very near sighted, so made it a point to take my glasses off first. (Trick I perfected flying in Alaska when everyone had to take a sauna and jump in the creek to get clean. If I couldn't see the guys, well...) Truly, why kick a good buzz in the head by having a peek before your first check-up??? They looked impressively knarly at about 8 days, so glad I had a remarkable lack of curiosity before then. Just sit back and savor NO PAIN in your shoulders.
Piggles...BEWARE of the 2 week False Summit. I can so see you heading up that path, right behind Se1f and me. You'll be bored out of your mind, feeling great, and...DON'T clean out your closet.
Piggles...BEWARE of the 2 week False Summit. I can so see you heading up that path, right behind Se1f and me. You'll be bored out of your mind, feeling great, and...DON'T clean out your closet.
July 23, 2012
Okay, PNW. That is actually CREEPY! I was JUST thinking this 'aft that tomorrow was closet-purge day. It is now off the agenda. (Damn you, woman!). But I admit that my 3:00 today, I was getting seriously antsy, so I'm going to have to figure out some distraction.
And thanks for the no- peek and shower advice. I'm going to take it all. Or at least try my damndest. Best deterrent yet was your reference to "hearing a stitch rip.". That sat me down, BUT quick!
And thanks for the no- peek and shower advice. I'm going to take it all. Or at least try my damndest. Best deterrent yet was your reference to "hearing a stitch rip.". That sat me down, BUT quick!
July 23, 2012
The clothes I yanked out of my closet are only now moving off the card table where they got piled 5 weeks ago! That blunder hurt SO bad. But, it is huge fun to pass forward nice clothes you won't ever wear again. Friends are thrilled with their loot. Just wait a month, and then, only ONE hanger at a time. (Again, how do I know these things?? :-)
The sound of that stitch popping made me queasy. Still creeps me out, though no lasting repercussions. Sobered me right up...kind of the BR equivalent of blue lights in your rear view mirror. That it worked second hand. Good one to spare yourself.
Just today found the distraction that would have been purrrrr-fect during recovery. Went to do chores in my rural community, and on a very well traveled road, saw a little brown chunk in my lane. Figured it was a dirt clod, but went around it anyway (front wheel drive). It was a teensy little kitten! Pulled over and snatched it off the road before the next car could squish it. Was going to take it to the nearest farm house, but then realized it was a bag of bones, goopy eyes, cough, etc. Probably the only survivor of a dumped litter. (Why do people think country folks need their unwanted pets?) Was on my way to the feed store anyway, so what's a few cans of kitten milk replacer? :-/
Anyway, little thing is pretty insistent he sit on my lap, which is really slowing me down!!! What a bonus this would have been a 6 weeks ago! Droppers full of kitten milk replacer every half hour or so. Something to keep me occupied that weighs about 6 ounces. Timing a bit off, eh? He's so little he'd get lost in one of the cups on an old bra, so going to try and make him a little beddy with one of them. :-)
He'll be needing a name, btw... suggestions welcome!
The sound of that stitch popping made me queasy. Still creeps me out, though no lasting repercussions. Sobered me right up...kind of the BR equivalent of blue lights in your rear view mirror. That it worked second hand. Good one to spare yourself.
Just today found the distraction that would have been purrrrr-fect during recovery. Went to do chores in my rural community, and on a very well traveled road, saw a little brown chunk in my lane. Figured it was a dirt clod, but went around it anyway (front wheel drive). It was a teensy little kitten! Pulled over and snatched it off the road before the next car could squish it. Was going to take it to the nearest farm house, but then realized it was a bag of bones, goopy eyes, cough, etc. Probably the only survivor of a dumped litter. (Why do people think country folks need their unwanted pets?) Was on my way to the feed store anyway, so what's a few cans of kitten milk replacer? :-/
Anyway, little thing is pretty insistent he sit on my lap, which is really slowing me down!!! What a bonus this would have been a 6 weeks ago! Droppers full of kitten milk replacer every half hour or so. Something to keep me occupied that weighs about 6 ounces. Timing a bit off, eh? He's so little he'd get lost in one of the cups on an old bra, so going to try and make him a little beddy with one of them. :-)
He'll be needing a name, btw... suggestions welcome!
July 24, 2012
Oh good God; my heart just broke a little. Timing really is everything, isn't it? Probably just as well he didn't come into your life 6 weeks ago; he would have meant less rest (sounds as though you got little enough as it was), more trips for food/vet etc.
People and their horrible treatment of animals never cease to astound me. That little guy is very, very lucky. (hmmmm...."Lucky"......too boring??)
People and their horrible treatment of animals never cease to astound me. That little guy is very, very lucky. (hmmmm...."Lucky"......too boring??)
July 24, 2012
I have a shower chair that I put in the tub and my daughter helped me take a sponge bath the first time - I couldn't take it! And then, the second time, I sat on the chair and she put a 5 gallon bucket of warm water and a cup outside the tub on a crate for me in case I couldn't handle the hand help shower attachment. You can get cheap shower attachments at the hardware store, though.
July 24, 2012
Lucky is what our rescues are usually called! This one is so spunky for someone whose fortunes have been so dim, I think Sidewinder might be rising to the top. Takes a couple days for the proper name to present. He's following me around like a Shadow...but that was the name I gave the last old hunting dog that was dumped nearby when he couldn't hunt anymore.
Currently sitting with my legs pulled up and he's roosting between my feet (wool socks...cold and rainy here). Very sweet, but making me feel GUILTY for not staying still. I'm tellin' you...we're onto something here. Rent A Kitten? :-)
Currently sitting with my legs pulled up and he's roosting between my feet (wool socks...cold and rainy here). Very sweet, but making me feel GUILTY for not staying still. I'm tellin' you...we're onto something here. Rent A Kitten? :-)
July 24, 2012
As long as there is no strenuous activity involved in rescuing him and the claws are not involved - LOL! Remember, one of my surgery dates was cancelled because my cat scratched me? Everyone expected me to declaw them, but I couldn't do it! I'm always rescuing something and the kids help name them. The last 2 were cats - a Siamese cat names Siam and a 1/2 Siamese and 1/2 Himalayan name, inappropriately enough, Zen. Spastic cat, that Zen. Siam is calmer, but he's the one that gets scared and claws while trying to hold on!
Luckily, this latest rescue kitten I didn't have to keep. Were the kid that brought everything home, too? I think that's why I never yell at the kids for it.
Luckily, this latest rescue kitten I didn't have to keep. Were the kid that brought everything home, too? I think that's why I never yell at the kids for it.
July 24, 2012
How about "Teacup"? or (he he) "D cup?"
Actually, Piggles and PNW, I did myself damage at the consignment store carrying around hangers full of clothes. Pathetic. What I had NO inclination to do, but would have been perfect, was all the filing and paper organizing that continues to pile up chez moi.
Actually, Piggles and PNW, I did myself damage at the consignment store carrying around hangers full of clothes. Pathetic. What I had NO inclination to do, but would have been perfect, was all the filing and paper organizing that continues to pile up chez moi.
July 24, 2012
He's teensy...baby kitten claws. Indeed, he's already bonded me as his mum and is following me around. Took a pic and will post on my thread next time I get close to the camera cable.
Living 2 minutes off the motorway, but on 40 acres, 100% of our pets for at least the last 15 years have been strays! At least a dozen cats and 6 dogs. Quite the dedicated pet cemetery after all these years. :-) We lost a world class stray cat about 6 months ago to cancer, so guess this is the new Spare Rib, tho I'm leaning towards Sidewinder because of his spunk. Have a rescued Maine Coon named Duke of Hair I couldn't lift for over a month. He was crushed! So used to bein scooped up for a tummy scratch. Bringing this new guy home could have been touchy if he weren't so sweet. The other kitty, Bug Huntress (Bug for short) also rescued as a scrawny might not make it kitten is outraged. She has conveniently forgotten her roots. Track rescue Canadian Standardbred thinks he's a black lab and is very interested in all these doings. 13 y/o dog just does his usual (*)(*).
I may have a Mrs. Piggle Wiggle life, but at least I'm no longer trending towards her shape! :-)
Living 2 minutes off the motorway, but on 40 acres, 100% of our pets for at least the last 15 years have been strays! At least a dozen cats and 6 dogs. Quite the dedicated pet cemetery after all these years. :-) We lost a world class stray cat about 6 months ago to cancer, so guess this is the new Spare Rib, tho I'm leaning towards Sidewinder because of his spunk. Have a rescued Maine Coon named Duke of Hair I couldn't lift for over a month. He was crushed! So used to bein scooped up for a tummy scratch. Bringing this new guy home could have been touchy if he weren't so sweet. The other kitty, Bug Huntress (Bug for short) also rescued as a scrawny might not make it kitten is outraged. She has conveniently forgotten her roots. Track rescue Canadian Standardbred thinks he's a black lab and is very interested in all these doings. 13 y/o dog just does his usual (*)(*).
I may have a Mrs. Piggle Wiggle life, but at least I'm no longer trending towards her shape! :-)
July 24, 2012
Se1f, D Cup, or Double D are top of the list as of now! With my cowgirl roots, Double D fits right in. Insiders can know it as the end of my DD days, but others who might ask would settle for Dusty & Dead, which is what he would have been a couple minutes later. 4 week old kitten in the middle of Chuckanut Drive. Google my Washington to see what a tourist trap that is in July! I was actually on a semi-scenic route myself...
D2 is bonding with the red flannel I shredded for him. Have chosen a shell pink model for his nighttime sleeping pleasure. :-)
D2 is bonding with the red flannel I shredded for him. Have chosen a shell pink model for his nighttime sleeping pleasure. :-)
July 24, 2012
How about your underwear drawer? I felt up to cleaning that out! And Boy it is amazing how much room you make when you get rid of all those XXXXXXL slingshots in there!
July 30, 2012
Barb, just saw this... loved cleaning out the underwear drawer! Those hard wired DDD's really do take up space. And, I had 12-15, most of which were nearly new because they wouldn't be as comfortable as the old stretched out Balis. Passed them forward to a gf who is my former size. She was thrilled, they fit, and she's starting the process of her own BR after watching me prance around like a colt. :-)
Replies (5)
xoxo WC
p.s. You typed all that on your phone?????
Thanks toobig!
Here's my biggest concern. I was born with spina bifida. I had surgery as an infant and I have arthritis in my back. I can't sleep on my back. I can't even lie on my back for more than an hour or so. I need to sleep on my side to be comfortable. From all of the posts I have read it appears that you must sleep on your back following surgery........any ideas? I really think that a BR will help my back pain. I think I need to find a different PS. The PS I wanted wont see me....she has a strict rule that you cannot be over your optimal weight. I was 5'4" and 160lbs....okay maybe I'm not skinny but I'm not ready for the biggest loser either! She wanted me to be 130bs before she would even meet with me. Her receptionist told me to call back when I lost the weight. Does anyone know a reputable PS in the Windsor area that doesn't take 2 years to get into?? I have even considered going to the States and paying for the surgery.