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POSTED UNDER Tummy Tuck REVIEWS

29 Years Old, 4 Children, Much Needed TT but Scared - Traverse City, MI

ORIGINAL POST

I've been reading these posts for a month or so...

Carose0723
WORTH IT$7,965
I've been reading these posts for a month or so now. I've went from really anxious, scared out my mind, pumped and ready to schedule my appointment, back to nervous, and so on. I've had 2 consults, one Dr said I can just get smart lipo and the other said lipo wouldn't work because my muscle need to be repaired. Hopefully I can get the nerves to schedule my appointment this week. I'll have to plan for March since we're getting ready to move in a month. What prompt you guys to get pass the nerves and schedule?

Carose0723's provider

Douglas Leppink, MD

Douglas Leppink, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Carose0723 rating for Dr. Leppink:

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Replies (5)

January 16, 2016

Welcome to the community.  What got me past the nerves was the muffin top!  I was tired of having a poochie tummy and wanted it gone.  When I went for my consults I had asked for lipo only.  All of the doctors told me that lipo alone would not do it and that I wouldn't be happy.  Lipo does not take care of hanging skin and separated muscles.  I had a full tummy tuck with muscle tightening and love it!

May 20, 2016
Yaay! I'm having lipo, muscle tightening and full tummy tuck with bbl on June 7th! The doc told me the same thing about lipo. I don't want extra skin either. I have had 4 kids and my youngest is 9! I still get asked almost once a week when I'm due because my muffin top looks like a prego belly! I'm scared but very excited to!!
May 22, 2016

The nerves are normal but you will be ok.  Expect the best but be prepared for a longer recovery.  All worth it in the end..

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March 2, 2016
I also live in northern Michigan and thought dr Leppink was out of Grand Rapids? Does he also have an office in Traverse City? I have a consult with another ps in their office in Grand Rapids, but TC would be so much more convenient.
March 2, 2016
No. I made a mistake in the location area because that is where I am located, but his office is in Grand Rapids. Just from speaking to him for my consult, he was very informative and attentive and most of all Honest.
UPDATED FROM Carose0723
27 days pre

Pre-op coming soon

Carose0723
Oh my. The time is flying by. I have no idea on what supplies I need. I just relocated so I'm trying to get unpacked and my children in school before I prepare for surgery. I need advise on supplies needed. I haven't ordered a thing smh. I'm posting pre-op pics *reluctantly* I'm 5'5 and 176 pounds. I can't let go of sodas so it's hard to lose the 6 pounds I'm trying to lose before the 31st. Well let the journey begin!

Replies (0)

UPDATED FROM Carose0723
27 days pre

Pre-op photos

Carose0723

Replies (3)

March 4, 2016
I am excited for you. It's normal to feel anxious! I have some recommendations:

1. Walker
2. Recliner (rent a center approx $100 month
3. Arnica 
4. Bromelain 
5. Vitamin C 500-1000 mg prior and after. 
6. After surgery ginger,and cayenne to prevent blood clots and help with swelling.
7. Probiotic to replenish healthy gut bacteria, strengthens immunity and prevent infection. Take after you've completely finished your 
antibiotics. 
8. Extra strength Tylenol to take after day 3 or 4 instead of prescription pain killers. 
9. Glycerine suppositories from Walgreens. (Helps with first bowel movement) and super easy to use.
10. Comfy pajama sets with button front tops 
11. You might not be hungry the first few days so premade green juice or healthy protein shakes are good options plus it gives the digestive system a break allowing the body to focus on healing rather than digestion. Once your appetite returns take it as a very good sign that your body is healing . 
12. Beware that you may get a migraine or a very bad headache afterwards. Not sure the cause but take a Tylenol and drink water and hopefully you will detox what's causing the headaches.
13. Address your nutritional deficiencies. 

From my personal experience the tummy tuck incision area does not hurt at all what hurts and feels uncomfortable is muscle repair and Lipo. 

Recommendations sources are from other RS and from my personal journey. Hope this list helps!!
March 4, 2016
Thanks so much. I have recliners already but not the electric kind. I'm going to start ordering things tomorrow
March 4, 2016
Actually you will not an electric recliner. A big comfy recliner to sleep in will do. You might need help getting out of it at first though.