45yr Old, 2 Grown Up Children and C-section.

I had my children in my early 20's and had emergency C-section. My stomach has been ruined ever since. My partner said it didn't bother them, as we have two beautiful children to show for it. But to me it was horrible and made me very body conscious. I have not work a bikini since, nor close fitting clothes. I put on a bit of weight as paid less attention to myself. Recently decided you only live once, so am finally booked in to have my tummy sorted! Mr Hurren was recommended my a work colleague who used to work for him. He was lovely and patient. Even told me not to lose anymore weight, as woman shouldn't be stick thin! He explained the projected outcome and happy to answer any follow up questions. I am now booked for my op on 20th May. So will add photos of the before and after soon. Very nervous, but excited!

Well I did it! and as promised is my update....

Week 1 was a bit of a blur, felt ok, no real pain just discomfort, until I went to the toilet, very sore and little jabbing pains when I got up. Glad I'd got fitter before hand, as upper and lower body strength were really needed. Used a Zimmer Frame to help me get about for first week as you cant stand up straight for about 2 weeks, and this takes a toll on your lower back.



I didn't enjoy injecting my thigh with anticoagulants for the first 6 days - but this is better than getting a DVT - so I did it!

I slept in a reclining chair for the first 3 weeks as just couldn't get comfortable in a bed as felt too 'stretched' and didn't have enough pillows to make a bed comfortable. I did get very painful weird involuntary stomach muscle spasms/cramps when I woke up from week 2. I spoke to my friend who said this happened to her as well, but gets better when you're more mobile.



During the first week my binder was jabbing into my hips. I spoke to Mr Hurren's nurse Ali (amazing lady - just love her), Ali told me to take it off straight away and leave off for 10mins to let the blood get round all the squished bits! Felt amazing!!! Ali suggested loosening the binder just to relieve the pressure on my hips - total game changer!

Week 2 I challenged myself to walk more steps each day - another reason I needed that Fitbit for Christmas! I also started getting electric like shocks as the nerves started healing, these can be pretty strong, but another sign all healing well. I'm still pretty swollen, about 3" more around the waist by the end of the day.

By week 3 I felt more myself and was able to start sleeping in bed with just a couple of pillows under my knees. Started going for longer walks, but still not comfortable to drive the car just yet, decided to just wait for week 4.



Week 4 check up - I drove there myself. All scabs have fallen off, my scar looks really neat and thin and not as red as I was expecting. I have a small bulge below my new belly button from a previous hernia repair, but Mr Hurren said to wait until my next appointment at 9 months to see how it's looking then and we can decide if anything needs to be done. I also started using Silicone Gel to help my scar heal flat and hopefully fade quicker.



Week 5 now and still swell a good 3" during the day. But apart from sore abdominal muscles and a rock hard tummy, I feel 100% myself and can't stop admiring my new bulge free stomach and cute new belly button whenever I pass a mirror. I am looking forward the 3-6 months when I should finally see what the 'new me' looks like.



I cannot recommend Mr Hurren enough to anyone. He is without doubt a brilliant, meticulous surgeon, who clearly cares and takes pride in his work. His Whole team have been superb, calling me to arrange the appointments and keeping my in the loop at all times.

..still have some swelling, but all healed so well. Still swell alot in evening as it's very hot here at the moment. I still wear my binder when exercising and at work for the extra support. But over all very pleased.