Nervously Awaiting my Surgery in a Few Days

I have read through every single TT review here on Real Self and have found them extremely helpful in deciding what doctor to choose to have this procedure with. So I decided to contribute as well and do my own review, along with pictures, hoping that some of you see yourselves in my body like I did looking at some of you. I have had c sections and gained about 100 lbs each time, then lost and gained weight and basically just gained more the last few years that I just can't shed, so I am ready for this. After a lot of research and even though I'm extremely anxious about the general anesthesia part I decided to go for it and get a tummy tuck done by Dr. Reish. My surgery is scheduled for February 1, so it's in a few days, please send light and hugs my way, I will be posting the after pictures once I can and keep you all posted about my journey. I must say I haven't met Dr. Reish in real life yet, we've had two FaceTime meetings and he has been an excellent communicator, responsive, empathetic and above all has made me feel cared for enough to trust him. I know he does this every day but I don't so for me it's a life changing experience. All this being said I will keep you all posted!

So the BIG day came and since we live about 2 hours away we were late, so if that is you too, please add an hour for morning traffic. I've got to say that the staff was great and empathetic in regards to my fears, from the nurses to Dr. Reish. They all put me at ease in regards my general anesthesia anxiety and the risk of a post op DVT. The anesthesiologist is amazing, if he gives me permission I will name him here bc he's truly great. Dr. Reish met me in person for the first time, was absolutely marvelous, non-judgmental and answered all my questions. He took before pictures prior to the OR Nurse (who I will also name later if she allows me to) wheeled me in. She literally held my hand and talked to me while the arm pinch happened! took a Percocet 5 hours ago and willl take another one in about 2 hours or so. As far was symptoms are concerned, I'm black and blue from my arm pits down into the binder which is absolutely normal. I'm obviously very sore but the Experel is making a huge difference in my opinion. Compared to a C-section -SO FAR_ this is a walk in the park! I have a timer on it and walking every hour-hour and half. Peed twice using the cup that lets you pee standing up and it's a breeze since I don't have to turn around and seat down. I got a cane that has been super helpful to me too. I have the drains and the left is producing a lot more than the right. I'm thinking that is also normal. So I hope this has been a sufficiently informative update! Please let me know if you have any questions and I'll be more than happy to answer them! :)

I overdid the walking in order to prevent blood clots which was my primary source of anxiety and since it was up to me to do this part, I walked every hour and a half. I spent a lot of yesterday resting and walking every 3 hours instead. I took the Percocet every 8 hours and a Valium in between so although there was pain it wasn't unbearable. I've been on Tylenol for the pain since last night and so far so good!
One note for those that are preparing for this journey, I did myself a huge favor by starting the stool softener a week pre-surgery and continued afterwards always with as much water as I could take. It WORKED, and there was very, very little discomfort.