POSTED UNDER Mommy Makeover REVIEWS
BL TT
ORIGINAL POST
Hi I'm 46, 5'5" and 160 lbs - healthy and fit and...
$13,000
Hi
I'm 46, 5'5" and 160 lbs - healthy and fit and am told I don't look my age (I don't feel it either) - but I do have extra skin on my low ab and my breasts sag now. I figured it's time to pull it all together and do a complete mommy make over.
I am 100% decided on a fully tummy tuck with muscle tightening. PS will do some lipo to nip my waist and contour my hips. I am only about 60% decided on a breast lift - no implants. If I don't do the breast lift, I would like the PS to do some extra lipo on the back/bra rolls.
My surgery is scheduled for 2/16 and I will take two weeks off work for recovery. I'll go back to work part time for a couple weeks before amping up to full time.
I'm nervous and excited and would love to hear everyone else's story, see pics etc. I'll take and post some before pics soon.
:) Kma
I'm 46, 5'5" and 160 lbs - healthy and fit and am told I don't look my age (I don't feel it either) - but I do have extra skin on my low ab and my breasts sag now. I figured it's time to pull it all together and do a complete mommy make over.
I am 100% decided on a fully tummy tuck with muscle tightening. PS will do some lipo to nip my waist and contour my hips. I am only about 60% decided on a breast lift - no implants. If I don't do the breast lift, I would like the PS to do some extra lipo on the back/bra rolls.
My surgery is scheduled for 2/16 and I will take two weeks off work for recovery. I'll go back to work part time for a couple weeks before amping up to full time.
I'm nervous and excited and would love to hear everyone else's story, see pics etc. I'll take and post some before pics soon.
:) Kma
Kristin269's provider
Replies (17)
January 9, 2016
You're scheduled 4 days after me! Best of luck to you!!! I decided to get a lift because if I was going under anyways - I wanted my girls to be symmetrical! Hoping it's worth it!
January 9, 2016
I have the lift scheduled but have been considering backing out on that portion. I don't know. I think I might ring up the surgeon's office and see if I can come in for another Q & A before pre op.
January 9, 2016
Definately do that! Maybe they can show you similar pictures of your build with a lift and without?
I had questions about the implant sizes and they told me to just come in. I didn't even know I could do that. Not sure why I thought my initial size pick was FINAL. Glad I did though - because I feel like the 405cc will be perfect!
I had questions about the implant sizes and they told me to just come in. I didn't even know I could do that. Not sure why I thought my initial size pick was FINAL. Glad I did though - because I feel like the 405cc will be perfect!
January 10, 2016
I have my folder of info and am going to call first thing Monday morning. I'm doing a lift - no implants - but I want them high and tight even if they end up being a bit smaller. More than anything though, I don't want too much lipo on the hips, just enough to contour: I love my hips - nice and round - none of these non existent athletic hips for me! A smaller waist would be perfect though. :)
January 10, 2016
Yes a smaller waist with no muffin top!! I've been dreaming of it for such a long time!!!!
January 17, 2016
I had my breast lift/breast reduction and Tummy tuck 1/5. Feel free to ask any questions. I've taken off four weeks from work. I'm 12 days post op. Good luck!
UPDATED FROM Kristin269
1 month pre
Thoughts Questions and Concerns
I have LOTS of questions for anyone who wants to answer! In no particular order:
1. Did your doctor recommend weight loss before surgery? If so, why?
I've been working out like a beast lately. Not to lose weight though but more to gain as much muscle as possible because I'm afraid of muscle wasting with 6-8 weeks of not being able to do a heavy lifting workout.
2. What sorts of purchases did you make pre surgery? What items did you find were most helpful to your healing, especially in the early days?
3. Is the pain after surgery really bad?
4. Walking upright - ? I've heard so many say that it took them a week or two or more. But my surgeon said this was a sign of too "tight" a tuck. Is this so and if so what are the problems/complications due to it?
5. For those who had a breast lift (no augmentation/implants) with tummy tuck: what was the hardest part of healing? I worry that it's too much to do all at once. Is this worry unfounded?
6. Does anyone feel like there is more surgery to be done after a mommy make over? As in - now my breasts and midsection are rockin' - but my back has rolls so Iipo will be necessary. Or my arms and chin look fat and flabby - ie: parts don't match.
Talk to me please.
Thank you!!
KmaMarie
1. Did your doctor recommend weight loss before surgery? If so, why?
I've been working out like a beast lately. Not to lose weight though but more to gain as much muscle as possible because I'm afraid of muscle wasting with 6-8 weeks of not being able to do a heavy lifting workout.
2. What sorts of purchases did you make pre surgery? What items did you find were most helpful to your healing, especially in the early days?
3. Is the pain after surgery really bad?
4. Walking upright - ? I've heard so many say that it took them a week or two or more. But my surgeon said this was a sign of too "tight" a tuck. Is this so and if so what are the problems/complications due to it?
5. For those who had a breast lift (no augmentation/implants) with tummy tuck: what was the hardest part of healing? I worry that it's too much to do all at once. Is this worry unfounded?
6. Does anyone feel like there is more surgery to be done after a mommy make over? As in - now my breasts and midsection are rockin' - but my back has rolls so Iipo will be necessary. Or my arms and chin look fat and flabby - ie: parts don't match.
Talk to me please.
Thank you!!
KmaMarie
Replies (21)
January 9, 2016
Oh, I am also curious about scar healing - how long before your scars faded or seemed healed enough that you could be intimate? Or before the scars weren't really noticeable?
And with regard to breast lifts - has anyone had loss of nipple sensation? I really don't want this!
And with regard to breast lifts - has anyone had loss of nipple sensation? I really don't want this!
January 9, 2016
And, complications - has anyone had serious complications after MM surgery?
January 14, 2016
I did not have any serious complications. Just could not urinate and needed a catheter and went removed still had problems for 11 days. Also had a fever for a week. Was fine. Just did not count on that.
January 11, 2016
1. My Dr recommends that you be at your ideal weight prior to a tt as well as be able to maintain it for a bit of time. You are having your tummy tightened so you really want to be at your desired weight ahead of time. If you have a tt thern lose a significant amount of weight it could produce more loose skin.
2. My doctor said I only needed pillows for propping...and possibly stool softeners(which I personally didn't need) He did say I could get and take Arnica tablets you dissolve under your tongue. They help with swelling and bruising..I had no bruising at all! His office provided the cg, bra,tape and bandages..I really didn't need anything else.
3. Everyone tolerates pain differently. I was amazed at how little pain I actually had. My BA wasn't huge..no pain there. My tt incision again no pain..drains hurt now and then just a little bit. I was only on 2 meds..Valium and norco and didn't even use them all. I will say the first 2\3 days I slept a lot due to anesthesia and meds.
4. I agree. In my opinion it is too tight if it takes weeks to get upright. I was upright within about 2 days. Granted when I first wake up and am extra tight it takes me about an hour to stretch out.
5. I had a very small augmentation no lift.
6. It all depends I have told myself I am not going to become obsessed with PS I had taken care of the things that were post important to me. There is one more small surgery possibly down the road..but I by no means am looking for perfection.
I had no serious complications. I went into surgery healthy and got moving as soon as possible afterwards. I worked from home days 8-13 and went back to work day 14 PO. Complications can happen and can't always be predicted. Best you can do is hope and pray for the best ..do your research on your Dr and follow what your doctor says.
As far as scar healing..I am not far enough along. I am 2 weeks today..it is pretty much scabbed over and healing nicely. My bf was a bit freaked by pictures he had seen ahead of time but said it doesn't look bad at all. I never asked about intimacy..I would imagine you give it a little time then listen to your body. They say it takes about a year for the scars to complete healing\fading.
Hope this helps :)
2. My doctor said I only needed pillows for propping...and possibly stool softeners(which I personally didn't need) He did say I could get and take Arnica tablets you dissolve under your tongue. They help with swelling and bruising..I had no bruising at all! His office provided the cg, bra,tape and bandages..I really didn't need anything else.
3. Everyone tolerates pain differently. I was amazed at how little pain I actually had. My BA wasn't huge..no pain there. My tt incision again no pain..drains hurt now and then just a little bit. I was only on 2 meds..Valium and norco and didn't even use them all. I will say the first 2\3 days I slept a lot due to anesthesia and meds.
4. I agree. In my opinion it is too tight if it takes weeks to get upright. I was upright within about 2 days. Granted when I first wake up and am extra tight it takes me about an hour to stretch out.
5. I had a very small augmentation no lift.
6. It all depends I have told myself I am not going to become obsessed with PS I had taken care of the things that were post important to me. There is one more small surgery possibly down the road..but I by no means am looking for perfection.
I had no serious complications. I went into surgery healthy and got moving as soon as possible afterwards. I worked from home days 8-13 and went back to work day 14 PO. Complications can happen and can't always be predicted. Best you can do is hope and pray for the best ..do your research on your Dr and follow what your doctor says.
As far as scar healing..I am not far enough along. I am 2 weeks today..it is pretty much scabbed over and healing nicely. My bf was a bit freaked by pictures he had seen ahead of time but said it doesn't look bad at all. I never asked about intimacy..I would imagine you give it a little time then listen to your body. They say it takes about a year for the scars to complete healing\fading.
Hope this helps :)
January 14, 2016
Hi! To try and help some of your questions-
1). Nothing about weight loss (Inactually gained a little thinking he would get more fat out w the lipo :). I'm 5ft 3" and was 115
2). I rented a recliner from a medical supply house in NYC. $400 including delivery and for a month. It made it so I could get up and down without assistance. Also has a phone charger on it. Haha. I got all my tape, Gauze pads, prescriptions filled, a Spray Hydrogen Peroxide (awesome and saved time when changing bandages). 2 Neosporins, Arnica gel for bruises, COUGH DROPS (if I felt a slight tickle, I took one and it worked)!!!! Dial soap (antibacterial). Hand sanitizer to use before touch anything on me. Tylenol, stool softeners and what you need to work for you. Some say a walker. I did not need one. I mostly sat around but when walked, just would make it to wherever I was going. Have shakes, fruit, lemons for lemon water for swelling, flip flops to wear to surgery and loose elastic pants and zip up top (I got a cute one from target. T shirts for under your tightening garment to alleviate marks on body and rubbing on skin. I'll let you know if I think of anything else! Good Luck!!!!
1). Nothing about weight loss (Inactually gained a little thinking he would get more fat out w the lipo :). I'm 5ft 3" and was 115
2). I rented a recliner from a medical supply house in NYC. $400 including delivery and for a month. It made it so I could get up and down without assistance. Also has a phone charger on it. Haha. I got all my tape, Gauze pads, prescriptions filled, a Spray Hydrogen Peroxide (awesome and saved time when changing bandages). 2 Neosporins, Arnica gel for bruises, COUGH DROPS (if I felt a slight tickle, I took one and it worked)!!!! Dial soap (antibacterial). Hand sanitizer to use before touch anything on me. Tylenol, stool softeners and what you need to work for you. Some say a walker. I did not need one. I mostly sat around but when walked, just would make it to wherever I was going. Have shakes, fruit, lemons for lemon water for swelling, flip flops to wear to surgery and loose elastic pants and zip up top (I got a cute one from target. T shirts for under your tightening garment to alleviate marks on body and rubbing on skin. I'll let you know if I think of anything else! Good Luck!!!!
January 14, 2016
Oh. Didn't finish;
3). I asked my Dr about this and he said he pulls as tight as possible bc I will be able to stand up within 2 weeks. Therefore that was better than risking not being tight enough. This was the PS speaking.
4). Pain for me was fine first day but terrible day 2,3 and 4 better. Stopped pain meds on 4th day (end of 3rd).
5). I did not have a breast lift but my 2 good friends did with their TT and they said that was nothing. It was a breeze and didn't hurt at all!!! So maybe go for it!!
6). No. I'm done but if you feel that way, this is your chance and would be a lot cheaper for him to lipo your arms and chin while under and already paying the surgery facilities, Dr and anasthesiologist! If it's safe and he concurs. Keep us updated.
3). I asked my Dr about this and he said he pulls as tight as possible bc I will be able to stand up within 2 weeks. Therefore that was better than risking not being tight enough. This was the PS speaking.
4). Pain for me was fine first day but terrible day 2,3 and 4 better. Stopped pain meds on 4th day (end of 3rd).
5). I did not have a breast lift but my 2 good friends did with their TT and they said that was nothing. It was a breeze and didn't hurt at all!!! So maybe go for it!!
6). No. I'm done but if you feel that way, this is your chance and would be a lot cheaper for him to lipo your arms and chin while under and already paying the surgery facilities, Dr and anasthesiologist! If it's safe and he concurs. Keep us updated.
January 15, 2016
A lot of great detail here. I really commend all you women who've been thru and are on the other side. Looking forward to joining you and healing healthy!
January 16, 2016
You will be here soon enough. Good for you on doing your homework. It really does help you w the recovery in the long run. Keep us posted. :)
January 15, 2016
1. Dr did not recommend weight loss, maintain and she said she'd prefer loss after if I felt it was needed.
2. Loose fitting comfy clothing for after, oversized sweats and zip or button up tops. Gauze. We have a recliner and I know some people just use their bed w/lots of pillows but I have been so thankful to have the recliner! So much easier to get in and out! I was sewn up tight. I had muscle repair and my Dr said I want you tight, tight, tight so I found my walker very helpful the first 8 to 10 days! I don't think I could have gone w/out! I didn't have to get stool softners as they were prescribed but would recommend if not provided. I also had a incentive spirometer provided to help w/breathing was told it was very important to help not get a fever. Also, I was told to get embrace for the scaring. It's expensive but what my Dr wanted me to get. Check w/your Dr on what he like his clients to use.
3. Everyone deals w/pain differently and I'll say personal I first 3-4 hrs after I woke I thought I'd made a huge mistake! I felt so sick from all the meds! It was terrible! I hate being nausea and I really didn't want to vomit! Lucky I didn't, I was prescribed anti nausea/vomiting pills and they helped. Got home and rested and felt much better. Kept up on pain meds and I was lucky I got a pain pump for first 3 days. At the end of day four stopped pain meds, still took muscle relaxers and still do but wanted my stomach to start moving and pain meds do a number on your system. Started stool softners day one to make it easier when I had a BM. I'd have to say the lipo was more painful to me and I still feel sore from it over 2 wks out! Also, know when you do have that BM it's not a fun day!! Personally it was pretty painful but know you will get through it!!! It is a long recovery and you need to be patient!!! You never know how it will go and just stay positive and hope for the best. I feel overall so far things have gone pretty well for me and I feel very thankful!
4. I'm still not walking totally upright and if I get tired it gets worse but I'm ok w/it. I was told it would be this way and my Dr wanted me hunched the 1st wk or 2. She said I want it tight for best results. I will give over time.
6. No other surgery for me but I think people should do what makes them happy and I agree w/someone else's comment that if you think you'll want more and it's safe do it all at once!
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
2. Loose fitting comfy clothing for after, oversized sweats and zip or button up tops. Gauze. We have a recliner and I know some people just use their bed w/lots of pillows but I have been so thankful to have the recliner! So much easier to get in and out! I was sewn up tight. I had muscle repair and my Dr said I want you tight, tight, tight so I found my walker very helpful the first 8 to 10 days! I don't think I could have gone w/out! I didn't have to get stool softners as they were prescribed but would recommend if not provided. I also had a incentive spirometer provided to help w/breathing was told it was very important to help not get a fever. Also, I was told to get embrace for the scaring. It's expensive but what my Dr wanted me to get. Check w/your Dr on what he like his clients to use.
3. Everyone deals w/pain differently and I'll say personal I first 3-4 hrs after I woke I thought I'd made a huge mistake! I felt so sick from all the meds! It was terrible! I hate being nausea and I really didn't want to vomit! Lucky I didn't, I was prescribed anti nausea/vomiting pills and they helped. Got home and rested and felt much better. Kept up on pain meds and I was lucky I got a pain pump for first 3 days. At the end of day four stopped pain meds, still took muscle relaxers and still do but wanted my stomach to start moving and pain meds do a number on your system. Started stool softners day one to make it easier when I had a BM. I'd have to say the lipo was more painful to me and I still feel sore from it over 2 wks out! Also, know when you do have that BM it's not a fun day!! Personally it was pretty painful but know you will get through it!!! It is a long recovery and you need to be patient!!! You never know how it will go and just stay positive and hope for the best. I feel overall so far things have gone pretty well for me and I feel very thankful!
4. I'm still not walking totally upright and if I get tired it gets worse but I'm ok w/it. I was told it would be this way and my Dr wanted me hunched the 1st wk or 2. She said I want it tight for best results. I will give over time.
6. No other surgery for me but I think people should do what makes them happy and I agree w/someone else's comment that if you think you'll want more and it's safe do it all at once!
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
January 16, 2016
You're welcome! Good luck and it seems you're doing your research so that's great! :-) It's exciting and a little nerve racking but it helps to have this site on the journey for sure!!! :-)
UPDATED FROM Kristin269
1 month pre
Abdominal Binders
I've been looking at abdominal binders with an eye towards purchasing for post surgery.
Any suggestions or reviews?
Any suggestions or reviews?
Replies (8)
January 14, 2016
My Dr told me not to wear the one I bought bc it's not sufficient and leaves indents that can be permanent. I ordered spanx from YummyMummy (housewives of NYC Heather's line). Haha. It's seem less and 20-% Lycra which he said I needed. 15% off first order.
January 15, 2016
I think given what you've said and what KFPF wrote, I might wait to purchase until after my preop or even after surgery - a little on line shopping always brightens a day in bed healing. LOL
January 16, 2016
That's so true what Kfpf said and yes, you prob should see what he says. Just so you don't have to return anything and then you can let loose w your on line shopping :). God knows you will have the time. Haha. Good Luck!!!
January 15, 2016
Since being on here and seeing so many differnt reviews and posts the Drs are all very different on this. I'd find out what your PS wants you to do and follow that b/c they're all of differing opinions. Some Drs provide the binder, some want you to buy a certain one, some tell you to get what you'd be comfortable w/and some don't want you wearing them at all. That's what I've gathered from all the different posts I've read. So my suggestion is double check w/the PS! Good luck!!! :-)
January 17, 2016
Agreed! Go with what your PS recommends. I'm in the standard white stomach binder. I'm not in love but once the drains are out I get to pick something else out. I went to my post op in a different CG. It was a stage 2 Marena that I put on because the binder was on the wash. The PS did not like! He took it off, said it was too tight, and gave me another white binder...his nurse had to cut it to fit #shortgirlshorttorsoproblems
January 19, 2016
Dr always provide a binder, if they think it is necessary. You will feel safer in it, but it is a real pain in a butt too - you will have to wear padding under it to avoid indentations
January 20, 2016
My PS doesn't recommend a binder. I have a full compression garment which I love. I have to wear it 6 weeks; 2 down 4 more to go.
Thank you for sharing your story with this community. I hope you'll find all the feedback and support you need here. Please let us know if you need anything.