Marie, My doctor said not to use them. However, he says that taking ibupropen once or twice for cramping per monthly cycle won't really hurt. I haven't had cramps bad enough to try, but I take some comfort in knowing that occassional use is acceptable. Polly

Guuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrlllllllllll - I am not at goal either. And now that I have been packing on muscle, I have quit gauging my success on the scale. I do still weigh, and I know any one pound I lose is straight fat. I got a body composition reading, and will use that as a gauge, and the last measure: clothes. I have one style of jeans that I will buy each time they get a little big. I started out in a 24 and have worked down to a 16. Now it is tough, because the next size down is not in 'plus' sizes anymore and I am noticing that sizing is different... I like to buy clothes that are a little small and then put them away because it is too tight. A month or so later, I take it out and quite often it fits very well! Really cool! I know how hard it is not to compare - you are doing fantastic - remember that! Nona

The one my surgeon allowed was Bextra - now it is off the shelves. Because of my Deg.disc dis. my GP has done this: She prescribed an ulcer medication to use as a 'preventive' as it coats well. Then prescribed an anti-inflammatory i have never heard of... I can't remember the name right now. I suppose it depends on the severity of need. I would rather get an ulcer than continue to lose strength and muscle in my arms because i have a pinched nerve in my neck..... really I would rather not have either! The rest of those 'regular' nsaids - nope. I also use herb teas to treat.... Nona

Ok, so who's Doctors allow them to have nsaids like ibuprofin, advil, asprin, motrin etc.? Mine won't let me get near them for fear of an ulser.

Hi Melissa, I'm having my tummy tucked July 20th and my surgeons price is $10,000 Best of luck. Marcy