Post Plastic Surgery

Hi all, here is my first update about plastic surgery. I lost about 90 pounds after VSG with Dr. Karmali in 2010. My weight loss slowed due to arthritis and very bad back pain - and I decided to go ahead with the surgery since my weight had stabilized for so long.

First, let me say that the VSG was the best decision I have made. I was overweight since a child and have tried everything. I was very happy with my progress and the support at the Weight Wise clinic. But maintenance is not easy. It is a life long process I have realized.

I'm 33 and it was hard dating etc. so I wanted to complete the process and really enjoy my new life and body.

I met with Dr. Toy in the summer and saved for the procedure. I had a fleur-de-lis for excess stomach skin removal surgery and also breast lift with some lipo to even everything out. Alberta Health covered half for the panni part,  I paid $12k for the rest. I was a size 12/14 going into surgery, down from a super snug 3X.

The consultation meetings were a bit intimidating on your body image - it was vulnerable to have someone really address your excess skin in that way.

The morning of the surgery was the time when he drew on my body like you see on TV. This was a bit nerve wracking but he's very kind and professional so I felt confident.

Post surgery it was very painful, and very different from the VSG in terms of recovery. I had so many incisions - drawn and quartered twice over with the big binder like an elastic band holding you together. I have been off work for 3 wks. Some days I felt low in the beginning and I needed help with the drains and I can't lift more than 5 pounds for the another 3 wks - don't want to bust one of these expensive stiches! But, the body is amazing and does heal.

I am so amazed at my new shape. The surgery lines are thin and I know there will be scars but minimal and such an improvement. My weight is fluctuating as they told me with the swelling.  I already have such love for the results. I have a flat stomach for the first time in my life!

So, I will make an update in a few months again when things settle down more.Thank you for your support on this forum. If you need more details pm me.   Happy new year and good luck with your journeys!
~Mtrai

getting increasingly nervous, excited and terrified....
 

any last minute advice?

we leave Grande Prairie on Sunday, PAC on monday, weigh in Tuesday and Surgery is Wednesday January 9th

I have to work the rest of the week so that will help pass the time...
everytime I let my mind linger on this I get a kind of sinking pit feeling in my stomach.
i know in my head i'm ready...but just scary...ya know?

Happy New Year to all.

For those of us who had surgery already I wish continued success in 2013.

For those waiting for surgery in 2013 know that all your dreams will come true and you will be happier and healthier in 2013. May 2013 be your year to shine.

I wish I was closer! I'd gladly swap some fruity Syntrax. I really like the creamy flavours, but the fruit ones? Not so much.

I have about 18 cans of BioX 3 Carb Vanilla Protein Shake to give to someone in Calgary who is able to pick them up (inner city). Each can is very similar in nutrition to the Premier brand with 30 grams protein. I don't care for them so happy to pass them along.