Update-not a happy one

Terri: I cannot even begin to fathom what you are experencing, and I am at least 12 -15 months before I can even think of a tummy tuck and other possible plastic surgery. Does this scare me? Yes, it sure does! Unfortunately, you seem to be the exception to the rule, and I do feel for you! I hope that you can find some type of work as soon as you feel up to working. I know the feeling - I went on disability in 1990 and it will be 16 years in March since I last worked. I am just now (with the WLS) starting to feel somewhat better, but it's the stamina that I have to worry about. So many things that I did before (I was a 'Jackie of all Trades') I can no longer do because of balance and cooridination problems. This is what is really hurting me. I'm lucky because I'm single and live with my parents, but I can't get out on my own until I have a REAL job. Being on a fixed income doesn't help either. You keep on posting, and rant as much as you need to. That in itself is healthy!

I have no words of wisdom so im just going to send you a great big virtual hug, since they wont squeze you too much! ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((HUG)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))) Dori

Oh Teri, I'm so sorry you have to go through all of this. I hope you feel better soon. Try not to let it get to you to much, if it does, just come and vent with us. We love you. {{{{{gentle hugs}}}}} Annette

Terri, I am so sorry this has happened to you. I am sure your Dr. knows best but this sure sounds odd to have all this drainage. I sure do hope this gets better. I'll keep you in my thoughts. Hugs, Connie

Terri, I am really sorry that you are still struggling with this whole thing! I just remembered that prior to my surgery Dr. Ellen suggested (strongly) that I purchase: SinEcch (Arnica Montana), $29.95 SinEcch is the only natural Arnica Montana homeopathic remedy on the market that has been clinically proven in research studies to reduce post-operative bruising and swelling. By using SinEcch right before and after a surgery, a patient can minimize bruising and swelling, have less pain and discomfort, accelerate the healing process, and shorten recovery time. Dr Ellen indicated that it makes a HUGE difference in the healing process for PS patients. She believed in it so strongly that she had started carrying it in her office to sell to the patients so they could get it without having to order it from the internet! I am not sure how much it helped me, but I healed very nicely without a lot of drainage and my swelling existed but wasn't bad. I never bruised either which I guess very commonly happens during the breast reduction too. Good Luck!!! Mary

Hi Terri, Hang in there. I had simular problems after my TT. For the drainage...I used a Chux pad, the pads you normally put under someone who wets in their sleep. They are about 18"x24", and a big package of them will cost you about $7. I cut into quarters and taped it over some 4x4's and abdominal pads (you can get them at the drug store). The Chux pad has a plastic side that creates a waterproof barrier so you can at least get out of the house for a while without worrying about springing a leak. Depending on your insurance, it may pay for or re-imburse you for the supplies. Hope this helps. Keep your head up, this too shall pass! I promise!! Marsha

I just saw an episode on Dr. 90210 where he told the girl she couldn't get her drains out because she was still draining too much fluid, but he told her to slow down. She was overdoing it and causing more fluid to build up. Maybe you need to rest more? Put the exercise on hold so that you can heal? I don't know, just a thought. I hope you start feeling better soon! I can only imagine how distressing it must be to you.

Terri, Sorry to hear that you are still draining badly. I hope like you and everyone else that it heals quickly. I've come on here daily to see if you posted just because I was wondering how you are doing. Again, I hope things get better for you and when some of us that are hoping to have a tt this year you can help us out. I talked to Dr. Marshall already he wanted me to do alot of exercise prior to my tt but told me it would be six to eight weeks after the tt before I can exercise again so I was a little suprised to see that you are on the tread already. Maybe call Doc and double check if you should be exercising. Take care of yourself, Renee

WOW Terri! What a ride. I unfortunately haven't been to the TT world so can't offer help. I can tell you that the depression thing sucks and so does the no work thing. I wish I had answers but I have an ear. I'll try and give you a call this weekend. Life at work has been unreal and the stress is driving me up a wall. By the time I get home, no phone for me! Talk to this weekend though. Love ya! ~V.

Terri .. I am so sorry the drainage is happening like this for you. I sooo hope it slows down and you can move on. I did start taking ARNICA (bought at Better Health) .. and it's helped my swelling ... My swelling wasn't coming down at all and I was freaking out ... really freaking out .. and I went on the main board and there was a girl there that said Arnica helped her ... I have been doing it for 3 days and there is a noticeable difference ... seriously - have Matt run out and get you some. The swelling can depress ya .. let alone everything else you are going through .. Hang in there! I wish I had more to offer. . .I don't .. but, I will keep you in my thoughts!!! Karryn