WHEN IS THE TIME TO THINK ABOUT GETTING A TUMMY TUCK?

Hey Okie Friends, I have a question.  My tummy is hangin long and low   and is beginning to cause some problems.  I get tiny little tears on my sides from the weight of the skin being pulled down and also some nasty rashes on the "underside" of the tummy that get very painful.  I still want to lose more weight but the issues of this large amount of extra skin are really becoming a big (pardon the pun) issue. What do ya'll think?      Should I wait until I'm at or at least close to my goal weight?  What if you have a tt and then lose more weight - could you develop another flap of skin?  Any of you have experience with any of these issues?  (Sorry if some of this is a little gross sounding.)  Huggs, Pam

I believe the recommendation is when your weight has been stable for about 18 months.  How much weight are you wanting to still loose and how much have you lost so far?  I'm not an expert since I'm still waiting for my RNY but I've been reading everything I can. 

Hi Kath, I presently weigh about 210 lbs. and my goal is 165 lbs.  So, I have about 45 lbs. to go.  The problem is that my lose skin (and it is quite a bit is very heavy and causing strain on my sides, thus the little tears and also the rashes.  Kind of like a yeast infection. But, I know that the tummy tuck surgery is something I would only want to have one time.  And thats where my questions come in. I did have an idea of wearing a tummy firmer for a while and see if that alleviates some of the discomfort. Please contact me is you have any ideas or suggestions.  I appreciate your taking the time to help me sort this out. Have a good night. Pam

Pam You should really try the tummy thing first.  My sister had RNY and lost 300+ pounds.  She was getting Staff infections under her skin.  Since she doesnt have insurance she tried the thing that holds your tummy in, I forget what its called.  But it really helped her.

insurance won't pay for a tummy tuck?? even if your skin is tearing, and you have rashes??? Morg

Hi Pammie, I hope you are having a great day! I haven't had the surgery yet, but I have trouble with  a hanging belly too. The doctor told to to go  to the maternity section and they sell a support like belt. It may be like a firm girdle or panties also. I am not sure he said it will show a picture on it that says tummy support. I have not bought one yet but I plan to. Might be of some help till you get to have your tummy tuck. I wonder if it depends on the insurance as far as it being paid for because I have asked and read alot about it and they told me it was covered. That will be interesting to find out. Have a great day! and please let me know what you find out. You and your family are still in my thoughts and prayers!! Love to you all                                                                          Karla

My suggestion would be something like Dr. Rey Shapewear or even the Cupid all in one at Wal-Mart. These are a little heavier than Spanx and really uplift, hold and support.  I would wait until I was through so only 1 surgery were involved. You might ask Eggface over on the main or RNY boards or email her. She talks about hers all the time: theworldaccordingtoeggfaceblogspot.com I think is the addy.

Have your Doctor record the tears and rashes so insurance will pay for it. Most plastic surgeons do now want to do the tummy tuck till your weight has stopped which is usually 18 months post op. I suggest wearing a tummy wrap or girdle for the time being.