Week I

Hi folks,

I just wanted to share a quick update on my progress. As many of you know, I went in for a lower body lift w/ buttock augmentation and medial thigh lift on Friday, July 13th. The procedures went extremely well and my first impression of the outcome has been very positive. It's hard to see through all of the swelling, drains and bruises, but I am thrilled with my new flat belly. I am even more thrilled with the shape of my thighs, which was the part I was most concered about. Even though I am blown up like a tick, I can see how smooth and tight they are going to be! YIPPEE!

As it turned out, my skin tightened so much with the extended tummy tuck and liposuction that the full lbl was not needed. Score!  He transferred the fat and tissue into my tush, so I have a nice little bum now. (I'm hoping that it isn't just swollen!). Given the length and extent of my surgery, I had to stay in the hospital for two nights. The first day was pretty tough, but I've been getting better every day. The pain is totally manageble and I am lucky to have lots of TLC from my family and friends. I spend most of my time dozing, but am able to get up and about with no trouble. I am not used to being sedentary and I don't like taking pain meds, but I know it's necessary for healing.

My only complication (if you can even call it that) has been a loose drain. One of them worked it's way out and isn't creating suction anymore, so I will have it removed tomorrow. My surgeon feels that it was in long enough that an early removal shouldn't cause too much trouble. If too much fluid collects, he'll have to drain it manually, but he doesn't expect that to happen. As far as problems go, that is nothing to lose sleep over.

I finally had a shower yesterday which was FABULOUS!!! I've never enjoyed a lather more! Thankfully, my sisters were here to help me get back into my compression garment- no easy feat! It's so hard to get it on without pulling off the gauze or tugging on the drains.

I took some "before" pictures and plan to post them with my "afters" next week. I figured it would be better to wait until the drains come out before immortalizing myself. :)

Thank you all for the support and encouragement that you provided. I can't imagine going through something like this without the information that I got from you. I hope all is well and I'll write again soon with a new update and photos. In the meantime, take good care...

Stacy

 Stacy

Sounds like you're doing great, and your attitude is wonderful. I look forward to hearing more as you get better and better. Congratulations!

Marla