Serious Body Image Issues - Post-Op LBL

It's not uncommon to see that the portion the insurance pays is only a fraction of the ridiculous amount the hospital bills for a surgery.  That's why it's so important to always use a hospital your insurance company has a agreement with...I am confident you will be fine there.  Do you mind me asking who your surgeon was?  I would discuss this at your follow up visit.  I understand you were limited on where you could have your surgery since it was a insurance thing, but not every Plastic Surgeon is well versed with handling WLS patients.  Many people end up having to travel out of state to find just the right surgeon.  The cut seems to be nice and thin, hopefully he will be able to provide you with a revision.  Most PS's would want their clients to be happy and give great word of month reviews as so much of their business comes that way...Good luck to you, 

Jessica H., 

Although I am not where you are at this time, I can sooo relate to your situation. This is my first post on the site (I just joined a few days ago and will be introducing myself and my story soon). My words are not meant to offend in ANY way, but I agree with a few other posters; if you aren't seeing a therapist, it may help to do so. I have looked at your pics, and you have come so far!!!  I think you look absolutely adorable! That being said, I also suffer from body image issues and see myself much differently from how others see me so I can relate to what you are experiencing. We truly are our worst critics! Remember those "before" photos and take advantage of them. In the past, when I felt really bad about how I looked, I would sometimes go through my worst before photos and compare them to my best recent photos, and this would sometimes serve as a reminder of how far I had come. Im sure you realize how far you've come, but hopefully you will also be encouraged to be less critical of yourself. I must let you know that you look beautiful just as you are! However, I also understand that deep underlying need to be and look "better". Try not to get too down about things, as we know where negativity could lead. Try to focus on your accomplishments. Also, I didn't notice your PS dates, but I have heard from many people that it takes a while before optimal results are attained, so be patient, and you just may be showing off your belly soon. By the way, I love your outfits! Nice style ;)

Best, 

KattattaK

Sweetie, you are not alone. This is not an abnormal experience. Add me to your plight. After RNY, I felt like a freak with all my hanging skin. A year ago June, I had a LBL and I do not look like the flat-tummied after photos everyone shares. I have a bit of a pouch. The surgeon originally thought I was retaining fluid and attempted to drain me. Nothing. His final determination was that it was an "abnormal phenomenon." Whatever that means. So along with the new ugly scars; the ring around my new, discolored belly button; and a pubis that is a different color from the rest of my skin; I have a belly again. Albeit a small one, but still.  I'm trying to focus on being grateful that I gained mobility, which was my goal. I'm still paying off my surgery and It'll probably take me the next ten years to do so. Give yourself time. {HUGS}