Hi moms~
This may be wordy, sorry.
After my 2nd child I had abdominal surgery to remove a deep uterine fibroid. My incision became infected and tunneled 12 cm. It had to be open and I had to pack it 2xday for 10 weeks. Because of that deep uterine scar, my next baby was C-sec. I had no problems with that and actually healed faster than my vag. deliveries. However, my last 2 babies were over 9 lbs and my tummy/incision is not attractive. I can feel exactly where the tunnel was, there is no fat tissue or anything there. It is painful (prob. due to bands of scar tissue) and even abdominal strengthening exercises cause terrible pulling and muscle spasms. I have discussed a scar revision and tummy tuck with my doc. She is all for it, thinks I am a perfect candidate.
So...anybody have one? I am only worried about the healing process. I am well aware of the risks and the possibility of another infection. How long was it before you could get up, and how painful was it on a 0-10 scale? How long were you on pain meds? I didn't need pain meds after leaving the hospital for my C-sec...but this is more involved, for sure. Im surely not obsessed with having a pre-baby body. Im not a plastic surgery junkie and perfection is not my goal. I do, however, want to be more comfortable in my clothing and I just don't like my tummy now. How did you weigh the risk/benefit? What factors am I forgetting to take into consideration?
Thanks for any info you can add!
~Lacy
Hi Lacy---Sorry I can't help much with the surgery question but it sure does sound like the benefits would far outweigh the risks. I also think that you are the best judge of how well you could handle the pain of surgery. A pain threshold is likely very different from one person to the next.
Having said that, my only suggestion would to be sure that your health and immune system is as strong as possbile before you undergo surgery. Be sure you are eating mostly all whole foods: fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.
We've talked before (a long time ago) so this may be old news, and if so I do apologize. I know of an additional way to support your immune system with a whole food fruit and vegetable juice concentrate. It's a good way to add a little nutritional intensity to your diet. Independent research shows an increase in blood levels of a particular white blood cell that aids in wound repair. My husband broke his hand and collar bone in a biking accident and both of his doctors commented on how quickly he healed. Give me a call if you'd like to know more.
I wish you the best of luck. It seems to me that having the surgery is the better option, based on what you share in your request.
In health, Diane
I have not had it done but I have had 2 c-sections and I would love to have one done. I say go for it, perhaps pray about it. I know my stomach is different than what it used to be. I am also a Christian momma.
Hi! It's good to hear another Christian Momma that wants a tummy tuck. I too want to undergo that procedure some day. I needed one after my first kid and it only got worse with each one. (I'm currently pregnant with our fourth - and last).
I did have a consultation from a plastic surgeon after my 2nd child and I didn't go through with it because we decided we may want more children. He said it is best to wait until we're done having kids (for obvious reasons). Anyway, I do know that tubes may have to be placed for drainage and you have to go back in to be checked to make sure there isn't any infection. It is also uncomfortable to stand up straight (I think mostly because of fear that you'll tear or something) but that it's important to stand up straight anyway. I believe the overall healing process is long, but to me it's worth it if you work and can take the time. The cost is a LOT though...this surgeon charged $7,000 and I received that quote 5 years ago! The most important thing is to make sure you go to a good, and reputable surgeon. Don't go to just anyone in order to cut costs or anything like that. I have had other procedures and a good surgeon makes all the difference!