Tummy Tucks... was it worth it?
Replies
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I have not had one yet, but I plan on it once I reach my goal. I have a bunch of loose skin & an "apron". My sister lost a lot of weight--about 150 lbs. & she had surgery to get rid of her extra skin--full body lift (so the scar runs all around her torso), upper arms to get rid of the bat wings, & breast lift & reduction. She looks sooo great. It took her a couple of weeks to recover. She only needed someone to stay with her for 1 week to help out. She only took Tylenol for the pain. I think the drains were the worst part for her--she had so many of them since she did everything at once. She says it was definitely worth it & would do it again.
Wow! That is a lot of surgery. Was it all done at the same time? Did insurance cover it? If not (do you mind my asking?) how much did it cost? In fact--for you others who have had or are contemplating a tummy tuck--did/does your insurance cover it and what is the approx cost (I know cost will vary)
She did have it all done at the same time so she wouldn't have to pay hospital/anesthesia costs again for another surgery. Insurance did not pay for any of it---not even the breast reduction which is ridiculous since it was totally necessary to reduce the load on her back. I don't know how much it ended up costing her. I feel like it was somewhere around $20K, but I'm not sure. My parents ended up helping her with the cost.0 -
I always have concerns about people subjecting themselves to any surgery that is not absolutely necessary. Especially these days when hospital infection rates are up and bacteria are becoming antibiotic resistant.
I don't think people realize how dangerous anesthesia itself it, either. Sure, lots of people have surgery and everything is fine and I am not suggesting for one minute that you avoid a surgery that is necessary for your health and well being. I am, however, suggesting you reconsider something done for vanity, especially if you have not exhausted all other possible options.
Surgery always carries risks, some major. Ask yourself if you are willing to put your life in jeopardy for the sake of some loose skin.
ya damn skippy I am!! in MY case, I have a massive pannis area... its not just about being vain ( though that is probably 75% of the reason)...its about not having skin infections and rashes causes by excessive skin...0 -
I had a tummy tuck and lipo on hips 8 days ago! I had to save a long time - and it was expensive. Here is my story so far... First off, I am 50 yrs young! In excellent health and finally at my ideal weight. I have been around my ideal weight for about 3 years (fluctuating occasionally -ESP after vacations!). I have had 2 c-sections in the past which left me with excess belly skin and this roll of skin hanging over my scar like a shelf. So, 8 days ago I finally did it! I was scared to death...and excited all at the same time. Surgery at 7am...home by noon. Up and walking around within a few hours. Now granted, I was pretty doped up. Lol. Here is what I will say. I'm 8 days in and feeling very impatient. I still have the drainage tubes in my belly (unexpected) which are making me crazy. I feel pretty good. Would love to get the heck outta this house more but feel confined bc of the drains/tubes. Hopefully they come out tomorrow. I only took my meds for the first 4 days. With one exception. I hated the way they made me feel but needed them for pain. The one exception was a sneezing spell I had day 6. I nearly passed out. Sneezing, coughing. BAD. I have to say that physically I've done very well. I was up and walking a lot the next day. Day 3 included lunch out and a short trip to target. Etc etc. My biggest obstacle is the fact that I can't really stand up fully straight ( slightly hunched) and the drains. Doc says the standing straight will get better every day as the muscles and skin relax and swelling goes down. Ahhh. The swelling. My tummy looks great. There is some slight swelling but not too bad. My sides are sore and my back is sore and the most swollen from the lipo. It was expected. But still annoying. I want to be well NOW! Lol. I had to sleep in the recliner the first 3 nights. Was just easier and most comfortable. The action of sitting and standing is still slightly painful but better every day. I have before, day 3, and day 7 pics if anyone wants to see them. And will keep anyone who is interested, posted on my progress. Like I said, my biggest problem is impatience! I'm an active girl and ready to be well and on to the next thing! Friend me and let me know if you want to see progress pics and or updates! Will answer any questions if I can! Cindy0
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I have just started reading your post and the replies and don't understand why you were/are so defensive at some helpful replies? I did not read anyone lecturing your or belittling your amazing intelligence or education. Why so negative to perfect strangers?
Agreed. I was thinking the same thing.
Totally in with you two. Honestly makes me think negative things about the OP, because being that way was so very uncalled for. Someone was trying to be /helpful/ and make sure they were looking at all sides of it.0 -
Thanks to all who answered this question. So helpful and informative.0
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I am 39, had three every 2-3 years and my stomach was not in great shape. Muscles were loose, I had a pretty severe hernia after my first (9 pounds, 6 ounces), could not safely do situps for years because of repeat relaxation of those muscles and the risk of it protruding. After my pregnancies, I started bicycling, the weight fell off. I still had a slight stomach, a bit of overhang from excess skin, but I was down to probably 15% BF. At 39, my stomach does look better than it ever has, though I'm a bigger size. Things have adjusted more or less back into place and I'm working for a six pack. Whether I'll get it or not, I do not know. I have a two pack so far. But, I did have a three inch overhang at Christmas, and now, it's about 1/2". Time does heal a lot. And until then, thank God for tankinis and wide band slacks. LOL It does take time. If I had a lot of excess skin, I'd have some hard thinking to do.0
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I had a tummy tuck 2 months ago and I love love love the results. I am excited to improve my figure more by exercising. I feel confident in all my clothes and love being naked. I could never say that before, even when I was thin. I can wear anything I want. Regarding the scar... my husband is the only one who sees me naked and I can tell you that he is not looking at my scar, but my new body. all my undies and bathing suit cover my scar and it really isn't that bad. SOOOO WORTH IT!
Just my 2 cents.0 -
Bump.
I'm planning on getting one when I get to me goal weight. I'm a mom of twins and I can't stand looking at my stomach.0 -
I have an initial consult scheduled for Sept 16th with a very good plastic surgeon here in town to discuss fixing my stomach and giving me back my boobs that went missing at the same time.
I can let you know what this doc has to say to me if anyone wants.0 -
I have an initial consult scheduled for Sept 16th with a very good plastic surgeon here in town to discuss fixing my stomach and giving me back my boobs that went missing at the same time.
I can let you know what this doc has to say to me if anyone wants.
I'd be interested in what he has to say. I know that the cost would be different depending on each person's situation, but I'd still like to know.0 -
I am hoping to get one next Spring!!!0
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Just got home from my consult.
It was an experience. a very good one.
I found out I am an excellent candidate for it, weight, height, age and musculature. Was told that mine would mostly involve skin removal. suture of the muscle only enough needed to reattach skin and belly button. In other words my muscles would not have to be messed with, more or less only the skin. No Lipo needed either. Typically the doc told me there are between 2-6 drains inserted, with mine only 2 would be needed.
due to all of that my down away from work time would be 2 weeks.
My existing C-section scar would be incorporated into it as well, so no new scars, just a longer version of the one there currently.
He said typically he advises people to be 10 pounds lighter than they prefer for surgery, but was told with my bone structure, which all got tape measured, that it was not something I needed to do.
I also had a consult for breast augmentation as well, there would be a discount for the 2 together.
But if I had them done individually
stomach: $8000
Breast: $4500
together: $10,380
but no separate recovery for each, just 2 weeks to go back to work on light duty after both.
Was told push-ups and bench presses are NOT advised for a full year for optimal results on just the stomach surgery, and that depending on the type of placement for the breast augmentation, they are never advised due to capsular contraction and that it can if breast mass has decreased, like with dramatic weight loss, cause severe hardening of the breast and rippling. the horror pics shown were enough to convince me he wasn't kidding around on that.
Was told I needed to maintain my weight as is for another 4 months before he would even consider booking me for a surgery for either procedure. I have been the same weight as now since roughly February.
He also advised to track my menstrual cycles and plan the surgery to coincide with it ending and allow recovery before it starts again.
all things considered, he was a very through doctor, easy in personality and inspired confidence.
Price is something me and the hubs must talk about and me to continue to think about in addition to the surgery risks itself.0 -
I always have concerns about people subjecting themselves to any surgery that is not absolutely necessary. Especially these days when hospital infection rates are up and bacteria are becoming antibiotic resistant.
I don't think people realize how dangerous anesthesia itself it, either. Sure, lots of people have surgery and everything is fine and I am not suggesting for one minute that you avoid a surgery that is necessary for your health and well being. I am, however, suggesting you reconsider something done for vanity, especially if you have not exhausted all other possible options.
Surgery always carries risks, some major. Ask yourself if you are willing to put your life in jeopardy for the sake of some loose skin.
Sometimes it has less to do with vanity and more to do with necessity. I lost over 300 lbs. And had a massive amount of loose skin and was constantly getting infections and it hindered all aspects of my life. So September 24th last year I under went circumferential body lift surgery and had 17 lbs. of loose skin removed and had my abdominal muscles cinched in 6 1/2 inches.... it cost me 15 grand and was worth every single cent.... I would do it all again tomorrow... I made a website that followed me through the surgery and will be adding my 1 year photos and video and reflection in the coming weeks... www.gettingfit4life.com0 -
I am a nurse ... so with that being said I am fully aware of the risks.
whether you are a nurse or not, I'm sure you know the risks. If one woman knows the risk, all women know the risk. but you wanted to hear from those who had done it or considered it. I tell you, if I could afford one, I'd have been right on it. I've only had one surgery and it left me looking like a monster. Doctor did not give me the opportunity to get tucked, he just told me to exercise. 15 years of exercise later I'm still gross.0 -
Yes, I have had one...mine was a "tummy tuck - breast reconstruction" following breast cancer and mastectomy. It is MAJOR surgery. Always weigh the risk with the "perceived" benefits. My body literally looks like a road map. You are much younger than me, but I can assure you I did not plan to have a C-Section, Partial Hysterectomy, Mastectomy, Reconstructive Tummy Tuck, Gall Bladder Surgery and others. Life is what it is...and I have gained LOTS of weight (much of it due to medications for illnesses that I never planned to face). Learn to love your body. If you don't all the surgery in the world will never be enough. You never know what is ahead...and I wish I had spent all of the surgery recovery time enjoying my life instead of fighting my way back to health. That being said, it is YOUR choice...only yours...0
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I always have concerns about people subjecting themselves to any surgery that is not absolutely necessary. Especially these days when hospital infection rates are up and bacteria are becoming antibiotic resistant.
I don't think people realize how dangerous anesthesia itself it, either. Sure, lots of people have surgery and everything is fine and I am not suggesting for one minute that you avoid a surgery that is necessary for your health and well being. I am, however, suggesting you reconsider something done for vanity, especially if you have not exhausted all other possible options.
Surgery always carries risks, some major. Ask yourself if you are willing to put your life in jeopardy for the sake of some loose skin.
Sometimes it has less to do with vanity and more to do with necessity. I lost over 300 lbs. And had a massive amount of loose skin and was constantly getting infections and it hindered all aspects of my life. So September 24th last year I under went circumferential body lift surgery and had 17 lbs. of loose skin removed and had my abdominal muscles cinched in 6 1/2 inches.... it cost me 15 grand and was worth every single cent.... I would do it all again tomorrow... I made a website that followed me through the surgery and will be adding my 1 year photos and video and reflection in the coming weeks... www.gettingfit4life.com
Good for you. And I'm sure you were as well educated as anyone telling you the "risks".0 -
Just got home from my consult.
It was an experience. a very good one.
I found out I am an excellent candidate for it, weight, height, age and musculature. Was told that mine would mostly involve skin removal. suture of the muscle only enough needed to reattach skin and belly button. In other words my muscles would not have to be messed with, more or less only the skin. No Lipo needed either. Typically the doc told me there are between 2-6 drains inserted, with mine only 2 would be needed.
due to all of that my down away from work time would be 2 weeks.
My existing C-section scar would be incorporated into it as well, so no new scars, just a longer version of the one there currently.
He said typically he advises people to be 10 pounds lighter than they prefer for surgery, but was told with my bone structure, which all got tape measured, that it was not something I needed to do.
I also had a consult for breast augmentation as well, there would be a discount for the 2 together.
But if I had them done individually
stomach: $8000
Breast: $4500
together: $10,380
but no separate recovery for each, just 2 weeks to go back to work on light duty after both.
Was told push-ups and bench presses are NOT advised for a full year for optimal results on just the stomach surgery, and that depending on the type of placement for the breast augmentation, they are never advised due to capsular contraction and that it can if breast mass has decreased, like with dramatic weight loss, cause severe hardening of the breast and rippling. the horror pics shown were enough to convince me he wasn't kidding around on that.
Was told I needed to maintain my weight as is for another 4 months before he would even consider booking me for a surgery for either procedure. I have been the same weight as now since roughly February.
He also advised to track my menstrual cycles and plan the surgery to coincide with it ending and allow recovery before it starts again.
all things considered, he was a very through doctor, easy in personality and inspired confidence.
Price is something me and the hubs must talk about and me to continue to think about in addition to the surgery risks itself.
Good luck to you, and happiness whatever your decision0 -
I certainly hope so...11 pounds until I book my consult!
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http://funeralformyfat.tumblr.com/tagged/tummytuck
This is a really informative/interesting account from a person only a few weeks post-op, with lots of photos.
I'd cheerfully kick a puppy to look like her Before....they would need to take 5 to 8 pounds of skin off my abdomen. Watching this thread closely OP.0 -
I have just started reading your post and the replies and don't understand why you were/are so defensive at some helpful replies? I did not read anyone lecturing your or belittling your amazing intelligence or education. Why so negative to perfect strangers?
Agreed. I was thinking the same thing.
^^^ I'm sorry, but when you put something out on a general forum on MFP, you're going to get some responses you may not like. That being said,, the only thing I would add is to make sure you're at goal and have the eating/exercise as a regular part of your life before undergoing surgery. I've seen A LOT of people develop addictions to painkillers as the result of cosmetic surgery, as I'm sure you've seen in your profession. You don't wanna go through the pain, narcotics, infection risks, complication risks, etc etc just to be right back where you started in 10 years.
No, I haven't had a tummy tuck and at this point I will deal with the extra skin on my legs rather than risk surgery, but that's ME. I am, however, somebody who has kept her 70lbs off for over 20 years and working out is just as part of my day as brushing my teeth.0 -
My mom had 4 kids ( in 5 years!) and was at least my weight when we were young. now she is a super fox. with just hard work. i saw her try on a bikini for her last vacation and I swear I hope her genes are on my side. no surgery or anything. I would like to take the same route she did. there is hope for the future 0
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I am scheduled for my tummy tuck on Wed morning! I lost 70lbs 8 years ago, and I have kept it off. I have had 3 C sections. The first 23 yrs ago, and the last 2 most recently- 4yrs ago and 14 months ago. My last baby being just under 9lbs left me with a good size split between my muscles (Diastasis Recti) Diet and exercise will not fix that nor will it get rid of loose sagging skin.
Some people have better skin than others, But I'm not one of them. So this is the best choice for me. I have done my work, I eat right and workout and I have maintained a healthy weight for the past 8 years even after 2 more pregnancies. I deserve to be happy with how I look!
I would be happy to share my upcoming experience with you ! Sending a friend request now .0 -
I haven't had one, but I definitely hope to eventually. I would take a scar (and the pain/risk) over hanging skin any day.0
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I am scheduled for my tummy tuck on Wed morning! I lost 70lbs 8 years ago, and I have kept it off. I have had 3 C sections. The first 23 yrs ago, and the last 2 most recently- 4yrs ago and 14 months ago. My last baby being just under 9lbs left me with a good size split between my muscles (Diastasis Recti) Diet and exercise will not fix that nor will it get rid of loose sagging skin.
Some people have better skin than others, But I'm not one of them. So this is the best choice for me. I have done my work, I eat right and workout and I have maintained a healthy weight for the past 8 years even after 2 more pregnancies. I deserve to be happy with how I look!
I would be happy to share my upcoming experience with you ! Sending a friend request now .
Good luck. I dare say you probably won't feel too sore. My 2nd c-section had very little pain and I've heard tummy tucks are nothing compared to a section. I hope all goes well for you.
edited to add: after my 1st section i can barely feel anything in my lower abdomenal area from the surgery that is why the 2nd one was easier heal time.0 -
Thanks everyone for the replies to the OP.
I am having one done on December 19 and although I realize the risks involved, I know it will change my life.
I got up to 280lbs in 2005 when I was pregnant with twins, and I am now down in the 160's and my stomach is shot.
I am taking 2 weeks off work (had to use holidays to get this done) and I am hoping it is enough. I have 2 friends who have had them and they think this is realistic time. Both said the first week sucked but it got better after that.
My surgeon told me I will have a drain for 1-2 weeks, I will stay overnight after the procedure (some here do a day surgery), and that I will have to wear an undergarment for 2 months -- also can't do much more than walk in this time frame.
I also realize it is not for weight loss and my surgeon won't operate on you if he doesn't think your weight is decent at the time. So I feel good about that. He said 'sure you can lose more weight, but you weight now is ok for the procedure' Unfortunately summer found me 10 lbs so working hard to get that off.
Anyways once I have had it done I will post before/after pics.
good luck
eta: I have the separated ab muscles too, so those will be sewn back together... no amount of gym time will correct that or an apron. Some people just need to opt for it.0 -
Bump0
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I read somewhere that some insurance companies would even pay for all or part of a surgery if the person had lost the weight and kept if off for at least one year.0
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I always have concerns about people subjecting themselves to any surgery that is not absolutely necessary. Especially these days when hospital infection rates are up and bacteria are becoming antibiotic resistant.
I don't think people realize how dangerous anesthesia itself it, either. Sure, lots of people have surgery and everything is fine and I am not suggesting for one minute that you avoid a surgery that is necessary for your health and well being. I am, however, suggesting you reconsider something done for vanity, especially if you have not exhausted all other possible options.
Surgery always carries risks, some major. Ask yourself if you are willing to put your life in jeopardy for the sake of some loose skin.
Its not just some "loose skin" .. if someone has enough of a low hanging stomach, that can cause severe rashes, and messed up skin underneath it.. getting rid of that can be for health reasons, not just so they can look prettier. That apron of skin can also interfere with walking and everyday movements.0 -
I just had a Tummy Tuck after a loss of 111 lbs. Like yours, it was mostly skin, with a little muscle damage from two pregnancies. It has only been 3 days, I can't do pics yet. I had been around 100 lbs overweight for most of my adult life, and although some skin looks better after the loss and life changes, the "apron" (the hanging lower stomach) deflating only made me want to gain weight back because it looked better before it looked like a balloon that had been blown up and deflated over and over again.I plan on putting together a photo spread of the last 4 years of my journey, which will not be completely over until January after Brachioplasty (arm lift). Good luck to you. Find an excellent surgeon, get lots of references.0
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Hello everyone. I had a full tummy tuck and breast lift on October 4th after a 116 lb weight loss and even though the past two weeks have been hell, I do not regret it one bit. I also have yet to meet anyone in my life that hasn't been 100% supportive so I am very disappointed to see that here. Anyway, since it is still very early in the recovery process, I have yet to see my flat stomach (although I know she's hiding there under the swelling waiting for me to get back to the gym).
After losing the weight about 6 years ago, I have been yo-yo dieting solely because I would lose motivation when I looked in the mirror and saw disgusting loose skin. So to me the surgery WAS medically necessary FOR ME because yo-yo dieting isn't a healthy lifestyle.
My question for the people who have had it done: During your recovery process, how did you stay motivated to stay on track given the fact that you couldn't exercise? It is killing me to sit around and be lazy because that was the OLD me and there is absolutely no going back now. Any advice from people who have been in my shoes would be greatly appreciated.0
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