nip/tuck episode 2…

I talked to my plastic surgeon’s office and he wants to schedule a consultation when I reach 210 lbs (9 lbs away!). At that time, we’ll decide whether I’ll have a standard abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or lower body lift:

Abdominoplasty (Avg. $4200, 2-4 weeks recovery)

Abdominoplasty (also known as a “Tummy Tuck”) is designed to flatten and smooth the abdomen. This procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and may also tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The result is a flatter, tighter tummy profile.Women with a stretched lower abdomen as a result of pregnancy can benefit considerably from abdominoplasty. It is recommended that they complete their child bearing before having this operation to prevent a recurrence of the stretched appearance.This operation is extraordinarily helpful to people who have lost an excessive amount of weight, such as after a gastric bypass operation. People whose skin has lost some elasticity and are slightly overweight can experience an improvement in their abdominal contour as well.

If you are in generally good physical shape but are concerned about abdominal fat deposits or loose skin that does not respond to diet and exercise, the procedure can potentially reduce or even eliminate a protruding abdomen.

Lower Body Lift (Avg: $6500, 4-6 weeks recovery)

Many people who have lost an excessive amount of weight elect to have a lower body lift. This procedure combines an abdominoplasty with a thigh and buttock lift. The result is a completely rejuvenated torso, thighs, and buttock area. It is the surgical equivalent of lifting your pants up from your hips to your waist. When the excess tissue of the back is removed as well as the abdominal panniculus, the skin of the lower body is lifted from its sagging position. This procedure is somewhat more extensive than the abdominoplasty alone, but leads to a dramatic improvement of the hips, buttocks and outer thighs.

I originally felt lower body lift was the best choice, but now I’m not so sure. Excess skin is only a major issue in my abdomen. Everything else is firming up nicely, so I may pass on the more complicated procedure. We’ll see what Dr. Liland thinks….but ultimately this is my decision. People have asked me how I feel about having a scar…my thought? I’d rather have a long scar than have to deal with tucking my excess skin into my jeans at goal weight. Besides, I can always wear a wide belt to cover it…24/7. LOL Remember Units from the 80s?

A group picture from the party…

My little brother and I making fat cheeks look good. Kyle is actually holding the camera, so please excuse the extreme close-up. LOL

Hope you all have a wonderful holiday!

-C