tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86857330516829057782024-03-13T07:51:56.609-04:00Abdom UpdatesUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-4611232543352880532021-03-04T13:36:00.007-05:002021-03-04T13:45:20.502-05:005 Years Later<p>5 years later, and I'm still very thankful for this procedure!<br /></p><p>2020 pandemic pounds added 5lbs to my typical weight, so I'm back to my 180-185 range.</p><p>I now perform regularly with several local bands, including a swing band in Northern Virginia. This Summer we got to perform beneath the wing of The Sentimental Journey - a B-52 Bomber! I felt like Betty Grable.<br /></p><p> </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMC1prA82vM/YEEp6y0r8eI/AAAAAAABi2Q/OnXywvCQANIqbWtA2tI0EsjWhkBovXn9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Face%2BOut%2B-%2BPin%2BUp.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMC1prA82vM/YEEp6y0r8eI/AAAAAAABi2Q/OnXywvCQANIqbWtA2tI0EsjWhkBovXn9gCLcBGAsYHQ/w426-h640/Face%2BOut%2B-%2BPin%2BUp.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Beth Miller-Herholtz</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fpg92u1ZpMY/YEEp4NOigrI/AAAAAAABi2M/1CkvCIbccq0TML0tjLXaxA70oIUFpW8AACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Face%2BOut%2B-%2BVeterans%2BDay.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fpg92u1ZpMY/YEEp4NOigrI/AAAAAAABi2M/1CkvCIbccq0TML0tjLXaxA70oIUFpW8AACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/Face%2BOut%2B-%2BVeterans%2BDay.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-76405048913850179742018-11-13T12:24:00.001-05:002018-11-13T12:53:14.656-05:003 years later: Comparison Photo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello friends!<br />
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I'm now nearly 3 years post-op and exactly 1 year since my last post. I miss my dad terribly. I've managed to stay between 180 and 185 for a majority of 2018. In August, I was cast in a role that gave me the kick I needed to get back to my post-op goals. <br />
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I had the great honor of playing Dolly Parton and used it as an opportunity to change my hair and eating habits. I lost 15lbs in 3 months by increasing my protein and vegetables while decreasing dairy and carbs and eliminating alcohol. My brother has been on Atkins for years and has been very successful at losing weight. I think we have similar metabolism because my body responds very well when I make a similar adjustment to my eating habits.<br />
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The experience of this show was incredibly cathartic. My character has a loving marriage, but she experiences sexual assault and isolation in her workplace. She stands up for herself and overcomes challenges, all while singing great songs written by Dolly Parton. My cast mates were phenomenal and our crew was spectacular. Theatre has been and always will be the greatest outlet for my creativity and energy - and I'm very lucky to have the opportunities to do so. <br /><br />My Act 1 costume is the same pink wrap dress I wore in my before photos. By the end of the run, it was tied as tightly as I could make it, and it was still too large. This comparison really shows how my chest and stomach are now significantly smaller, but my hips have stayed the same. (I never want to lose my hips or butt!) <br />
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It's been a month since our opening night and I've managed to maintain this weight with my adjusted eating habits. I feel great, I look great, and I am still so thankful I had my procedures!<br />
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Bonus photo: Here I am as Dolly, with Dolly, and beveling my feet while sucking in my stomach as hard as I can. It's all about the angles, kid.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-81246916215114958622017-11-13T10:26:00.003-05:002018-11-19T14:08:29.267-05:00One year post-op<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>Hi friends.</i><br />
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<i>I meant to post this after my one year appointment. Now it's been nearly 2 years.</i><br />
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<i>My dad died on December 15, 2016. It was a fatal heart attack that took his life in mere moments. He was in Washington D.C. during a meeting. He wasn't in pain very long and we're thankful he wasn't driving or with his grandkids when it happened. Nonetheless, our lives have been turned upside down.</i><br />
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One Year Post-Op:<br />
The morning of the appointment, I was giddy with excitement that I could show the doctor that I wasn't the Fatty McFatterson I was at my last appointment. I stripped down, put on the paper underwear, and got on the scale - I weighed 173lbs! The doctor came in and didn't believe the scale was correct, so he weighed me again. He then talked about how we can have another procedure to take care of my thighs - no thanks, doc. The nurse took additional photos and I signed a waiver so they could use my photos online. (I haven't seen them posted.)<br />
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Life After Post-Op:<br />
I was looking forward to wearing a new dress for Christmas parties and such. With my dad dying a few days after the appointment, I switched to survival mode. I drank, ate, and cussed more - all of which were very helpful. My Christmas dress didn't fit so I wore a snarky sweater instead. Life was mute. I did what I had to do to get through each day. <br />
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In January after his funeral, I started eating better again. My weight continues to fluctuate between 175 and 180 and I'm okay with that. The most important thing is that I feel great about myself and my body.<br />
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And as an added bonus, here I am as Elastigirl for Halloween 2017 while weighing 178lbs and wearing a size 12:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Big thighs. Big hair. High angles.</span></td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-36520679531140229212016-09-21T09:20:00.001-04:002021-03-07T20:56:49.744-05:00Weight Gain and Loss<p>My lack in posting was not because I forgot I had a blog - it's because I was embarrassed.<br />
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On June 13, I had a 6 month post-op appointment. The moment my doctor looked at me, he asked the nurse to bring a scale into the room. I stepped up and the numbers said 184. He looked on his iPad to see what my pre-op weight was; it was 177. <br />
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<b>I was 10+ pounds over what I should have weighed.</b><br />
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Doc said something to the effect of, "Well, we can wait until your 1 year post-op to start talking about what other areas we can sculpt or if you need me to go back in again and get rid of some of the new fat." I don't remember the exact words because all I really heard was, "Why did you ruin my masterpiece?"<br />
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Within a week, I bought a treadmill from a friend so I could run everyday and get my rear in gear. And I did - I ran everyday for 2 weeks and I felt better and tighter. I didn't see a difference in weight but I loved how I felt. <i>Then July happened.</i> July in Virginia is the worst month to do anything outside. (Note: our treadmill lives in the garage because it wouldn't fit in our basement so I'm basically running stationary with the 4th wall removed to provide some ventilation.) I decided that since I couldn't exercise as often, I should concentrate on eating better. <br />
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In July and August, I started eating healthier foods and drinking meal replacement smoothies. I lost 2 pounds and celebrated with pizza, which made me gain it back immediately. It was frustrating and disheartening that all of my work was so quickly un-done by one meal. Nothing was "sticking". Finally in September, I decided to give up bread, excess sugar, and dairy on a quasi LCHF (Low Carb High Fat) plat. My goal is to get to 175 before my 1 year post-op. <br />
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Friends, it's this part in the story that makes me most happy and mad at the same time. When I gave up bread, excess sugar, and dairy, <b>I lost 8 pounds in a month. </b>I did minimal exercise. I did no diet plan. (I was mad because I didn't do this sooner!) The best part is that this is something I can keep up with intentional grocery shopping and strategic restaurant selections. <br />
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The biggest positive effect of cutting out bread, excess sugar, and dairy is that my moods have stabilized at a positive level. My family has a strong history of mental illness (depression, anxiety, self harm, bipolar disorder, and suicidal behavior). I've been on medication previously and it keeps me stabilized as a zombie instead of a fully functioning member of society. In these 3 weeks, my family and I have seen a noticeable difference in my moods and temperament. My brain is less foggy and I can pause before reacting to something that goes awry. </p><p><br />
So on this glorious 21st of September, I am officially 176 lbs. <br />
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Now onto a comparison photo!<br />
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This picture gives the best representation of a "before and after" thus far. I used to hide behind my kids so people could see the beautiful reasons for my fluff. In my 2015 picture, I was wearing 2 pairs of spanx and 2 bras to look as tiny as possible for our friend's wedding. In my 2016 picture, I didn't have to wear spanx or a control top. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-2330215070066431262016-03-31T14:16:00.002-04:002016-12-14T10:55:51.095-05:00Normal Pants Dance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Friends, I completely forgot I was keeping a blog about my surgery. Duties have taken over since returning to work and I'm no longer consumed by the day to day maintenance of post-op life! Yay! <br />
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Since my last update, I no longer need to wear compression garments for my abdomen. I sometimes wear my initial post-op bras but they're either stretched out or too large for my slowly deflating bosom. <br />
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But hey, guess what? I can wear normal pants now!! For the first time in 5 years, I can wear pants with a zipper fly that aren't 95% spandex. I recently bought a pair of size 10 jeans from Target and a pair of size 12 red dress pants from NY&Co. My flat stomach means my hips and thighs are now the stars of the show. Shopping for pants requires a great deal of trial and error. I'll continue to shrink little by little as my exercise routine kicks into high gear. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-69758487929187451262016-02-01T14:17:00.000-05:002016-09-21T11:40:16.961-04:00Not Weight Loss SurgeryThe need for this post is an unfortunate reality.<br />
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With the sudden change in my physical appearance, many have asked if I had weight loss surgery. I did have two major procedures: Abdominoplasty and a Mammoplasty. Neither of these procedures were intended to aid in my weight loss, although they did remove pounds from my overall weight. <br />
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I did not have gastric bypass surgery.<br />
I did not have intestinal surgery. <br />
I did not have major liposuction, although it was used in two small areas.<br />
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It looks like I lost 20 pounds but the reality is that I currently weigh about the same as I did prior to the procedure. They removed 7 pounds of skin and adipose. I still have a great deal of swelling while I continue to heal. My overall weight is an ineffective method of measurement when it comes to this procedure. It's more accurate to use inches or overall dress size to measure differences in my body. I went from a Large/X-Large to a Medium in my torso and my pant size remains a Large.<br />
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I did not put my body through 2 major surgeries in order to lose weight - I did it so I could prolong and improve the overall quality of my life. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-59294784397637308072016-01-13T09:24:00.005-05:002016-03-31T14:19:24.684-04:00Eating For HealingThis surgery has unveiled a body that was hiding under pounds of
skin. I'm not going to throw away this opportunity to have my healthy
life back! <br />
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I am the smallest in a "large"
family with a history of obesity and heart disease. Growing up, it was constantly on
my mind that I could balloon at any minute. As a result, I trained myself to portion control and avoid extra things like salad dressing, condiments, and cheese sprinkled on top of anything. I now have a relationship with food that can be defined as "necessary". I know I need food to survive and I usually enjoy eating it. But often I eat because I know I <i>should </i>rather than eating because I <i>want </i>to. If I'm stressed or on an adrenaline kick, I forget to eat. However if I'm bored and looking for something to do, I'll snack on something salty and retain water. When I gain weight it's because I eat the wrong foods, not because I eat too much of it. <br />
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My definition of good food is somewhat limited. I enjoy food that is equal parts good looking, good tasting, and with limited texture. I eat strawberries sliced in half so my tongue doesn't touch the seeds. I peel off fatty tissue from meat. I eat pizza sideways so I can have equal parts crust and non crust in every bite. My hot dogs have ketchup and only ketchup (unless there's chili in which case there should be only chili.) I'd rather have a slice of fresh baked, buttered sourdough bread than a cupcake. And I don't like cold shredded cheese on top of a hot meal. Ever. <br />
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After surgery, I now need more protein to help rebuild tissue. This means more food that I didn't like eating in the first place. <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/measuring-your-macros-what-30-grams-protein-looks-like.html">These are the types of food</a> most people think of when they hear "high protein diet." Instead of constantly eating meat, low-fat dairy, and eggs, I'm drinking something called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002GU6W54?psc=1&">New Whey Liquid Protein</a>. Each 3.8 ounce tube has 42 grams of protein. New Whey comes in a variety of super sweet flavors to hide the fact that it tastes awful. I usually chug the tube then drink a cold glass of water to wash out the taste. Low calorie, low sugar, and a ton of protein. It was especially wonderful when I had no appetite in the week after my surgery.<br />
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There are also protein powders and protein shakes on the market. I personally don't like all of the added sugars or dairy products. I'd rather swig a protein tube than sip leasurely on a chocolate banana flavored frozen ingredients that's pretending to be ice cream. <br />
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And can we discuss beef jerkey? It's portable, enjoyable at any temperature, and delicious. (Just remember you need to refrigerate it after opening and that it only lasts a few days.) I tend to buy the natural beef jerky because of the lower sodium content. The girls also love eating it.<br />
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Not only am I increasing my protein but I'm also keeping an eye on my iron levels. I tend to be anemic at least 12 times a year. Combatting low levels of iron with protein and iron-rich foods helps minimize my crankiness and exhaustion during those times. I also combine iron with Vitamin C so it will absorb more effectively. (Protip: Don't consume iron with dairy. The dairy prevents the iron from fully absorbing.)<br />
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So the moral of the story is that when you're heaing, protein protein protein. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-2317646152383702902015-12-28T09:57:00.001-05:002016-01-11T09:19:32.174-05:00Hosting Christmases<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We hosted two Christmases a week after my surgery and I'm still in one peice. </div>
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On Christmas Day, 8 days after my procedure, my in-laws came and brought a bountiful feast of food, presents, and love. The girls were thrilled to have 10 other people to bounce off of besides their exhausted parents. I sat for a majority of the day while directing people on where to find spoons, pots, towels, and other random items in our house. It was great.</div>
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The next day, 9 days after my procedure, my parents and my fake aunt and uncle brought the gift of food, presents, and love and the girls were once again thrilled to have 8 other people to bounce off of besides their exhausted parents. I sat a little more and didn't need to direct traffic because my mom knows where everything is. It was great. </div>
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The next day, 10 days after my procedure, I sat for nearly the entire day while the family enjoyed a harvest of leftovers and shiny new toys. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nice top paired with yoga pants - a post-surgery staple. </td></tr>
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Hosting 2 celebrations while recovering was a great decision. Our families stepped right up and helped in any way they could. They even cleaned up after themselves which left the house in a better state than when they first arrived. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-78353313532938032632015-12-27T07:35:00.004-05:002016-01-11T09:21:43.501-05:00New ClothesEach new day comes with a little more comfort, a little less swelling, and a lot more gratitude.<br />
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Yesterday I went through my closet and tried on my favorite dresses. To my relief, 85% of them still fit after my surgery. I'm also now able to bring back some of my favorites that I wore before I was pregnant. Although my circumference shifted, my waist and hips didn't change so even some of the form fitting dresses can still work on my new body. I'll need to buy some actual pants at some point. For now,
I'm going to master the "dress, leggings, and boots" look for as long
as possible.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-82459215699410573962015-12-25T11:17:00.000-05:002015-12-28T09:57:24.952-05:00Merry Christmas and a Happy New YearReflecting on 2015 and all of the blessings we've experienced brings a rush of gratitude to my heart. I turned 30 in February. My sweet girls turned 4 and 2. We paid off all of our school loans - which is an amazing accomplishment for my generation. That financial freedom allowed us to start this chapter of repairing and improving my body so I can improve my health.<br />
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2015 was also the year I lost my grandfather. He had several ailments including Lewy Body Dementia. It only took a year for his mind and health to deteriorate. He had the strength of an ox to the very end. My grandmother lost her husband of 53 years. She's currently in a care facility as she battles several ailments herself. Time is precious. Health is precious. They've taught me so much by example and I proudly carry their legacy through my children and traditions.<br />
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Here's to another year of gratitude.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-70591738430791807372015-12-24T19:56:00.000-05:002016-01-04T10:57:18.610-05:00Pain - Oxycodone > TylenolI was prescribed oxycodone for my pain and it worked really well. A little too well perhaps. I was high as a kite and was sleeping whenever I wasn't resting. However, my Rx only lasted 3 days at the rate I was told to take it. I then transitioned to Tylenol Extra Strength. The transition sucked.<br />
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For 2 days, I felt horrible and was horrible to be around. I was cranky, crying, confused, and just wanted to curl up into a ball if I had the ability to do so with the freaking drains in my body. I reached my breaking point and asked Jonathan to call my doctor because I was in tears. I was able to get a new prescription for Oxycodone but it had to be picked up in person because it's a powerful pain killer that is often abused or sold illegally.<br />
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My incredibly wonderful fantastic husband drove all the way to a giant parking garage 45 minutes away, walked into the office for a tiny piece of paper, went back to his car and drove back 45 minutes to a CVS, then we got it filled on the way to pick up the girls. While he went, my mom came over and we watched several episodes of Veep and I tried my best to relax my 4 day old stitches using only Tylenol and ice water. I'm blessed to have great people in my life.<br />
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I resumed taking Oxycodone once every 5 hours as opposed to two every 4 hours as I was initially instructed. That dosage lasted for a week and it was great. I was able to relax and let myself heal. (This was also perfectly timed with us hosting two Christmases!!)<br />
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I'm now back on Tylenol and the transition was MUCH easier. I take 1,000 mg of Tylenol every 6-7 hours and it's just what I need.<br />
<br />
Drugs are great when prescribed and used appropriately.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-31850964837565746282015-12-24T14:04:00.001-05:002015-12-24T19:46:12.676-05:00Post Op One WeekAt today's appointment, my surgeon examined his work and was pleased with my healing. The nurse slowly removed the surgical tape (ow) and apologized after my every wince. I was most hesitant for this appointment because of getting drains removed. I heard I should bring ice packs to help numb the pain. When I told the doctor that I had packs, he told me I shouldn't ice it and that it won't hurt because "WHIP" It's already done." And he pulled out both (very long) tubes at once, mid sentence. I had no idea they went all the way up passed my belly button. It was shocking but not painful.<br />
<br />
He called me his poster child and said not to get run over before my one year post op when my photos are taken.<br />
<br />
He then gave me his iPad with my before photos so I could hold it up next to my body and see the incredible difference that 7 pounds of skin and adipose can make. My chest is half of its size and my tummy no longer folds over like a deflated Peter Griffin. Wow.<br />
<br />
<br />
It's a good day.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow is Christmas!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckHCKU-F468/VnyRiAO_ZHI/AAAAAAAAE8E/iLfnKiomhHE/s1600/post-opday5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckHCKU-F468/VnyRiAO_ZHI/AAAAAAAAE8E/iLfnKiomhHE/s320/post-opday5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5 days post op</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-86983671424464301072015-12-19T16:12:00.001-05:002015-12-24T19:42:50.703-05:00Post Op with surgeonIn all honesty, I don't remember this day at all. Amnesia is a side effect of the anesthesia wearing off. From what I've been told, the appointment went well and I was healing nicely. They removed and replaced my surgical tape, checked my vitals, and sent me on my way.<br />
<br />
I wish I could write more but I just don't remember a thing. We're currently re-watching The Kingsman because we started watching it the day after my surgery and are now having to re-watch it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-28124312226482898582015-12-19T16:10:00.001-05:002015-12-23T11:39:54.932-05:00OperationWhew. What a day it was.<br />
<br />
We arrived at 6:20 because it took us a bit to find the correct parking garage, the correct building, the correct floor, then the correct check-in desk. That hospital is massive.<br />
<br />
I checked in, gave a sample for one last pregnancy check, they took my vitals, confirmed I wasn't pregnant, I answered more pre-op questions from the check-in nurse, met the anesthesiologist who asked me more questions, first nurse came back and fumbled to give me an IV in my hand (the WORST), another nurse came in to help, they asked a third because he had pushed it too far into my hand and it wasn't delivering fluids, so he pulled it out a bit and it started working. Oy.<br />
<br />
My surgeon came by and did the official markings on my body on where incisions would be made! He left, nurses came back, 8:00 approached, I got into the hospital bed, they gave me my anesthesia, and I passed out before I even made it to the OR.<br />
<br />
I woke up in a recovery bay completely hopped up on oxycodone. I felt discomfort but no pain. I fell asleep every 20 minutes or so and woke up again. I'm told that my doctor came to visit me. I'm told that we waited 2 hours or so before going home, I don't remember a thing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7i5IoV-JtJM/VnGYeb_u-OI/AAAAAAAAE7A/BYFYFZuUh5w/s1600/lucille_ball_vitameatavegamin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7i5IoV-JtJM/VnGYeb_u-OI/AAAAAAAAE7A/BYFYFZuUh5w/s400/lucille_ball_vitameatavegamin.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I do remember being wheeled out to the car and having a hard time getting into it. Then I updated my Facebook surgery group and had a really hard time typing things correctly. It was like my body was drunk but my mind was sharp - really strange. We got home, my parents saw my shrunken body, I high fived the kids, then layed down for a few hours.<br />
<br />
<br />
The meds were so strong that I have very little details beyond this. I barely remember my post-op appointment! But I do remember taking an after photo before going to bed and the smile on my face clearly shows how much of a space cadet I was.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-10261361755587019322015-12-14T12:35:00.001-05:002015-12-14T14:16:48.717-05:00How Much Does It Cost?The question everyone wants to ask is "How much will it cost?" Some people come right out and ask it while others start with the lead up, "Will insurance cover it?" (No, insurance will not cover my abdominoplasty or my reduction.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
My 2 procedures (Abdominoplasty and Mammoplasty) are covered by 3 separate payments:<br />
<ul>
<li>$12,040 to <span class="il">the Plastic Surgeon</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span class="il">The Abdominoplasty is $7,480 and the Mammoplasty/Reduction is $5,700. By
combining procedures, I save 20% off of the second procedure, reducing
the reduction by $1,140 for a total of $4,560. </span></li>
</ul>
<li>$1,675.00 to the Anesthesiologists</li>
<li>$3,870.00 to the Hospital</li>
<li>Grand total: <b>$17,585</b></li>
</ul>
You're most likely thinking, "WHAT?! That's a down payment on a house! That's my student loan! That's a sweet, used swagger wagon!" And you are correct. These procedures are investments, just like a down payment, student loan, or moderately used wheels. I'll be able to live a more active lifestyle and I'll finally be able to exercise regularly without pain. It will add to both the quality and quanitity of my life. It's the best investment I can make for myself and my family. Plus, I'll be able to see my feet without leaning over for the first time in over 15 years.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7AaViF18xI/Vm7_hanzqJI/AAAAAAAAE5o/3uATGMnRZpM/s1600/arielfeet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Little Mermaid feet ariel" border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7AaViF18xI/Vm7_hanzqJI/AAAAAAAAE5o/3uATGMnRZpM/s400/arielfeet.jpg" title="Little Mermaid feet ariel" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking around on those, what do you call them? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Besides the cost of the procedures, there are also medications, special high-protein foods and supplements, supportive pillows, compression garnments, and of course new clothes.<br />
<ul>
<li>Prescription medications with my insurance totaled $35. After they run out, I can continue medicating as necessary with tylenol. </li>
<li>High Protein foods and supplements come in many forms. I'll be using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002GU6W54?psc=1&">New Whey Liquid Protein</a>, low sodium beef jerkey, greek yogurt, and lean meat. </li>
<li>Support Pillow: <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Suede-Solid-Color-Oversized-Bedrest-Lounger-Frost-Gray/43176496?">I like this one here</a>. </li>
<li>The hospital will give me
my first set of compression garnments and I've already purchased a few varieties from Amazon to
see which ones I like the best. I'll let you know which ones work well. </li>
</ul>
<br /><ul>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CyISo2gnzvo/Vm8Ayhi6EpI/AAAAAAAAE54/mNlcxpjzswI/s1600/arielblanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CyISo2gnzvo/Vm8Ayhi6EpI/AAAAAAAAE54/mNlcxpjzswI/s400/arielblanket.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even Ariel had transitional clothes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'll be in stretchy transitional clothes for the first months. I'll likely be able to keep about 30% of my current wardrobe, but it will fit differently so it may as well be new to me. I also have pre-pregancy items in storage that I'll be able to wear again. <br />
<br />
The best parts of getting new clothes? <br />
<ul>
<li>All of my maternity pants will be gone - NO MORE BELLY PANELS! </li>
<li>All of my $80 bras will be gone!</li>
<li>All of my XXL, XL, and 14+ dresses will be given away or sold on eBay!</li>
<li>All of my M and L clothes will come out of hiding!</li>
<li>All of my skirts will be worn for the first time in 5 years! </li>
<li>I'll be able to buy pants that zip! </li>
</ul>
<br /> <ul>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AXGiH3CW77o/Vm8AVU7WeNI/AAAAAAAAE5w/a_nmzZ0cnas/s1600/arielnewclothes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ariel new legs" border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AXGiH3CW77o/Vm8AVU7WeNI/AAAAAAAAE5w/a_nmzZ0cnas/s400/arielnewclothes.jpg" title="ariel new legs" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To a new chapter!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As I said before, this is an investment. I'm very thankful to be a position where I can even consider these procedures and have the opportunity to finance it. This is the start of a new chapter. I'm glad you all are here for the ride!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-89774269918818682742015-12-14T10:33:00.000-05:002015-12-14T14:10:19.080-05:00Pre-Op With The HospitalI had a phone interview pre-op with my hospital last week. I frantically drove around to sponge off of a coffee house's wifi connection so I could have enough network reception to recieve the call. Because America.<br />
<br />
Before the phone call, I completed my medical history on the online portal so that helped shorten the interview from 30 minutes to about 10.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OGd1-pIp1Q/Vm8T3XoXGMI/AAAAAAAAE6M/5UxP0S0sP_I/s1600/phoneinterview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OGd1-pIp1Q/Vm8T3XoXGMI/AAAAAAAAE6M/5UxP0S0sP_I/s320/phoneinterview.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The nurse was pleasantly reading from a script as she went over the same information I heard twice before. I'm to not eat after midnight the night before the procedure, I'm to shower with a special soap, no jewelry, I can wear nail polish (YAY!), I need someone to drive me home after the procedure (duh), I should arrive 2 hours prior to the procedure, I shouldn't shave my legs or underarms for a few days beforehand because it causes small abrasions on the skin that can become infected, and I need to listen to my body's signals during recovery.<br />
<br />
She also asked me, "Do you snore? Probably not, you sound like a cutie." To which I
replied, "I don't snore, but my husband does and he's rather cute." I'm
still not sure how one's cuteness relates to snoring.<br />
<br />
3 more days!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-66552901687472587632015-12-04T11:00:00.002-05:002015-12-14T14:12:01.363-05:00Pre-Op With My Plastic SurgeonI had my pre-op with my plastic surgeon this week! My mom joined me
at this appointment as both moral and financial support. Many things
were accomplished:<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cp8ZvtPD9hA/Vm8USiZAaII/AAAAAAAAE6U/s4teJAQsPNQ/s1600/papergown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="paper gown" border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cp8ZvtPD9hA/Vm8USiZAaII/AAAAAAAAE6U/s4teJAQsPNQ/s320/papergown.jpg" title="papergown " width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">c'est chic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>Final payment to the plastic surgeon's practice</li>
<li>Signing many consent forms on an iPad</li>
<li>Recieving pre-surgery instructions</li>
<li>Recieving post-surgery instructions</li>
<li>Taking the "before" photos </li>
<li>Recieving prescriptions</li>
<li>Recieving additional information </li>
</ul>
<br />
We first visited with the consultant who kindly accepted the
large payment via credit card. We were then escorted to an examination
room where I met with a nurse to review information and sign consent
forms. When it came time to take the "before" photos, my mom politely
excused herself to the waiting room while I donned the sexiest pair of
paper undies you ever did see. It even came in a tube. Jealous? I then
put on a large paper kimono to complete the look. #werk<br />
<br />
The
nurse returned with her iPad and a large black backdrop. She took 8
photos as I rotated for a full 360 view of my body from armpit to hip.
The last photo was a mug shot so they could identify the body. <br />
<br />
She
left and I then waited in the cold exam room while the doctor was
nextdoor talking to another patient about a facelift. (Not that I was
eavesdropping or anything). As soon as I seriously considered putting my
socks back on to combat the freezing floor, he came in to shake my hand
and go over additional information. He offered to draw on me again and I
replied, "Sure! Why not?" He made the markings of where incisions will
be made, where repairs will be done, and how much skin will be removed. I
asked if they'll weigh what's removed and he said yes - it will likely
be around 10 pounds! (What is it with me and my history of surgically
removing 10 pounds from my body every 2 years?) <br />
<br />
He left, I took some headshot selfies in front of the black backdrop in my sexy paper kimono, then I got dressed.<br />
<br />
I'm more excited than ever! It's gettin' real, y'all. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-7181821070936561422015-11-28T21:13:00.002-05:002015-11-30T20:11:03.316-05:00What is an Abdominoplasty? I'm 19 days away from my Abdominoplasty! (Also known as an Extended Tummy Tuck)<br />
<br />
As I discussed before, my procedure will fix three major abdominal concerns: my diastasis recti, umbilical hernia, and excess skin caused by my two 10 pound pregnancies.<br />
<br />
This image gives 5 different graphics for a typical Abdominoplasty with a diastasis recti repair:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3lCZWw-7EA/VlpcDlHX_TI/AAAAAAAAE4s/SKaJHMsiVos/s1600/extendedtummytuck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3lCZWw-7EA/VlpcDlHX_TI/AAAAAAAAE4s/SKaJHMsiVos/s1600/extendedtummytuck.jpg" title="Abdominoplasty or Extended Tummy Tuck" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical Abdominoplasty or Extended Tummy Tuck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ol>
<li>The "before" photo with markings of where incisions will be made.</li>
<li>The two flaps on the bottom right and left of the belly button are cut and lifted in order to reveal the abdominal muscles.</li>
<li>The umbilical hernia and diastasis recti are repaired. The surgeon will literally sew my abdominal muscles back together. </li>
<li>The two flaps will be pulled down to the lateral incision, then removed completely (hooray!) </li>
<li>My new belly button will arrive safely in my new midsection. </li>
</ol>
<div>
The surgeon will be able to use the same incision as my previous C-sections. I may also have an additional vertical incision to remove additional excess skin if necessary. The recovery will be very similar to my C-sections except I won't be nursing an infant or dealing with a roller coaster of post pardom hormones. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
19 days!!!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-7086227726605310272015-11-28T20:59:00.000-05:002015-12-14T14:14:42.144-05:00Pre-Op With My Regular DoctorThe first of my pre-op appointments is complete!<br />
<br />
Before embarking on major surgery, my plastic surgeon needs to be sure I'm healthy enough for the procedure, anesthesia, and recovery. I've had two major surgeries before (both Cesarians) and I recovered well from both of them. I have great blood pressure, my BMI is a little high but still in a good range, and my family history didn't give any cause for concern. After the general questions and vitals, they took a urine sample and blood work up.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nCV2M5Bl32Q/Vm8U9x4fNeI/AAAAAAAAE6g/HPee3PuxKSk/s1600/bloodvile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nCV2M5Bl32Q/Vm8U9x4fNeI/AAAAAAAAE6g/HPee3PuxKSk/s320/bloodvile.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feed me, Seymour.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I also got my flu shot. Because flu shots are awesome and important. <br />
<br />
My next pre-op will be with my plastic surgeon on Tuesday! That's when we'll take all of the before photos and get my prescriptions for my pain meds.<br />
<br />
It's getting real, y'all.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-68005685246180876902015-11-20T10:42:00.002-05:002016-10-26T16:21:20.058-04:00How do you fix Diastasis Recti?When someone asks, "What is diastasis recti?" I usually respond with a very simplified version of, "it's when your abdominal muscles separate to make room for a baby but don't fully come back together again."<br />
<br />
<i>(If you'd like to learn from a more legitimate source, the <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/diastasis-recti/faq-20057825">Mayo Clinic</a> has a concise description of diastasis recti that doesn't advertise a product. (Please be aware that when you type any medical condition into a search engine, the top results will usually show inaccurate or sales-based information. SEO (search engine optimization) often favors the sites that are advertising a product that will magically correct your condition.)</i><br />
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a simple visual representation of diastasis recti: </div>
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s4mOBXV__PE/Vk88i9RfKeI/AAAAAAAAE14/-vC6d84y7GI/s1600/diastasis1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s4mOBXV__PE/Vk88i9RfKeI/AAAAAAAAE14/-vC6d84y7GI/s320/diastasis1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diastasis Recti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
<div>
After delivering my first child via Caesarian, I began to exercise as soon as I could. Even though the rest of my body was becoming toned and "bouncing back", my stomach seemed to look more pregnant. I finally heard about diastasis recti and realized I was doing exercises that made me look even more pregnant because my core wasn't able to engage properly. My stomach muscles were becoming stronger but the connective tissue that brings them together was still separated. The smaller the rest of my body was, the larger my pooch looked. Not cool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-667lKoMAp4s/WBEQIYt-b_I/AAAAAAAAYy4/qgXI9N0VtBYkvmbSUmdMp_6K2oqPecprwCLcB/s1600/babynobaby.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-667lKoMAp4s/WBEQIYt-b_I/AAAAAAAAYy4/qgXI9N0VtBYkvmbSUmdMp_6K2oqPecprwCLcB/s320/babynobaby.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">38 weeks pregnant | 1 year post pardom</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<i>"Did you try binding?" </i></div>
<div>
Yes. I used several Belly Bandits after my final pregnancy. I started with an extra large and got down to a medium within 2 months. It helped me recover from my C-section quicker and helped me avoid the awful back pain I had after my first C-section. Although it was helpful, it didn't "cure" my diastasis recti. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>"Did you try wraps?" </i></div>
<div>
Yes. They made my skin feel silky smooth, but it did nothing for my muscles or excess skin. To be fair, they aren't meant to help with muscles or excess skin in the first place. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>"Did you try yoga?"</i></div>
<div>
Yes. It helped me build my back and leg muscles, but I wasn't able to fully use my core because my abdominal muscles remained separated. There are some exercises and poses to engage traverse abs that I think helped.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>"I heard about this thing called the tupler method. Did you try it?" "I heard about someone that just walked everyday for a year and she looks great now. She had twins and you can't even tell! Have you tried just walking?" "Could you just stop eating dairy?" "Are you sure you're not pregnant again?" </i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I tried every non-surgical approach I could find on the internet. Most women with a smaller separation can see some correction with one or more of these alternatives. Unfortunately, my extreme separation can only be repaired with surgery. My abdominal separation was 4 fingers wide at its worst. I got it down to 3 fingers wide with some of these non-surgical approaches. Its frustrating that surgery is my only option, but I'm grateful I can have other needed procedures completed at the same time.<br />
<br />
<div>
<i>"Wait, what other procedures are you having done?" </i></div>
<div>
My large pregnancies not only led to my diastasis recti, they also led to my umbilical hernia and excess skin. Thankfully, all three of these conditions can be repaired in one procedure: an abdominoplasty. </div>
</div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IJvFK5LsoY8/Vk8_94dIFkI/AAAAAAAAE2s/8-PjvXXmVG8/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-25%2Bat%2B8.56.13%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IJvFK5LsoY8/Vk8_94dIFkI/AAAAAAAAE2s/8-PjvXXmVG8/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-25%2Bat%2B8.56.13%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a "before and after" of a patient with diastasis recti and umbilical hernia.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hr9f8S4NSII/Vk8_9_vHi5I/AAAAAAAAE2o/GmQQur7YPAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-25%2Bat%2B8.56.25%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hr9f8S4NSII/Vk8_9_vHi5I/AAAAAAAAE2o/GmQQur7YPAs/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-10-25%2Bat%2B8.56.25%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a "before and after" of a patient with diastasis recti and umbilical hernia.</td></tr>
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<i>"Is diastasis recti repair covered by insurance?" </i></div>
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Sometimes. My particular procedure is not. </div>
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<i>"But a hernia sounds serious. Are you sure insurance won't cover it?"</i></div>
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It's a bit more complicated than that. Because all three procedures are included in my abdominoplasty, I'm paying one big price instead of divvying it out among the different procedures. If I had the hernia repair covered by insurance, it would be a separate procedure by a different doctor within my general practice. A separate procedure also means I'd have to take additional time off of work. In the end, it saves us time and money to include the hernia repair within this procedure. </div>
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<i>"How much is this all going to cost?"</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.abdomupdates.com/2015/12/how-much-does-it-cost.html">Here's a breakdown of all of the costs I'll be facing.</a> We're essentially paying 3 groups of people: the plastic surgeon's practice, the hospital, and the anesthesiologist's practice. I'm also purchasing special bras and stomach bindings for my recovery, medications, new clothes, supportive back pillows, etc. </div>
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I'm less than a month away from my abdominoplasty. Words can't express how excited I am to finally have this "shell" corrected and removed. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685733051682905778.post-20083468342221659252015-11-20T09:39:00.000-05:002015-11-20T11:49:06.323-05:00Let's do this.<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
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With this elective surgery comes a surge of emotions: relief, guilt, anxiety, and joy to name a few. I will literally have a huge weight lifted. </div>
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<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">It's overwhelming.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: black;">My body does not adequetly represent who I am. I feel trapped inside of a backwards tortiose <span class="il">shell</span>. I know I'm beautiful. My beauty isn't measured in pounds or compression garnments. My beauty is measured in my heart and mind. My beauty is in Christ. I know I'm beautiful. Now my body will have the chance to better reflect my heart and mind.<br /><br />The weight I carry will be lifted so I walk taller. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">The weight I carry will be lifted so I can live longer. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">The weight I carry will be lifted so I can dance without pain. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">The weight I carry will be lifted so I can run alongside my children. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">The wait to remove the <span class="il">shell</span> is over. </span></div>
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="im" style="color: #500050;"><span style="color: black;">It's overwhelming. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Let's do this.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0