For those of you who had open surgery...did you have to have an epidural?

I am considering having open surgery with Dr. Clough basically because I can get in much faster than if I wait for Dr. Toder or Dr. Huang.  I need to make my decision today so Lynn can set up my consult (as I finally have everything else done).  I DO NOT want an epidural because I still have some issues with my back from having 2 epidurals put in within 24 hours of giving birth to my 4 year old daughter.  Any info is much appreciated.  I don't post much, but I am on here everyday reading.  Thanks again!

Well let me tell you my story. I have severe arthritis and fibromyalgia. When they tried to put in an epirdarl I was in so much pain from them even trying. the nurses kept saying if you want to have this surgery you HAVE to have this epederal. I was about to cry because i could not stand them to keep trying. So one nurse said well we will have to get Dr Clough. Here he come i was so upset he said " no problem don't do the epderal we will use a pain buster like we used before the epederals. I LOVE Dr.Clough he never panicks my PH.D said in any problems in surgery. My daughter had an epederal too at child birth and is left with bad back nerves because of it also. Dr. Clough would be good choice and tell him you do not want an epederal. GOOD LUCK

That is very interesting!  I have been seriously considering having Dr. Clough do my surgery because of his lengthy history.  Most of my weight is not in my stomach so I don't think an open procedure would be that bad.   Most of my weight is in my hips, butt, thighs, and boobs (lucky me=)  I am 5'4" and weigh about 245.   Did you have any problems with your wound?  What was your recovery time (I have 2 small children).   Lynn said that if I choose Dr. Clough my surgery will be by the end of this month.   I would so love to have my surgery in just 2 weeks!!  Thanks for you response.  It really does mean a lot!