The NEWEST OMG Update....LOL

Okay - I had to go today to do my pre-op and have found out that I'm actually NOT having the surgery at the Hospital but it will be done at the Outpaitent center in Meridian Mark. It's still scheduled for 12/29/05 at 2:00 pm...no foods after midnight - geeze I'm gonna be HONGRY! As of right now Holly Ritter and Tami (Modean Ryan) are planning on being there with me at least initially (My sister is trying to get the day off as well...)......I don't know if they will stay the whole time but someone (I'm hoping) will update the boards and let you all know if I survived the surgery..... I found out some GRAPHIC details about this surgery today..... did ya know once they remove the skin they bend you in half to close so your skin has to stretch back out......but that's how you get the flattest bellies! That's not all I found out - but that's the "nice" part that I can post! He he Any ????'s - did I get everything right this time?

Please fill me in on all the details so I will know what to expect. I miss you guys and the meetings. When is your surgery and where will it be? Hugs, Debra

ok Dee Dee, I'm looking at you for guidance here cuz I know some plastics are in my future. You GOTTA tell us what else you found out.. you know... the not so nice stuff.... paleeze!

okay - this is the not so nice stuff that kinda grossed me out.... They make the incision (on me they're supposed to be doing a table top to table top incision - not just hip to hip) They loosen all the skin above the incision up to the ribcage area. They also loosen the belly button from the skin so they can just re-open the hole where the belly button is now. They cut off the excess skin (She said it would be about 3" above where my belly button is now) and then they bend you into about a 45 degree angle to make the closing. It's because the bend you in half to close that you won't walk upright for several days after the surgery. They (at some point....) insert 2 - 3 drains that have to stay in until they run clear. I will also be having the On-Q pain pump that is supposed to keep the incision area numb for the first several days to help control the pain level. (If you don't know what that is go to www.askyoursurgeon.com and get the info on it.....it amazed me). I'm planning on having before and after pictures added to my profile so you will get to see how things turn out.....I may just put them on my picture trail and password protect them so they can't just be randomly seen....I'll let you know once I get them there though. Now - it's time to start saving to get my boob job and working on insurance to get the legs done next.....any one want to contribute? Dee Dee

Well Dee Dee I must say congrats your day is getting closer good for you. And the Q pump is a life saver. Its positioned right on your sternum area and its easy for you to pull out yourself when its time. I did my own. but becuz you are having the muscle tightening it keeps that area numb. So I didnt have probs with muscle spasms for that reason. I have said numerous times and all over my profile that I appreciate how well Dr. Wang controlled the pain. I believe you will be pleasently surprised. Good Luck to you and cant wait to see the agian new you... NAT

THANK YOU NAT for all the encouragement and support you've given me! I'm nervous about everything but excited at the same time! I'm ready to see the results!!! Much Dee Dee

HEY DEE DEE, THANKS FOR POSTING ALL THE INFO, I'M SURE MOST OF US WILL NEED IT EVENTUALLY. I JUST WENT TO YOUR PAGE TO SEE YOUR BEFORE AND AFTER PICS AND OMG!!! WHAT A CHANGE, BUT YOU WERE BEAUTIFUL BEFORE ALSO!

Hey Dee Dee! My close girlfriend is Post-op Recovery RN at that place, I think. I'm going to mention your name to her if you don't mind. And her name is Ana. She doesn't work every day though. But I hope you get her. She is a great Nurse and Caretaker. Good luck to you with the surgery. hugs, Rita

Hey - if you've got an "in" with someone that will take care of this big baby - Go for It!!!!!! Find out if she's working the 29th and let me know! Thanks! Dee Dee

Dee...did I miss the word??? Did you get insurance coverage or bitin' the bullet to self pay? Either way I'm excited for you. Take care of yourself. This one is painful according to lots of folks, but the end result they say is worth it. I'm sure it will be! Congrats!