so I signed up for a couple of consults in Chicago (one with the Univ of Chicago residency program, which I'm hoping might be a *****eaper than an established surgeon). One of the established surgeons charges a $200 consult fee. Yikes. Univ of Chicago just charges $75, which I thought was very reasonable. Although they are spending an hour or so of their time with you, and you may end up not even picking them as your surgeon, so...I guess it's fine, but...that just seemed pretty steep.

I've heard PS in Chicago can be pretty expensive, but there's really no one near my area who does a boatload of these surgeries, and I want at minimum someone who's done a boatload of them (or better yet, specializes in them). I originally wanted to go to one of the super star surgeons on the coasts or in Texas, but then, you have to factor in the cost of two plane tickets (as I'd want DH or my mother or sister to come along...), 2-3 weeks of hotel costs (as well as restaurant/take-out food for two), and ....well...all that might end up pretty much offsetting any price difference there might be. Plus, I would rather recuperate at home than in some hotel 1000 miles away, and also, if there are complications that my PCP refuses to deal with, Chicago isn't too far away.

can't believe I'm finally doing this...

I had little to no pain with my breasts. I was off all pain meds (prescribed) at 4 days even with the LBL.

I have had night sweats off and on since WLS, but I don't think I've had them more or less since LBL, etc?

Tomorrow I will have LBL to remove the loose and hanging skin that is a constant reminder of the damage I did to my body previously as well as how far I've come to correct that damage and make healthier choices.

Am I nervous? Not overly. Excited? Yes, I think so. Mixed feelings really. I'm obviously not looking forward to the painful healing process but understand that's part of it.

Just cant imagine a flat stomach. The thought seems so foriegn to me. Part of me wonders if it will actually work, lol.

Anyway, its been one heck of a journey so far and I'm excited for the next chapter.

Cheers!

I would highly recommend my surgeon - Dr. Reish. He's also on the UES. Wonderful doctor, amazing aftercare, gives all patients his cell, and my results have been stellar! You can see my before/afters in my profile. I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.