Out from plastic surgery

I did it.  I almost didn't too.  I was fortunate that my insurance was willing to pay for a pannilectomy (botched that spelling!) and I chipped in 2 grand for the abdomen to get tighter.  I had a really hard time getting it scheduled because it was really tough trying to find 4 weeks that I can just check out of my life.  But I am glad I did it!

I am a hot, raw mess at the moment.  It doesn't hurt nearly as much as I expected.  It is tough getting out of chairs and I am sleeping in the recliner.

My stomach is pretty flat too, and that is even with all of the crazy swelling. I can't wait to see what it looks like in 4 weeks.  The drains are not as bad as I expected either, and it should be 2 weeks or so before they are done.  The binder isn't too bad at all, even though they jammed my very long frame into one that is meant for shorter ladies.

If you have BCBS start documenting as soon as possible after surgery skin issues.  Then when you are ready it will be more likely that you qualify.  In my case I needed to lose 100 pounds and have the pannis hang over the pubic bone, and evidence of skin issues. 

Can't wait to be healed! 

Congrats on your plastics!! Especially getting the majority of it covered by insurance.  Awesome!!  I wish you a swift recovery!!!!

heal well.  Take care and be gentle with yourself-  Isn't it wondersful.  I have the tape off just today, and the surgeon did a WONDERFUL job- the scars are- even at this  early date- very light.  o happy for you.  Bonnie.

My scars are pretty much Frankensteined out at the moment, but it is only been a few days.  I am not taped up at all though, as I am allergic to adhesive.  I was glued along with sutures, and loose bandages just sitting over the filet parts and held in place with the binder.  Eventually the scars will fade, but I am so pale skinned it is going to be a reaaaaalllllly long time. 

Question for you! Did you have to be a certain amount of time post op from WLS to qualify? I'm not wording that well... Some insurance companies require the 100 lb (or whatever amount) loss and for that to have been maintained for "X" amount of time. Is that the case with BCBS? I am not even close to being ready to do plastics, but it's something to think about for the future! Thanks and happy healing!

I cannot remember if it was the doc that recommended maintaining the weight for 6 months, or if it was the insurance.  But, that was the timeline I went by.  Great question!

Here's to good healing!

Congratulations your successful surgery.   Thanks for updating us.  

Glad to hear that you're on the mend.  Thanks for the information re your insurer experience.

Glad you're on the mend!!!