Tuck ‘in at 77
It’s been a while, so an update first.
I finished my abdomen laser treatments with zero results other than a lot of bathroom time after drinking recommended gallons of water.
Initially, I doubted laser treatments. But what could I do after a 9-foot outrageously beautiful and curvy cardboard statue, inspired my journey, beckoned me to join her for a treatment or two? Join!!
So, what went wrong? A shared “it was you” and “it was me”.
Not until after many treatments was a massaging unit used on my abdomen to “improve” the outcome. I believe the massaging unit should have been used after every treatment and not two times during eleven sessions. The end result might have been different if all tools available were used and not just rely on my excessive urination and exercising.
Yet, my poor results were not entirely their fault. Yes, I followed their instructions, did everything other than being realistic about the whole thing. Okay, I got lazy and wanted a quick, cheaper alternative to surgery.
I ignored their advice that laser treatments may not tighten loose skin, my large apron or muscles. And, I ignored my own knowledge that my 1x middle with a large hanging apron – would NEVER go away – without surgery.
Thyroid issues, genetics, aging, medications and an emergency ectopic pregnancy surgery which cut stomach muscles and compromised core, morphed my mid-section into what it was – a rather large lumpy thing with a 3-4 pound hanging apron…. NOT COMFY.
At 77, I “tummy tucked”. The apron and lumpy things gone and stomach muscles tightened. Losing a 3-4 pound apron was a big ego booster, but retightened muscles have renewed my confidence that maybe I can win the Senior Olympics as now I have a core I can build into something that will support my efforts.
Yet, any surgery is not to be entered into lightly. There are financial demands which may limit funds for a while, multiple pre- and post-surgical doctor’s appointments and, depending on one’s living situation, the ability to maintain weeks of recovery, at times unassisted. Let’s not forget our animal friends – the pets and, of course, the house and yard chores.
There is a lot to consider. As with any surgery, always visit your primary physician to ensure that you are a candidate for surgery and that you understand the risks.
I learned a lot before and after tuck ‘in. Here are a few.
Tuck only for yourself as you may encounter criticism, even from other seniors, either verbally or with that little “are you insane, at your age” glance.
Insist on the doctor giving you post-op instructions before surgery so that you will be prepared with what you need, including transportation, during recovery.
The internet is a good resource for research, but it may not be the best source nor truthful. Rely on your doctor’s advice and not the internet’s.
Plan all aspects of your surgery and recovery as if you do not have a support system even if you do. At some point in time, you may need to do things on our own. Have a list of phone numbers bedside in case you need to call for help.
Before surgery, gather ALL that you will need for a few weeks of rest. Set up a reachable “what you need” station including medications, dressing change, water, pillows, blankets, unrefrigerated food items, phone, TV remote, pencil and paper, ice packs and prepackaged meals in the fridge, etc. etc. etc. For a while, bending and walking can be difficult. I kept assistive walking devices and grabbers to assist in picking up things in every area I frequented.
Hire who you need to hire, do what needs to be done because, believe me, you will not be hoping on the lawn mower and mowing the back 40 or vacuuming the house, doing a laundry any time soon! Consider boarding board the pets a few weeks.
Find the most comfortable, easy to get in and out spot (couch, bed, chair, recliner) and plan on sleeping there a few days or more.
Consider the time of year when the surgery is performed. Thigh-hi compression socks and abdominal binders can be HOT unless you have air conditioning or fans.
Recovery after any surgery is a time of healing and patience. Patience not only with drains, compression socks, abdominal binders, daily wound care and waiting for dissolvable stitches to dissolve but also with the weeks it will take before swelling subsidies and healing is complete.
Even if you want to immediately shop for new clothes, wait until the swelling has subsided. Then shop your closet for what fits and does not fit before spending tons of money. I am finding my image has changed and so will my clothes.
Recovery and wound healing can well be severed by following doctor’s orders. For me, I followed a well-balanced meal plan with high protein and fluids. I followed up with attentive wound care with cleaning and recommended ointments. Once I’m given the go ahead by my doctor/nurse, I will return to the pool/gym (not in a union suit!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
One last thing – one very important last thing – plan on something special to celebrate the “the new you”.
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