[denialisnthappiness]

... Just a quick query really! I'm 18 days out from a full tummy tuck. He removed 4lbs of skin during surgery. I just had a quick query regarding swelling/'seeming' weight gain/getting into clothes? I know it's going to take a while but currently I can wear my normal clothes but it's at a push - is this swelling or am I getting fat again? I know this sounds really stupid but the mental thing is always going to be there for me and not being able to run etc? Well I'm just afraid the fat monster is coming to swallow me up again

Guess I just want to know swelling etc gets better

[Meg]

It's swelling! And don't be surprised if it all isn't gone for (up to) a year or so -- though it should be much better in 4 - 6 months. I noticed about 3 - 4 months after my lower body lift that my pants were all getting too big, though I wasn't losing weight. It was just the swelling going down. Be patient -- it takes a l-o-o-o-n-g time. I'm know you'll be thrilled with your results in the end.

As for the fat monster, don't worry! I found that if I was very careful with my calories, then not exercising didn't impact my weight while I was healing. Your body needs a few extra calories to heal so it all evens out in the end.

How are you feeling otherwise? When will your doctor let you start exercising again?

[denialisnthappiness]

Ok swelling... I shall chant it mantra like to reassure myself. I currently have a 'ledge' going on where the incision is but (is a little giddy) it's SO nice not to have the apron there anymore?

Yeah I'm being stern with myself - complete clean eating, lowered my carbs a bit and upped my protein (I've never been any good at I eat x % of this that and other so just adjust by eye/personal knowledge of what I normally have), lots of fluids etc.

I feel great! From what I've read on another board (PS specific board) as I didn't have any muscle repair my recovery seems to be easier than others experience? My PS laughed at me as I keep badgering him on the exercise thing. He says I can walk (I'm walking my four mile run route daily) and swim (I'm going to go this week as still currently off work). He's been giving rough guidelines of six weeks to exercise but he's also said that I can walk/swim etc so slightly confusing. I guess it's a case of listening to my body if I'm doing too much?

Thanks so much for the response Meg It's just disconcerting to go in, have x amount removed and come out feeling tight as a drum and almost bigger