Tummy Tuck Cuts
Is a Tummy Tuck a good idea?
I am 20 years old, I just had a cancerous tumor removed from my left ovary, as well as my ovary, this past January. As a result, I am left with a 7 inch scar across my lower abdomen, just before my bikini line. My stomach now has a little pouch on my lower abdomen because the muscles have been cut. I work out, exercise, diet, I ride my horse every day (which uses your core muscles) and do barn chores etc….I’m a very active person…and I work on my stomach EVERY night…but this pouch isn’t going away. I am extremely self conscious now…and I’ve cried long enough about it. I have become withdrawn from social events. I am envious of other women with their flat stomachs–the way I used to be….I’m just so depressed and angry that I have to look this way. Please make no reference about “I’m lucky to be here and a scar is a small price to pay for cancer” I already know this, and appreciate life so much, but now I’m left with a body I hardly recognize. Is a Tummy Tuck for me?
I just had a tummy tuck done a little over a week ago, and although I am very happy with the results, I think it might be better for you to WAIT a little. The main reason I say this is because you are only 20, and if you are even remotely thinking about having children (which I think is still a possibility for you with one ovary) you don’t want to have a tummy tuck now, and then re-stretch everything out.
I feel your pain, though, about being self-conscious and withdrawing from social activities. I had a twin pregnancy 3 years ago and over-stretched my stomach so much that I still had people asking me “when I was due” as recently as THIS Spring. I was depressed, and never looked in mirrors anymore. My husband had to look at my outfit every morning before I went to work to tell me if it looked okay, or if it made my belly too obvious. I didn’t even go to my 10 year college reunion this past June because I couldn’t face my old friends.
A tummy tuck is a great option for you and will help you regain your self-esteem…which is important. A tummy tuck is made for people like you and me who have had their muscles cut (C-section) and / or overstretched beyond repair. People think exercise will help, but you CAN loose the elasticity in your skin, and that won’t come back. But don’t waste your money on it now…unless you do not want to ever be pregnant.
Week 53 Post-Op Update