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10 Things To Do Before Skin Removal Surgery

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After losing a massive amount of weight, you’re bound to have some extra skin that will only go away through skin removal surgery. Mine was causing me all sorts of issues, so after years of research and contemplating, I finally decided to go for the surgery.

I am soooooo glad I did. After going through the surgery myself, here are my 10 tips for preparing for surgery:

1. Choose the right surgeon

This process looks different for everyone. I went to three different surgeons as I was learning about skin removal surgery. At first, I was mostly just looking for information. I wanted to learn the process, find out if the surgeon thought I was physically ready, and understand which type of surgery was best for me.

As I met with different surgeons, I took note of how I felt about each one. When I met with Dr. Kreithen, I was 100% sure he was the one. First and foremost he was highly, HIGHLY qualified. He was Board Certified, was Chief of Surgery for eight years at the hospital in town, and has done tons of previous surgeries like mine.

The biggest thing I would go by, once you find someone qualified, is your comfort level. Dr. Kreithen and his staff literally made me feel not only at ease but also excited! It was like they were my own little cheer squad, and they were just as excited as I was to embark on this amazing journey.

Find a surgeon you love!!

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2. Do your research

Read blogs, find people who have gone through the surgery, learn everything you can. You can look up official website which will give you technical information about the surgery. But you can also find blogs in which people share about the entire journey. Both can help you.

Knowing most of the ins and outs you’re about to go through can help you feel at ease as you’re making your way through surgery, preparation, and recovery.

3. Have a support system in place

It’s no easy task! Getting skin removal surgery will have you down for the count for a few weeks. The first few days of recovery can be tough!

Having friends and family who are cheering you on will make all the difference. For me, it was a matter of sharing with my little world of friends and family, that I had scheduled surgery and why. From the time I did that, I had lots of people stepping up to setup a meal train, help with the kids, offering to clean the house, and so much more.

It doesn’t have to be a huge support system, but have team rallied around you while you embark on this life-changing journey.

4. Plan all the details for the first two weeks after surgery

For the two weeks after surgery, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got everything in place for a smooth recovery. You’ll want to think about what you’ll do with your kiddos those first few days, how you’ll make sure you have a good place to rest and recover, how you’ll make sure you have meals to eat after surgery, and anything else that will help you through those weeks when you’ll have limited mobility.

5. Eat healthy, drink water, and exercise

Of course this is important all the time! But by paying attention to your lifestyle choices ahead of time, you’ll be in that much better shape physically and emotionally prior to surgery. Don’t throw in the towel and go crazy with unhealthy foods. Fuel your body for what it’s about to undergo!

Prior to my surgery I worked out as much as I could because I knew I’d have several weeks where I couldn’t do that. It ended up being VERY helpful because you use your leg strength so much the first time you stand up after surgery.

Just make a conscious effort, that’s all it takes!

6. Prepare your family for what to expect

You’ve probably read every blog post you can get your hands on, researched everything, watched other people on social media go through the process, and are fully aware of what to anticipate for your upcoming surgery. But your family probably doesn’t know all the details.

To help prepare them, you can share little facts with them as you read them. Before my surgery I showed my husband different people’s journeys on blogs or social media, explained all the steps of recovery and what I’d need, and assured him that he should not be nervous.

Remember, you’ll need a support system, so keeping your family fully informed will be very helpful.

7. Set up your recovery area

When you come home from the hospital you’ll want a space where you can rest and relax. You’ll be spending a LOT of time laying down and sitting down. Things will need to be in arm’s reach, and I highly recommend having someone in place to be with you 24/7 for the first few days at least.

When I came home from surgery my husband had an area all set-up for me, and it has proved to be perfect. Having the option to lay in the bed (propped up with pillows) or sit in the recliner is really nice.

You’ll have to get up and walk around several times throughout the day, so make sure you have a space that allows you to do that.

8. Pack your hospital bag

You’ll probably want to take a few things to the hospital. One of the biggies for me was a protein bars and magazines. I honestly didn’t need much, but here’s a list of everything I took, along with what I ended up using and not using.

9. Calm your nerves

You’re probably feeling a mixture of nervousness and excitement. To calm your nerves, focus on getting prepared, making sure you have everything you need, and running through all the different steps of what’s about to happen. Keep your mind in “get-it-done” mode, and then you’ll get to enjoy the outcome once you’re recovered!

10. Get excited!

Because truthfully, this is going to be life-changing. I am only three days out, and obviously still in the recovery stage. But even this early on, I can tell you I have not regretted this decision, even in the absolute hardest moment. Focus on the aftermath, get through the hard part, and you’ll be glad you did it later on!

BONUS!!!!

This shouldn’t be a bonus but a major MUST!!!!! Take before photos!!! You’ll definitely want lots of before photos to look at once everything is said and done!!

2 thoughts on “10 Things To Do Before Skin Removal Surgery”

  1. Pingback: Skin Removal Surgery: Standing Up For The First Time - Jennifer Wagner

  2. Pingback: Lower Body Lift | Skin Removal Surgery: Two Weeks Post-Op and Recovery - Jennifer Wagner

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