Join me as I search my soul for direction regarding my latest pursuit: A tummy tuck. Will I go through with it? Will I "Tuck It In?" Keep reading. Keep coming back. And you'll find out.

March 14, 2008

When it comes down to it, I think I can live with a variety of not-so-great tummy tuck outcomes. Pain: It's temporary. I can handle it. Swelling: Also temporary. I can wait it out. A big scar: If it makes my loose skin go way, I'll take it. Fever: Doable. I've had many, have even been hospitalized on two occasions because of sky-high temps. Infection: Antibiotics can cure me. Restricted exercise: I'll find a way to welcome the break. There's one outcome I just can't live with, though. It's the one that swirls through my mind as I contemplate whether or not a tummy tuck is the right procedure for me: Death.

Thoughts of dying, and leaving my two little boys motherless, keep popping up in my head. When I logically think things through, I don't really believe I'll die while getting this surgery. I think I'll go fast asleep, wake up in a groggy state, and slowly acclimate to my surroundings. Then the pain will kick in, and I'll be oh so aware of how alive I really am.

People die during surgeries, people never expected to face such dire consequences. That's what has me worried. And still wondering. And still straddling the tummy tuck fence. I'm not sure it's enough to count me out on this one. But it's definitely on my mind.

NOTE: Abdominoplasty is recommended for those whose skin and muscle cannot recover on their own as a result of significant weight loss, pregnancy, aging, heredity, or prior surgery. It is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program. For more information about this surgery, click here.