Tummy tuck, pain... is it like a c-section?

Hello,I am going to have a tummy tuck. I'm trying to gather as much info as possible and brace myself. I do not anitcipate it being a cake walk by any stretch, but it is something I have wanted my whole life, and now after children.. REALLY NEED it.

I had a csec with one of my children and was NOT prepared for the excruciating pain that went with the recovery. I'd like to hear some first hand accounts from people who have done both,... and just experiences from people that have had a a tummy tuck as to what the pain is like. I do not have a very high tolerance to paint, so this is REALLY worrying me! But I think if I am prepared it will be better than being blindsided like I was with that c-section!

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Discomfort and pain following any surgical procedure will obviously vary from patient to patient.  Response to different pain medications will also vary.  An abdominoplasty, although a large operation, is superficial and does not involve direct trauma or cutting of muscles (which produces more discomfort).  I alsway place patients in a girdle following the procedure which splints the area and reduces discomfort.  It is not uncommon for me to see amny patients who have very limited discomfort following this surgery.

[relax100]

Are you having breast reconstruction.  If so have you considered a latissimus flap