No More Love Handles

Created on 10th September 2009

After years of struggling with her post-pregnancy body, Susan Martin underwent a tummy tuck and liposuction to give her the figure she desired

Treatment: Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and love handles and hips liposuction
Name: Susan Martin
Age: 35
Occupation: Graphic designer

What prompted you to have the treatment?

After giving birth to my twins ten years ago, I never managed to get back in shape. The pregnancy had left me with excess skin in the stomach area and the deposits of fat just made it worse.

I had been struggling with skin inflammation, an unpleasant smell and redness under the excess skin, had been miserable from an aesthetic point of view and had to really work hard to make clothes suit me well.

Who carried out the procedure and what was their opinion at the consultation?

I was operated on at the Dr Toncic cosmetic and plastic surgery clinic by their team of surgeons. During the consultation, having explained to me the course of the surgery and the outcome, we concluded as well as a tummy tuck I would benefit from liposuction of the love handles and hips, to make my figure more feminine and slim. Because of the higher risk involved in the combined procedure, I came back for liposuction two months after the tummy tuck.

How was the experience?

I was a bit nervous, naturally, but I couldn't wait to have it all done and see the results. I had to wear elastic garment for two months, but I was very disciplined and patient, so I was extremely pleased with the result. It gave me such a boost; I feel liberated from a heavy burden. I think I realize now more than ever before how troubled I was.

How long did it take?

The tummy tuck lasted for two hours and the liposuction for one hour. After the tummy tuck I spent two nights in the clinic. After liposuction, I went home after few hours.

Did you have to take any medication after it was done?

No, I was not required to take any medication, I just took some painkillers.

What were the immediate results?

One could tell immediately there was an improvement, but my abdomen area was slightly swollen after the surgery. The results were impressive and best seen after I stopped wearing the elastic garment. I am amazed with the effect, and the scar is almost invisible.

Are you happy with the treatment?

Yes, extremely happy. This was my first summer after so many years that I wasn't ashamed, or constantly hiding behind towels on the beach. Not only aesthetically, but I was alleviated medically too - no more itching and redness.