Carol - tantan3313@sympatico.ca
Hi, I am so pleased to know that I am not the only one who had to go through tons of doctors before someone actually believed me when I said I am in unbearable pain. I am now 9 days post op, and am very happy with the results. I had surgery on Friday and was home by Sat. before noon- did the lie down in the back of the truck thing to get home, but it was fine. I also had the "happy button" for morphine and used it the first night, but basically to help me sleep since I couldn't get comfy, but once home I found that if you use pillows or a piece of foam cut to your size, I could sleep on my stomach.
The best thing I did, was get up and start moving as soon as possible. I haven't had to use too many of the pain pills, only when I've done too much. I am doing most things that I did before, but carefully. I found that sitting on a chair with a blanket and leaving the space by your tail bone free has allowed me to sit. I still haven't driven yet, and still find that lying on my side causes my hips to hurt unbearably.
For those going into surgery, one of the best purchases I made was a raised toilet seat, which you can get at most drug stores or medical supply stores. They basically fit on the toilet and bring the seat portion up about 5 inches, it does make a difference when you are recovering from the surgery.
I found that I have a lot of bruising below the incision site, but the incision looks great, and that's from someone who heals very slowly. Has anyone else had a lot of bruising???
I'm adding some photos so that those who are contemplating this can see that they don't cut you up as much as you thought.
This web site is a great comfort and I'll keep you posted on my recovery. Until next time
Carol
4 days post surgery
Updated 2005-05-01