Tummy Tuck Recovery Guide

Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising daily to tighten your core can be great habits to help you achieve a slimmer figure. In most cases though, there are remaining fat deposits on the abdomen that are resistant to diet or exercise. Fortunately, a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can tighten the abdominal muscles and reduce excess skin and fat surrounding the stomach region for a defined, chiseled appearance. After undergoing tummy tuck surgery, your body will take some time to heal before your final results are visible.

What to Expect

Directly after your surgery, your midsection will be wrapped in surgical gauze and a compression garment to support healing. One or two thin drainage tubes may be temporarily applied to collect excess fluids, which should be removed within a week or less. Some patients experience discomfort and swelling in their stomach region, which can be alleviated by using prescription pain medications. It is important to rest for the first few days after your procedure and avoid any strenuous physical activities. The evening of the same day of surgery, you should begin to incorporate light walking to help your body circulate your blood and promote quicker healing. After about two weeks, it is common for patients to feel back to normal and resume most of their daily routine.

Tips for a Comfortable Recuperation

• Carefully follow your postoperative care instructions provided by your aesthetic surgeon.
• Avoid lifting and straining until you are fully healed (usually within two to four weeks). This includes picking up children.
• Have a friend or family member take care of you for the first two days; they can help you with any lifting or carrying until you feel fully healed.
• Fill any prescription medications prior to your surgery so it will be ready for you when you return home.
• Relax and get plenty of sleep.
• Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration.
• After the initial two days, begin to walk around. Light activities can be helpful in your recovery process.
• Be patient and listen to your body. Every patient will experience a slightly different recovery, so it is essential that you pay attention to how your body is recuperating and avoid overexertion.

Maintaining Your Results

Once you feel healed, your stomach contour should appear toned, strong, and firm without protruding fat on your belly. Any sagging abdominal skin, excess fat deposits, loose or stretched abdominal muscles, and stretch marks on the lower abdomen should be improved for an enhanced midsection. Continuing your diet and exercise regimen will help avoid weight fluctuations. Getting pregnant will likely undo some of your results, so you should be finished having children before getting a tummy tuck.

Learn more about tummy tuck surgery and schedule your initial consultation today! We can be reached at our Encinitas location by calling 760-633-3003. Our Corona location can be reached by calling 951-737-3236. Call our Newport Beach location at 949-722-6603, and our San Juan Capistrano office at 949-661-1700.