Tips for a Safe and Fast Recovery After Tummy Tuck Surgery
After undergoing any surgical procedure, the recovery period requires many instructions and directives that must be adhered to obtain the desired results. Your doctor will provide you with tips for a safe and speedy recovery after a tummy tuck surgery, helping you avoid potential complications that may arise if the patient neglects self-care. Here are the tips.
What is a tummy tuck surgery?
A tummy tuck surgery helps eliminate excess fat and skin in the abdomen resulting from various factors such as pregnancy and childbirth, significant weight loss, or aging. It works to restore weak and separated muscles, thereby flattening the abdomen and restoring skin elasticity and appearance. This procedure is especially beneficial when exercise and dieting fail to address loose abdominal skin.
Tips after tummy tuck surgery:
Recovery after a tummy tuck varies from one person to another, and recovery depends on many factors such as age, weight, health, and the type of procedure. After the surgery, you may stay in the hospital for several hours or overnight. The recovery begins after leaving the hospital, and the patient needs to adhere to the following tips:
• Set a recovery framework with your doctor, which may involve taking a break from certain daily activities.
• Make appropriate arrangements to prepare for the recovery period.
• The doctor will place tiny tubes in the surgical sites to drain any fluids or blood, preventing their accumulation in the incision area.
• Take antibiotics and anticoagulant medications as prescribed.
• Apply dressings to the incision site to prevent fluid accumulation and support wound healing.
• Avoid heavy lifting or physically demanding activities that require vigorous movements for six weeks.
• Arrange for someone to care for you on the night of the surgery.
• Shower after 48 hours of drain removal.
• Use a chair while showering for a while during the recovery phase.
• Apply prescribed topical medications.
• Avoid alcohol when taking pain medications.
• Avoid all forms of nicotine for at least six weeks to prevent complications and a slow recovery.
• Do not take pain relievers or aspirin unless instructed by the doctor.
There are questions and additional tips after a tummy tuck surgery that you should ask your doctor about, including:
• How to care for the surgical wounds?
• What to know and monitor regarding overall health and infections?
• Physical activities to avoid that may impact the incision site.
• Follow-up visits with the plastic surgeon.
• Duration of wearing an abdominal corset.
• How long will the surgery last?
• What foods should I consume?
Home care tips after a tummy tuck:
Here are some home care tips to follow after a tummy tuck surgery:
• Sleep in an inclined position during the first few days after surgery.
• Elevate the upper body while bending the knees to reduce swelling.
• Place pillows under the knees to alleviate pressure on the abdomen.
• Walk as much as possible to maintain blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots in the legs.
• Avoid driving for several weeks.
• Avoid strenuous exercises for a period ranging from 4 to 6 weeks.
The doctor may provide tips after a tummy tuck surgery regarding medications, foods, and drinks to enhance the recovery process, such as:
• Drink plenty of water to flush toxins from the body and reduce swelling.
• Follow a healthy diet and consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Take vitamin supplements, particularly vitamins A and C.
• Drink green tea to boost immunity and as a natural antioxidant.
• Eat pineapples and papayas to reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Take probiotic supplements.
• Arnica flowers can reduce swelling, bruising, and pain.
• Take phosphorus supplements and ginger tea to alleviate post-anesthetic nausea.
Possible side effects after the surgery:
You will feel severe pain in the first few days after the surgery, and pain relievers can be taken during this period as prescribed by the doctor. Swelling may persist for up to 3 months after the surgery.
Standing upright may cause a sensation of tightness in the abdomen, and numbness may occur for months or even years. Bruising will also occur along with some swelling above the surgical incision where fluids may accumulate, but it will gradually subside over time. Red and swollen scars may form, but they will eventually fade.
Now, dear reader, after providing you with all the relevant tips after a tummy tuck surgery as recommended by your plastic surgeon, we hope we have answered all your questions and inquiries. For further inquiries, you can contact Dr. Ahmed Mekkawy Center.
This content has been reviewed by Dr. Ahmed Mekkawy, a consultant in cosmetic surgery, body contouring, and natural hair transplantation.
