If you are considering a tummy tuck– abdominoplasty for flattening your tummy, it is important to consider the best recovery after abdominoplasty.
First things first, recovery will look different for everyone. Your recovery will depend on your age, health, body weight and type of tummy tuck – abdominoplasty. It is vital to give your body enough time to heal effectively. You will be required to stay at the hospital for a few hours or even a day after the surgery. Dr Carmen will also give you instructions to adhere to after the surgery. You will be well prepared.
Post-surgery is always a time for investing in your own healing, this will give you a faster and more effective result – less swelling or pain, better movement, and more effective scar reduction.
Immediately after the surgery, you will be taken into a recovery room. A healthcare professional will monitor and check your incision, and you will usually be allowed to go home the day after surgery. Surgical drains will usually be removed before leaving hospital.
During your time in hospital, Dr Carmen will guide you regarding the recovery time, incision care and when to resume work, activity etc.
You will need someone to drive you home so arrange for it in advance as you won’t be able to do it yourself. Most likely, you will have drainage tubes that will drain the fluid from your tummy.
You also need to arrange for someone to help you around the house for the first few days as you will have limited mobility. Tightness around the tummy area is very common during the initial few weeks. It is advised to walk in a hunched-over position for a week or two.
It is common to feel sore in the stomach area, which will be accompanied by pain. Make sure to take the pain killers prescribed by Dr Carmen on time.
During the first two weeks, avoid standing for longer durations, lifting heavy objects and excessive movement. It is advised to take a month of work for optimal rest and recovery.
If you have a lot of responsibilities around the house, it is wise to arrange for some house help for a couple of months post-surgery. Do not resume physical activity until Dr Carmen gives you permission. You can resume driving after two weeks and slowly ease yourself into daily chores. You will experience scarring after the surgery that will take time to fade away. Don’t panic, and let your body heal at its own natural pace.
Bathing is also a struggle for the first week or two. Opt for sponge baths or use a chair while showering for the first two weeks post-surgery.
After two weeks, you will be able to walk straight. This is the time to introduce light walking into your routine. Remember not to exhaust yourself.
Constipation is very common around the one-month marker. Eat fibre rich meals to avoid constipation. You can also use over-the-counter stool softeners to help you. Also, drink loads of water.
Visit Dr Carmen for follow-up appointments to ensure everything is running smoothly. Never skip on those even if your recovery is going great. It prevents any complications and takes care of any unforeseeable risks.
Most patients can go back to work after a month marker. However, if your job is physically demanding, consult Dr Carmen’s team before resuming work.
Avoid taking baths and jumping into swimming pools for eight weeks post-surgery or till your incisions are fully healed. Most patients can also resume exercise eight weeks after the surgery. Always consult with Dr Carmen prior to resuming any physical activity.
It is important to give your body enough time to heal after the surgery. First things first, take plenty of rest after the surgery. Make sure you take the specified time off work, so you can give your body adequate time to recover. Your drains will be left in a few days after the surgery to empty out any excess fluids. You will most likely be asked to take antibiotic and anticoagulant while the drains are in place. Wearing an abdominal binder is critical for recovery as it supports the abdomen, avoids fluid build-up and reduces swelling after the surgery.
Avoiding strenuous activities for a period of six to eight weeks is critical. It includes everything from lifting heavy weights to working out excessively. Mild walking is permitted and recommended after the first two weeks.
Make sure that you arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and maybe help you around for the first 24 to 48 hours.
Your drainage tubes will most likely be removed 48 hours after the surgery. After that, you can take a sponge bath for three to five days or until you can shower. You might need to use a chair while showering for the first two weeks post-surgery.
Avoid consuming alcohol and smoking as it hinders the healing process and causes excessive bruising and other complications. Avoid taking any over the counter medications and herbal supplements without consulting Dr Carmen first.
You need to sleep on an incline for at least the first two weeks after surgery. It is important that your body is slightly raised and your knees are bent. Taking a little bit of care while sleeping will minimize swelling and take the pressure off your abdomen. You can also put some pillows under your knees for added comfort. The goal is to find an optimal resting position that makes you feel comfortable.
Once the initial two weeks are over, it is advised to walk a little bit around the house to promote blood flow. It aids healing and reduces the chance of getting blood clots.
Remember, it will take a minimum of seven to eight weeks before you feel like yourself. Stay calm and give your body enough time to heal. Avoid any demanding physical activity, including exercise, for eight weeks. Always consult Dr Carmen before resuming exercise and going back to work.
Apart from doing all the essentials mentioned above, follow these tips to give your body the an added boost:
It will take about two to three months for your lymphatic system to heal fully after the surgery.
We get that there is a lot to consider and remember as far as the recovery period goes. But, if you prepare for the surgery in the right way, you can manage it easily. Planning for all aspects, and following all the post treatment care instructions will help you heal faster. You will feel better with every passing day. If you feel any serious complications such as pain, bleeding and infections, immediately contact Dr Carmen. Do not wait it out, as it can lead to serious complications. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
If you still have any questions or wish to book an appointment with the tummy tuck – abdominoplasty surgeon, fill out the consultation form, and we will get back to you shortly. Alternatively, you can also give us a call or send us an email.