A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that shrinks and firms the abdomen. It focuses on removing excess fat and skin from around the stomach. In most cases, it can also restore weak muscles, resulting in an abdominal profile that both men and women desire. Tummy tucks are common cosmetic procedures, and the tips for recovery and activities you can do after Tummy Tuck surgery are provided below.
Unfortunately, strict diets and exercise cannot always achieve the desired abdominal contour. People with normal body weight are more likely to develop sagging or loose skin around the abdomen, which is where a tummy tuck can help. Because of the physical and cosmetic benefits of a tummy tuck, many people are pleased with the end result. A tummy tuck offers a number of benefits to the right patient, including:
- Getting their pre-pregnancy tummy back
- Following significant weight loss, remove any excess fat and skin.
- Get a flatter, firmer stomach and a more contoured midsection.
- Muscle separation should be repaired.
- It is also easier to maintain weight loss.
What to expect after surgery?
The time it takes to recover from a tummy tuck varies from person to person. In most cases, it takes at least three months, if not longer, to feel completely recovered. Although the majority of the healing period occurs during the first few weeks, it is critical to postpone important plans, physical activities, and work stresses while recovering. Weight lifting, running, sports, motorcycles, and other strenuous activities should be avoided for at least six weeks after surgery. The following are some routine things you should look after as you recover from surgery:
- Compression garments; Following surgery, you will be given a compression garment to wear. This will help to reduce swelling and provide support to the abdomen. It aids in healing and recovery. You should expect to wear this for two weeks to two months, depending on your healing progress and the instructions of your surgeon.
- Incision care; The incision wound is protected from the outside environment by a surgical dressing or bandage. You will be instructed on what to do and when to do it in terms of wound care. To avoid injury or bleeding, keep your wound clean and gentle with it. Any swelling, severe pain or discharge from the wound should be reported to your surgeon right away.
- Drain care: Following tummy tuck surgery, a temporary tube may be placed under your skin at the surgical site. This is only used when necessary and will be removed once the fluid has stopped accumulating.
- Antibiotics and painkillers; You will be prescribed antibiotics as well as painkillers. These are to be taken orally to help you manage your pain and reduce the risk of postoperative infection.
Following a tummy tuck, here are some recovery tips:
- Take painkillers as directed.
- Put on a compression garment.
- To reduce pain and swelling, apply ice packs.
- Restriction on jerky and quick movements
- Move around the house to keep your blood flowing. In other words, avoid being too stationary.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Get enough sleep.
- Avoid remaining in one position for too long.
It’s important to remember that a tummy tuck takes time to get a result. It may take months, if not a year, for your body to fully recover and adjust to its new, improved shape. There will be scarring, but it will fade with time as you heal. Scars from incisions are kept as low as possible and hidden within underwear whenever possible. Following surgery, your surgeon will provide postoperative instructions to maximize your comfort and promote recovery. The following are examples of typical instructions:
- Taking painkillers and antibiotics on a regular basis.
- For about six weeks, I wore support compression garments.
- Wearing comfortable underwear, preferably ones that do not press against your incision.
- No exercise, swimming, or driving until they give you the all-clear.
Tummy tuck recovery is a time-consuming process that can last months. You’ll have good and bad days. You should have realistic expectations while healing, listen to the surgeon’s advice, and discuss any concerns you have. After your tummy tuck, spend at least a few days relaxing at home. After a few days, you can go for a short walk and light exercise after a few weeks. The more active you are, the faster you will recover. Staying active will help to reduce swelling, lower your risk of blood clots, and make you feel better.