Tummy Tuck Healing

A tummy tuck, formally referred to as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the stomach while strengthening the abdominal muscles. Tummy tucks are used to give the stomach a flat appearance. Before you can show off your tighter stomach, you will need to give your body plenty of time to heal and follow all post-operation instructions given by your doctor.

Hospital Time

• Bring an overnight bag with you to the hospital when you go in for your surgery. Because a tummy tuck can be an invasive procedure, it is common for patients to spend one or two nights recovering in the hospital. Hospital observation allows the doctor to monitor the incision site and make sure the wound is healing properly. Remain in the hospital until your physician deems you are ready to be discharged.

Post-Op Care

• Carefully follow your doctor's instructions in the weeks following the surgery. Your doctor may give you medication, a compression garment to hold the abdomen in its proper place, and a drain to remove excess fluid. Take note of your doctor's instructions and follow them when you get home. Wear your compression garment as directed to facilitate the healing process. If you are given a drain, use it regularly to remove any excess fluid since fluid build-up can cause infections. Take any antibiotics or pain medication exactly as they are prescribed to you.

  The physician may also order bed rest for a short period of time. If you are on bed rest, refrain from getting up and walking around excessively. While walking will reduce abdominal swelling and the risk of blood clots, it is also important to restrict the amount of strain put on the abdominal muscles immediately following the surgery.

Time Frame

• Recovery time from a tummy tuck depends on the patient's physical condition prior to the surgery. Patients who are already in good physical shape before the procedure tend to heal more quickly than patients who are not in as good of health. While each patient's total recovery time will vary, give yourself at least two weeks to properly heal.

  If you are still sore or weak after two weeks, continue to rest and allow your body to heal. It may take up to six weeks to fully recovery. Do not attempt to perform strenuous activity earlier than your doctor recommends, as this can cause complications at the incision site.

Exercise

• Light exercise is recommended to help the abdominal muscles regain their strength. Short, daily walks can help facilitate the healing process, but strenuous activity should be avoided while the abdomen heals. Vigorous exercise can cause the wound to reopen, which will further delay healing and may lead to other complications. Walking or other non-aerobic activities should be done in moderation to help your abdomen heal.