Recovery After a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, reduces loose skin on the abdominal region of men and women. People who genetically have loose skin or have lost a significant amount of weight utilize this procedure as a way to tighten their bodies. However, like any surgical procedure, patients should follow doctor's instructions to recover after a tummy tuck.

Hospital Stay

• The first step toward recovery after a tummy tuck is a hospital stay of a few hours or several days. Surgeons monitor swelling and adjust medication.

Recovery Speed

• The time it takes to recover after a tummy tuck depends on the fitness level of each person. People who are fit and have strong abdominal muscles recover in as little as two weeks. Non-exercisers take six weeks or longer to recover.

Pain Management

• To avoid inflammation and reduce pain when recovering after a tummy tuck, take medication before pain becomes unmanageable.

Monitor Scars

• Successful recovery after a tummy tuck includes cleaning wounds to prevent infections and inflammation. Clean wounds by sponging incision area and changing bandages at least daily. Doctors may recommend an antibiotic cream or spray for the incision site.

Gentle Exercises and Abdominal Support

• Gentle exercise such as walking helps people recover after a tummy tuck because movement reduces the chance of developing blood clots. Abdominal support garments resembling a corset compress the tummy, shape and firm, and reduce swelling. Abdominal support garments can be found at medical supply stores that specialize in post-surgical care products, such as ContourMD.

Stay Hydrated

• Drinking water prevents bloating and keeps constipation at bay. To prevent these conditions when recovering after a tummy tuck, doctors may advice patients to take stool softeners and increase fiber in addition to water.