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Recovery Time for a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck---abdominoplasty---is a surgery that tightens and smooths out wrinkles in the stomach area by tightening skin and repositioning it. This can be an extensive surgery, and some time to recover from the procedure is to be expected. Although recovery time can vary slightly by individual, there are a few guidelines that will guide you through your post-surgery time.

  1. First Week After

    • Most people experience moderate to severe pain in the stomach and back area within the first week after the surgery. Bruising and swelling in the abdomen is normal. Some patients experience muscle spasms with the back pain or are unable to sit up straight. Doctors can prescribe pain medication and muscle relaxers to relieve discomfort. These symptoms should subside a week after surgery.

    Surgical Drains

    • Some surgeons place drains in the incision area to prevent fluid from backing up and slowing down the healing process. These drains will be kept in for several weeks after surgery and will need to be emptied by the surgeon regularly.

    Removing Sutures

    • The sutures in your stomach are usually removed 5 to 10 days after surgery, but may be left in longer. Some parts of the incision may heal better than others, so a few of the sutures may be taken out, while others are left in.

    Abdominal Support Girdle

    • Your doctor may advise you to wear an abdominal support garment while the stomach is healing for two to three weeks. Physical activity is limited during this time and is discouraged. This keeps the stomach muscles from being stretched or strained while they are recovering.

    Resuming Activities

    • Many people return to work two weeks after the surgery, depending how physically strenuous their job is. Most doctors advise people to return to work and physical activity after three weeks. Your doctor may advise you to begin walking, but to avoid exercise that strains your stomach muscles.

    After 3 to 6 Months

    • Within six months following the tummy tuck, the surgery scars will begin to diminish, and the tissue folds will flatten. Many doctors have patients follow procedures for scar care so the incision will heal quickly, with the least amount of scarring.

    After 6 to 12 Months

    • The healing should be over, and most patients should see the final results of the tummy tuck anywhere from six months to one year following the operation.

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