If you are considering a tummy tuck for flattening your tummy, it is important to consider the best recovery after a tummy tuck.
First things first, recovery will look different for everyone. Your recovery will depend on your age, health, body weight and type of tummy tuck. 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 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.
Swelling is very normal; this will cause difficulty with muscle movements and general stiffness of gait.
Daily showering is OK during the hospital stay once the drain tubes have been removed. Showers should always be brief and warm (but not hot).
Scar minimisation tapes are encouraged for 2 – 4 months then change to silicone cream or tape.
Driving is discouraged for up to 3 weeks post-surgery. Often due to several factors – pain or stiffness, use of strong painkillers, lack of concentration and strength.
Gentle short walks can commence 7 days post-op, as tolerated. Distance should be no longer than 15 minutes unless advised by the clinic. Walks can be daily or even twice daily, again as tolerated, this will also depend on how sore or swollen you feel.
Wear your Support Garments – Dr firmly believes in fitted shapewear post-surgery and is insistent that it is worn for the first 6 months post-op, both night and day.
Timeline for Recovery after Tummy Tuck
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 the hospital.
During your time in the hospital, Dr will guide you regarding the recovery time, incision care and when to resume work, activity etc.
First Few Days after Surgery
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 on time.
Week 1-2 After Surgery
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 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.
One Month After Surgery
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 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 team before resuming work.
8 Weeks/2 Months Post Surgery
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 prior to resuming any physical activity.
Guideline to Recover Quickly After the Surgery
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 antibiotics and anticoagulants 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.
Final Thoughts
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. Do not wait it out, as it can lead to serious complications. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
