Tummy Tuck Recovery: What You Need to Know

A tummy tuck has been a sought-after cosmetic procedure for both women and men for years. According to a leading cosmetic surgery organization, it is among the top five procedures performed in the United States every year.

Despite the number of people who have had the procedure, a lot of people interested in tummy tucks do not know what to expect following their recovery. Knowing how your body will heal can make the journey an easier one for patients.

Recovery Times Are Different For Each Patient

There is not a single determining factor on how long it can take for you to recover following a tummy tuck. Each recovery is different and depends on various factors, including general health, age, post-surgery care. After your surgery, your surgeon will talk about a more specific recovery timeline with you. Most patients begin feeling better around two weeks after the procedure, but full results won’t be apparent for up to several months due to residual swelling.

Types Of Tummy Tuck Procedures

There are a couple of tummy tuck procedures that are available. Other than a traditional tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty), there’s also the extended and mini tummy tuck. Extended tummy tucks will involve a longer incision, and requires more downtime for recovery. This is because the procedure is more invasive and wider-reaching than other tummy tuck techniques. Mini tummy tucks focus on a smaller area, and recovery time is considerably less, although not every issue can be addressed with this technique.

Recovery Expectations

Follow the instructions of your surgeon carefully both before and after surgery. Also, make sure to contact them if any questions or concerns arise. You can always rely on a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Dallas Homas after having tummy tuck surgery to have the best results. He has the necessary training and experience to provide the best possible care.

Immediately After Surgery

After a tummy tuck procedure, your abdomen is covered with surgical dressing. There are thin tubes placed around the incision to drain any excess fluid, unless you have had a drainless tummy tuck. You will feel groggy and disoriented as you wake up from the anesthesia, and someone will need to drive you home.

At Home

You must have someone to help you for the first few days that you’re home. You will most likely be given pain medications and will have limited mobility. You will need to rest on an incline to avoid putting unnecessary stress on the healing incisions. Having someone to help you at home during the recovery period can make it easier to get back to work.

Daily Care

Your doctor will help you figure out how to care for the various daily tasks you’ll do to help heal during recovery. Many patients are prescribed antibiotics and anticoagulants for a certain amount of time. They are also given topical creams to prevent infection.

A wrap will be given to you to wear to help reduce swelling and ensure you heal in the intended way. It is important to wear it each day. It should be worn constantly as long as Dr. Homas recommends it. It is very common for people who have undergone surgery to be told not to smoke or drink alcohol for a minimum of three months following their procedure.

Getting Back To Normal

Most people choose to take two to three weeks off work for recovery. If you have young children at home, you may want to enlist help with childcare during this time as well, because you will have restrictions on lifting and standing up straight for a while. It is usually best to avoid doing anything that could cause injury to your incisions during the first few weeks.

Side Effects In The Long Run

Some people experience a pull or numbness in their abdomen after a tummy tuck. This is normal and usually fades with time. For most, this sensation will disappear within three months.

Recovering From A Tummy Tuck Can Be A Process

A tummy tuck procedure can be a great way to improve your self-esteem and reach your aesthetic goals. Working with a plastic surgeon and other team members to prepare for your recovery can help make it as seamless as possible. To get started on your tummy tuck journey, set up a consultation with Dr. Dallas Homas or Dr. Lisa Brostrom at New Image Plastic Surgery in San Antonio, TX. They have years of knowledge and experience to get you the results you’re looking for!