Healing from tummy tuck surgery will vary from person to person. An abdominoplasty causes trauma to the abdominal area, which controls your bending and twisting, so recovery is often longer than most people anticipate.
Bed Rest
Generally speaking, you should expect to be laid up for up to two weeks. Depending on the type of tummy tuck surgery was performed; you may be required to remain in the hospital overnight or even for several nights. In the first few days following your surgery, you'll typically experience some swelling and pain or discomfort that can be controlled with medication. You should rest in bed for these first several days.
A Week After Surgery
The stitches from your tummy tuck procedure are typically removed within five to seven days of the surgery, or in stages. Dr. Placik will give you individual guidelines for activities like showering, walking and changing your surgical dressings. Cooperation with these post-operative guidelines will help dictate your recovery period. Your overall health and physical fitness at the time of surgery will also play a role in how fast you will recover.
Patience is a Virtue
It is normal to be anxious to see the results of your tummy tuck procedure. It's also easy to become frustrated with the recovery process. Remember that an abdominoplasty procedure:
- Removes a large amount of skin
- Tightens the muscles
- May involve liposuction to remove excess fat
Your body will need time to adjust to these changes. Some patients may require four weeks of recovery time following tummy tuck surgery.
Exercise is Key
Many doctors agree that light exercise about a week after surgery aids the healing process and can prevent blood clots along with strengthening your immune system. Walking is usually the best exercise to engage in after surgery, but other forms of non-aerobic exercise may also be acceptable. You should avoid all strenuous exercise for six weeks.
During your tummy tuck recovery time, you should pay special attention to your body's physical limitations to avoid reopening your wounds and increasing the time needed to fully heal from surgery. If you work at a desk job, you should be able to return to work in a week. If you work another type of job that involves more movement, you should be able to return in 10 days to two weeks.
Here are some tips for a faster recovery:
- Walk around every hour or so and flex your feet to prevent blood clots in the calf veins
- Keep your hips gently flexed for the first week to prevent tension on the sutures
- Do not shower until the drains have been removed (sponge baths until drains removed)
- Do not bathe for the first 2 weeks (showers permitted after drains removed
- Be careful of surgical tape when showering
- Limit any activity that causes discomfort
Dr. Otto Placik in Chicago, Illinois performs a wide range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures. If you are thinking about enhancing your appearance and permanently improving your self-confidence, please contact our office today.
