8 Tummy Tuck Recovery Tips from the Experts at Southlake Plastic Surgery

A tummy tuck is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the United States. The procedure involves the removal of excess skin and tightening of abdominal muscles to produce a flatter, more toned abdomen. 

At Southlake Plastic Surgery, we perform countless tummy tucks for women who have had children or for patients who have experienced a significant weight loss.  

However, our work does not end when the surgery is over. Our team will also answer your questions and guide you through the recovery process to ensure your comfort and optimal results.

How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck recovery time for patients varies depending on their age, overall health, medical history, and how well they take care of themselves post-surgery. Generally, patients need 2 weeks off work and 6 to 8 weeks to recover.

Our 8 best tummy tuck recovery tips

Listen to your surgeon

We give you post-operative instructions for a reason─to ensure you have a safe, quick recovery and you get the best results from your surgery. People who develop complications during their tummy tuck recovery tend to not follow their surgeon’s instructions.

Move around, but don’t overdo it

You will spend a majority of the time taking it easy after your surgery. However, it is important to get up and start walking around your house or yard soon after your surgery to keep your blood flowing. Good circulation is important to the healing process and also decreases your chances of developing blood clots. 

Ask for help

You will not be able to stand up straight or walk fully for several days following your tummy tuck. Your surgeon will also restrict certain movements and heavy lifting for several weeks. Having someone around who can help you get up and down, go to the bathroom, manage your medications, and look after your pets and children is essential to a healthy recovery. 

Find appropriate sleep & rest positions

A cozy recliner is going to be your best friend during your tummy tuck recovery. Resting and sleeping on an incline reduces tension on your newly tightened muscles. Invest in a few large body pillows as well to keep your body supported and in the right position while sleeping. 

Wear a pressure garment

Your surgeon will provide you with instructions well before your surgery that include recommended pressure garments. These compression girdles or binders promote the healing process by reducing swelling in the area and helping with skin re-draping after the surgery.

Absolutely no smoking 6 weeks before & after surgery

Tummy tuck surgery is extensive and requires us to cut many blood vessels. When you smoke, you increase your chances of developing serious blood clots, as the blood vessels that remain can suddenly close. Smoking also causes your heart and lungs to not work as well as they should, which slows the healing process and increases the risk of infection.

Follow good hydration & diet practices

Water flushes toxins out of your body and reduces the risk of post-op complications. Additionally, malnourishment dramatically decreases your body’s ability to heal. Focus on eating a balanced, healthy diet to support your body’s recovery. Foods that can aid the healing process include dark leafy greens, pineapple, salmon, eggs, chicken, and avocados.

Care for your incisions to minimize scarring

Everyone wants their tummy tuck scars to be as invisible as possible. If your incisions are not properly cared for, however, you run the risk of developing complications and prominent scars. Limiting bending, stretching, or other activities that put pressure on the incisions will help the skin’s recovery. There are also several topical products you can apply, and you can visit Southlake Plastic Surgery Medspa to even the scar’s tone and texture with laser, light, and microneedling therapies.

Ways to minimize tummy tuck scars→

Get the answers to all your questions about tummy tuck recovery at Southlake Plastic Surgery

If you are curious about the possibilities of a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with the Southlake Plastic Surgery team today! 

Our Board-Certified resident surgeon, Dr. Mark Mason performs countless tummy tucks for patients across the greater Dallas-Ft. Worth area and has the experience and knowledge you can count on.

Let us answer all your questions today!

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