What to expect from Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery) recovery
Some people who have tried countless diets and exercises to address the extra skin and fat from the stomach and have been unsuccessful, may want to consider Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery). Abdominoplasty can be performed to contour the waistline and remove unwanted skin. While most patients find the results to be worth it, you should be aware that abdominoplasty surgery requires an extensive recovery time. Dr. Perkins believes all of his patients should have accurate expectations of what to expect from abdominoplasty surgery, as well as some helpful tips to make the recovery smooth and successful.
Compression Garments
Patients who undergo abdominoplasty surgery will return home with bandages, a drain tube, and compression garments. It is important that you follow Dr. Perkins’ instructions regarding care of these healing aids. While the bandages and drain tube are usually removed after a week or two, we will typically ask our patients to wear compression garments for up to six weeks after surgery. Compression garments are an important part of the abdominoplasty recovery process. This elastic garment holds the skin close to the body and decreases the chances of any loose or sagging skin after recovery. The compression garment can also decrease swelling and may result in a shorter recovery time.
Common Side Effects
Your body is likely to be extremely sore and tired after abdominoplasty surgery. Surgery is likely to result in some of the following common side effects:
- Tenderness and soreness in the abdomen area
- Redness and/or bruising
- Swelling
You may experience these side effects for several weeks after your surgery. We recommend that our patients plan to spend the first several days after surgery on lighter activities. Most patients are not able to return to work for the first two weeks after surgery. Be sure to give your body the proper time it needs to recover.
Recovery Tips
It is normal for your body to experience pain and swelling after abdominoplasty surgery. These side effects are an inevitable part of the plastic surgery procedure. There are some tips that can ease discomfort and swelling after abdominoplasty and make your recovery as successful as possible.
- Get plenty of rest during your recovery period
- Drink lots of water to stay hydrated
- Avoid large quantities of salt
- Use the pain medication as prescribed by Dr. Perkins
- Gently massage the abdominal area
- Use ice packs or cold compresses as necessary
- Continue to wear the compression garment as directed
- Limit physical activity (especially those that put strain on the abdomen) for at least six weeks
By following these tips, you should hopefully experience an uneventful recovery.
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Darrell Perkins to learn more about the abdominoplasty procedure. Dr. Perkins will be there to care for you throughout your surgery and make sure that you have the information you need to ensure a successful recovery.
Important Note:
The content on our page in general in nature and does constitute medical advice. Any surgery or invasive surgery carries risks and has a recovery time. Please refer to the procedure page for detailed information.