Updated December 2018
People who get tummy tucks give the procedure and results a resounding thumbs up. Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is the go-to surgery for individuals interested in getting rid of sagging, loose abdominal skin resulting from pregnancy or weight loss. There are several steps that tummy tuck patients can take for a faster, smoother recovery after surgery.
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Wear a Compression Garment
Your compression garment is an important part of tummy tuck recovery. After surgery, it’s not uncommon for residual fluid to linger around the abdomen. The compression garment provides support at the surgical site to decrease swelling and fluid accumulation and hasten healing. Individuals who wear compression garments following tummy tucks report greater ease moving around or shifting positions. Some even consider compression garments a gentle form of armor, worn to protect their stomach as it heals.
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Don’t Push Yourself
A tummy tuck can deliver dramatic results. Following your cosmetic surgeon’s guidelines for after surgery helps to improve recovery time and optimize your final results.
In our fast-paced world, it can be difficult to slow down and catch our breath. But this is exactly what those recovering from abdominoplasty must do to ensure optimal recovery. Most patients can return to an office job within 10 days of surgery. Work that’s more physically demanding should be avoided for two weeks or longer.
It’s important to ease back into any exercise routines and be gentle with your body. During the first 2 weeks, only gentle walking is recommended, followed by light, low-impact aerobic exercise during weeks three and four. Regular fitness routines can usually be resumed at the eight-week mark.
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Opt for Drain-Free Tummy Tuck
Advances in tummy tuck surgery mean that patients now have the option to forego drains. Drain-free tummy tucks relieve patients of the burden of caring for the drains and also allows them to shower sooner after surgery.
Author: Dr. Joseph Castellano
Dr. Joseph Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. After medical school and residency, Dr. Castellano returned home and has opened a practice in Tampa, Florida focusing on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. He is a member of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, and American Medical Association
