Tummy Tuck - Know What You’re In For

A tummy tuck is considered major surgery. As a result, recovery from

this procedure is neither painless nor easy. To learn more about this

please read on.



A tummy tuck is considered major surgery. As a result, recovery from

this procedure is neither painless nor easy. The healing process is

slow, but gradual, and some patients might even experience some

depression. However, knowing what to expect and being prepared can make

the process a lot easier.



An abdominoplasty is considered a major surgical procedure because it

involves cutting the stomach to remove excess skin and fat. The surgeon

will essentially resculpt the stomach area for the tummy tuck, this

includes removing the belly button and repositioning it once the

desirable amount of skin and fat has been removed. After surgery, the

tummy will be heavily bandaged and stitched. There will also be some

swelling and discomfort, which is alleviated with medication drips and a

tummy drain to remove excess fluids, and most patients will have to

stay overnight in the hospital for monitoring. Once the patient is

released, the plastic surgeon will recommend bed rest with light walking

for at least the first week after surgery. The patient will also

receive a list of instructions about changing the bandages, and adhering

to a strict antibiotics regimen. Also, the patient will be instructed

to sleep with the head and shoulders elevated, this keeps blood

circulating to the mid-section. The risk for complications is greatest

in the first few days after surgery, and following the doctor's

instructions are crucial. There shouldn't be any physical activity

beyond the doctor's recommendations.



After the first week, the doctor will remove the stitches in a follow-up

visit. Once the stitches are removed, the doctor will recommend an

abdominal support garment to help with healing and protect the

mid-section, especially since the patient is cleared for more physical

activity. The plastic surgeon will also outline a light exercise plan to

help reduce swelling and prevent blood clots; inactivity after tummy

tuck surgery tends to exacerbate the swelling. It is best to pay close

attention to the surgical scars during the light exercise, as too much

activity can reopen the wounds and cause an infection. Most patients can

return to work in about two weeks, although there shouldn't be any

heavy lifting until at least six weeks after surgery. For some patients,

this recovery process can be mentally strenuous. Some patients will

second-guess their decision and feel uncomfortable with the scarring and

long healing process. Post-operative depression is not uncommon, this

is another reason why it is helpful to stay in communication with the

plastic surgeon after surgery. The surgeon can keep track of the

recovery, and keep the patient's expectations in perspective.



A tummy tuck is not a simple out-patient procedure. If considering this

option, keep realistic goals in mind, and know what to expect. The

recovery process is very difficult, and following the surgeon's

instructions can make it a lot easier. Additionally, the surgeon can

help patients put their recovery into perspective, and not become

discouraged.