Having a tummy tuck can give you a big boost of confidence, but it is best to go into the procedure with a good understanding of what your recovery period will be like. Be sure to ask your tummy tuck surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.
After the Procedure
After your surgical procedure, your abdominal incision and bellybutton will be covered with surgical dressing. Small tubes might be placed along the incision site to drain any excess blood or fluid. These drains will be left in place for several days after surgery. After your tummy tuck, your health care team will help you to walk as early as day one. This will help prevent the formation of blood clots.
You will feel moderate pain which will be controlled by pain medication. You may also be prescribed an anticoagulant for several days following your surgery.
It’s normal to have swelling in the surgical area for about six weeks. In some cases, it can take much longer for swelling issues to resolve.
For about six weeks after your tummy tuck you will continue to wear a supportive abdominal garment called an abdominal binder. It will help to minimize swelling and support your abdomen as it heals.
It will take time for you to return to your normal schedule. For the first six weeks following surgery you will need to be careful when moving. To prevent the wound from reopening, do not make movements that will strain your incision line. You will also need to schedule follow-up visits with your doctor.
A Timeline of Recovery
Every patient is different, so it stands to reason that every patient will have a different recovery process. In general, it is best to take two weeks off from work. Your first week of recovery is limited to activities of daily living. During week two, you may start to drive, shop or work with limited activity. During weeks 3 and 4, you may begin walking for exercise. At 4 to 6 weeks post-op, you may resume regular activities and increase your workouts, depending on how you feel.
To find out if a tummy tuck is right for you, contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation. Buinewicz Plastic Surgery has two locations to serve you. Visit our Doylestown location in Bucks County, PA or our Flemington location in Hunterdon County, NJ.
