A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a popular plastic surgery procedure that aims to remove excess fat and skin for a smoother and firmer abdominal profile. According to improvedbodytampa.com, most women who have undergone this kind of procedure have abdominal sagging or protruding abdomen due to pregnancy or weight loss. But regardless of what the reason is, it is important to know what to expect after the procedure.
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Tummy tuck Tampa has listed the things you have to know about tummy tuck recovery to help you prepare for the recuperation process.
Recovery period varies
The truth is there is no specific duration of time to fully recover from the tummy tuck surgery. Like most surgeries, the time frame for recovery varies, and it is based on the following factors, including:
- Age
- Overall health
- Types of tummy tuck procedure
- Post-surgical care
Most surgeons discuss the recovery period after the tummy tuck procedure. But in general, most patients will start to feel better and normal on the 8th week. By the way if you live in Australia, you can learn more about plastic surgery by Dr Alex.
Types of tummy tuck procedures
There are three types of tummy tuck procedures that can be performed. You can choose to have an extended tummy tuck, which is fuller or a mini tummy tuck, which only focuses on a small area located in the lower abdomen.
Extensive abdominal contouring takes longer to completely recover, especially if the procedure involves flanks, lower back, and lower chest.
What to expect after a tummy tuck surgery
The most important thing to do during the recovery period is to closely follow the instructions that were given to you by your surgeon. And if in case you have some concerns during the recovery process, don’t hesitate to call your doctor.
Before considering to undergo a tummy tuck procedure, it is important to choose a surgeon that is board-certified. This is to ensure quality results and services that will be given to you, especially during the recovery period.
After the surgery
After your surgery, your surgeon or the assistant nurse will provide you with a briefing on how to properly recover at home. You will be given proper instructions on how to do the following:
- How to properly drain the tubes
- How to properly care for the incisions
- Physical activities that should be avoided
- When to call your surgeon
- How long should you wear the abdominal garment
- The food you can eat
- How long should you rest
After the surgery, make sure that there is someone who can drive you home and assist you during the first few weeks of your recovery period. You can take a bath after 48 hours, but before doing so, make sure to remove your drainage tube. During your first week of recovery, it is advisable to have a sponge bath while sitting until you can do already can manage to shower.
Your surgeon will also prescribe an antibiotic, pain medication, anticoagulant, and a topical ointment. Make sure to take the prescription as directed.
