Regrettably, even diets and vigorous exercise can’t always give you the abs you want. For such cases, an abdominoplasty can be helpful. 

According to PR Newswire, aesthetic procedures are increasingly a priority. Abdominoplasty, liposuction, and breast augmentation have increased by approximately 63 percent since 2020. Meaning many people are going for it.

So, What Is Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure where the plastic surgeon removes excess fat from the abdomen. It is more commonly known as a tummy tuck.

The recovery period after abdominoplasty varies depending on the type of incision used and the extent of the procedure.

After abdominoplasty, patients usually experience some degree of discomfort during recovery. Some common complications include bruising, swelling, pain, numbness, and infection. Patients should take care to follow post-operative instructions carefully. 

Here are some tips to follow:

Tips for Abdominoplasty Recovery

The first week after a tummy tuck is considered the initial recovery period. You should expect to feel some discomfort and pain. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help ease these symptoms.

If you have any questions, ask your surgeon about how much time you need to spend recovering.

These are some of the abdominoplasty recovery tips to consider:

Diet

During the first few days after surgery, you should avoid foods high in fat and sugar. These foods can cause nausea and vomiting. Also, try not to eat anything solid until your stomach heals.

Exercise

Exercise helps strengthen muscles and promotes healing. Start gentle exercise programs at least two weeks before your procedure and continue them after surgery (once cleared by your surgeon).

Sleep

Sleep is vital for healing after abdominoplasty. Try to get eight hours of sleep each night.

Relaxation

Relaxing (mentally and physically) will help you recover faster. Take walks outside and enjoy nature.

Other Tips

  • Reduce discomfort and swelling by applying ice.
  • Limit sudden, abrupt movements.
  • Be active throughout the house to maintain circulation. In other words, avoid being too still and staying stationary for too long.
  • Drink a lot of water.

Routine Things to Do After Breast Augmentation

Wear compression garments. Compression garments are worn after breast augmentation surgery. This is to help reduce swelling, support your abdomen, and promote healing. You should wear these garments for at least two weeks following abdominoplasty surgery.

Take care of the incisions. After your procedure, you need to take care of the incisions. A surgical dressing or bandage is placed over the incision wound to protect it from the outside elements. But that isn’t enough. You will receive instructions on how to care for wounds and when to do it. Keep your wound clean and handle it gently to prevent bleeding or harm. You should notify your surgeon immediately if swelling, excruciating pain, or drainage is coming from the site.

Take care of the drains. You will need to keep track of your drains for the first few days after abdominoplasty surgery. Your surgeon will instruct how often you should empty the drains..

Take antibiotics and painkillers. The doctor recommends that you take antibiotics for seven days after your procedure. You may also consider taking pain medication several days after your system. Please speak with your doctor if you have any concerns or questions about your post-operative care.

FAQs

How Can One Recover from a Tummy Tuck the Quickest?

After a tummy tuck, consume foods high in protein and drink lots of water. Pay attention to your body and consider having a lymphatic drainage massage.

How Long Does It Take for an Abdominoplasty to Heal?

The body needs at least six weeks to recover from cosmetic surgery. Although swelling may persist after many weeks, most patients heal entirely in three months or less. Exercise and returning to daily activities are both safe at this time.

How Long After a Tummy Tuck Should You Sleep Head High?

You must sleep with your head up for at least a week and probably for two or three weeks following a minor stomach tuck. You should anticipate sleeping with your upper body lifted for at least two weeks and maybe four to six weeks following a full abdominoplasty.

You will need to sleep on your back until you have completely healed from the surgery.

How Long Will I Walk While Bending After Having an Abdominoplasty?

For about a week, you will have to walk with your shoulders rounded or your knees bent. It lessens the pressure already placed on your incision lines.

How Is Fluid Removed Following a Tummy Tuck?

If possible, stay away from sugary and caffeinated drinks and stick to water with lemon. Take water and lemon to help flush out extra fluids, toxins, and impurities, lessening your belly tuck swelling. Exercising is a great strategy to minimize swelling when you feel okay.