Six Tips for a More Comfortable Tummy Tuck Recovery
Whether you have decided on a tummy tuck procedure after dramatic weight loss or once you are done having children, you have likely invested a great deal of time and effort into your decision to undergo such a procedure. The fact that you have chosen our surgeons at Jefferson Plastic Surgery shows that you want the best possible outcome from your procedure as well.
Still, it is important that patients understand that a tummy tuck is major surgery, despite being an elective procedure. Our staff works hard to put your safety and comfort first and foremost. Below are six ways you can have a more comfortable recovery period from your tummy tuck procedure, which will set you well on your way to better results and greater satisfaction with the overall outcome.
Arrange for Recovery in Advance
Because this is a major surgery, you will need to set up in advance for your recovery. This will include everything from picking up any prescriptions to preparing and freezing post-surgery meals before your actual surgery date. You must also arrange to have somebody drive you to the surgery center, as well as pick you up and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours afterward. Arrange your recovery area in advance with water, facial tissue, medication, cell phone, TV remote, reading material, and laptop computer within easy reach.
Proper Nutrition and Hydration
You will need to rebuild your strength following your tummy tuck procedure. The best way to do this is with protein. Try to focus on lean proteins, such as chicken or turkey. Of course, you should also add in plenty of vegetables. In addition, stay hydrated with plenty of water, which will help prevent blood and fluids from pooling in the extremities, as well as prevent constipation, which may happen as a result of pain medication. Over the counter stool softeners may also help combat constipation.
Reduce Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling are part of the body’s natural defense to having the skin cut open and will happen following any surgical procedure. Reducing the amount and duration of bruising and swelling will speed your recovery time and provide better final results from the procedure. Once the incisions have healed over, you can use cold compresses or gel packs to reduce bruising and swelling. The herb Arnica montana may also help.
Get Moving
You may not feel like moving the first day or two after surgery, but we encourage you to move around as much as you can, even if it is only to go to the bathroom and back. Doing so keeps your circulation system moving, which prevents blood and fluids from pooling, as well as swelling in your extremities. You can slowly add on a little bit more movement each day, but the most important thing is to try to move as much as you can every day.
Prevent Infections
Infection is always a risk from any surgery. However, there are steps you can take to minimize this following your tummy tuck procedure. Take the antibiotics your surgeon has prescribed exactly as directed. Keep your sutures clean and dry, particularly before they have healed over. If you change your dressings, wash your hands thoroughly with antibiotic soap beforehand and try not to directly touch the sutures.
Give Yourself Down Time
Allowing your body to heal can often be the most frustrating part of the recovery time. Our staff recommends taking two weeks off from work in order to have a full recovery. If you push yourself too hard to return to work or school too soon, you may end up with suboptimal results. Remember, you have just undergone major surgery, so try to be patient with yourself!
We realize that the first few days following a tummy tuck procedure can be frustrating. However, it is important to pace yourself, follow the instructions your surgeon has given you, and take this time to let yourself fully recover. In time, you will be able to proudly show off the results of all of your hard work to get back in shape.