Tips for Tummy Tuck Recovery

Last updated 8 months ago

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to remove excess fat and sagging skin from the midsection while restoring weakened abdominal muscles. A tummy tuck is not an alternative to diet and exercise, but it can effectively improve your body contours following weight loss or pregnancy. Continue reading for some tips for facilitating a safe, speedy recovery following your tummy tuck procedure.

Wear Your Compression Bandage: Your abdomen will be wrapped with an elastic bandage or compression garment immediately after the surgery. This garment should be worn according to your surgeon’s specifications to help reduce swelling and allow your tissues to adjust to their new contours.
Get Plenty of Rest: It is important to get as much rest as possible and avoid strenuous exercise the first few days after undergoing a tummy tuck. Consider preparing a recovery area in your home prior to surgery so that you can limit your movement once you return home.
Use Ice or a Cold Compress: Wrapping an ice pack or cold compress in a soft towel and placing it near your incision sites can be an effective way to reduce discomfort and swelling.
Gently Massage the Area: Gently massaging your abdomen after your tummy tuck reduces swelling by encouraging fluid drainage and circulation. Slow, gentle massage can also speed up the healing process by increasing oxygenated blood circulation.
Stay Hydrated: Keeping your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water is a must following any surgical procedure. Drinking water not only helps flush out any remaining anesthesia from your system but also expedites healing. You can also help your body stay hydrated by avoiding foods that are high in sodium.

For more information about the tummy tuck procedure and recovery, contact Dr. Yarish. Dr. Scott Yarish is a leading, board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston with over sixteen years of experience and expertise in surgical and non-surgical procedures. Contact us today at (713) 469-3449 to schedule a consultation.

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The materials available at this website are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical advice. You should contact your doctor or plastic surgeon to obtain advice with respect to any particular medical issue or problem. Use and access to this website or any of the links contained within the site do not create a doctor-client relationship. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the medical office or any individual doctor or plastic surgeon.