11 Sep Recovery after your tummy tuck. Discover the best way to recover after your surgery.

Timeline for Recovery After Tummy Tuck

Recovery time after abdominoplasty is different for everyone. Factors such as your age, skin condition, and the type of abdominoplasty performed can influence the length of your recovery. Following your surgeon’s instructions is essential. Follow your instructions for a faster recovery.

Smoking after surgery leads to delayed healing, poor-quality results, and potential complications such as wound dehiscence and tissue loss. Don’t smoke!

Immediately after the surgery

After the procedure, your abdominal area will be covered with surgical dressings. In most cases, small, thin drainage tubes will be placed around the incision area to prevent the accumulation of blood and other body fluids.

You will need to be accompanied home by a responsible person after the operation, as you may feel groggy due to the effects of the anaesthesia. You may also experience swelling and bruising at the operation site. In the 24 hours following your abdominoplasty, it’s best to rest as much as possible.

During the First Week

During the first week, you may still experience pain, bruising, swelling and tightness in the abdominal area. The surgical drain will be removed at this time. To speed up your recovery:

• Do NOT smoke – it can impair your healing and give a poor result!
• Apply a cold compress to minimize pain and swelling.
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid strenuous exercise and other lifting activities.
• Avoid touching incision sites with bare hands to prevent infection.
• Do not massage incision sites.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Limit your movements and remain slightly bent at the waist.
• Maintain a low-salt diet.
• Replace dressings as prescribed.
• Take pain medication as indicated.
• Be alert to any untoward signs or symptoms.
• Wear a compression garment at all times.

During the Second Week

At this stage, you may still experience some swelling of the operated area. However, you should expect a considerable reduction in pain, bruising, swelling and tightness in the abdomen. To speed up your healing during this period:

• Don’t smoke.
• Continue wearing your compression garment.
• Do light walking exercises to increase blood circulation.
• Gently massage your abdominal area.

During the Third and Fourth Week

During this period, you can resume your usual diet and activities. The final results of your abdominoplasty should begin to show after 3 to 4 weeks. However, it would be best if you observed the following guidelines to maintain the contour of your abdomen:

• Avoid sit-ups and weightlifting.
• Continue wearing your compression garment.
• Exercise lightly.
• Consult your surgeon in the event of adverse signs and symptoms.
• Maintain a healthy weight.