Posted on: December 12, 2022
Diet: For the first week after surgery, patients should follow a low-sodium diet to reduce swelling.
Side Effects: Patients experience some pain, bruising, swelling, and tightness in the first week after surgery.
Drains: Most patients need to use a drain in the first few days after surgery; drainage moves excess fluid away from the incision and out of the body. In most cases, the drain can be removed in three to seven days.
Dressings: The dressing for a tummy tuck may be changed every two days after surgery, and the area around the incision may be gently cleaned.
Compression garments: Patients must wear compression garments at all times for the week following the operation. Compression garments promote healing and help the patient achieve the desired contour.
Showering: In many cases, patients can shower a day or two after surgery. However, if you feel dizzy, it is better to wait. Patients with drains may find it easier to take a sponge bath a few days after surgery.
Prohibited Activities: Several activities are prohibited during the first week after abdominoplasty. These include driving, physical exercise, work, housework, tobacco and alcohol consumption.
Tips for recovery during the first 7 days:
Diet: Patients will be ready to return to their usual diet in the second week after surgery, but it is advisable to continue to limit sodium during this week.
Side Effects: Swelling of the treated area is still present during this time. However, the pain, bruising, and tightness begin to subside.
Massage: In the second week after surgery, patients may begin gently massaging the treatment area to promote healing.
Scar Management: Patients are usually able to begin scar minimization treatments within the second week after surgery. Methods to minimize scarring may include applying vitamin E or silicone sheeting to the incision.
Compression Garments: For best results, patients should continue to wear compression garments for a fortnight after surgery.
Work: Patients may feel ready to return to work and other tasks 10-14 days after surgery. Patients who have a tummy tuck in conjunction with another procedure, such as liposuction, butt lift, breast augmentation, arm lift, or thigh lift, may need several additional days to recover.
Prohibited Activities: There are a number of activities that are prohibited during the second week after a tummy tuck. These include: exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption.
Diet: Many patients return to a normal diet during the third and fourth week after surgery. However, it is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to maintain an ideal weight.
Exercise: Patients are usually able to do light exercise four weeks after surgery. However, more strenuous movements, such as squatting or lifting, should be avoided for six weeks after surgery.
