Posted June 12, 2016 in Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Tummy tuck surgery is one of the more invasive cosmetic procedures, and it can also be one of the most challenging to recover from because of the incision location. After surgery, you may realize just how often your midsection moves as you bend, sit, stand, and walk. Most people feel back to themselves after two weeks, with swelling subsiding after a few weeks, but you can accelerate the recovery process by following these steps.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is essential to making the recovery process easier. Arrange for someone to care for you for at least the first 24 hours, and ask them to check in with you over the next couple of weeks. As much as possible, take care of any responsibilities ahead of time. Pay the bills, prepare some meals and freeze them, and make sure you have a couple of comfortable places in the house to rest.
Do Not Smoke
If you smoke, you should quit smoking at least two weeks before surgery and for several weeks after surgery until your body heals. Smoking causes the blood vessels to become narrow, making it difficult for oxygen to get to your body’s tissues. It also makes the blood thicker so it doesn’t flow as easily. The result is slow or poor healing at the incision site. Your scar may later appear worse if it widens, and scar revision surgery may be necessary to get the results you had hoped to attain.
Stop Taking Blood-Thinning Medications
Stop taking blood-thinning medications like aspirin, Advil® (ibuprofen), Aleve® (naproxen), and fish oil one week before surgery. Blood thinners increase bleeding, which is a major concern prior to surgery.
Eat Nutritiously
Proper nutrition is one of the key factors in the healing process. When your body has the proper fuel to heal itself, it can do so more efficiently. Be sure to get plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet before and after surgery. Protein is also essential for healing since it is one of the main components of collagen, which will help your wounds to heal. Be sure to have a portion of protein at every meal, whether it is from lean meat, eggs, or another healthy source.
For more information about the tummy tuck procedure and recovery process, contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Charles A. Messa, III for your personal consultation. Call 954.659.7760 or fill out our online contact form today.