Tummy Tuck Recovery Tips and Timeline

Posted on June 8, 2019 in Uncategorized

Getting a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a pretty big decision. For one, it is a complex surgery that has drastic changes on your appearance. Another thing that since it is complex, you need time to recover. There is a lot of resting that comes with getting a tummy tuck so that your muscles and skin can heal properly and not be disrupted. Dr. Ellen will go over all of the aspects of a tummy tuck with you especially what to expect during the recovery. 

Recovery is not the same for everyone

If you would like to have a tummy tuck or are planning to have one, you need to understand what the recovery process involves. Many factors affect the recovery process, including your health, body weight, age, and the type of tummy tuck you want.

After surgery, it is normal to want to bounce back immediately, but you have to allow your body to heal on its own. You may be admitted at the hospital for a few hours or a night or even longer. Dr. Ellen Janetzke will determine how long you stay in the hospital after your surgery. Dr. Ellen Janetzke is a board certified plastic surgeon that is extremely skilled in reconstructive surgery. The recovery process begins when your surgery is completed. 

Recovery timeline

As soon as you are discharged, it is vital to figure out a timeline to give your body ample time to heal. During this timeline, you can take a break from other aspects of your life and focus on recovering. Ensure you have made the necessary arrangements and are prepared for the recovery.

Surgical drains will be placed for a few weeks to collect any fluid. The staff members at Ellen Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery will show you how to empty the drains and take care of them. During this time, you will need to take an anticoagulant and an antibiotic to avoid infections.

For the first six weeks of recovery, you are required to wear an abdominal binder to support your abdomen. The abdominal binder also helps in preventing the building up of fluid. You also need to avoid doing any heavy lifting or strenuous activity during the first six weeks for a full tummy tuck. If you opted for a mini tummy tuck this period will be slightly shorter. 

What to expect after a tummy tuck

Dr. Ellen will guide you on the recovery process, and some of the information she will tell you include:

• How to drain tubes and take care of the incisions
• What physical activities to avoid
• What to do to prevent infection
• What to eat
• How much rest you need

Your next visit to the hospital

You need a friend or family member that can drive you home after surgery and take care of you for at least the first week. After forty-eight hours of removing your tubes, you can shower using a sponge. Ensure you are seated during the shower. You will be provided with pain medication that you need to take as prescribed. Avoid taking any alcohol or smoking during this time.

Home recovery guideline

Dr. Ellen will advise you on the proper position to sleep to increase blood flow and reduce swelling on your abdomen. Your upper body needs to be raised and sleep with a pillow in between your legs. While you are not supposed to perform any strenuous activity after surgery, you are supposed to move around a bit to help with blood flow. Take small walks around the house to decrease any blood clots. You may feel tired and worn out for several weeks after surgery. Thus you need to rest enough. The healing process after a tummy tuck may be slow, but it is manageable. With the right guidelines, your recovery will be fast and smooth.

Follow Up With Dr. Ellen

If you have any questions during the recovery process don’t be afraid to contact Dr. Ellen! It is better to be safe than dealing with any complications. Dr. Ellen will be with you from consultation until the end of your recovery. She ensures all of her patients are comfortable and knowledgeable during their healing period. 

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