Tummy Tuck Aftercare: The Best Ways To Optimize Results
A tummy tuck, otherwise known by the medical term “abdominoplasty,” is sometimes the only way to eliminate resistant stores of fat around the stomach and tighten the abdominal muscles when even the most rigorous exercise routines and strict diets have proved unsuccessful. Patients are typically satisfied with their results from a tummy tuck, but the recovery period is an important part of the process. You do need to take active steps after surgery to ensure you have the best chances of achieving your desired look. Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh, who developed his own technique for a tummy tuck to minimize scarring and improve recovery, still encourages proper post-procedural care to maximize results. The Long Island plastic surgeon’s NaturaTuck™ Abdominoplasty does not involve drains and results in little to no pain in patients in the week after their procedure.
From belly fat to muffin tops to love handles, many of us deal with unwanted flab around our midsection. The cause of this extra cushioning could be due to any number of factors, including genetics. In some cases, your natural body type may make you predisposed to storing fat in this way. For anyone who wants to address the bulge with surgery, a tummy tuck is a precise and efficient way of targeting the area. There’s no doubt that this procedure can be a significant emotional and financial investment, but it generally produces much more dramatic results than other, non-invasive body contouring treatments.
A typical tummy tuck procedure involves surgically removing fat and sagging skin, tightening up remaining skin, and sometimes repairing muscles that have separated. For patients who have larger amounts of fat in the area, liposuction can be a necessary element. Note that each patient’s recovery timeline is unique and is influenced by their age, health, and body weight, as well as procedure details.
It’s tempting to want to rush out to shop for new clothes or go back to your normal activities straight away after tummy tuck surgery, but an important thing to remember is that abdominoplasty is a significant procedure, and your body still needs time to recuperate and to allow your newly flattened, firmer abdomen to fully settle into place.
Most patients experience some level of pain and fatigue during the days immediately following a traditional tummy tuck surgery, and any variation of the surgery may be accompanied by swelling and numbness for several months. Patients may also have difficulty standing in an upright position and move with a slightly bent over posture during the first week after surgery. With Dr. Alizadeh’s NaturaTuck™ Abdominoplasty, non-narcotic pain management is used, with injections of EXPAREL® provided as a long-lasting preemptive anesthetic that reduces discomfort for up to five days. The progressive tension technique splints the belly to minimize scarring and discomfort.
For at least one to two weeks after typical tummy tuck surgery, a compression garment should be worn to help stabilize the abdominal area, reduce swelling, promote even contours, and accelerate healing. These garments are designed with comfortable material that does not irritate incisions. Other techniques, such as Dr. Alizadeh’s, eliminate the need for pressure garments or drains, such that patients can shower the day after surgery and there is no need for suture removal. Resting and getting plenty of sleep is critical. Get organized ahead of time so that you can peacefully recover in your home. This may mean enlisting the help of a family member or friend to take care of small children, having prepared meals set aside, and ensuring medicine, towels, and water are on hand.
Overall, the best thing you can do to ensure your own safety and minimize the risk of complications from arising is to follow specific post-surgical instructions from your provider.
Avoid engaging in strenuous exercise or lifting—especially any action that puts pressure on the abdominal region. Simple, gentle activities like walking short distances can help to improve circulation. Some patients feel nauseous after surgery, but it’s important to stay well hydrated and eat small portions of bland foods to keep your energy up. Avoid eating too much salt, as the mineral can cause fluid retention.
Since a tummy tuck cannot prevent future weight gain and the ongoing effects of aging, it’s important to stick to healthy habits, such as exercising regularly and eating healthy, nutritious meals to prolong results.
Have questions or concerns about tummy tuck surgery? For more information, contact NYC’s Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh at Alizadeh Cosmoplastic Surgery. Call 212.348.0100 (Manhattan and Westchester) or 516.439.5010 (Long Island) or submit a consultation request.