The recovery time after some surgeries or cosmetic treatments performed by skilled surgeons is short enough that you’ll be back to your normal life in the blink of an eye. Unfortunately, that’s not the case with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). Because of the location of the surgery on the abdomen and what’s involved in it, such as incisions, sutures, treatment of excess fat and fluid, and drainage, the recovery period after a tummy tuck Houston tends to be longer and more complicated than the recovery time after many other procedures. Several factors, including the type of tummy tuck procedure, the amount of activity performed post-surgery, and adherence to instructions, can impact this timeline.
Men and women may experience concerns over potential side effects, such as blood clots, numbness, and sensation changes, as well as complications that could arise at the incision site. And during this time, a person may also experience swelling, discomfort, bruising, redness, and temporary mobility limitations as part of the recovery process, along with feeling the need for pain medications. All this information is vital to keep in mind while considering tummy tucks.
That said, the lengthy recovery period of various types of tummy tuck procedures shouldn’t dissuade you from having the surgery as long as you prioritize your health and safety. Following your surgeon’s advice and recommendations, such as wearing a compression garment, taking antibiotics to prevent infection, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and prepping in advance will help you have the most comfortable recovery possible. The following are some helpful tips for easing your tummy tuck recovery.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
No one wants to feel as if they are being rushed or that they are pressed for time. If you hope to enjoy a relaxing, comfortable recovery after your tummy tuck that supports your weight loss goals and new lifestyle, it helps to give your body plenty of time to heal. Often, it’s a good idea to take at least two weeks off from your job following a Houston tummy tuck. This will provide ample time for your incision to heal, proper care to be taken with any dressing and drain tubes, and for any drains that may be in place to be removed while reducing the appearance of scar tissue.
Some people recommend taking just a week off, but if you don’t feel better or up to going back to work after just a week, you might come to regret that choice. In contrast, if you allow at least two weeks for your tummy tuck recovery, you can always return to work early if you feel better. If not, you have a few extra days to rest up and heal.
Get Support
After your surgery, you want to have as much support as possible, both literally and figuratively. If you don’t have a spouse or your spouse is unavailable, find someone who can stay with you and provide emotional support and actual help during the first few days after your tummy tuck surgery. Having a reliable support system can make all the difference in reaching a successful recovery and in ensuring you follow all necessary instructions during this crucial healing period.
Things that were no big deal before surgery, like making it from the bed to the bathroom, driving, or even bathing, can be challenging during the initial recovery period after a tummy tuck. Having a friend around who can help you walk from point A to point B in your home, assist with bandages, or do things like wash your hair and dishes will help improve your recovery experience and mitigate the risk of bleeding or worsening symptoms.
Use Compression Garments
Along with having a friend or relative to support you, ensuring proper medicine usage, and exploring non-surgical options, you also want to make sure you’re supporting your abdominal area after the surgery. Your surgeon will most likely recommend wearing compression garments after a tummy tuck for a few weeks. Wear it. The garment will support the healing area and might even reduce the time you need for healing. It will also help to ensure optimal results and maximize the benefits of the surgery.
Be Careful with Your Activities
Engaging in a light exercise routine and activities, as advised by your surgeon, can also contribute to a smooth healing experience. However, refrain from lifting heavy objects, like weights, and exerting too much pressure on the treated area, such as the stomach, to promote the healing process.
Since walking can be tricky those first few days after surgery, you might also consider getting a cane or walker to help you get around the house. It can be difficult to stand up straight after a tummy tuck since the abdominal area has just been tightened. Your walker or cane will help you stay hunched over as you move around. It’s important to take short walks to enhance your recovery process and reduce the risk of fever.
Add Some Fiber to Your Diet
Eating a healthy diet before and after a tummy tuck Houston TX is essential, as it will help you get the nutrients you need and will help you avoid weight gain. Foods rich in fiber are particularly important in the diet after surgery and should be included in the list of options for your meals.
Many people develop constipation after surgery as a result of the procedure itself and any pain medication their surgeon prescribed. To help ease straining and minimize constipation, make sure you’re eating plenty of fiber from whole vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. In some cases, taking a stool softener can also help make your recovery period more comfortable.
Make Adjustments
During your initial recovery period, you may want to make several adjustments to your habits. For example, if you’re usually a tummy sleeper, you’ll want to switch over to sleeping on your back. You may need to switch from sleeping prone in a bed to sleeping in a reclining chair during your recovery. Many patients find it more comfortable to sleep with their feet and legs slightly elevated and their waist slightly bent after their surgery.
Prep Your Living Space in Advance
The more you can do to prepare your home for your recovery before the actual recovery, the better. Stock your fridge with ready meals that you can simply heat and eat. Invest in dry shampoo if you don’t have a friend who can wash your hair.
It’s also a good idea to have plenty of water and moisturizer on hand to help you stay hydrated and to keep your skin from drying out.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Vitenas
In Houston, Texas, plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Vitenas has regularly been named a top doctor and has earned recognition for his skill as a surgeon. To learn more about how you can prepare for a tummy tuck and how to stay comfortable throughout your recovery, call 281-484-0088 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vitenas today.