Abdominoplasty is a common plastic surgery procedure that has remained popular for years. Despite the popularity of this surgery, many patients have no idea what to expect during their recovery. Understanding the recovery process and timeline can help make the Abdominoplasty procedure go more smoothly.
Generally, most patients begin feeling more normal around the eight-week mark but it depends on a variety of factors, including age, general health, type of tummy tuck and post-surgery care.
The most important thing to keep in mind during this procedure is to strictly follow your surgeon’s recommendations. It is generally advisable to have your Abdominoplasty performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon.
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Table of Contents
Right after your surgery
Your abdomen will be covered with surgical dressing immediately after a tummy tuck. In many circumstances, thin, small tubes will be put around your incision to drain any fluid that has accumulated around it.
For the first few days after surgery, you’ll need to rest at an angle and will be told to walk around to avoid blood clots.
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When you’re home
It is essential to get help from a friend for at least a day or two after the surgery. You will be given painkillers and have limited movement, so you should not drive.
When you return home, you will have difficulty performing certain movements for a while, so having someone at home to assist you during the initial period after surgery can greatly facilitate recovery.
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Daily care
Your doctor will teach you how to properly care for your incision and drainage tubes. Antibiotics and anticoagulants are usually prescribed for a set period of time.
You’ll be given an abdominal support garment. Make sure you wear it for the appropriate amount of time each day.
Avoid smoking and alcohol as much as possible as they will complicate your recovery.
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Resuming normal life
Driving, cooking, and shopping often become easier a week or two after your surgery. Most people choose to take a month off from work. If you work in a physically demanding job, you should take more time off so as not to jeopardize your recovery. You should also avoid exercising during this period.
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Long-term effects
After the Abdominoplasty procedure, some people suffer numbness or a pulling sensation for weeks or months, but this is common and usually goes away with time. It can take up to three months for the swelling and bruising to go away completely, and your scar may take much longer.
Staying in touch with your plastic surgeon after the surgery will make your recovery process easier. An Abdominoplasty surgery can be a great way to achieve the aesthetic goals you have for yourself, just remember to be kind to your body and follow the instructions. Contact us now to get a free consultation from experienced plastic surgeons of .