Tummy tucks, or abdominoplasties, are some of the most popular cosmetic surgeries. Around 100,000 tummy tucks get performed every year. Tummy tucks are an effective way to contour the shape of your body, removing excess fat and skin.
While a popular procedure, one of the things potential patients wonder about is how long the recovery from abdominoplasty surgery is. It’s important to understand the length and severity of recovery after you have any surgery. Knowing this information can help you prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally.
This guide will discuss how long the recovery time for abdominoplasty surgery is. Know what to expect as you decide if this is the right procedure for you.
What’s the Recovery Time for Abdominoplasty Surgery?
It takes around six weeks to heal from a tummy tuck. You can expect swelling to last a few weeks. Most individuals fully recover in less than three months.
One Day After
You’ll experience discomfort and some pain immediately after your surgeon. Your surgeon will prescribe medications that can assist with managing inflammation and pain.
You might also receive a compression garment or drain. These items help with the following:
- Speeding up recovery
- Reducing swelling
- Collecting excess fluid
It’s recommended that you have a family member or friend with you. They’ll drive you home after your surgery and help you with your daily activities afterward.
One Week After
Patients should expect to feel sore one week after their procedure. At this time, light walking can improve blood flow and speed up healing. Don’t participate in the following activities:
- Exercising
- Heavy lifting
- Strenuous activities
Continue taking the medications your surgeon prescribed to you as directed. You should also incorporate healthy habits during this time. This can include eating a balanced diet and drinking water.
Some tips for healing during this time include:
- Using a cold compress or ice pack to reduce discomfort and inflammation
- Avoid wearing clothing that presses on your stomach
- Following your surgeon’s incision care instructions
Six Weeks After
As we mentioned, you can expect to be healed from your procedure six weeks after. You can resume normal activities and exercise at this time.
Your surgeon might make specific recommendations based on your desired goals and your current health. Continue going to your follow-up appointments so your healing can get monitored.
What Factors Can Affect My Recovery?
Several things can affect how long your recovery time is from an abdominoplasty surgery. These factors include:
- Your age
- What type of tummy tuck you received
- Your overall health
- How well you take care of yourself
Some tummy tucks will extend your recovery timeline. The types of tummy tucks you can get are:
- Extended Tummy Tuck: Long recovery time with a large scar
- Classic Tummy Tuck: Large scar that can be easily be hidden
- Mini Tummy Tuck: Short recovery period with minimal scarring
What Are Ways I Can Help With My Recovery?
There are a few tips you can follow to ensure you achieve your desired results when getting a tummy tuck. Improve your healing by making small adjustments to your daily routine.
Eat Healthily
Eating food with high amounts of protein will improve your energy levels throughout the day. Protein also helps with the healing process. You’ll also want to avoid getting constipated while you heal, so these foods will assist you with avoiding that.
Some protein-rich foods you can explore are:
- Lean beef
- Salmon
- Eggs
- Pasta
- Peanut butter
- Lentils
- Cottage cheese
You’ll also want to consume healthy fats, like avocado. These can assist your skin with healing and recovery.
Avoid consuming food that has high amounts of sodium and sugar. These ingredients can increase your swelling.
Drink Lots of Water
Most people should drink eight 8-ounce cups of water each day. It’s even more important when you’ve had a tummy tuck. Water flushes out your body and reduces swelling.
Wear the Right Garments
You’ll be swollen for many weeks after your tummy tuck. Your surgeon might provide you with compression garments to wear. You can also purchase them yourself.
A binder or girdle will help manage the swelling. It’ll also assist with your skin re-draping after your procedure.
Sleep Differently
While it might be challenging to change your sleeping position, sleeping while sitting up will help your healing. You don’t have to sleep on the couch or in your favorite chair. Place yourself in an inclined position to reduce stress and pressure on your abdomen.
You can utilize large pillows to support your body. Place them underneath and on either side of your body. Having pillows all around you with help with maintaining the right position all night long.
Incorporate Short Walks
You should start walking each day once your surgeon gives you the green light. It’s best to start off walking around 20-30 minutes either outside or on the treadmill. Walking helps improve your circulation and supports your recovery process.
Listen to Your Body
You might feel like you’re ready for certain activities as you heal from your tummy tuck. You’re going to feel sore and swollen for a while after your tummy tuck. Take the time to take care of yourself as you ease back into your normal activities.
You should limit how many hours you work each day after returning to your job. This is especially true for people who have a physical job or are on their feet for several hours. Your surgeon can let you know what activities to avoid when going back to work.
Schedule a Consultation With an Experienced Tummy Tuck Plastic Surgeon
While you can expect to be fully recovered from your abdominoplasty surgery after three months, keep in mind that every person is different. Various factors affect your recovery timeline. Be patient with yourself as you give your body time to heal and adjust.
Dr. Tracy Pfeifer and her staff are here to guide you through your wellness journey. Contact us to schedule a consultation for a tummy tuck in New York.