Tummy Tuck Recovery: What Does It Look Like?

So, you just had your tummy tuck and are now wondering why you are not experiencing the same type of recovery as what you read on blogs. The answer is that recovery varies from patient to patient. Let this article help you understand some essential facts about tummy tuck recovery.

What Is a Tummy Tuck? 

The tummy tuck is a process also known as abdominoplasty. It is the act of removing excess fat and skin while also restoring the weakened muscles of your stomach to create a firm and smooth-looking abdominal profile. 

This plastic surgery can also smoothen your unwanted stretch marks and eliminate excess skin, particularly in the lower abdomen. The tummy tuck has long been a surgery option among Americans and still remains popular today.

Why Does the Recovery Differ From Person to Person?

Many factors contribute to the body’s recovery from any injury, surgery, or sickness. In the case of abdominoplasty, the following factors determine how fast you can get better after the procedure:

• Your age
• Your general health condition
• The type of tummy tuck procedure you received
• How well you handle your post-surgery care

After the procedure, your plastic surgeon will talk you through what your next expectations should be. They are the best person to help inform you about a more detailed recovery timeline. 

The Type of Tummy Tuck and How It Affects Recovery

One of the enumerated recovery factors is the type of tummy tuck procedure a patient underwent. That is because the surgery has various available methods that differ in focus and intensity level. 

Some people might want to get a “mini” tummy tuck, specifically for the area in the lower abdomen,below the belly button and it does not deal with loose skin or separated muscles in the middle or upper abdomen. Patients who get this can get better faster due to a shorter incision compared to the full tummy tuck. 

Those who opt for the full tummy tuck procedure should expect a slightly longer time for recovery. Still, it could be faster if the patients are younger, in good health, and on top of their post-surgery care. 

What Should You Expect?

Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is the number one key to a speedy recovery. They could help you recover faster by using proven techniques, and providing clear information on what you should expect after the surgery based on the many cases they have done. Here is what you should expect after an abdominoplasty:

• Expect your tummy to be covered with a surgical dressing after the procedure. If your case involves a lot of fluid that needs to be drained, small tubes will be placed around it. This is a standard part of after-surgery care, and patients generally will not feel any discomfort.
• You will need to sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated for a few weeks depending on the procedure. Your plastic surgeon will tell you how to do it and the duration.  
• Once you get home, you might need some physical help from others due to your limited mobility. Maybe you will also want to take some pain medication to address some pain points while recovering. Activities like bending, standing for long periods, and lifting will be challenging to do for 2 to 3 weeks. 
• It will help if you continue following the surgery post-care advised by your plastic surgeon. Avoid damaging habits such as drinking alcohol or smoking that could hinder your full recovery.
• Initial recovery time varies, but you will generally need two to three weeks or one month to recover.  

Conclusion

Healing after a tummy tuck is different for different patients. Make sure to follow your plastic surgeon’s advice and contact them when you notice any concerns or issues with your recovery. Doing those will guarantee that you are on the right track towards recovery.

Are you looking for an affordable tummy tuck in California? Book an appointment at Peninsula Plastic Surgery for high-quality results and care in the Los Angeles South Bay. We are dedicated to offering cutting-edge and effective plastic surgery procedures, and we are here to help address your cosmetic concerns.