Many patients are extremely anxious once the tummy tuck surgery is completed and the sutures removed. In most cases, patients don’t know what to expect after cosmetic surgery, which is why we created this 6-month tummy tuck recovery guide to help you understand what to expect physically and psychologically at different stages of your recovery.
4 to 6 Months Before Tummy Tuck Surgery
According to surgeons of tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) at SVIA, you’ll need to take some time off to do exercise and lose as much weight as possible before your tummy tuck. This is for two reasons:
- Your skin will be able to stretch more easily if you are not overweight.
- It’s easier to see your results if you have less fat.
If you have a lot of excess skin around your belly button or groin area, this can also make it easier to do a tummy tuck.
It is better to also cut down on salt and sugar in the days leading up to your surgery. In fact, you can try to eat a healthy diet at all times so that you don’t gain weight back after surgery.
6 months before surgery, you should stop smoking as it can lead to complications and infections after surgery.
You should do a lot of research about tummy tuck surgery. It is important to know all the risks and complications that come with the surgery. You should also learn about the recovery process so that you can prepare yourself for it.
Make sure that you are healthy enough to undergo this procedure by consulting your doctor or surgeon.
4 Months Before Surgery
You should book your initial consultation with your chosen plastic surgeon around four months before you have decided to go ahead with a tummy tuck. This will give you plenty of time to think about the procedure and ask any questions that you may have. Once you have booked your consultation, it is important that all relevant information is provided to the surgeon so they can make an informed decision about the surgery and help you achieve the results that you want.
3 Months Before Surgery
You should set up an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in tummy tuck procedures. He or she will examine your abdomen and discuss your goals, expectations, and health history. The doctor will likely recommend scheduling the procedure after three months from the consultation date.
1 Month Before Surgery
1 month before your tummy tuck surgery, you should stop taking aspirin or ibuprofen because they thin the blood and could increase bleeding during surgery. You should also stop using vitamins with vitamin E, which may increase bruising.
You should avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting during this time period. This includes lifting objects heavier than 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
Conclusion
Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure to plan the tummy tuck procedure at the best time for your needs. Another important thing is to research the best doctor near you and seek referrals from others who have had their tummy tuck surgery. If you follow the 6 months guide to tummy tuck surgery, everything will be successful, and you will be fit and healthy post-operation.
Great post. Thanks for sharing.