A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is one of the most preferred plastic surgery. Tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is the removal of excess skin and fat which lies between the umbilicus and pubic bone in the abdominal area.
Tummy tucks is one of the most performed plastic surgery procedures all around the world. Turkey has become one of the most preferred destinations for the tummy tuck procedure.
Understanding the recovery process and recovery time can help make the tummy tuck an easier journey for many patients.
Recovery times can vary, like any surgical procedure this is a general time frame but recovery times are often dependant on a number of factors which include;
- Age
- General health
- Type of tummy tuck undertaken
- Post-Surgery care
Once the procedure is complete, your surgeon will discuss timelines with you along with provide you with a post-surgery care plan to aid with your recovery.
Why does the type of tummy tuck matters in terms of recovery?
There are a number of different types of tummy tucks available which can be performed by your surgeon. You can get a full or more involved ‘extended tummy tuck’, or you can get a mini tummy tuck, which will only focus on a small area in the lower abdomen.
The more extensive your tummy tuck is, the longer it may take to fully recover.
What to expect during tummy tuck recovery?
One of the most important things to remember during the tummy tuck process is that you should follow your surgeon’s instructions closely.
Immediately after surgery
Following your tummy tuck procedure, your abdomen will be covered with surgical dressing. In some cases, there will be thin, small tubes place around your incision this is to drain any fluid which may build up around it. This is common and shouldn’t cause you any additional discomfort
You will need to rest for the first few days especially at an angle and these instructions will given to help move about to prevent any blood clots.
When you’re home
It’s important to line up help just in case you require it when you arrive home following your surgery. You will be prescribed pain medication and you will have somewhat limited mobility.
You may find bending, lifting or standing for prolonged periods of time extremely difficult, so having someone to help around the house during the initial period after the tummy tuck surgery and this can make recovery significantly easier.
Daily maintenance
Your surgeon will teach you how to properly care for your incision and drainage tubs for the length of your recovery.
Most patients are given antibiotics to take for a certain length of time.
You will have an abdominal support garment or wrap which will help with the swelling and discomfort during your recovery, so its important to wear it for the recommended time each day.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can seriously inhibit your recovery, so they should be avoided for at least 3 months post-surgery.
Resuming normal life
If you have young children, you may wish to enlist help to assist with childcare, as squatting, picking up children or heavy objects for the first few weeks is strongly advised against. Driving, cooking or shopping is often manageable after a week or two.
A number of people take upto a month off work for recovery. If you have a physically demanding job, it is important to take plenty of time off work so that you don’t hinder your recovery. You will also want to avoid exercise during this period of time for the same reasons.
Long-term effects
People can experience numbness or a pulling sensation for weeks of months post tummy tuck surgery, this is typically normal and often fades with time. It can take upto 3 months for the bruising and swelling to go down completely, and may take longer than that for your scar to fade.
Working closely with your surgeon and surgery team to understand and prepare for post-surgery care can help aid your recovery and ensure it’s seamless. Just remember to be kind to your body and focus on doing everything you can to recover fully from your tummy tuck procedure.
