Though an abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is cosmetic surgery, it is nevertheless major surgery that breaches abdominal muscles. Careful attention to the surgeon’s post-operative guidelines increase chances of having a smooth abdominoplasty recovery. A patient’s health and fitness status at time of surgery will influence the rate of recovery, and if liposuction accompanies the tummy tuck, the body will need a longer time to adjust. Taking appropriate care after this major reconstruction of the abdominal area will make it firmer as muscles and skin will be tightened considerably.
To speed abdominoplasty recovery, post-op guidelines include getting rest and limiting movement to promote natural healing. Depending on the type of abdominoplasty, the first night may be spent in the hospital so that abdominal drains may be monitored and medication given for swelling and pain. To decrease risk of blood clots, compression stockings and an abdominal binder will be worn for weeks. Stomach drains will need to be emptied two to three times a day and drainage volume reported to the doctor. Stitches are removed five to ten days after surgery.
Cold packs or wraps may be used for reducing swelling, and as swelling reduces, heat packs can be administered for bruised areas. Wedge pillows that keep a patient at a 45-degree angle will help to reduce swelling as well as reduce muscle tension, keeping a patient firmly in position while he or she sleeps. It is necessary to sleep in this position for at least the first 14 days, possibly longer.
Patients are told if they are expected to change dressings, and instructed in the process. As the incision heals, the bandage size may decrease. Bathing instructions need to be followed to the letter for a hygenic abdominoplasty recovery, as the bandages must remain dry and uncontaminated.
Daily temperature readings serve as a warning sign of infection. To reduce exposure to infection, abdominoplasty recovery patients take prescribed antibiotics; on time dosage and completion of the full course are important. Patients are advised not to wait for pain to become unbearable to take pain medications, as this would require the medication to climb too steep a hill for relief and relief from pain allows the abdomen to stay in a relaxed state for healing. Some numbness of skin surfaces initially is normal; some cut nerves will regenerate later. Hydration is critical; pain medications can cause constipation if the body is not kept well hydrated.
A couple of weeks into the abdominoplasty recovery, the doctor may allow patients to start using creams, gels, or silicone sheeting on the incision for reducing scarring. The scar will be dark and sometimes elevated for months afterward; however, in time it will fade and flatten out. Initial exercise generally consists of gentle walks to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots; nothing more rigorous should be attempted until at least six weeks after surgery, and after consulting the doctor.
