What is an abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty is also known as a tummy tuck. It is a surgical procedure that removes the excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles. Recovering from a tummy tuck can take several weeks, and it is important to understand what to expect during recovery. This article sets out a short overview of the recovery timeline for a tummy tuck. It includes details regarding when to return to work, when to resume normal activities, and when to expect to see the final results.
Recovery after tummy tuck surgery
After the surgery is complete, you will be taken to our recovery room, where our dedicated nursing team will closely monitor you. You will be given pain medication to help manage any of your discomfort. You will also be helped into a compression garment. This compression garment will help support the incision area and reduce swelling. You will be sent home the same day after you have recovered from the effects of the anaesthetic.
Week 1
During the first week of recovery, it is important that you rest and take it easy. It is likely that you will experience some pain and discomfort, which can be appropriately managed with pain medication. You will also experience some swelling and bruising. It is important to keep the incision area clean and dry and to avoid lifting or straining. You will be instructed to wear the compression garment for the first 1-2 weeks after your tummy-tuck. You will also have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check your progress and remove any sutures or staples.
Week 2 to 4
At this point in your recovery, you will start to feel better and have more energy. You will still experience some swelling and discomfort, however, this will gradually decrease. You will be able to start walking more and you can resume light activities. You should avoid activities that strain or put pressure on the abdomen, such as heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and sexual activity. You will have another follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check on your progress and remove any sutures or staples.
Week 4 to 6
You will continue to improve during this time and you will be able to engage in more activities. This includes; driving, light exercise, and returning to work if you have a desk job, where you are not required to strain yourself. You should continue avoiding anything that causes strain or puts pressure on the abdomen, such as heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and sexual activity. You will have another follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check on your progress.
Week 6 and beyond
Your progress will continue and you will start to see the final results of your surgery. You will be able to resume normal activities and exercise. However, you should still avoid anything that causes strain or puts pressure on the abdomen. You will have another follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check on your progress.
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Final Results of a tummy tuck
The final results of a tummy tuck will be visible after several months. It can take up to a year for the incision area to fully heal and for the swelling to go down. The incision will be permanent but it will fade over time.
Abdominoplasty surgery at Centre for Surgery
Centre for Surgery is the leading plastic surgery clinic in London and is home to some of the most experienced plastic surgeons specialising in all types of tummy tuck surgery, including full tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck and Brazilian tummy tuck. Call us today on 020 7993 4849 or complete the contact form below to schedule an in-person consultation at our state-of-the-art Baker Street clinic in central London.
RELATED: How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
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