Tummy Tuck Recovery
Throughout your tummy tuck recuperation, dressings or bandages may be applied to your cuts, and you might be covered in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to decrease swelling and support your abdomen as it recovers following surgery.
Small, thin tubes might be briefly positioned under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that might collect.
You will certainly be given specific instructions that might include:
- The best ways to care for the surgical website and drains
- Medications to apply or take orally to help recovery and reduce the potential for infection
- Specific concerns to try to find at the medical site or in your general health
- When to follow-up with your cosmetic surgeon
Be sure to ask your tummy tuck cosmetic surgeon particular questions about what you can expect throughout your individual recovery period:
- Where will I be taken after my surgery is full?
- What medication will I be provided or recommended after surgery?
- Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be gotten rid of?
- When will the stitches be removed?
- How will I shower?
- For how long will I use the pressure garment?
- When can I resume typical activity and exercise?
- When do I return for follow-up care?
Tips to Reduce Swelling after Surgery
Swelling is amongst the most typical negative effects experienced by patients. The majority of swelling subsides within about three weeks following surgical treatment, although it is possible for some residual swelling to continue for up to 6 months. While some degree of swelling is to be anticipated due to the nature of the surgery, relentless swelling can obscure the results of your tummy tuck. In order to enjoy your flatter stomach faster, here are a couple of suggestions to lower swelling:
- Stay hydrated by consuming plenty of water as you recuperate
- Maintain a healthy diet that is low in sodium
- Get plenty of rest. Return to your life slowly, rather than an abrupt jump in activity level
- Gently massage the abdominal area to encourage fluid flow
- Usage ice or cold compresses if directed to do so
- Use the compression garment as advised
- Tell your medical professional about any medications you are taking, as some can interfere with fluid balance