Added on 18th June 2021 in Blog
A tummy tuck is also known as an abdominoplasty, which is a procedure used to rejuvenate the abdominal area through the removal of excess fat and skin. Popular with people who have had a lot of weight or have excess skin following childbirth, a tummy tuck can help to improve the appearance of the abdomen and restore weakened muscles.
Knowing about recovery after tummy tuck procedures is important if you are considering having one, as it can be a long process that requires care and attention. So, if you want to find out how to safely recover after a tummy tuck procedure, here are 5 simple tips!
Keep The Wounds Clean and Dry
The first thing you must do to aid a healthy recovery after a tummy tuck is to keep the wounds clean and dry. You should aim to keep the wound dry for around a week, as getting the wound wet can soften it and cause it to open. After a week you will have a checkup with your surgeon to assess whether you are able to get it wet.
Keeping the wound clean is also essential. You will usually be asked to clean the skin around the wound with a soft cloth soaked in a mixture of water and very mild soap. Your surgeon will give more details about the exact details depending on how extensive the procedure was.
Get Plenty of Rest
Rest is essential during recovery after tummy tucks, as that is when your body will do the majority of its healing. Your body will still be experiencing the effects of the anaesthetic, which can contribute to fatigue, alongside general tiredness from the procedure. So, if you begin to feel tired, don’t deprive your body of rest. Each patient is different, so only do as much as you feel you can.
Exercise When Safe To Do So
Another great way to aid a healthy recovery after tummy tucks is to exercise when it is safe to do so. Following the surgery you will be encouraged to mobilize as soon as possible. You should avoid excessive straining for the first week after the procedure and will likely be asked to wear a support garment for 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Light exercise will be encouraged a week after surgery, such as gentle walking, as this can help with circulation, build strength and speed up recovery. At the 4-6 week mark, with the clearance of your surgeon you will be able to begin normal exercise. Not only is exercise important for physical recovery after tummy tucks, but it can also help to protect your mental health.
Eat A Balanced Diet
A healthy and balanced diet is essential when it comes to recovery after a tummy tuck procedure. You should be consuming plenty of protein and healthy fats, as well as foods containing antioxidants that will promote healing. If you are unsure about what you should and shouldn’t be eating, get in touch with your surgeon.
If you know certain foods cause you to bloat, try to avoid them, especially in the first few weeks after the surgery.
Keep An Eye On Your Wounds
The final tip for recovery after tummy tuck procedures is to keep an eye on your wounds. As you are cleaning the wound or changing dressings, make sure you have a good look at the wound. When you do this, you will be able to identify any changes or problems which may need to be highlighted to your surgeon.
It is important that you know what the wound should look like, so that if there are any problems, they can be quickly identified and resolved.
Final Thoughts
These 5 tips can help with healthy recovery after tummy tuck procedures! Make sure that you always contact your surgeon if you are unsure of anything. For more information about the procedure, please contact us to book in for a consultation.
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