If you’re concerned about excess skin or fat in your abdomen, a tummy tuck may help you restore your self-confidence. The surgery can have amazing results for your figure, but it also has a significant recovery time. You should understand what a tummy tuck is, what to expect after the surgery, and how you can make your recovery as easy as possible.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Also known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that flattens the abdominal area. Dr. Rivela accomplishes this by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the underlying connective tissue. In addition to its aesthetic benefits, a tummy tuck can also restore weakened abdominal muscles, which are very common after childbirth.
Benefits of Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck offers both cosmetic and functional benefits. If you feel self-conscious about excess fat or loose skin around your stomach, the procedure can restore your confidence. Loose skin after significant weight loss can also be physically uncomfortable, and a tummy tuck will alleviate this problem. Additionally, many women undergo a tummy tuck after having children because the surgery tightens up the muscle and tissue in the abdomen.
What to Expect After Surgery
A tummy tuck is a major surgery, so you should give yourself plenty of time to recover. The recovery is the most difficult in the first few weeks, but you may have to wait several months before you can do any strenuous activity. Dr. Rivela will give you detailed instructions on how to care for the surgical area when you return home. You may be prescribed pain medication for the first few days or weeks.
Tips for Smooth Recovery
Taking good care of yourself after your tummy tuck will help to promote a smooth recovery with minimal risk of complications. Here are some key tips for tummy tuck recovery:
Drink Plenty of Water
Hydration is vital after a tummy tuck surgery. Water will reduce swelling in your abdomen and alleviate any bowel issues that occur as a result of pain medications.
Avoid Sodium
Sodium causes your body to retain water, which will increase swelling and discomfort around the surgical site. You don’t have to cut out all salt, but you should opt for low-sodium foods as much as possible in the first few weeks of recovery.
Move Around Carefully
While it’s important to get plenty of rest after a tummy tuck, you also shouldn’t be completely stationary. Gentle movement promotes circulation, which supports the healing process. In the first few days of recovery, try to walk around your house at least once every couple of hours. As you heal, you can gradually increase your activity.
Use Your Post-op Supplies
Items like gauze pads, compression garments, ice packs, and over-the-counter pain medications will make your recovery far more comfortable. Before your surgery, make sure you’re stocked up on all these post-op supplies.
Listen to Your Body
One of the best things you can do after surgery is to listen to your body and honor your instincts. Allow yourself to rest whenever you feel tired, and take as much time off from your usual activities as you need.
Choosing the Right Provider
Rivela Plastic Surgery provides tummy tuck procedures in The Woodlands, TX. He and his team are committed to helping patients improve their quality of life by achieving their aesthetic goals. If you’re considering a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with Rivela Plastic Surgery today.
Lucian Rivela, MD, FACS
Lucian J. Rivela M. D., F. A. C. S. is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who has practiced in The Woodlands area since 1998. Dr. Rivela has been named “Best Plastic Surgeon” in The Woodlands every year since 2010 by The Woodlands Online. As a member of both The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Dr. Rivela is proud to offer some of the most innovative procedures available in board-certified cosmetic and plastic surgery, aesthetic treatments and skincare.
