An In-Depth Guide To Tummy Tuck Post-Op

Cosmetic procedures have become rather popular in the last decade or so and tummy tuck ranks among the top 5 cosmetic surgical procedures. It happens to be one of the best means to get rid of excess fat and skin and tighten the underlying muscles of the abdomen.

If you’re planning to get this procedure, it’s important that you should be aware of what happens after the surgery and how you need to take care of your body post-op. And this is exactly what we are going to discuss in this article. Read on to know more:

After Post-Op

A tummy tuck is an invasive surgery. The surgeon shall wrap the incisions with bandages or dressing. Also, to bring down the swelling, you need to wear a girdle-like compression garment. This will prevent blood clots from forming and help support your midsection into a smooth shape. You have to wear this garment at all times in the initial 4-6 weeks, except when you are bathing.

You should know that the surgeon shall place thin tubes in the incision for draining excess fluid or blood from the body. You have to follow the instructions that are provided to you to clean the area and manage the small drains. They are removed usually after 3 to 10 days.

Home Care

Taking Care of Incision

• If your surgeon has tapped your incision, leave it as it is for a week until it falls off. As your surgeon for instructions.
• Wash the area with warm and soapy water daily and then pat it dry.
• Cover the incision with a gauze bandage if the incision rubs against your clothing. Change the bandage regularly if the doctor advises.
• You will have one to two drain tubes to prevent fluid buildup under the skin. Ask the doctor regarding its proper care.

Routine Activities

• Rest is necessary after getting a tummy tuck. You need to get sufficient sleep that helps with recovery.
• Try to walk daily. Even if it’s a short walk. Try to walk a bit more than yesterday and gradually increase it. It helps with blood regulation.
• Avoid doing exercises that strain the abdominal areas like aerobic or weightlifting. Do not lift anything heavy.
• If the doctor allows, you can shower 24-48 hours after the surgery. You have to keep the incision dry. As for the bath, you cannot in the first two weeks until your surgeon allows it.

Dietary Care

• There are no restrictions as to what you should or shouldn’t eat after a tummy tuck. In case your stomach feels upset, eat plain rice, broiled chicken, toast, and yogurt.
• Unless your doctor prevents you from it, make sure you drink a lot of fluids.
• Experiencing irregular bowel movements is common after getting a tummy tuck. To prevent constipation and straining with bowel movements, take a fiber supplement every day. You can ask for a mild laxative.

Taking Medicines

• If you are under any medications, you have to follow certain restrictions regarding your medicines and ask your doctor when you can resume their usage.
• Ask your doctor when and if you can take your aspirin or some other blood thinner.
• If they have given you a pain killer, follow the prescription. If not, ask them if you can take any.
• If you are given antibiotics, follow the directions completely. You have to complete the course even if you begin to feel better.
• After getting a tummy tuck, your stomach needs support when you take deep breaths or when you cough.  Try to do breathing exercises as per the doctor’s instructions.

Wrapping up, you should care for your incision and be regular in follow-ups. You must be regular in your follow-up appointments and visit the clinic from where you have gotten the procedure done.

If you face any discomfort or problem, do not hesitate in informing your doctor or nurse. When you follow the proper aftercare instructions, you will see a faster recovery. With that, you will be able to flaunt a well-shaped and contoured physique. See that you do not indulge in self-medication. Avoid trying out something on your own.In all, surgery is a sensitive matter. No matter what kind of cosmetic procedure you get as small as getting lip filler in Dubai or liposuction, it is important that you always follow the surgeon’s or aesthetician advice regarding the recovery as well as the later period.