Tips on What to do Before and After a Tummy Tuck
Tummy tucks are some of the most sought-after procedures, After all, most of us are generally not too thrilled with the appearance of our midsection. In fact, it is not uncommon for belly fat to be resistant and stubborn to dieting and exercise, making this unsightly problem all the more frustrating. However, with a little surgical assistance, you can achieve the midsection you desire. Tummy tucks are excellent in addressing this, but it is important to remember that it is still a surgery and, like any other surgical procedure, you will need to properly care for yourself before and after having this surgical procedure done.
Below is a list of some tips on how to properly recover after having a tummy tuck procedure:
- Eat right: The tummy tuck procedure is excellent in addressing many concerns patients have with their mid-section, but you have to keep in mind that this is not a short-cut for weight loss, so it is important for you to eat healthy and develop good habits before and after the procedure. To ensure the results of your tummy tuck last, maintain a healthy diet after the procedure, including lean proteins, eggs, nuts, and unprocessed meats.
- Take an anti-infection bath: Prior to the procedure, take an anti-infection bath, which is essentially a bath of chlorhexidine solution. This will decrease the bacterial count and reduce the chance of a bacterial infection.
- Take a stool softener: Pain medication is rather notorious for causing constipation. To have to deal with this unnecessary discomfort while recovering from your surgery is something you can avoid altogether by simply taking a stool softener. Have a discussion with your plastic surgeon regarding the stool softener best suited for you. Generally, an over-the-counter stool softener will suffice.
- You are going to need time off from work: Generally, most patients are able to return to work within about a week, but since no two people are exactly alike, some might require more time to recover. To err on the side of caution, it is best to request two weeks of time off from work to ensure you have plenty of time to recover.
- You will need help to move around: Within the first few days, you should have someone help you get around, moving of the couch or across the room. It is important to not let this deter you from moving. Moving around is important to keep the blood pumping through your legs in order to prevent blood clots from forming.
- Restrict your abdominal activities for three months: It is important for tummy tuck patients to restrict their abdominals for at least three months to preserve the internal corset-like effect this surgery produces. This means you need to avoid abdominal exercises, planks, weight-lifting, running, and other exercises that might target your abdominal area. If you fail to heed this advice, you might see a bulge form in your abdomen, which will require another surgery.
Tummy Tuck Surgeon in Westfield
If you are unhappy with your abdominal area and are unable to get rid of stubborn belly fat, even with exercise and a proper diet, then you might want to consider a tummy tuck procedure to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. At Burnett Plastic Surgery in Westfield, our board-certified plastic surgeon can help you regain confidence in your body, so you can be the best possible version of yourself.
Contact our office today at (908) 524-0063 to learn more about what Dr. Burnett can do to help you.