Many factors contribute to making the abdominal area one of the most challenging and frustrating parts of the body. Along with the tendency to store fat, the skin in this area can become loose and sagging due to aging, pregnancy, or weight loss. A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty can restore your smooth, flat abdomen. However, it is a significant procedure, so you should understand what to expect during recovery.
What is a Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty?
The most common reason people have a tummy tuck is sagging abdominal skin and accumulated fat that can create the appearance of a “pooch” or protruding belly. This effect is especially common if you have separated abdominal muscles as a result of pregnancy. Abdominoplasty removes loose skin and unwanted fat to sculpt and smooth your belly. Your Longwood Plastic Surgery surgeon will customize your procedure based on your needs and goals.
What are the Worst Days After a Tummy Tuck?
Your surgeon makes a fairly large incision during a tummy tuck and repairs underlying structures. As a result, you can expect that you will need time to recover.
First Few Days
Almost all abdominoplasty patients find that the first few days are the worst. You can expect swelling and soreness, but you will receive appropriate medication to control this. You may not be able to straighten up fully for several days due to tightness around the incision. You should get up and walk around regularly but avoid any activities that involve lifting or reaching up.
Weeks 1-2
Most people feel much less sore and swollen by this time, although you may still have some discomfort. You may also experience fatigue during this time as your body uses its resources for healing. People with low-activity jobs may be able to return after two weeks.
Weeks 3-4
Most people will return to work during this time. Your LPS surgeon will allow you to resume various activities as you continue to heal. You may still have some soreness or numbness in the area, and some people continue to feel fatigued.
Long-Term
Skin in the abdominal area can remain numb for up to a few months. Swelling will resolve gradually over the following months. Most people are back to their normal routine within six to eight weeks after their tummy tuck.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is the most effective way to correct sagging abdominal skin and related concerns. Candidates should be in good health and have reasonable expectations. Good candidates are prepared to take the necessary time to rest and recover fully.
People with certain medical problems should not have an abdominoplasty. You should also not have this procedure if you are pregnant. Only a consultation can determine whether you can safely benefit from a tummy tuck.
Dear Dr. Morris, I truly cannot thank you enough, not only for your extreme generosity and waving my surgery fees, but for being able to fix something that has been such a huge insecurity of mine for the past 20+ years. My note was a relatively involved/difficult surgery and I am so grateful to you for doing it for me.
Take the Next Step
Interested in learning about a tummy tuck? Schedule your consultation with Longwood Plastic Surgery today by calling our Brookline office at (617) 383-6250. We serve the Brookline and Greater Boston area with distinction.