5 tummy tuck recovery tips
Tuck tuck surgery has helped thousands of patients to reclaim their self-confidence, thanks to its ability to sculpt, contour, and reshape the midsection. Those who have experienced the effects of pregnancy, such as separated or weakened abdominal muscles and excess sagging skin, can benefit from the procedure, as can those who are dealing with the aftermath of massive weight loss or the aging process.
Naturally, one of the most daunting aspects of any surgery is its recovery. Rest assured, with focused care and by following your plastic surgeon’s instructions to the letter, you can expect a seamless and stress-free recuperation process. Below we will explore some excellent tips for optimizing your outcome and maintaining your newly chiseled physique.
TIP #1: Focus on nutrition
Diet has everything to do with healing after major surgery. You want to avoid foods that may cause inflammation (red meat, refined sugars, and carbohydrates) and instead opt for protein-rich foods like salmon and steamed chicken. Make sure to nourish yourself with antioxidant-abundant fruits and vegetables, such as berries, spinach, broccoli, and carrots. Healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and avocado can help brighten your complexion and speed up recovery while reducing your stress levels.
TIP #2: Take gentle walks
After a tummy tuck, your exercise options will be limited for some time. However, you can still go for walks. Brief walks will not only help promote healthy circulation, pumping oxygen through the body and maintaining your breathing, but they will also keep you in high spirits as you navigate your recovery journey. Walking will both fortify your muscle tone and will ensure that your urinary tract and gastrointestinal regions function optimally after surgery. If you don’t walk after surgery, you may experience increased constipation, gas, and muscle weakness, and you may be putting yourself at higher risk for blood clotting, infection, pneumonia, and bedsores.
TIP #3: Sleep in an inclined position
After abdominoplasty, it’s critical that you not put pressure on the incisions. You’ll need to maintain a slightly bent position when sleeping with your head elevated. Lying flat too early in the healing process can increase the risk of complications and threaten your cosmetic results. You can use pillows to prop up your head, helping to keep the body more at a right angle during the night. A safer option is to sleep in a recliner with armrests. This will prevent you from turning over and will allow you to raise your feet, creating a V-shape for your whole body.
TIP #4: Wear your compression garment
A compression garment provided by your doctor can help to reduce your swelling, bruising, and discomfort and will help keep your newly sculpted contours intact as you heal. You should keep the compression garment on even while you sleep and only remove it for bathing over the course of the first 6-8 weeks after surgery. Compression garments can also assist in the breakdown of keloid scar tissue.
TIP #5: Drink plenty of water
While this might sound like common sense, you’d be surprised by how many people forget they need to drink proper fluids after surgery. Water helps flush out toxins from the body, expediting the healing process while reducing the risk of complications. Once you get into the routine of drinking water throughout the day, it gets easier. Every time you want to grab for juice or tea, remind yourself that what your body is craving is really just more H2O.
What is the takeaway?
Optimal recovery is based on a combination of following your doctor’s specific instructions and practicing boundless self-care. Never push yourself beyond your limits but respect that your body will heal on its own timeline. Pay attention to the body’s innate wisdom and only give it foods and drinks that are healthy and restorative. Keep mentally healthy by thinking positive thoughts that focus on the advantages of tummy tuck surgery and on the more youthful, sculpted figure you will soon be enjoying. If you have any questions or concerns, always voice them to your provider and allow your doctor to step in and relieve anxiety. Tummy tuck surgery is well worth the recovery, as you will soon discover for yourself.