Any surgical procedure requires a recovery process, whether longer or shorter. The first days after a tummy tuck (also called an abdominoplasty) are very important, as the results depend not only on the surgery, but also on the post-operative period. For this reason, after a tummy tuck, the specialist surgeon will explain in detail the basic measures you must follow.
Closely following his or her recommendations will help the recovery go faster and will also reduce discomfort. It is essential that you don’t rush things. The post-operative period requires a certain amount of time and trying to speed it up will only be counterproductive.
The most important piece of advice is to only trust the specialist
A tummy tuck offers very satisfactory results, eliminates fat deposits, eliminates excess skin, and shapes the figure. But a full recovery may take several weeks.
It’s normal for you to want to return to your routine as soon as possible. But despite your eagerness to show off your new figure, make sure you don’t take any risks, such as trusting the opinions of people who are not experts or not following the surgeon’s recommendations.
For this reason, it is essential you only listen to your doctor and follow the post-operative care after a tummy tuck explained to you. Perhaps someone you trust has had the same surgery, but each person is different and the care they need is also different. Ignore any advice that does not come from the specialist.
What else you should not do after a tummy tuck
In essence, you must rest, follow a balanced diet, and treat the scar during the weeks of the postoperative period of abdominal wall surgery. In general terms, this is what you should not do after a tummy tuck:
- Physical effort: any movement that overloads the abdomen is entirely inadvisable. This includes stretching, bending the body, or squatting. It also includes lifting weight or sexual activity.
- Spend a long time standing: it is important to avoid this, especially in the first days after a tummy tuck.
- Not move at all: just because you shouldn’t overexert yourself doesn’t mean you should be on bed rest. Movement is important to promote circulation and prevent clots, but always follow the instructions given to you by your specialist.
- Be careless with your diet: during the recovery period, you should avoid salty foods, carbohydrates, fats, fizzy drinks, alcohol, and coffee. They may cause inflammation, indigestion, and fluid retention. You should also avoid dehydration.
- Smoke: tobacco can interfere with the scarring and recovery process, as nicotine makes the blood vessels constrict.
- Not use the recommended compression garments: they may be uncomfortable, but their function is vital because they force you to maintain proper posture so the affected tissues can recover. What’s more, they control swelling and improve circulation.
- Sunbathing: the incisions are made so they can’t be seen. But discolouration and inflammation may occur if they are exposed to the sun. Therefore, they should be covered and suitable sun protection must be used.
- Come into contact with people who are ill or pets: there is a risk of infection in the first few days after a tummy tuck. You should avoid all contact with those who may carry infection.
Expert hands and patience: essential after a tummy tuck
A tummy tuck is a safe surgery with magnificent results. But only if it’s done by an experienced surgeon and the appropriate instructions are given for a good recovery. At Cirumed Clinic, you’ll be in good hands. You will only be seen by highly qualified professionals who have the best resources and surgical teams.
After a tummy tuck, they will explain each step of your recovery in detail, what you must do, and what you must not do at each moment until you make a full recovery. You only have to follow the recommendations and be patient. A full recovery will take just a few short weeks and the results will be worth it.
If you want to shape your figure and free yourself forever from that unsightly accumulated fat on your waist, book an appointment now. Our specialists will answer all your questions and explain to you in detail what the surgery and the recovery are like.