How to Expertly Care For Yourself During Abdominoplasty Recovery?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. Like any surgery, it involves some risk of complications. However, by closely following your surgeon’s pre- and post-operative guidelines, you can minimize these risks and ensure successful abdominoplasty recovery. Follow these self-care tips during the recovery process to significantly enhance your final results.
Post-Surgery Activity Guidelines
- Rest as needed because quality sleep enhances recovery.
- Begin by walking a bit more each day. Walking improves circulation and helps prevent issues like pneumonia and constipation.
- For 6-8 weeks, avoid exercises that strain the abdomen, such as biking, jogging, lifting weights, or aerobic activities.
- For the first six weeks, avoid lifting anything heavy enough to cause strain, such as grocery bags, heavy backpacks, pet food bags, or children.
- Check with your doctor about when it’s safe to drive again.
- Most people can return to work within 2-3 weeks, depending on their job and recovery progress.
- You may shower 24-48 hours post-surgery. Pat the incision area dry, and avoid baths for the first 2 weeks or until approved by your doctor.
Dietary Guidelines Post-Surgery
- If you experience stomach discomfort, opt for bland, low-fat foods like plain rice, broiled chicken, toast, and yogurt.
- Drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
- It’s normal for bowel movements to be irregular initially. To avoid constipation and straining, consider taking a daily fiber supplement. If you haven’t had a bowel movement within a couple of days, consult your doctor about using a mild laxative.
- These dietary tips can help support your recovery and maintain digestive comfort.
Medication Guidelines for Abdominoplasty Recovery
- Your doctor will advise when to resume any regular medications and provide instructions for any new prescriptions. If you pause taking aspirin or other blood thinners, your doctor will let you know when it’s safe to start again.
Pain Management
- Take pain medications exactly as prescribed.
- If prescribed, take the pain medication after meals (unless instructed otherwise) to prevent stomach upset. If nausea persists, consult your doctor for an alternative.
- For over-the-counter options, check with your doctor before taking them.
- If prescribed, take antibiotics as directed and complete the full course, even if you start feeling better.
Taking Care of the
- Leave any surgical tape in place for a week or until it falls off naturally, or follow your doctor’s guidance for removal.
- Gently wash the incision area daily with warm water and pat dry. Avoid hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can delay healing.
- Keep the area clean and dry. If it rubs against clothing or there is drainage, cover it with a gauze bandage. If your doctor advises, change the bandage daily.
- If you have drain tubes, follow your doctor’s instructions on how to care for them to prevent fluid buildup.
These steps will support healing, reduce infection risks, and ensure a smoother recovery.
Additional Care Instructions
- Wear your compression garment consistently, removing it only for showers. Your doctor will specify how long you need to continue using it.
- To minimize discomfort, hold a pillow over your incision when coughing or taking deep breaths.
- Perform breathing exercises at home as directed by your doctor to reduce the risk of pneumonia.
- Attend all follow-up appointments, as these are essential for a safe and effective recovery. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you encounter any issues.
- Keep track of your medications and test results for better management of your recovery.
Ready to explore your cosmetic surgery options? Contact Stanwix Plastic Surgery in Richmond, VA, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Matthew G. Stanwix. With over 13 years of experience, Dr. Stanwix provides personalized consultations and expert care to achieve beautiful, natural-looking results. Serving clients throughout Richmond, Charlottesville, Williamsburg, and beyond.
