What to Expect after Tummy Tuck
As one of the most transformative and consistently successful plastic surgery procedures, abdominoplasty - perhaps better known as “tummy tuck” surgery - has helped thousands of men and women make significant improvements to their appearance, as well as to their self-esteem. Tummy tuck is also an extremely safe surgery, especially when performed by an experienced professional such as Minneapolis plastic surgeon Gregory Mesna. However, patients should understand that, as with any invasive surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with tummy tuck surgery, as well as a somewhat lengthy recovery period.
If you are interested in toning your abdomen and achieving a trimmer, healthier appearance through tummy tuck surgery, we encourage you to schedule a personal, confidential consultation with Dr. Mesna. During this consultation, he will discuss your unique needs and goals, advise you of your options, and recommend a treatment plan. If this plan includes undergoing abdominoplasty at his plastic surgery facility in Minneapolis, tummy tuck recovery and other details of the procedure will be explained to you in clear detail.
So go ahead and read about the tummy tuck recovery timeline, and then contact our plastic surgery center in Minneapolis to schedule your consultation today!
The Healing Period
The healing period after tummy tuck surgery will vary from patient to patient, and according to which type of tummy tuck surgery is performed. A mini tummy tuck will require a shorter healing time than a full tummy tuck, for example. In general, however, you should plan to be out of commission for at least a week and possibly two.
Depending on the extent of your surgery, you may either have to spend a night in the hospital or be allowed to return home for bed rest. During the first few days after your surgery, much of your time will be spent in bed healing. As soon as you are able to walk, however, you will probably be advised to do so, at least around the house.
Five to seven days after your surgery, you will return to our plastic surgery office in Minneapolis to have your stitches removed. At this point, some light exercise - especially walking - will be encouraged. Dr. Mesna will advise you specifically of the activities you can and cannot do in the weeks after your stitches have been removed. During this time, you will also be given the clearance to return to work. However, you will not be permitted to participate in any strenuous exercise or activity for at least six weeks after your tummy tuck surgery.
It is essential that our Minneapolis tummy tuck patients follow all post-operation instructions to the letter to ensure proper and timely healing. You will be instructed how and when to change your dressings, bathe, and conduct other necessary tasks in a safe manner that won’t jeopardize your recovery. Depending on your lifestyle, you may have to make other changes to your everyday routine as well. For example, if you are a smoker, you will have to give up smoking for at least the duration of your recovery period.
For further information about tummy tuck recovery, or if you would like to make an appointment with Dr. Mesna, please call or email our plastic surgery center in Minneapolis today.
