What Will Recovery Be Like After Tummy Tuck Surgery?

While tummy tuck surgery is widely popular and even considered somewhat of a routine procedure in today’s world, it is still important for patients considering a tummy tuck to understand that it is a fairly extensive surgery that requires a dedicated recovery period. At Mays Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, Louisville, KY, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Chet Mays provides patients with comprehensive tummy tuck aftercare guidelines to ensure the most comfortable, efficient, and successful recovery possible. Here, you’ll find helpful answers to some of the top tummy tuck recovery questions.

How is a tummy tuck performed?

To better understand what to expect during tummy tuck recovery and what you’ll need to do (and not do), it is helpful to first have some knowledge about how the procedure itself is performed. Generally speaking, tummy tuck surgery — formally known as abdominoplasty surgery — is used to create a slimmer, smoother midsection through the removal of excess skin. The procedure, which is performed using general anesthesia, begins with a horizontal incision on the patient’s lower abdomen. The length of a tummy tuck incision will depend on how much excess skin needs to be removed, whether any other enhancements are planned in conjunction with skin removal, and other factors. If needed, Dr. Mays can also do the following during a tummy tuck:

• Remove stubborn deposits of fat via liposuction
• Repair diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation)
• Reposition the belly button

How long does tummy tuck recovery take?

Because each tummy tuck is customized to help meet the patient’s specific needs and goals, recovery times can vary. On average, most patients are able to return to light, normal activities after about two weeks, while exercise and other strenuous activities may be off-limits for up to two months or longer — or until you have been cleared by Dr. Mays.

How should I sleep after a tummy tuck?

To protect the healing incision and tissues, patients should plan to sleep on their backs with both their upper and lower body slightly elevated. It is also important to walk with your upper body bent at a slight angle as well, which prevents pulling and tension on the incision and tissues.

Will my tummy tuck scar be visible?

While it is impossible to avoid a visible tummy tuck scar altogether, Dr. Mays takes great care to ensure the incision is placed strategically so that the resulting scar can be concealed as fully as possible beneath clothing and even swimsuits. Our team will also provide you with scar care instructions, which may include using certain scar care products or treatments, to encourage your scar to flatten and fade over time.

Will my tummy tuck results be permanent?

Another important must-know about tummy tuck surgery is that, while the results can last for years or even decades, your outcome can be significantly affected by weight fluctuation, pregnancy, and other events. To best maintain your tummy tuck results over time, it is essential to maintain a healthy, stable weight and to defer your procedure until you are done having children. Additionally, patients should keep in mind that the aging process will not stop, meaning subtle changes will occur over time. Still, patients who adhere to a healthy, consistent lifestyle can typically expect to enjoy their newly slimmed and smoothed contours for years to come.

Regain your youthful figure and boosted confidence with tummy tuck surgery in Louisville, KY

If you are frustrated by the toll that pregnancy, weight loss, or aging has taken on your body and are finally ready to rid yourself of excess skin and more, you may be a candidate for tummy tuck surgery. Take the first step toward transforming your physique and loving your look by calling Mays Plastic Surgery & Med Spa to schedule your tummy tuck consultation with Louisville, KY, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Chet Mays today.