Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) Recovery
When seeking to undergo tummy tuck cosmetic surgery, the patient should gain a clear understanding of the entire process from pre-op planning to stage to full recovery. This knowledge will not only help a patient make the right decisions, but also ensure that they are confident and realistic throughout the procedure and achieve more satisfactory results.
An experienced plastic surgeon will educate the patient about various aspects of tummy tuck procedure, including its estimated recovery. The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery, led by experienced plastic surgeons, provides tummy tuck and other procedures to patients in Houston TX, and surrounding communities.
Key Factor in Recovery
Tummy tuck plastic surgery procedure can be performed using various surgical techniques, which involve different lengths of incisions and differences in the amount of fat and skin removed or tightening of underlying abdominal muscles. Some patients may only need a partial or mini tummy tuck procedure, while others may require a full traditional abdominoplasty or even combine liposuction of love handles along with tummy tuck.
The overall recovery and the amount of downtime involved will be determined largely by this factor. The skills of the cosmetic surgeon in performing the procedure as well as the patient’s commitment to adhere to post-op recovery instructions will also make an importance difference to the recovery process. The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery receives patients from Houston TX, and nearby locations.
Recovery Process
In case of a mini tummy tuck procedure, the patient will usually require only about a week of minimal physical activity before they can return to a more normal routine. A standard or extended tummy tuck surgery, which includes treatment in both lower and upper abdomen, will usually require 10 to 14 days of reduced activity following surgery.
In standard as well as extended tummy tuck, the surgeon may place drainage tubes at the incision site. These are usually removed in about one week. The patient will have to wear a compression garment for support in order to expedite healing. Immobilization is neither required nor recommended during the recovery period.
In a day or two following the surgery, the patient should start walking around the home and slowly start to perform simply everyday tasks. Vigorous activities, heavy lifting of weights and aggressive exercises should be avoided for a few weeks. Complete healing of incisions generally takes place in about two to three weeks.
Patients with primarily sedentary jobs may be able to join back at work in about a week’s time. Others with more strenuous jobs may require two to three weeks before they may return to work. In any case, such decision should be taken only in consultation with the plastic surgeon.
Follow-up Visits
If the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, the patient may be required to visit a day after the procedure to determine the condition. A support garment may be provided during this visit to prevent clot formation. Weekly visits to monitor the condition may be scheduled after the first follow-up.
For more information about The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) physicians and the cosmetic surgery treatments and procedures they perform please click here or call us at 713.799.9999. We have offices in and around Houston, Texas.