Cosmetic Surgery Tips

6 weeks post op tummy tuck swelling

After a tummy tuck, you may notice that your stomach is a little more tender than you would like. While many of the post-op expectations that you have might be more positive in nature, it’s important to remember that there are some things that you can do to make the recovery process easier on yourself. To help you out with this, our team has put together a list of some tips to follow after your tummy tuck.

  1. Stay Away From The Kitchen For A While

For the first few weeks after your tummy tuck, it’s very important that you keep away from anything related to cooking or the kitchen. For example, scrubbing pots and pans will be a good bit more strenuous than you want to deal with at this time. This is because your body will be healing itself and using up all of the resources it has available in order to do so. You don’t want to be taking away any of those resources by engaging in activities that could potentially cause injuries or slow down your healing process.

  1. Keep Your Stomach Elevated

You should also try to keep your stomach elevated as much as possible. This will help lessen the swelling that occurs post-surgery, as well as ease some of the pain

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6 weeks post op tummy tuck swelling

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After having plastic surgery, particularly with a procedure as transformative as the tummy tuck, it is completely normal to feel anxious and excited about seeing your newly enhanced look as soon as possible. While there may be a noticeable difference immediately after some procedures, the final results of most cosmetic surgeries – including tummy tuck – typically take weeks, months, or even longer to fully develop, as postoperative swelling subsides and incisions fade. It is important for men and women who are considering a tummy tuck to have realistic expectations about their recovery period and be patient throughout the healing process.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Khorsandi, Chief of Plastic Surgery at VIP Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas, NV, takes great care to ensure that patients not only undergo a safe and successful procedure with stunning results, but also that tummy tuck recovery is as comfortable, quick, and convenient as possible. If you are considering a tummy tuck, use this helpful information to prepare yourself appropriately for your surgery, recovery, and beyond.

What does tummy tuck do?

Also known as abdominoplasty, tummy tuck surgery is a substantial cosmetic procedure designed to help patients achieve or restore a slimmer, smoother, tighter abdominal contour through skin removal, muscle reinforcement, and other techniques. A tummy tuck is ideal for women who have had children, patients who have experienced significant weight loss, or those who simply have loose, hanging skin and stubborn pockets of fat due to the aging process.

During tummy tuck surgery in Las Vegas, NV, Dr. Khorsandi will make an incision on the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. The length of the incision needed will vary based on how much skin needs to be removed and if any additional procedures are being performed. Dr. Khorsandi fully understands the importance of keeping cosmetic surgery discreet and shares in his patients’ desires to have the least amount of visible scarring possible, taking great care to place his incisions where they can be concealed with underwear or swimsuits, and keeping them as small and thin as they can be to allow for an ideal result.

In many cases, liposuction is used during tummy tuck to remove small pockets of fat from the abdomen and further elevate the patient’s final outcome. For patients suffering from diastasis recti, which is a common result of pregnancy or weight fluctuation, Dr. Khorsandi can reposition and reinforce the abdominal muscles and eliminate the telltale “mommy pooch” or pouch-like tummy. Once these corrections have been made, Dr. Khorsandi will carefully excise the loose, excess skin, pull the remaining skin tight, and secure it with sutures, resulting in a smooth, firm, sexy physique.

How long is tummy tuck recovery?

The recovery time after tummy tuck can vary somewhat depending on several factors, including the patient’s overall health and whether or not any other procedures were performed during the surgery. For example, women who combine a tummy tuck with breast augmentationthigh lift, and other treatments as part of a full mommy makeover transformation may require extended recovery time. In general, tummy tuck patients should expect to take about two weeks off of work, depending on the physical demands of their jobs. Light activity can usually be resumed after about 1 – 2 weeks, while more strenuous physical activity and exercise should be paused for at least 6 – 8 weeks, or until cleared by your surgeon. Though there will be a noticeable difference in your abdominal contour relatively quickly, the results will continue to improve as the body heals and the swelling reduces over time.

How long does tummy tuck swelling last?

Arguably the most notable aspect of recovery after tummy tuck is postoperative swelling. This is a completely normal and expected part of tummy tuck recovery, as well as nearly any surgical procedure, so don’t be alarmed. Swelling after tummy tuck can last for several weeks, but there are some things you can do to help keep it under control. Three helpful ways to reduce tummy tuck swelling time include:

1. Wear compression garments: As part of your postoperative routine, you will be required to wear medical compression garments, specifically to reduce swelling and promote proper, efficient healing. It is critical that you wear your compression garments as directed, which may be 24/7 for several weeks.

2. Stay mobile: While it is essential that patients get plenty of rest during tummy tuck recovery, it is also important to incorporate very light walking into your daily routine. This helps to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and minimize the risk of postoperative complications, such as blood clots. Simply walking around the room or to and from the bathroom several times a day is usually sufficient for the first several days after surgery. Too much activity, or activities that are too strenuous, can actually slow your healing and cause complications as well. Talk to your surgeon about finding the right balance.

3. Watch your diet: Whether you have had surgery or not, eating too much salt can exacerbate swelling, bloating, and water retention. A common misconception is that drinking more water will make the swelling worse, but the opposite is actually true. Make sure you stay adequately hydrated and minimize your sodium intake to reduce tummy tuck swelling.

At your preoperative appointments, as well as on the day of surgery, Dr. Khorsandi will provide you with both written and verbal instructions to ensure that your recovery is as smooth, comfortable, and speedy as it can be.

Restore your pre-pregnancy body with a tummy tuck in Las Vegas, NV

If the effects of pregnancy, weight loss, or aging have made you look in the mirror and not recognize your own body, it may be time to consider cosmetic surgery to restore your figure, refresh your image, and regain control of your life. Call the friendly team at VIP Plastic Surgery today to schedule your in-office or online consultation with highly experienced board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Khorsandi, and discover how a tummy tuck may be the miracle you’ve been hoping for!

6 weeks post op tummy tuck exercise

How Long Does it Take to Recover from a Tummy Tuck Surgery?

tummy tuck recovery workout

How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck procedure? Contrary to common belief, tummy tuck recovery time is not nearly as long and painful as it once was. New surgical and treatment techniques allow patients to recover more quickly and with relatively minimal discomfort.

How Long Does It Take to Heal from a Tummy Tuck?

There are a variety of abdominoplasty and tummy tuck procedures available, and each one has a slightly different recovery time. Your treatment plan is determined by the level of correction needed to meet the desired end results. 

tummy tuck recovery

Most patients return to work after a tummy tuck within 7-10 days and resume strenuous exercise in about 4-6 weeks. By 3 to 6 months post-op, most patients are enjoying their permanent results. 

However, it is also important to note that results are only permanent when patients maintain them with regular exercise and a healthy diet.

Tummy Tuck
Before & After Photos

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Tummy Tuck Before & After Photos

Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.Previous1 of 22NextBEFOREAFTER

Case #229

47 year old, 159lbs, 5’1″, standard abdominoplasty with liposuction to flanksBEFOREAFTER

Case #228

33 year old, 195lbs, 5’4″, extended abdominoplasty and panniculectomyBEFOREAFTER

Case #227

38 year old, 180lbs, 5’3″, standard abdominoplasty BEFOREAFTER

Case #225

37 year old, 150lbs, 5’4″, Standard abdominoplasty with liposuction to flanksBEFOREAFTER

Case #224

46 year old, 110lbs, 5″, mini tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) BEFOREAFTER

Case #159

35 year old, 119lbs, 5’3″, Standard abdominoplastyBEFOREAFTER

Case #154

40 year old, 168lbs, 5’3″, Extended abdominoplasty with liposuction to back and flanksBEFOREAFTER

Case #133

36 year old, 140 lbs, 5’3″, Standard abdominoplasty with liposuction to flanksBEFOREAFTER

Case #127

34 year old, height and weight unknown, extended abdominoplasty with liposuction of flanksBEFOREAFTER

Case #126

47 year old, 180lbs, 5’5″, circumfrential lift with thigh lift and liposuction to outer thighsBEFOREAFTER

Case #117

35 year old, 150 lbs, 5’4″, standard abdominoplastyBEFOREAFTER

Case #103

42 year old, 155lbs, 5’3″, standard abdominoplasty with liposuction to flanksBEFOREAFTER

Case #101

40 year old, 160lbs, 4’10”, standard abdominoplasty with liposuction to abdomen and flanksBEFOREAFTER

Case #100

43 year old, 149lbs, 5’2″, standard abdominoplastyBEFOREAFTER

Case #74

52 year old, 190lbs, 5’10”, standard abdominoplasty with liposuction to flanks, BEFOREAFTER

Case #71

42 year old, 120lbs, 5′, standard abdominoplastyBEFOREAFTER

Case #65

33 year old, 150lbs, 5’4″, small abdominoplastyBEFOREAFTER

Case #64

54 year old, 170lbs, 5’5″, standard abdominoplasty with thigh liftBEFOREAFTER

Case #49

30 year old, 120 lbs, 5’4″, standard abdominoplastyBEFOREAFTER

Case #44

41 year old, 133lbs, 5’2″, standard abdominoplasty with liposuction to flanksVIEW PHOTO GALLERYREQUEST A CONSULTATIONREQUEST A CONSULTATION

Your Week by Week Tummy Tuck Recovery Timeline

As you read the tummy tuck recovery week by week details below, understand that the healing time for every tummy tuck is different and depends upon the extent of your surgical plan. However, in most cases, there is a relatively predictable tummy tuck recovery timeline.

Day 1 of the Surgery

Tummy tuck procedures are performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Therefore, you must have someone to drive you home after surgery and take care of you afterward so you can rest for the remainder of the day. It may take several hours for the anesthesia medication to wear off, so expect to be groggy for a while.

Discomfort is also to be expected, which can be managed with medications. During your pre-operative appointment, you will receive prescriptions for oral medications to take prior to surgery to reduce the likelihood of infection as well as prescription pain medications to help you manage your discomfort.

Week 1 After Surgery

Week one of tummy tuck recovery involves getting plenty of rest and following all of the surgeon’s post-operative instructions. This will not only help heal your incision heal and reduce swelling more quickly, but it will also help to maximize your tummy tuck results.

What does a tummy tuck recovery day by day timeline look like in the first week? Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Bed rest is recommended for the first 2 days after your tummy tuck procedure. On day 3, activity is encouraged but should be limited. Any activity involving lifting and carrying, driving, exercise, smoking, and drinking alcohol should be avoided.
  • A drain is a device that directs excess fluid away from the incision and out of the body. Most patients require drains for the first few days after surgery, which are removed about 5 days after surgery.
  • Bandages on the incision site should be replaced, and the area around the incision gently cleaned, every other day following surgery.
  • A post tummy tuck compression garment should be worn at all times during the first week following the surgery, and as often as possible for the following 6-8 weeks. It is critical to minimize swelling, support healing, and maximize results.
  • In most cases, patients can take a shower a day or two after surgery.
  • Patients should stay hydrated and maintain a diet that is low in sodium to reduce swelling.

Remember, discomfort, bruising, and swelling are to be expected, but if you begin to experience fever, nausea, unusual pain, or redness around the incision site, contact your surgeon.

Week 2 After Surgery

While some restrictions are lifted after week 1, it is still important to take it easy and follow your surgeon’s instructions. After coming this far, you do not want to undo all the great work you and your surgeon have done.

Ensure you make note of the following during week 2 of your tummy tuck recovery:

  • Activity: Most patients are ready to return to most aspects of normal daily activities 7 days following surgery. It is important to take brief walks a few times a day to get your blood flowing and your body used to moving again. Several activities still remain off-limits, including vigorous exercise, smoking, and drinking alcohol.
  • Diet: Patients may resume their regular diet the second week after surgery, but it is a good idea to continue to limit sodium and drink plenty of water.
  • Care: We recommend patients lightly massage the treated area to promote healing. To help heal the incision site, scar minimizing techniques should be used, such as the application of vitamin E, silicone sheets, Scar Guard or BioCornium. Patients should also continue to wear compression garments to achieve the best possible results.
  • Side Effects: Generally with the tummy tuck swelling timeline, at week 2, you will still be swollen in the treatment area. However, the pain, bruising, and feeling of tightness from your tummy tuck should begin to fade during week 2 of your recovery.

Weeks 3 & 4 After Surgery

By weeks 3 and 4 you’ll be about halfway through your initial tummy tuck healing timeline. Take into account the guidelines below to continue your quick recovery:

  • Activity: Patients usually resume exercise during week 3 or 4 after a tummy tuck, once they receive approval from their surgeon. It is important to return to activity gradually. Listen to your body; if you are tired, it is important to rest. You will be able to resume your normal exercise routine when you have healed appropriately.
  • Diet: Begin maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet to stay within your ideal weight range.
  • Care: Continue applying scar treatments to your incision and wearing the compression garments.
  • Side Effects: Your discomfort and bruising should be completely gone, and swelling should be minimal.

Week 5 & 6 After Surgery

During week 5 and 6 of your tummy tuck recovery you should do the following:

  • Activity: Most patients resume strenuous exercise, with approval from their surgeon.
  • Diet: Continue maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet to stay at your ideal weight range.
  • Care: Continue applying scar treatments to your incision to promote healing. The compression garments should continue to be worn.

Tummy Tuck 3-6 Months Post-Op Results

Time to enjoy your flat, smooth, slim tummy! As we mentioned, each person’s tummy tuck recovery time varies, but most patients are ready to return to normal activities within 3-6 months after their initial procedure. While everyone’s tummy tuck results timeline is slightly different, it is critical for every patient to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to stay fit and well.

An abdominoplasty can rid people of the extra skin, fat, and tissue that diet, exercise, or even liposuction alone cannot address. While the tummy tuck recovery process may sound daunting, the highly skilled surgeons at Belcara Health strive to provide you with the best results and the least amount of discomfort possible.

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