After a tummy tuck, it’s important to wear loose clothing. This will help your body heal properly, and it’ll make you feel more comfortable.
Your doctor will tell you when it’s safe to start wearing clothes that are too tight or constricting. You should also avoid wearing anything that could rub against your incision, even if it seems like it would be okay. That includes underwear or bras with an underwire.
You should also avoid wearing clothes that have elastic or drawstrings around the waist for at least six weeks after surgery. This is because these fabrics can rub against your incision and cause irritation or infection.
It’s best if you wear loose-fitting pants without pockets or belts until your doctor gives permission for them again. You can wear lightweight shirts with no buttons or zippers and no collar bones, as long as they cover up any scars from previous surgeries (if any).
You’ll need to keep your head in a neutral position when sitting up straight—don’t tilt it forward or backward! This will help prevent any complications like blood clots forming in your lungs (pulmonary embolism). It will also help relieve some of the pain associated with sitting upright after surgery since gravity isn’t pulling down on
What is a tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat. This procedure is often sought after by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy, which can leave the abdominal area with loose, sagging skin. In some cases, a tummy tuck may also involve tightening the underlying abdominal muscles to create a more toned and sculpted appearance.
During a tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon will make an incision along the lower abdomen, typically from hip to hip. This allows them to access the underlying tissues and remove any excess skin and fat. In some cases, liposuction may also be used to further contour the abdomen and remove stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. Once the excess tissue has been removed, the surgeon will then tighten the abdominal muscles, creating a firmer and more toned appearance.
One of the key benefits of a tummy tuck is the dramatic improvement in the appearance of the abdomen. Patients often report feeling more confident and comfortable in their own skin following the procedure. Additionally, a tummy tuck can help to improve posture and alleviate back pain that may be caused by weakened abdominal muscles.
It is important to note that a tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure and should not be taken lightly. Patients should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. Recovery from a tummy tuck can take several weeks, during which time patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
In conclusion, a tummy tuck can be a highly effective way to improve the appearance of the abdomen and achieve a more toned and sculpted physique. By removing excess skin and fat, as well as tightening the underlying muscles, patients can enjoy a more youthful and contoured abdomen. If you are considering a tummy tuck, be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and determine if this procedure is right for you.
Why it’s done
There are a number of reasons you might have excess fat, poor elasticity of the skin or weakened connective tissue in your abdomen. These include:
- Significant changes in weight
- Pregnancy
- Abdominal surgery, such as a C-section
- Aging
- Your natural body type
A tummy tuck can remove loose, excess skin and fat, and tighten weak fascia. A tummy tuck may also remove stretch marks and excess skin in the lower abdomen below the bellybutton. However, a tummy tuck won’t correct stretch marks outside of this area.
If you’ve previously had a C-section, your plastic surgeon might be able to incorporate your existing C-section scar into your tummy tuck scar.
A tummy tuck can also be done in combination with other body contouring cosmetic procedures, such as breast surgery. If you’ve had fat removed from your abdomen (liposuction), you may decide to have a tummy tuck because liposuction removes tissue just under the skin and fat but not any excess skin.
A tummy tuck isn’t for everyone. Your doctor might caution against a tummy tuck if you:
- Plan to lose a significant amount of weight
- Might consider pregnancy in the future
- Have a severe chronic condition, such as heart disease or diabetes
- Have a body mass index that’s greater than 30
- Smoke
- Have had a previous abdominal surgery that caused significant scar tissue
Types of tummy tuck surgeries
A cosmetic surgeon may recommend one of the following tummy tuck surgery procedures to help give you a firmer, flatter, abdominal contour with minimal scarring:
Mini Tummy Tuck: If you’re mainly concerned about stretch marks and loose skin below your belly button, then the mini tummy tuck surgery is the ideal option. This procedure involves making one horizontal incision below your belly button, from which your surgeon then effectively tightens the loose abdominal muscles. Surplus skin is also removed to create a flat and firm abdominal wall.
Mini tummy tuck surgeries usually take a relatively shorter time and will often have a faster recovery time, along with minimal scarring. Expect a thin scar, usually a couple of inches, along with a firmer and flatter lower abdomen.
Full or Classic Tummy Tuck: This tummy tuck addresses both the upper and lower abdomen areas and will typically yield great results in removing excess fat. Your cosmetic surgeon will use either a U-shaped or horizontal incision below the belly button or the navel. Excess fat and skin are then eliminated to achieve a slim abdomen that looks natural.
The full or classic tummy tuck will typically leave a longer scar due to the extensive incisions required. However, the scar will hide below a swimsuit bottom. This type of tummy tuck benefits includes a considerably smoother, slimmer abdomen with fewer stretch marks and more comfort wearing skirts and pants.
Extended Tummy Tuck: The extended abdominoplasty is the standard tummy tuck that includes recontouring the flanks, hips, or even lateral thigh. It is quite useful for those who have experienced significant weight loss and are now dealing with excessively saggy skin on their abdomen. In most cases, the surgeon will perform liposuction around the flanks during the tummy tuck.
Risks
A tummy tuck poses various risks, including:
- Fluid accumulation beneath the skin (seroma). Drainage tubes left in place after surgery can help reduce the risk of excess fluid. Your doctor might also remove fluid after surgery using a needle and syringe.
- Poor wound healing. Sometimes areas along the incision line heal poorly or begin to separate. You might be given antibiotics during and after surgery to prevent an infection.
- Unexpected scarring. The incision scar from a tummy tuck is permanent, but it’s typically placed along the easily hidden bikini line. The length and visibility of the scar varies from person to person.
- Tissue damage. During a tummy tuck, fatty tissue deep within your skin in the abdominal area might get damaged or die. Smoking increases the risk of tissue damage. Depending on the size of the area, tissue might heal on its own or require a surgical touch-up procedure.
- Changes in skin sensation. During a tummy tuck, the repositioning of your abdominal tissues can affect the nerves in the abdominal area, and infrequently, in the upper thighs. You’ll likely feel some reduced sensation or numbness. This usually diminishes in the months after the procedure.
Like any other type of major surgery, a tummy tuck poses a risk of bleeding, infection and an adverse reaction to anesthesia.
How you prepare
You’ll talk to a plastic surgeon about a tummy tuck. During your first visit, your plastic surgeon will likely:
- Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past medical conditions. Talk about any medications you’re taking or have taken recently, as well as any surgeries you’ve had.Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications. If your desire for a tummy tuck is related to weight loss, your doctor will likely ask detailed questions about your weight gain and loss.
- Do a physical exam. To determine your treatment options, the doctor will examine your abdomen. The doctor might also take pictures of your abdomen for your medical record.
- Discuss your expectations. Explain why you want a tummy tuck, and what you’re hoping for in terms of appearance after the procedure. Make sure you understand the benefits and risks of the procedure, including scarring. Keep in mind that previous abdominal surgery might limit your results.
Before a tummy tuck you might also need to:
- Stop smoking. Smoking decreases blood flow in the skin and can slow the healing process. In addition, smoking increases the risk of tissue damage. If you smoke, your doctor will recommend that you stop smoking before surgery and during recovery.
- Avoid certain medications. You’ll likely need to avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, which can increase bleeding.
- Maintain a stable weight. Ideally, you’ll maintain a stable weight for at least 12 months before having a tummy tuck. If you’re severely overweight, your doctor will recommend that you lose weight before the procedure. Significant weight loss after the procedure can diminish your results.
- Arrange for help during recovery. Make plans for someone to drive you home after you leave the hospital and stay with you for at least the first night of your recovery at home.
When to get a tummy tuck
Tummy tucks are medically necessary when a section of your abdomen is stretched beyond its limits. This can happen for a number of reasons, including pregnancy and weight gain. When you’re pregnant, your abdomen naturally expands to accommodate the growing fetus and its organs. After you give birth, your uterus shrinks to its normal size, but your abdominal muscles may not return to their original shape completely. If they don’t, then it’s time for a tummy tuck!
Similarly, if you’ve gained or lost a significant amount of weight in a short period of time (such as after having children), then your abdominal muscles may have stretched out too far and need to be tightened up again. A tummy tuck can also help people with loose skin around their midsection due to previous pregnancies or other types of weight loss or gain that cause the skin to hang low over their hips or pubic area.
When to buy new clothes after tummy tuck
When you have a tummy tuck, you’re going to be wearing your post-surgery garments for a while. That means that your new clothes are going to have to fit over the garments—and that’s not always easy!
As long as your stomach is still healing, we recommend waiting at least six weeks before you buy new clothes. That will give you time to heal and recover from surgery without having to worry about whether or not your new jeans will fit over your post-surgery garments.
After six weeks, though, it’s time to get shopping! If you’ve got the money in your budget, then by all means go for it! But if you’re strapped for cash after surgery costs, then we recommend waiting until you’ve saved up some extra cash before splurging on new clothes. It’s worth it
What to wear after tummy tuck surgery
FIRST WEEK OF RECOVERY
As your abdomen heals, you may have soreness and swelling. For comfort, continue to wear soft, comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Some women opt for roomy dresses instead of pants and a top. It’s up to you whether you feel more comfortable in a dress.
The abdominal compression garment should be worn at all times (except while bathing). It helps minimize swelling and promote optimal wound healing and scarring. Dr. LoVerme will let you know how long to wear your compression garment. Some patients are advised to wear the garment (or a similar Spanx garment) for up to six weeks or longer.
AFTER HEALING
After you have healed from surgery and the swelling has completely resolved, you will probably find that your wardrobe fits differently — namely, that pants and shorts are looser around your smaller abdomen. Most people go down a size or two (or more). You may opt to have your existing clothing altered by a tailor to perfect the fit, or you may treat yourself to a shopping spree for new options.
Even if you still wear the same size after surgery, your clothing should fit and flatter you better. You shouldn’t have a “muffin top” or a “spare tire” around your waist that hangs over jeans or pants. Your waist should look leaner and flatter, allowing you to try styles you never thought possible.
Some patients opt to accentuate their newly sculpted waist by adding stylish belts. A wrap dress is a classic piece that hugs a woman’s curves after tummy tuck. Skinny jeans and shorts are also more flattering with a firmer and leaner waist.
What sizes can I wear?
Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure that many people choose to undergo in order to improve their contours and achieve a slimmer appearance. While the surgery does help with removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, it is important to note that it is not considered a weight loss procedure. Instead, tummy tuck surgery is more about sculpting the body and enhancing the overall shape of the abdomen.
Some individuals who undergo tummy tuck surgery may experience a significant decrease in clothing sizes, going down several sizes as a result of the procedure. This is often due to the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, which can lead to a more toned and sculpted appearance. However, it is important to keep in mind that not everyone will experience such dramatic results. Some individuals may notice more subtle changes in their clothing size after tummy tuck surgery.
If you are considering tummy tuck surgery and have concerns about the potential changes in your clothing size, it is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Dauwe. During your consultation, Dr. Dauwe can show you before and after photos of previous tummy tuck patients, allowing you to see the potential results of the procedure. Additionally, Dr. Dauwe can explain what to expect in terms of clothing size after tummy tuck recovery, helping you to set realistic expectations for your post-surgery body.
In conclusion, tummy tuck surgery can be a highly effective way to improve your contours and achieve a slimmer appearance. While some individuals may experience a significant decrease in clothing sizes after the procedure, others may notice more subtle changes. By consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Dauwe, you can gain a better understanding of what to expect in terms of clothing size after tummy tuck surgery, helping you to make an informed decision about whether the procedure is right for you.
When Can I Wear Jeans After Tummy Tuck
No. You should not wear jeans immediately after a tummy tuck. Why is this so? As you know, tummy tuck is a surgical operation which involves having your stomach opened and stitched up. With this you have a wound on the lower abdomen which will be painful if stressed.
When you wear tight jeans after tummy tuck, it will be touching the lower abdomen and as such inflict pain and may cause inflammation of the surgery area which if not good for you. So when can I wear jeans after Tummy Tuck?
When can I wear jeans after Tummy Tuck?
It is best for you to consult your surgeon to know when you can start doing most activities after your surgery. This is important since different people react to medications differently.
Generally, it takes about 3 to 4 months for complete healing from tummy tuck operation and about 6 weeks external release of pains. So I can say that you can wear jeans after a tummy tuck in 3 months after the operation.
Note, this is in general terms. For your safety, it is advised that you talk with your surgeon for medical advice.
Can wearing jeans after tummy tuck cause inflammation?
Yes or No might not be the best answer for this question. The causes of swelling after tummy tuck are largely due to stressing of the abdominal muscle. So if the jeans are to be worn up to the abdomen before the healing of the wound, it might cause inflammation.
But if you follow the advice of your doctor on when to wear jeans after tummy tuck, it will not cause any harm to you. So you can wear your choice of jeans without fear though not immediately after the tummy tuck surgery.
Can I wear Pants after a tummy tuck?
Remember that you will be having some sort of pain around your lower abdomen after tummy tuck and as such you don’t need to add to it by wearing tight clothes like jeans. But can I wear pants after a tummy tuck?
From the first week to about 3 weeks after tummy tuck, you will be wearing compression garments to help in controlling swelling of the cut area and also enabling fast healing and as such you might not need to add to that.
After having the surgery, it is advised to wear loose roomy clothes with shirts that can be zipped up or that use buttons so that you will not need to raise your hands up so as not to stress that wound.
Is a tummy tuck covered by insurance?
Although there are certainly medical and functional benefits to be gained through a tummy tuck, the procedure is not typically covered by insurance. Some related procedures, such as the panniculectomy – which is used to remove the excess skin of the pannus after weight loss – may be covered by insurance in certain cases.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?
Yes! Many patients choose to combine their tummy tuck with additional procedures in order to maximize the results of their transformation as well as to cut down on expensive surgical fees in the long run. After weight loss patients may choose to have a tummy tuck, arm lift (brachioplasty), and thigh lift all performed simultaneously, for instance.
Another example of a combined procedure is the mommy makeover, which can be highly beneficial for women who have had children – and even those who haven’t. Some of the procedures most commonly combined with a tummy tuck as part of a mommy makeover include breast augmentation, breast lift, and Brazilian butt lift (BBL).