How to Recover After Tummy Tuck Surgery

The recovery after tummy tuck surgery can be a difficult one. Not only is skin removed, sometimes fat is removed, and muscle is strengthened. This type of surgery can be traumatic on the body at first. It takes more than several weeks to feel back to normal. If you are considering a tummy tuck, or have had tummy tuck surgery, read this article to understand how to best recover.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bed
• Belly band
• Compression hose

1. Take 2 weeks off from work. Many doctors recommend taking 4 weeks off, but the majority of plastic surgeons recommend 2 weeks off after a tummy tuck surgery. This gives your body a chance to heal in a non-stressful environment.

2. Wear an elastic belly band for 2 or 3 weeks after tummy tuck surgery to reduce swelling. This is almost like a thick girdle. Although it can be restricting and somewhat hot, belly bands will help you recover.

3. Wear compression hose on your legs for at least 2 days after tummy tuck surgery. The risk of blood clotting is significantly reduced with the use of compression hose. In fact, women who have given birth via cesarean are also required to wear these stockings.

4. Participate in non strenuous walking after tummy tuck surgery. Almost every doctor believes you should get up and walk as soon as you can. In the first couple of days after your tummy tuck, simply moving around the house is all you need to do. After a week or so, short walks around the block will help speed up your healing time.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't get frustrated if it looks like the tummy tuck surgery hasn't worked or if the scars get more noticeable. It is common for scars to become more apparent before they begin to smooth out and fade.