Tummy Tuck Procedire Expectations

With over 30 years of experience in cosmetic and plastic surgery, we have gained valuable knowledge and insight into all types of procedures. One of the most common procedures we book is a tummy tuck. We always recommend discussing recovery time and all procedure information with your specialist; however, our decades of experience have allowed us to outline what to expect after your tummy tuck procedure.  

What Is the Expected Recovery Time for a Tummy Tuck?

Like any procedure, recovery time depends on a variety of factors, such as age, weight, the extent of the procedure, and care and actions that are taken post-surgery, to name a few. It is important to follow every recommendation from your specialist to ensure there is no need for tummy tuck revisions and to return to your everyday life as quickly as possible. Keeping this in mind, in our experience, on average, you can expect to return to normal life within about eight weeks of the procedure.  

Ways to Speed Up the Recovery Time After a Tummy Tuck

We once again reiterate actions you can take to speed up your recovery should first be advised and discussed with your specialist, as each patient and procedure differs. The following activities, however, are generally considered safe and may help speed up your recovery time.  

In-Home Assistance

An important thing to keep in mind is that you will need some assistance on the days after your procedure. For one, you will need a family member or friend to take you home after the procedure, as you will be prescribed pain medications, and you will not be fit to operate a vehicle. Immediately after your procedure, it is normal to have difficulty standing and moving around, and you may need assistance performing daily tasks around your home.  

Resting

Additional recommendations Dr. Zoran gives to his patients for the first few days post-procedure are to rest at an angle while recovering and occasionally to move around. This assists in the prevention of blood clots post-procedure.

Things to Avoid

Smoking and consuming alcohol can greatly slow down recovery time and have negative side effects, especially with prescribed medication. It is highly advised not to smoke or drink alcohol for the first three months after your procedure.

Time Period for returning to Normal Duties

The general time frame for full recovery is around eight weeks; however, a week or two after surgery, you can typically return to daily actions such as cooking, cleaning, and driving. Remember that during this time, it is crucial to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise of any kind.  

Long Term Effects of a Tummy Tuck

A side effect that can arise in patients weeks, and even months, after the procedure is numbness or a pulling sensation, which is quite common and should subside. Of course, always be as detailed with your specialist before and after your procedure. Mention any side effects you might be experiencing.  

Choosing the Right Specialist

With our decades of experience, we recommend consulting with our specialists, who will ensure a seamless procedure. We offer a variety of services, specializing in tummy tucks, liposuction, breast reduction, and lip reduction, or enhancement surgery, to name a few. Contact us today to be serviced by the most respected plastic surgeon in South Florida.  

Related Readings:

Should You Get Liposuction?

What to Expect During Your Rhinoplasty Recovery

Faith

Dr. Zoran Potparic is a board certified plastic surgeon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, committed to performing surgery of the highest quality, safety, and artistry. He applies his years of global study and research, as well as more than 30 years of hands-on experience performing reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for patients coming from all over the United States.