A vertical scar may also appear in some cases where more skin has been removed from the lower abdomen. This scar can take up to several months after surgery before it starts becoming less visible. The main scar will be a horizontal line across the abdomen, just below the belly button, where excess skin is removed. It’s important to understand what to expect and how to manage your tummy tuck scars in order to ensure the best possible outcome. The result of the procedure is usually worth having to deal with the scars that are left behind. Scarring is an inevitable part of having a tummy tuck.

They are placed to be hidden from view, even in a revealing bikini bottom, and with time, will appear to be a thin white line that is barely visible. Tummy tuck scars will start to fade at about six months, but you can expect about a year before they disappear to be less visible. However, you will need some patience a full recovery will take about three to six months. You will feel confident wearing tight clothing without concern about hiding a tummy bulge. The results of a custom tummy tuck can be life-changing. Your surgeon and their staff will monitor your progress and advise you on when it’s appropriate to resume exercise, usually starting with gentle daily walks. However, it’s crucial to avoid strenuous activities during the initial stages of recovery.

Gentle movement is encouraged after a tummy tuck to promote healthy circulation and aid in healing while minimizing the risk of blood clots. Plan your life around your surgery, with enough time off to return to work (or other activities) without feeling pain or fatigue and being unable to function. Some patients return to work in about two weeks, but many need more time. Take it easy, and don’t lift your children, pets, or anything with any weight, and when you feel like laughing, be aware that it can be painful. Avoid stretching, lifting, bending, or any other motion that could stress the sutures to speed tissue healing. Minimizing the use of prescription pain medication as soon as possible and transitioning to over-the-counter painkillers can also help alleviate this side effect.Īny movement of the treated abdominal area can be painful – including laughing or crying. In some cases, a laxative or stool softener medication may be necessary. It’s important to stay hydrated and consume a fiber-rich diet to mitigate this issue. However, as the swelling and bruising fade, this effect will diminish.Īnesthesia and Painkillers Cause ConstipationĪnesthesia and painkillers used during the tummy tuck surgery can cause constipation as a side effect. This can result in water retention and a temporary increase in weight. The body undergoes trauma during the surgery, leading to swelling and bruising. Temporary weight gain is also normal during the early stages of recovery. It’s essential to wear loose clothing during this time and be patient as the swelling gradually subsides, revealing the desired firm and flat stomach. One common effect of a tummy tuck is swelling, which can make your abdomen appear larger than before the tummy tuck surgery. It’s also important to understand that the recovery period can be uncomfortable and may involve some pain and swelling, but following the instructions provided by the surgeon can help minimize any complications and ensure the best possible outcome.ĭuring the recovery process, there are several important factors to keep in mind.

After the surgery, it’s important to follow the post-operative instructions carefully, including proper wound care and activity restrictions. A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that addresses excess skin, abdominal wall laxity, and weakened abdominal muscles to achieve a firmer, more contoured abdomen.įactors to Consider Before and After a Tummy Tuck Procedureīefore the tummy tuck surgery, patients should consider factors such as their overall health, realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure, and the necessary preparation for the recovery period. Vitenas, our board-certified plastic surgeon from Houston, TX, believes patients deserve transparency without sugar-coating the facts about the recovery. If you are planning to undergo a tummy tuck, you deserve to understand every aspect of the surgery and the recovery. Vitenas, our board-certified plastic surgeon, believes patients deserve transparency without sugar-coating the facts about the recovery.

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