As the fall season approaches, it is time to start thinking about getting your body ready for the summer season. If you’re interested in having a tummy tuck, we often recommend the September through December months as an opportune time to schedule your surgery. Pollard Plastic Surgery, which proudly serves the Bala Cynwyd and Philadelphia communities, is happy to welcome you to our office. We have been helping men and women achieve their aesthetic goals for 25 years.
One of the most common questions we are asked in our office is about the recovery time for a tummy tuck. We’ve created an outline to help you understand the recovery process for this popular cosmetic surgery option.
The First Week after a Tummy Tuck
The first five days after surgery is typically a regiment of bed rest. It is important to keep your head elevated, and knees slightly bent over pillows as this position eases pressure on the operation site and encourages better blood flow. You will wear a supportive abdominal garment to help prevent fluid retention. You will most likely have drains to help remove excess fluid that can occur after the operation. The drains are usually removed with in the first two weeks of surgery. During this time, you will be encouraged to walk short distances around the house every day to help reduce the formation of blood clots and promote healing. The first few days are the most challenging, but every day you should feel better than the one before. You’ll need to stay hydrated and drink lots of water. On or about the first week, you will have your first check-up with Dr. Pollard where you will be given further instructions based on your progress.
The Second Week after a Tummy Tuck
On the second week, we encourage slow but steady movement. The key here is to not overdo it because you are still healing. It is a good idea to have a family member or friend around to help. The less strain you put on the operation area the better. You shouldn’t be driving at all up to this point, as sudden braking and accelerating can cause your body stress even if you are a passenger.
The Third Week after a Tummy Tuck
Week three represents another increase in movement. At this point it is still best to have a friend or family member purchase groceries, pick up the kids from school and run errands. However, a leisurely walk in the neighborhood can be a form of healthy movement. We encourage you to take breaks during physical activity; there’s no need to push yourself. The majority of our patients head back to work around this time, as long as they have jobs that are not physically taxing.
The Fourth Week after a Tummy Tuck
You should feel significantly better. You should be able to resume many of your pre-surgery activities, but don’t be surprised if you still do not have your pre-surgery stamina. You shouldn’t lift anything over five pounds, but you can perform low impact exercises.
The Fifth Week after a Tummy Tuck
You may still feel some tenderness or experience some swelling but in most instances, you are free to resume activities as usual.
Schedule a consultation with our office and get on our fall surgery schedule sooner rather than later.
