Do you need a tummy tuck? You’re not alone!
Loose, sagging skin plagues about 70% of people after bariatric surgery. Many more develop it from rapid weight loss, slow weight gain, and aging.
After losing a lot of weight, people may also notice stubborn belly fat and weakened abdominal muscles. All of these things can make you feel self-conscious about your looks and really feel frustrating after putting in hard work to reach a goal weight.
Tummy tuck surgery removes the excess fat and skin while restoring the muscle tone to boost confidence and improve the overall appearance. Keep reading to learn exactly what to expect afterward.
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Tummy Tuck Post-Op
A tummy tuck with Dr. Javad Sajan involves major surgery. They open up your belly, manipulate muscle tissue, remove adipose tissue, and cut off excess skin before sewing you back up. The plastic surgeon will perform it either in a hospital or an outpatient surgical facility.
You can expect to undergo surgery with anesthesia. when you awaken, they will keep you for a bit to make sure your vitals stay strong and you do not react adversely to the anesthetics. Once the doctor gives the go-ahead, you will need somebody to help you out and drive you home.
Pain Management
How painful is a tummy tuck?
Following surgery, you can expect lower abdominal pain. It may feel rather intense in the first week.
When you leave the hospital, your surgeon will probably prescribe you pain medication to help keep you comfortable. Some prescribe opioids while others prefer to stick with local anesthetics, like Bupivacaine.
Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen will help keep down the pain and control swelling as well. You can continue alternating these pain relievers in the weeks to follow, as the pain will dwindle over the next month or two.
Ice your belly to help with breakthrough pain. Reducing the inflammation with ice also helps the healing process along.
Wound Care
Cleaning your wound helps to reduce the risk of infection. You cannot wash it in a regular shower for at least 48 hours.
Leave on the surgical tape and dip a Q-tip into hydrogen peroxide mixed with water. Gently dab around the incision. Using another Q-tip, apply antibiotic ointment.
Activity
Expect to take downtime. Take off of work for about two weeks to give yourself time to recover.
Once you go back to work, still take it easy. You should not exercise for about two months after surgery.
Do not lift anything heavy until your doctor gives the go-ahead. This includes small children.
Appearance
Tummy tuck recovery does not happen overnight. You can expect to see bruising, inflammation, and dark scarring for a few months following your surgery.
Do not get discouraged. If you care for your wounds properly, your tummy will look amazing once healed.
Schedule Yor Tummy Tuck Surgery
Do not let the recovery scare you from getting yourself comfortable in your skin. Though you will experience discomfort and inconvenience for a bit after your tummy tuck surgery, you will love your long-lasting results.
Are you looking to live better all around? Find helpful wellness tips on our health page!
