Even after the incision has healed and the stitches have been removed strenuous activity should be avoided for up to four months. This includes not only lifting but also running and other exercises. The benefits of a tummy tuck can be great and can give you confidence and satisfaction in your body that you havent had in years. It also can be a long and painful recovery that will infringe on the day-to-day workings of your life. Be sure before you take this huge step towards improving your body that you prepare yourself for the recovery ahead.Your doctor will advise you when you are able to shower, which will normally coincide with your first dressing change. During showering he will probably advise you to remove your dressing, and any compression garments you are wearing. To accommodate the fluid drains in the shower most people wear underwear, and pin the drains to their underwear until they have finished showering.
At any time, it is important to call your surgeon's office if you experience excessive pain, swelling or bleeding. The office will be able to make suggestions, or schedule an appointment if necessary. After your recovery is complete, scar tissue will continue to fade and your abdomen will have the flat, tight look that you desire. Great results are typically visible about 8 months after the operation.
This procedure is so appealing because it can be customized for you by your doctor to achieve the look that you want. Once your tummy tuck is complete, the contours of your stomach are refined, giving you a rejuvenated and youthful appearance. When your procedure is finished and your doctor feels you are okay to be discharged, you will be sent home with special instructions for healing and care. There will often be dressings or bandages covering your incisions to promote healing and protect them from infection.
Most surgeons will recommend exercise of some sort to help keep your blood flowing and help to speed recovery. You will, of course, want to avoid any vigorous activity that can strain your incision area. Generally, exercises include walking and some light leg exercises. You will not notice a lot of change in your abdominal area following surgery because it will be swollen. However, the swelling will decrease with time and the results will become more obvious. You will also have to be aware of the permanent scar that is a result of the surgery.
It's a common reaction and it will pass as you regain your strength. You should be mentally prepared for some serious discomforts following your tummy tuck surgery. You will need to remain in a sitting position the first two to four days. In other words, even when you lie down or stand up, your knees must remain bent at all times. If you straighten up, you'll rip out your stitches!
I was so nervous thinking it would be painful, but it wasn't at all. I felt maybe a small twinge but that was it. And I wouldn't even call it pain or even really discomfort. I will say, however, that I had the forethought to take my pain meds before we left the house.
If you're feeling up to it, you may be able to wean yourself off the OxyCodone at this time to help alleviate the constipation issues. Just speak with your doctor first on which over the counter medication is best to use. In my case, it was recommended that I take Extra Strength Tylenol every two hours in lieu of the OxyCodone. As you become more mobile, you may notice that your back hurts when you stand or walk.
You have just had your long awaited Tummy Tuck surgery and you are extremely sure when you will get well and what to expect in the weeks leading up to your recovery. Here are all the answers you require. What To Expect Immediately After The Abdominoplasty Surgery. Recommended Pain Pump And Drains. Drain pipes are also common.They help to collect excess blood and other fluids which if left would cause infection.A bulb to collect the fluids also accompanies the drain pipes and should be emptied when full.
