9 Things Nobody Tells You About a Tummy Tuck : Nowadays, there are more tummy tuck options than ever before. Because of this, more women and men are choosing tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) to look and feel better about themselves.
Here are nine surprising facts about abdominoplasty, and what to do about each of them so that your recovery is easier.
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You May Be Uncomfortable
You may have anticipated this one. But what nobody tells you is that even everyday things, like bending, laughing, or sneezing, can cause pain after a tummy tuck.
Be gentle with yourself. You’ve just had surgery, after all. You use your abdomen daily for things you don’t think of…even sitting up straight. So expect discomfort, and if possible, have help available around the house for at least the first two weeks after your abdominoplasty.
Because of the issue of pain, your doctor will prescribe medications. Which brings us to the next thing you may not be expecting.
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You Won’t Be Able to Eat Before Surgery
Your tummy tuck will be performed under general anesthesia. And that means no food or liquids for at least 12 hours before your surgery. Why? Because food in the stomach can be automatically regurgitated (sorry) while you’re under anesthesia, and that can be dangerous.
Your doctor will advise you on exactly how many hours you will need to refrain from eating or drinking before your surgery.
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You Might Be Constipated
General (“sleeping”) anesthesia can cause constipation. So can some pain medications.
Don’t be afraid to take your medicine exactly as your plastic surgeon prescribes. Get plenty of fluids after your surgery (water is your best bet). And eat a vegetable and fiber-rich diet.
If you’re still having trouble with constipation, call your doctor for advice.
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Your Clothing Will Feel Tighter
You will experience swelling immediately after your tummy tuck. That can be disappointing, since you probably had your tummy tuck so you’d look slimmer –– not bigger!
Take heart: any surgery can result in swelling. A tummy tuck is no exception. Expect swelling for the first three weeks. Afterward, swelling should steadily decrease, and you’ll look and feel much better.
In the meantime, wear loose, comfortable clothing, like sweatpants and T-shirts.
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Your Scale May Show a Higher Weight
Notice we did not say you’ll gain fat. You won’t –– but that swelling we just mentioned can include water retention. This is a normal response to any surgery (not just tummy tuck surgery).
Your best bet is not to get on the scale during your first month of recovery. But if you give in and check your weight, don’t be upset if the needle isn’t going any lower at this point. Water retention will go down after the first week or so.
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You Need to Move Around
You should not do any vigorous exercise for the first several weeks after your abdominoplasty. But you do need to get gentle movement.
That’s because being completely inactive after any type of surgery can increase the risk of blood clots.
Your doctor will probably advise you to walk each day, and to get yourself to and from the kitchen and bathroom on your own two feet. Yes, you’ll be sore. But do follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions on how much you should walk after your surgery.
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You Can’t Drive Afterward
You will need a ride home from your surgery, and afterward, you should not drive for at least two weeks. (If you’re unsure, ask your plastic surgeon whether you’re healed enough to drive.)
Make sure you have all your supplies ready at home before you go in for your surgery. Stock your fridge and cupboard with easy, light meals, like soup. If possible, prepare dinner meals and freeze them before your surgery. And make sure you have necessities, like toilet paper and toothpaste, since you won’t be able to run out for them.
You may also want to plan to order your necessities and meals for the first two weeks following your surgery.
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You’ll Need Plenty of Help
We’ve touched on this, but you really will need help after your tummy tuck. And you’d be surprised what you’ll need help with. For example, even putting on and taking off compression garments can be very difficult when you’re recovering.
Ask a friend or family member in advance whether they can help you with daily necessities. Or, if your insurance covers it, find out about in-home care.
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It’s Worth It in the End
The internet makes it easy to hear stories of woe, but what you may not be considering is how happy most women are after their abdominoplasty.
Yes, you’ll need time to recover, and that won’t be pleasant, but it isn’t forever. Before you know it, the recovery period will be over, and you’ll be back to yourself again…with a tighter, younger-looking tummy to boot!
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9 Things Nobody Tells You About a Tummy Tuck
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