What’s the Downtime for a Tummy Tuck?

Also referred to as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a cosmetic procedure that helps eliminate excess fat and skin in the middle and lower abdomen to make it thinner and tighter. Once the excess fat and skin have been surgically removed, the surgeon then tightens your abdominal muscles and the fascia of your abdominal wall. Since this is an invasive procedure, you will take a while to recover fully. Continue reading to learn more about the downtime for a tummy tuck.

What Determines the Tummy Tuck Recovery Time?

If you plan to undergo a tummy tuck procedure, it is important to understand how long you might take to recover and what the whole recovery process involves. First of all, you need to know that the recovery time for an abdominoplasty procedure is different for every patient. Therefore, your recovery depends on many factors, including age, overall health, and body weight. At times, the type of tummy tuck procedure determines the time you will take to recover.

Although it’s normal to want to get back to your everyday life as quickly as possible, it is important to give your body all the time it needs to heal completely before returning to your daily routine. After the surgery, you may be required to stay in the hospital for a day or longer, depending on your health status. And before you leave the hospital, your doctor will advise you on the important steps you need to take to recover fully.

Timeline for Recovery

Once you’ve undergone a tummy tuck procedure, there are certain aspects of your daily life you will have to pause from for a while to allow your body to heal. Therefore, you need to make proper arrangements and prepare yourself properly for the recovery period. One of the most important things you have to do during the recovery period is to take care of the drain tubes attached to your surgical wounds. These tubes are supposed to remove any fluid that might build up inside the wounds. Your doctor will show you how to empty the drain tubes.

You will also be given an abdominal garment, commonly known as the abdominal binder, that you are supposed to wear for about six weeks. This garment helps to prevent fluid buildup and support your abdomen. As you recover, you shouldn’t engage in strenuous activities for about six weeks. Most patients recover fully in about six weeks. However, you shouldn’t return to full complete exercises and activity levels without your doctor’s approval.