4 Things You Should Know Before Getting a Tummy Tuck

Whether a mom who’s had multiple pregnancies or an individual that has recently loss a significant amount of weight, a tummy tuck can be a transformative procedure.

It allows patients to ability to achieve a flatter abdomen and become more comfortable in their bodies when diet and exercise have not been enough.

While a tummy tuck is an elective procedure, it requires thoughtful consideration, research, and planning.

Keep reading to learn four things that anyone thinking about a tummy tuck should know.

#1 Depending on Your Goals, a Full or Mini Tummy Tuck May Be Right for You

A full tummy tuck repairs weakened or separated muscles and removes fat and excess skin that rests above and below the belly button.

This approach typically takes two-to-three hours.

On the other hand, a mini tummy tuck involves a smaller incision, but only corrects abdominal issues that are below the belly button. It usually takes about one-to-two hours to perform this technique.

#2 You Need to Plan for Several Weeks of Recovery From a Tummy Tuck

Recovery from a tummy tuck can be a lengthy and uncomfortable experience, but planning can make it go as smoothly as possible.

Patients will likely experience pain, swelling, discomfort, and tightness after their procedure and will be prescribed medication to manage pain, relax muscles, and prevent nausea. They should move around after surgery, but take care not to overdo it.

Most of the healing takes place within four-to-six weeks, but it can take six-to-12 months for swelling to fully resolve and scars to flatten and fade.

#3 Patients Will Be Sent Home With Drains and a Compression Binder

In addition to resting and hydrating after a tummy tuck, patients will need to manage their surgical drains and wear a compression binder.

The drains and any non-absorbable sutures will be removed at a follow-up appointment in five-to-seven days.

The compression binder must be used for two-to-three weeks, before switching to a lighter garment for three-to-four weeks.

#4 Tummy Tuck Surgery Has a Very High Rate of Patient Satisfaction

Despite everything that it entails, most patients are extremely pleased with their decisions to undergo a tummy tuck and up to 96 percent of RealSelf users say that the results are well worth it.

At the end, they have a flatter and firmer abdomen, narrower waistline, increased abdominal strength, and improved self-confidence. 

For additional information about abdominoplasty, please call our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kelly Bolden.