In case of tummy tuck cosmetic surgery, one of the three primary surgical approaches may be adopted: mini, standard, and extensive. Depending on the extent of surgery, the recovery process and downtime will vary.
Dr. Kristi Hustak is a board certified female plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck and various other procedures to patients in Houston, Texas and surrounding locations. Dr. Hustak will discuss the recovery aspect in detail during the initial consultation.
First Two Weeks after Surgery
In case of standard as well as extended tummy tuck plastic surgery, drainage tubes will usually be placed below the skin to help prevent fluid buildup at the incision site. The tubes may be removed along with sutures in about seven to 10 days after the surgery. The patient will be required to wear a special support garment in the treated area to further prevent the fluid buildup.
The patient will not remain immobilized during the early recovery phase, and they will be encouraged to perform mild walks within the home and carry out simple daily activities. This will minimize the risk of harmful blood clotting. Lifting of heavy weights, vigorous exercises or bending should be avoided for a few weeks so that undue strain is not placed on the incisions.
Incisions will usually get sufficiently healed in about two weeks, and the patient can resume daily routine or return to work. Those who have sedentary jobs can return to work earlier. Experienced female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas and nearby areas for tummy tuck surgery.
Follow-up Appointments
In many cases, the surgeon may want the patient to visit the day after tummy tuck surgery to fully evaluate their condition. The support garment may be fitted during this appointment. After the first appointment, further follow-ups may be scheduled on a weekly basis. Depending on the patient’s healing and their individual risk factors, the follow-ups may be determined.
Avoiding Smoking during Recovery
Nicotine, which is a key ingredient in tobacco, has the potential to significantly compromise the body’s healing ability. Tummy tuck is a major procedure involving incisions, excess skin removal, tightening of the underlying muscles and liposuction.
Therefore, a patient who smokes will have to make a commitment to refrain from smoking before and after the surgery for several weeks. This will reduce the risk of delayed recovery and help to ensure that the oxygen in the blood flow is not compromised.
Pain Management and Other Medications
Some degree of pain and soreness in the incision areas is expected after tummy tuck surgery. The surgeon will usually prescribe pain medications to keep the patient comfortable during this period. Some surgeons may administer an injectable painkiller that offers three to four days of relief and avoids the need for oral drugs.
Bowel movement should be well-maintained after a tummy tuck surgery. Therefore, the surgeon may recommend that the patient take laxatives during the initial recovery phase. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to further reduce the infection risk. Medications should be followed precisely as advised by the surgeon.
For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.
