A tummy tuck recovery is different for each individual. Therefore, if you hope to go through a tummy tuck procedure, you need to know what recovery involves. Plus, your healing process depends on factors such as your age, health, body weight, and the type of tummy tuck you will have. It is natural to want to go back to normal after your surgery. However, your body needs enough time to heal. Also, you may have to stay in hospital for a while, depending on your doctor’s advice. When you leave the hospital, the recovery journey begins from here, and below are five things you need to know.
1. The recovery timeline
To have ample time to heal, figure out the time frame for your recovery. In this way, you can plan how to break from various aspects of your life. So, make proper arrangements to recover fully. Notably, your drains will be left out a few days after the tummy tuck surgery. While the drain pipes are in place, you will need to take an anticoagulant and an antibiotic. For about six weeks, you will wear an abdominal binder.
2. Healthy tips for recovery
For recovery, you need to be as healthy as possible. Set up a space at home that is comfortable to relax, with all you need. Rest for at least two weeks, and avoid anything that physical before you are ready. To reduce swelling and flush your body toxins, you need to drink plenty of water. So, keep your diet as healthy as possible. Include fresh vegetables and fruits as possible. Some of the health tips for recovery include taking vitamin C supplements, taking probiotic supplements, drink green tea to boost antioxidant levels. Also, take arnica to reduce swelling, a phosphorous supplement to relieve nausea, and papaya to reduce bloating and inflammation.
3. Expectations after your surgery
Your doctor will brief you on how to recover better at home. These include how to care for the drain tubes and incisions. Things affecting your incision line in terms of physical activity. Also, the types of physical activity that affect your recovery before six weeks. Plus, what you can eat and how much to rest. Finally, when your doctors' appointment is going to be. After the surgery, you need someone to drive you home and take care of you for a few days. Once you remove your drain pipes, you can take a shower. But until then, ensure you take a sponge bath. Take any pain medication the doctor gave you, including the antibiotics. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol to heal better and have no complications.
4. Possible physical side effects
The first few days following your surgery, you will experience intense pain. You can take pain medication to control it, and for up to three months, you will experience swelling. When you stand up, your tummy will feel like someone is pulling it. Plus, for months, you may experience numbness in your tummy area. Also, you may have fluid-filled swelling around your scar. But with time, it will go away. Also, your scar may be red and raised. But it will fade away.
5. Guidelines for home recovery
While at home, you may need to sleep on an incline for the first few days to reduce swelling. Put pillows underneath your knees to help reduce pressure on the abdomen, and the doctor will advise you more on the same. So, after a week or so, keep moving by walking a bit to keep your blood flowing. It helps with the healing process and decreases the chances of a blood clot. But, still rest as much as possible, and your doctor can help you find the optimal resting position. You won’t be able to drive for a few weeks, and your doctors will help you choose the activities you can and those you should avoid while recuperating at home.
