Lifestyle Changes That Support Your Tummy Tuck Recovery

An abdominoplasty can provide the refined, firmer looking abdomen you’ve always wanted but were unable to achieve through traditional weight loss methods. Known as a tummy tuck, abdominoplasty surgery is a body contouring procedure that can help to reverse muscles weakened by pregnancy, improve contour after weight fluctuations, and tighten skin loosened by aging. A tummy tuck is a major procedure that should be planned for in advance, as it involves a significant recovery period. Rest and relaxation are the key to healing fully and properly, but other lifestyle changes can help to support the recovery process. Learn more about what you can do for your best tummy tuck recovery and results.

Get Plenty of Rest

Rest is an essential element of any recovery period, including that of a tummy tuck. In the early days of your recovery, rest should be a top priority for you. Before your surgery, check off any items on your to-do list including all of your errands, daily housework, phone calls, and any other small tasks hanging over your head. You want to be able to fully relax as you heal to prevent stress from delaying the process. Plan to spend your time after surgery on a comfortable couch or in your bed. Set up this recovery space in advance and stock it full of bottled water, healthy snacks, and things to keep yourself entertained. Try to arrange this space near to the kitchen and bathroom, if possible, so you can limit the steps you take each day. Plan for a friend or family member to stay with you during the first couple of days if you live alone. They can answer the door, care for your pets, and keep an eye on you in the first crucial days of recovery.

Postpone Your Workouts

If you’re regularly physically active, you might be thrilled with how limited your activity level must be after abdominal surgery. Even if you’re feeling up to a cardio workout or trip to the weight room, you can easily overdo it and cause major setbacks to your recovery process. Embrace the chance to rest and heal until your plastic surgeon clears you to participate in strenuous activities again. It could be at least three weeks before you can attempt a regular workout and even longer before you’ll be strong enough to resume abdominal exercises. Stay out of the gym, resist the treadmill, and limit yourself to relaxing walks until you’re able to get back into your favorite activities. Resting now will pay off later with your quick road to recovery and amazing post-surgical results.

Fill Your Plate Wisely

Your stomach is located inside your abdomen, so it obvious affects your body during recovery. Certain foods can cause swelling and gas, leading to discomfort and delayed healing. As you’re recovering from tummy tuck surgery, be sure to skip these menu items when you eat:

  • Foods high in sugar or high-fructose corn syrup
  • Foods high in sodium
  • Processed foods
  • Carbonated drinks, especially soda
  • Rough greens like broccoli and cabbage
  • Beans
  • Dairy products, especially cheeses

Eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals to support your healthy healing. When you promote the natural functions of your body, it can better cope with the tasks necessary to heal your incisions and treatment area. Your quick and full recovery begins with the lifestyle choices you make from day one.

Plan Your Successful Tummy Tuck With an Expert

Tummy tuck surgery is a procedure that can re-contour your abdomen and change your entire look. To learn more about how it could benefit you, meet with a plastic surgeon experienced in tummy tuck surgery to get your very best results. Dr. Frederick G. Weniger, M.D., F.A.C.S. provides his patients with years of experience and knowledge during one-on-one consultations regarding both surgeries and nonsurgical treatments. Dr. Weniger is board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He believes good information lies at the heart of success in all of his surgeries and interactions with his patients. To schedule a consultation for any aesthetic service or other procedures, contact the office of Weniger Plastic Surgery, located at 350 Fording Island Road, Suite 200, in Bluffton, South Carolina, by calling (843) 757-0123.