What I wish I knew before getting a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck requires significant downtime
A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure that will require weeks to heal. The technique includes an incision, running from hip to hip. Patients should expect their recovery to take two to three weeks. At the beginning, you will be fatigued, swollen and sore.
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What should you not do before a tummy tuck?

Two Weeks Prior to Tummy Tuck Surgery
  • Stop taking aspirin, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil or similar anti-inflammatory medications, as they increase bleeding. ...
  • Stop ALL herbal medications, supplements, teas and diet pills, as they may increase bleeding.
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How do I prepare my body for a tummy tuck?

How should I prepare for a tummy tuck?
  1. Get lab testing or a medical evaluation.
  2. Take certain medications or adjust your current medications.
  3. Stop smoking.
  4. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.
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How long after a tummy tuck will I feel normal?

Typically, a person can expect to feel themselves again around 8 weeks after surgery. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), tummy tucks are an outpatient procedure for most individuals, meaning they can go home the same day.
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Will my pant size change after a tummy tuck?

Most women lose between 2 and 3 pants sizes after a tuck, but there are patients who lose even more. If you had a lot of loose skin before the procedure, for example, you could go down 4 more pants sizes.
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*NEW* WHAT I WISH I KNEW BEFORE GETTING A TUMMY TUCK



How long should you sleep in a recliner after a tummy tuck?

Plastic surgery recovery from a miniature tummy tuck only requires 1 – 3 weeks of resting in a reclined position, while a full or extended tummy tuck may take about 4 – 6 weeks.
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Does tummy tuck get rid of FUPA?

The definitive way to be completely rid of a FUPA, if you are done having kids, is a Tummy Tuck.
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When do drains come out after tummy tuck?

Generally speaking, most patients who require tummy tuck drains are able to have them removed after about 1 – 3 weeks.
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Can I push to poop after tummy tuck?

Even though light movement is recommended, you should avoid moderate to heavy movement, as this will do the exact opposite and slow your recovery. Don't push your body before it's ready.
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What supplies do I need after a tummy tuck?

Dressing Supplies For Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), Lower Body Lift, Back Lift
  • Gauze (4×4 gauze or gauze rolls)
  • Tape for dressings (paper tape may work best)
  • Disposable exam gloves (nonsterile; vinyl or latex or nitrile)
  • Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin, Triple Antibiotic)
  • Chlorhexidine (HibiClens)
  • Alcohol pads.
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What is the fastest way to recover from a tummy tuck?

Some tips for fast recovery after a tummy tuck are:
  1. Eat foods high in vitamins and minerals (vegetables, fruit, protein source)
  2. Drink plenty of water after a tummy tuck.
  3. Limit the work hours as well as physical activity at work, for the first six weeks after surgery.
  4. Follow your surgeon's instructions.
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What are the cons of a tummy tuck?

The Top 5 Downsides to a Tummy Tuck
  • You Will Have a Lower Abdominal Scar. ...
  • This Is Not a Weight Loss Alternative. ...
  • Complications Are Possible After a Tummy Tuck. ...
  • Tummy Tuck Surgery Has an Extended Recovery Period. ...
  • Results Can Be Difficult to Maintain Without Proper Care.
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What can you not do after a tummy tuck?

Avoid abdominal exercises and strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, for 6 to 8 weeks. For 6 weeks, avoid lifting anything that would make you strain.
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Is it best to lose weight before a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure and you should be at or near your ideal weight before having one. If you plan to lose weight, do so before you have a tummy tuck. Your plastic surgeon will be able to remove more excess skin and you'll get better results.
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What should I wear at home after a tummy tuck?

For the first week post-op, you should continue to wear loose-fitting, soft, comfy clothes. Some women prefer to wear a soft, loose dress rather than a baggy shirt and sweatpants. Whether you prefer pants or a dress, we strongly recommend investing in a soft bathrobe.
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Is it normal to be nervous before a tummy tuck?

It's normal and common to be anxious before a plastic surgery, but if you know how to prepare for a procedure like tummy tuck, or you have an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon beside you who can explain the cosmetic procedure and the recovery that comes after, then there is no need to worry.
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What happens on day 3 after tummy tuck?

On day 3, activity is encouraged but should be limited. Any activity involving lifting and carrying, driving, exercise, smoking, and drinking alcohol should be avoided. A drain is a device that directs excess fluid away from the incision and out of the body.
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Are tummy tucks worth the pain?

Many patients worry about what to expect after a tummy tuck. Luckily, the pain during tummy tuck recovery does not outweigh the amazing results afterward, and men and women who've had the procedure give it a 96% Worth It rating on RealSelf.com.
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How many pounds does a tummy tuck remove?

The amount of weight a patient loses after a tummy tuck will vary, depending on the extent of the procedure. In most cases, patients lose a minimal amount, typically under five pounds. Other patients with more extensive loose skin may lose between 5 – 10 pounds, and, sometimes, even more.
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Does it hurt getting drains out?

– Is drain removal painful? Patients may experience a pulling or pressure sensation, however there is generally no pain experienced during drain removal. Drain removal takes only a few seconds. The stitch securing the drain in place is first removed followed by gentle removal of the drainage tube.
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Do tummy tuck drains hurt?

There is a myth circulating through the rumor mill that pulling out the drain tubes is painful. It's not. Taking the drainage tubes out is a painless procedure performed in your surgeon's office, and it usually takes about two seconds per side.
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How do you shower after tummy tuck drains?

Leave the steristrips (small white tapes) in place over your incision. After this you can take a shower. After the shower put on the garment again (make sure the seams are facing the outside), directly over the steristrips. You do not need to put gauze on your incisions.
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Should I shave my pubic hair before tummy tuck?

Since the incision from a tummy tuck will end up very close to the pubic hair, you may want to shave the area before surgery.
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What is a hanging stomach called?

A common reason for this insecurity and anxiety around baring your stomach on the beach or at the pool is 'abdominal panniculus' – the scientific name for stomach overhang that hangs down in front – like an apron of fat. This fatty tissue growth is not only uncomfortable and unsightly, but it is also a health risk.
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How long do I need to elevate my legs after tummy tuck?

If you have a “mini tummy tuck” with a smaller incision, you'll likely need between one and three weeks of elevated sleeping. On the other hand, full-tummy tuck patients require about four weeks, with six weeks of limiting any strenuous exercise or lifting.
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