A tummy tuck surgery is designed to eliminate extra skin and fat from the abdominal area, resulting in a smoother and firmer stomach appearance. Despite being a well-established and effective method, recovery can take weeks or even months before patients feel fully back to normal. With patience and proper self-care, you can make your healing period shorter and more effective.
Here are some key mistakes you’ll want to avoid while recovering from your abdominoplasty.
Trying to Cook, Clean, or Watch Children
As your incisions are highly fragile, any friction or pressure might cause serious complications, such as wound reopening or infection. Put all your energy into resting and healing for at least the first week after your tummy tuck.
It is advisable to have convenient grab-and-go snacks readily available and to arrange assistance with cooking, cleaning, and childcare to ensure a smoother healing process during this critical phase.
Eating Salty Foods
In the days following an abdominoplasty, dietary modifications can improve comfort. High-sodium foods may exacerbate post-surgical bloating and inflammation, putting extra pressure on the healing abdomen.
To assist the body in naturally reducing swelling, patients are recommended to limit salt consumption for at least the first week after their tummy tuck. Choosing fresh, less processed options whenever possible not only eases digestion but also supports the optimal reduction of puffiness resulting from the procedure.
Driving, Especially in Those First Two Weeks
Operating a vehicle is inadvisable in the aftermath of abdominoplasty as it requires a seated posture, which potentially restricts blood flow to your lower extremities. Moreover, turning the torso can strain stitches and weaken core muscles. It is advisable to refrain from driving after surgery to prevent any post-surgical injuries.
Trying to Sleep Normally
Getting quality sleep is crucial for healing, but you may struggle to get comfortable, especially in the first week after surgery. Prop yourself up with lots of pillows in bed. Sleeping in a reclined position on a couch or lounge chair can also take pressure from your abdomen. Take your prescribed pain medication before bedtime to aid sleep. Melatonin supplements also help improve sleep.
Trying on or Buying New Clothes
It’s tempting to pick up some comfy new loungewear or even imagine flaunting your upcoming new figure. But hold off on buying any new wardrobe pieces for about 6 weeks, until initial healing has occurred and much of the swelling has subsided. Trying to put on tight clothes poses the risks of discomfort, fluid build-up and infection.
Trying to Exercise
Vigourous exercise and lifting should be avoided for 6 weeks after a tummy tuck, as this can undermine your results. Even yoga poses that engage your core or tense your abdomen need to be avoided during early healing. Focus on slowly increasing your normal movement through short, gentle walks indoors and outdoors. Listen closely to your body and don’t overexert.
Trying to Socialise
You’ll likely feel fatigued and sore for the first 1-2 weeks after this cosmetic surgery. Give yourself permission to rest, heal, and avoid the pressure of social obligations early in the recovery process. Participating in larger social gatherings should be delayed until you can move around and sit upright comfortably.
Final Thoughts
The first month of recovery from a tummy tuck brings restrictions and discomfort. But diligently avoiding these common mistakes will pay off tremendously in your final results and get you back to the activities you enjoy faster. Don’t compromise your healing process by pushing yourself too hard too soon. With time and patience, you’ll be through this critical post-op period and fully enjoying your refined figure.
