A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can transform the way you look. It can also restore a sense of confidence in your body and motivate you to practice healthy lifestyle choices.
A tummy tuck is a reconstructive surgical procedure that involves the removal of soft tissue and the reshaping of underlying muscles and connective tissues. Preparing for a tummy tuck in Walnut Creek is essential to ensuring you receive the best possible results.
In the weeks leading up to your tummy tuck in Walnut Creek, you can begin preparing for a quick recovery by staying as healthy as possible.
Absolutely, by no means, should you smoke in the period leading up to and during your recovery. Since this surgery involves the healing of soft tissue, it is essential for your body to retain sufficient blood flow to the small arteries and capillaries that oxygenate the tissue and promote healing. Smoking can lead to several complications, including infections, scarring, and poor wound healing. You should aim to stop smoking at least two months prior to your procedure and refrain from smoking in the months following your procedure.
You will want to stop drinking alcohol in the week leading up to surgery. Alcohol can interfere with anesthesia and your body’s ability to process certain medications effectively. Alcohol also dehydrates your system, and staying hydrated is vital for your surgery.
You can support your healing process by staying well hydrated in the period leading up to and during the recovery. Staying well hydrated means drinking at least two liters of water a day. It is critical to helping your body reduce swelling and heal tissue.
Being as fit as possible prior to surgery will go a long way in easing your recovery after a tummy tuck procedure. Be sure to maintain your exercise routine in the period leading up to surgery. This is especially important, as weight gain immediately before surgery can impact the overall results of your tummy tuck procedure.
Certain types of medication can have a negative effect on the healing process immediately following surgery. You may be asked to avoid taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, as they can thin the blood and lead to increased bleeding during surgery. It is important to discuss all the medications you take with your surgeon, including supplements, to be sure none of them increase the risk of complications during surgery and recovery.
By taking these steps, you can prepare your body for the procedure and support a healthy recovery.
Since tummy tucks are major procedures, you should anticipate a lengthy recovery process and make the necessary preparations.
Unlike minimally invasive procedures, tummy tucks are far more extensive and will leave you with limited mobility and functionality immediately after surgery. For instance, you will be on heavy painkillers after the surgery that can impair your mental function. This means that you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure and arrange for a loved one to stay with you for the first 48 hours to help you with everyday activities like getting out of bed and getting dressed. This is especially true if you have children or pets, as the first few days post-surgery will need to be devoted to sleep and rest.
You should anticipate needing to take time off of work. While the immediate pain and swelling can subside within the first week or two following tummy tuck surgery, most patients in Walnut Creek arrange to take a month off of work to prepare for the procedure. Of course, you may be able to return to work sooner, especially if you are able to work remotely. On the other hand, if your work involves a lot of physical labor or activity, like working as a nurse or as a contractor, you may need to take off up to two months, depending on the intensity of your particular surgery. Be sure you are able to give yourself the time you need to heal.
Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Seth Eberlin, can guide you through the recovery process and answer any questions you may have.
The success of your tummy tuck procedure depends on how well you prepare for it. At Golden Hills Plastic Surgery, we want to set you up for success, so you can enjoy optimal results.
Preparing for a tummy tuck in Walnut Creek requires keeping your body as healthy as possible prior to surgery and ensuring you have the support and time needed for a full recovery. We are happy to address any questions you might have on how to ensure an effective procedure and a swift recovery. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
