SenseOfEsthetics | What is the Recovery Process Like After Tummy Tuck?
What is the Recovery Process Like After Tummy Tuck?
16902
wp-singular,post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-16902,single-format-standard,wp-theme-bridge,bridge-core-1.0.6,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,,qode-title-hidden,qode-theme-ver-18.2,qode-theme-bridge,disabled_footer_bottom,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-6.0.5,vc_responsive

What is the Recovery Process Like After Tummy Tuck?

Posted at h in Tummy Tuck by

The recovery process after a tummy tuck (Tummy Tuck) usually takes a few weeks, but full recovery can take up to a few months. Here is the detailed recovery process step by step:

First Week (1–7 Days):
• Hospital Stay: You usually stay in the hospital for 1 night, sometimes you are discharged the same day.
• Pain & Swelling: You may experience pain, swelling and bruising in the first few days. Painkillers are prescribed.
• Drains: Drains are placed to collect excess fluid after surgery. They are usually removed within 3–7 days.
• Walking: It is recommended to walk lightly from the first day; this prevents blood clots.
• Position: Since the abdomen is tense, it is recommended to walk slightly forward and bend your knees while lying down.

Second Week (8–14 Days):
• Healing Continues: Pain decreases, mobility increases.
• Stitches: Self-dissolving stitches are usually used, if there are any stitches to be removed, they are removed during this period.
• Support Corset: The abdominal corset is worn for 4–6 weeks. It helps reduce swelling and protect stitches.

• Return to Work: For desk jobs, returning to work is possible after 10-14 days.

First Month (3–4 Weeks):

• Daily Activity: Light housework can be done, but heavy lifting and sports are still prohibited.

• Swelling and Numbness: Swelling decreases, but numbness in the abdominal area may last for months.

• Scar Care: Cream or silicone gel recommended by the doctor can be applied to the stitch scar.

After Second Month (5–8 Weeks):
• Sports: Light exercises can be started with the doctor’s approval.

• Scars: Scars may be red-purple at first, fade over time but do not disappear completely. They usually remain in the underwear line.

Full Recovery:
• Swelling largely disappears within 3–6 months, and the abdomen flattens.

• The tissue settles completely in 6–12 months and the surgical scar fades to the maximum extent.

Things to Consider:
• Smoking slows down healing and increases the risk of complications.
• Sudden movements should be avoided, and doctor check-ups should not be skipped.
• Weight fluctuations and pregnancy may affect the results obtained.