Nothing quite compares to the effectiveness of a tummy tuck against loose skin and fatty tissue. Also known as abdominoplasty, the surgery tightens and tones the midsection, and can even correct a separated abdominal wall (diastasis recti).
There may be different types of tummy tucks depending on the results you want to see, but getting ready for the procedure stays relatively the same regardless of which option you choose.
Preparing Your Body for a Tummy Tuck
Given how beneficial a tummy tuck is as part of a mommy makeover or general figure rejuvenation after weight loss, it’s no wonder the procedure is a go-to solution. There are some steps you can take to get the most out of it for yourself. Let’s go through the six months leading up to a tummy tuck so that you can maximize your experience.
5-6 Months Before Tummy Tuck
This is the time to focus on your health. Some of our best recommendations for healthy lifestyle habits to adapt before a tummy tuck include:
- Avoid binge eating
- Cut down sodium consumption
- Get consistent sleep every night
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
- Eat fruits, vegetables, proteins, and fibers
- Quit smoking or using vapes
- Stop drinking or limit alcohol consumption
Before committing to a weight loss plan, you should know your ideal results and goals. Before the surgery takes place, patients should be within 10-15 pounds of their goal weight. This means you should be able to safely (and realistically) lose any weight necessary to be within that range by your procedure. If this is not possible, you should adjust your schedule to accommodate.
3-4 Months Before Tummy Tuck
Now that you have just a few months until it is time to go in for the procedure, you should be very close to if not already at your ideal weight. This is when you can consult with a board-certified tummy tuck surgeon in your area to create a treatment plan based on your goals.
Once the appointment is set, start arranging time off of work and any support systems you’ll have in place for recovery (i.e., pet sitting, child care, and assistance with everyday tasks). Plan for about three weeks away from desk work, or four to six weeks for more physically demanding work.
1-2 Months Before Tummy Tuck
At this point, you should get things ready to make recovery as easy as possible. Have ice packs or frozen veggies ready to help with swelling. Clean your living space so you can rest freely, and consider prepping meals to have food ready.
Gather your favorite books, games, and activities that will make passing the time more enjoyable. And don’t forget to grab supplies like extra pillows, OTC pain medication, and comfortable clothing.
If you’ve put in the work and prepared as much as possible, it’s time to start relaxing! A major surgery takes its toll on the body, and that includes the planning portion, which makes stress management important during this time. Rest, eat well, and get excited!
The Day of Your Tummy Tuck
The day has finally come! Wear comfortable clothing that’s easily removable, and review the information given to you by your surgeon.
You must have someone to drive you home after surgery, helping you as you rest while giving plenty of time for the anesthesia to wear off.
Setting Expectations for a Successful Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty is not a minor operation. It takes the body time to adjust, heal, and start showing results. Natural improvements start showing after a few months, with full results appearing after about six months.
What Day is The Hardest After Tummy Tuck?
Naturally, your healing process is going to be slightly different from another patient’s, but we do see common themes with tummy tuck recovery. For most patients, the hardest days after a tummy tuck tend to be the first few.
Typically, one to three days post-tummy tuck are the most uncomfortable due to bloating and pressure as the body heals. Your stomach will be swollen, and the incision site will be red and tender. These symptoms generally subside to leave a thin scar low on the abdomen.
Focus on the positive outcome you’re working towards, and fuel your body with nutrients to boost recovery.
What is The Average Age a Woman Gets a Tummy Tuck?
Many women choose a tummy tuck in their 30s, 40s, or older after having had any children. Some patients see a change in their abdomen due to age or hormones that they address with surgery.
Realistically, the age you schedule the procedure is not as important as your current health and body goals. If you’re planning to have more children in the future, speak with your provider before making any decisions.
Tummy Tuck Surgeons Near Me: Feel Like Yourself Again with a Tummy Tuck in Fall River, MA
It’s normal for your emotions to be all over the place before and after a tummy tuck. After all, it is a big decision that impacts your daily life. That’s why finding the right tummy tuck surgeon for you and planning your procedure months in advance makes all the difference.
If you’re ready to start planning your tummy tuck in Fall River, the team at Advanced Body Sculpting is here to help. The better you plan for treatment and follow your recovery, the better your results.
Call (877) 577-5476 or reach out online to schedule a complimentary consultation!
