subject: Tummy Tuck: Know The Recovery Process [print this page] If you are considering a tummy tuck, it is important to know how to recover from the procedure. Some knowledge about what to expect is helpful since it should make the recovery process go smoothly. Additionally, you will need to know how much time to take off work or other daily activities.
One of the first things to do after the surgery is take your pain medication. It is helpful to take it before the pain even starts, since you will end up using fewer pills this way as long as you take it right away. It is not necessary to endure the pain when your doctor has prescribed pills for it, and it may even be beneficial to have the pills ready to go when you get home from the tummy tuck. The same goes for any antibiotic pills you are prescribed.
Like some other types of surgery, you can expect some swelling and bruising of the affected area. This is normal and it will go away within weeks, so do not expect to see the final results until then. Meanwhile, you will likely feel like sleeping as you heal, which is a good way to recover comfortably. In fact, even sitting up may feel like a chore, so lying down is fine. However, as you heal, be sure to allow yourself a little time to walk around the house a few days after the tummy tuck so that you get your circulation going.
Your doctor will likely tell you to keep your head elevated more than usual while you sleep, at least for the first two weeks. You should also get in the habit of taking your temperature regularly so that you can catch the first sign of infection. If you have a fever or redness around the incision, you likely have an infection and should call your doctor immediately to take care of it. You should have a follow-up appointment with your doctor days after the surgery, at which time you will probably also be checked for signs of infection.
Not everyone heals fast enough to go back to work a week after a tummy tuck, so you should plan to take off a bit more time if possible. Communicating with your doctor can also ensure that the healing process is going as planned. This can keep you recovering in a timely fashion while maintaining peace of mind about the process.
