Do’s and Do Not’s Following Your Tummy Tuck

If you are contemplating tummy tuck surgery, spring is the perfect time…you will be healed and swim-suit ready by summer. However, it’s important that you are clear about your reasons and expectations. Abdominoplasty is major surgery and comes with all the cautions and precautions that come with any surgery. Being well-informed is key to any cosmetic or plastic surgery procedure. Arm yourself with information, talk to one of our doctors and feel confident that you have made the correct decision for you. Here are a few things to think about as you consider a tummy tuck:

Following your surgery, please DO NOT:

• Weigh or measure yourself or try on clothes that you think will fit (take it slow and give it time).
• Drive for at least a week.
• Lift anything heavy – including your kids or pets.
• Clean your house (get a helper).
• Do the laundry (ditto the helper).
• Work in your garden (bending, stretching and pulling are not recommended).
• Grocery shop (it’s the pushing and lifting that’s not good for your incisions).
• Do any exercise other than walking – which is good for you in many ways.
• Eat processed and packaged foods (it’s the sodium…it will make your tissues swell).
• Drink soda (it causes uncomfortable gas and bloating).
• Listen to negative people. Ever.

But please DO these things following your surgery:

• Stay positive and be patient. There is an end to the healing process.
• Let people take care of you. Don’t try to be a hero.
• Take your pain meds as directed to stay ahead of the pain.
• Drink plenty of fluids and eat a healthy, clean, balanced diet.
• Gently massage your tummy. This feels good and helps with circulation.
• Take a walk, go outside and get some sun to lift your spirits.
• Congratulate yourself for taking this step to improve your body and your life.
• Listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right call your doctor right away.

Curious to know more? Call to schedule a consultation appointment to discuss tummy tuck surgery with one of our doctors: (508) 334-5990.