How Long Is The Recovery For A Tummy Tuck?

Recovering after surgery is never something a patient looks forward to, but it is a necessary step for achieving a safe, successful, and stunning outcome. When it comes to tummy tuck surgery specifically, the healing time is often lengthier than other procedures, so it is important for patients to know what to expect during tummy tuck recovery and plan accordingly. Beverly Hills board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi shares in patients’ desires to return to their normal activities as soon as it is safely possible after surgery, and provides the most efficient and effective tools, tips, and instructions to make that a reality.

What does tummy tuck do?

To better understand what to expect after tummy tuck surgery, it is helpful to know a little bit more about the procedure itself, including what it is designed to do. Also known as abdominoplasty, the tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure that aims to reshape the midsection primarily through skin removal, skin tightening, and fat reduction, though there are a number of secondary benefits of tummy tuck surgery as well. Ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery in Beverly Hills have loose skin, stubborn fat, and other unwanted side effects of pregnancy, extreme weight loss, or aging. Some of the most common concerns that can be addressed with tummy tuck surgery include:

• Loose abdominal skin
• Stretched out skin after weight loss or pregnancy
• Hanging abdominal skin
• Stubborn fat
• Mommy “pooch” or pouch
• Abdominal stretch marks
• Diastasis recti
• Hernia
• Low self-esteem as a result of these concerns

How does a tummy tuck work?

Tummy tuck is performed using general anesthesia and may take between 1 – 5 hours to complete, depending on the extent of the procedure, how much skin needs to be removed, whether any additional procedures are being performed, and other factors. To begin, Dr. Hakimi makes a strategic incision along the lower abdomen, running from hip bone to hip bone. For patients with less severe concerns, a small incision may be used as part of a mini tummy tuck. If needed, separated abdominal muscles can be repositioned and reinforced to correct diastasis recti. Liposuction is often used during tummy tuck surgery to remove stubborn fat deposits for an even smoother and more attractive contour. Finally, the excess skin is trimmed, the remaining skin is pulled tight, and the incision is closed with sutures.

How long is tummy tuck recovery?

On average, patients can expect to take about 2 – 3 weeks off of work after tummy tuck surgery. While it is generally safe and appropriate to resume light desk work and other daily routines at this time, it may be up to 6 – 8 weeks or longer before exercise and more strenuous activities can be restarted. For patients who have a less extensive procedure, such as a mini tummy tuck, the recovery period may be somewhat shorter. On the other hand, for patients who combine their tummy tuck with additional procedures, as in the case of a larger mommy makeover or after weight loss transformation surgery, the recovery period may last several additional weeks or even months. To help make your tummy tuck recovery as comfortable and speedy as possible, use these important tips:

• Get plenty of rest
• Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated
• Do not smoke
• Take light, brief walks around the house starting the evening of your surgery to encourage proper circulation
• Sleep with your head and legs slightly elevated
• Consider sleeping in a recliner
• Walk with your upper body bent at a slight angle
• Do not submerge your incisions
• Do not place any pressure on your incisions or pull them taut
• Do not stand or lie flat, which causes tension on your incisions
• Take medications as prescribed
• Attend all follow-up appointments

Your gorgeous new figure will be worth the wait after tummy tuck in Beverly Hills, CA

There are few procedures that can reshape the body as dramatically as tummy tuck surgery. Whether you have extra skin after weight loss, stubborn fat after pregnancy, or have simply experienced changes in your figure with age, a tummy tuck can help. Call our convenient Beverly Hills office to schedule your private in-person consultation or virtual appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi today, and discover what tummy tuck can do for you!