Preparing for Your Tummy Tuck

Before your tummy tuck

Two weeks before surgery

  • Review your medications and herbal and dietary supplements with your physician.
    • The following may increase the risk of post-operative bleeding: aspirin, ibuprofen, glucosamine chondroitin, flax seed, vitamin E, fish oil, Echinacea, Gingko biloba, CoQ10, green tea, chia seeds, primrose oil, and garlic.

One week before surgery

  • Fill any prescriptions, and purchase necessary ointments and compression garments.
  • Arrange transportation to and from the surgical facility.
  • Prepare foods that are easily reheated for the first few days after your procedure.
    • You will need 20 percent more protein after surgery, to speed your recovery.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages.
  • Get a good night’s sleep before your procedure.

Day of surgery

  • Arrive ten minutes prior to your appointment time to avoid traffic and parking issues.
  • Bring compression garments.
  • Bring any medications.

After your tummy tuck

When recovering from surgery it is important to be aware of the following:

  • You have received an anesthetic and may be mildly groggy and dizzy.
  • You may use ice packs as needed for pain. 
  • You may use Tylenol or the prescribed pain medication. Do not take aspirin or aspirin-containing medications.
  • Rest in bed for 24 hours. You may get up only to use the bathroom. 
  • You should keep pillows under the knees and sleep in a semi-sitting position for about one week. Elevate your upper body with pillows.
  • If there are drains, empty and renew the suction every eight hours. 
  • Record the amount of drainage. 
  • The nurses in the recovery room will show you how to operate the drains before you leave.
  • If directed by your doctor, remove the compression garment and gauzes on the second day. 
  • Once you have removed the compression garment and gauzes, you may shower with soap and water, avoiding a direct spray of water on the incision.
  • After showering, cover the incision with bandages or dressings, then put on the compression garment.
  • No vigorous activity or exercise until directed by your doctor.

Call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if you develop any unusual symptoms, such as:

  • shaking chills and/or fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
  • excessive bleeding (more than slight oozing of blood)
  • excessive pain
  • excessive swelling
Take the next step

Request a consult today. 

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