Also known as abdominoplasty, tummy tuck surgery removes excess skin and tightens muscles to restore a firmer, flatter stomach. Often performed after pregnancy and significant weight loss, there are a variety of tummy tuck techniques that can address mild to severe excess skin and muscle laxity, and it’s important to understand that any approach involves an incision that is usually hidden by panties and bikini bottoms. The resulting scar’s length and shape depends on the type of tummy tuck performed, and plastic surgeon Dr. Shain Cuber will discuss your tummy tuck recovery and recommend the best approach for your concerns and goals.
Full abdominoplasty: This tummy tuck technique requires incisions across the lower abdomen and around the navel to remove excess skin and tighten muscles. Liposuction may also be used to further refine the contours of the stomach.
Mini abdominoplasty: Ideal for women with excess skin and muscle laxity below the navel only, this tummy tuck variation uses one incision in the pubic region, which can range from a few inches to the entire span between the hipbones.
Extended abdominoplasty: This tummy tuck technique uses a longer incision to remove love handles and excess skin on the hips while targeting deeper layers of tissue for maximum repair.
Tummy tuck recovery involves several days of bed rest and at least two weeks of restricted activity and help getting around, although short, slow walks around the house are encouraged to promote circulation. Most patients return to work after about two weeks, but it’s important to gradually ease back into your routine as you begin to feel better.
After surgery, the incision site will be bandaged to keep it clean and protected, and you’ll likely have drains to prevent fluid from accumulating. You or your caregiver may have to empty the drains several times a day, and keep a log of the amount of fluid that comes out. Depending on the individual patient’s rate of recovery, drains are generally removed after a few days, or may remain for longer if needed. You will also be instructed to wear a compression garment for several weeks to minimize swelling and help the skin tighten and adhere to your stomach’s new contours. Heavy lifting and exercise should be avoided for four to six weeks.
It is common to feel sore and tender after tummy tuck surgery. Pain and discomfort can be managed with prescription pain medication, and you’ll begin to feel more comfortable after about five days. It’s important to sleep on your back propped up with pillows to keep your waist slightly bent to minimize pulling on healing muscles. Any traditional sutures are removed within one to two weeks, bruising and swelling should begin to subside within three weeks. It can take six months to see the final outcomes, but keep in mind that each patient’s recovery experience can vary, and will also be influenced by the type of tummy tuck procedure performed.
Call (516) 773-7846 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cuber and learn more about tummy tuck surgery.