When deciding whether to have a tummy tuck, it’s important to consider how long it will take to heal and how to care for the scar.
There are many reasons why a person may choose to have a tummy tuck or tummy tuck procedure. Those who may consider having a tummy tuck include:
- women who have loose skin or abdominal sagging after pregnancy
- people who have excess skin after losing weight
- people with a protruding belly despite losing weight
Regardless of the reason, a person must follow all post-operative instructions to avoid infection or other complications.
In this article, we provide advice on recovering from a tummy tuck. We also look at how long recovery takes and what to expect after a tummy tuck procedure.
Usually, a person can expect to feel themselves around them again 8 weeks after surgery.
According to American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS)tummy tucks are an outpatient procedure for most people, meaning they can go home the same day.
Recovery time from a tummy tuck procedure will vary, depending on factors such as:
- the type of tummy tuck
- the recipient’s age
- postoperative care
- general health of the individual
People should discuss their recovery timeline with their surgeon, who can give an estimate that will be based on the individual’s condition.
A person should discuss recovery time before the procedure. According to American Society of Plastic Surgeonsa person should ask their surgeon:
- how to bathe after the procedure
- when to remove their bandages
- when to return to normal activities
- when to return for follow-up care
- what medications they should take after the procedure
Asking these questions can help a person prepare and take the right steps for the smoothest possible recovery.
Immediately after the procedure, a person can expect to go to a recovery room. A healthcare professional will monitor them and check the incision.
During your recovery in hospital, you will be instructed about:
- recovery time
- how to care for the incision
- when to expect to resume normal activity
When a person is free to leave the hospital, they will need someone there to take them home. Doctors do not recommend being driven home after surgery.
There may be drainage tubes that need to be emptied, and the person should record the amount of fluid drained from their wound each day.
At home, a person should make sure they have someone to help them for the first few days, as their mobility will be limited. They may feel tightness around their abdomen and only be able to walk with a hunch for a week or two.
At first, they can expect the incision to hurt. They will likely need to lie in bed at an angle and may also have trouble with:
- standing
- lifting objects
- general movement
Many people take over one month outside work, particularly if their occupation is physically demanding.
After a tummy tuck, a person may need help caring for young children for several weeks to months. They should also avoid exercise for the first several weeks until a doctor gives them the all-clear.
However, a person can usually return to activities, such as driving, indoors 1 to 2 weeks and gradually do more daily tasks as time goes on.
Finally, an abdominal scar will likely feel painful or tight for several weeks to months after surgery. The visibility of the scar will slowly fade.
Factors affecting recovery time
Recovery time after a tummy tuck can vary. Some common factors that affect this include:
- type of abdominoplasty
- age
- postoperative care
- general health
Types of abdominoplasty include:
- Mini abdominoplasty. This procedure has the shortest recovery time and minimal scarring.
- Classic or full abdominoplasty. The scar will extend from hip to hip and recovery will take longer, but a person should be able to hide the scar under their swimsuit.
- Extended abdominoplasty. This tummy tuck creates the largest scar. The scar may be visible under swimwear and takes the longest time to heal.
It may be helpful to take steps to avoid constipation after surgery, as some pain medications can slow down the bowels. Straining to have a bowel movement will cause discomfort.
During recovery from a tummy tuck, people need plenty of rest and should follow all of their doctor’s recovery instructions.
They should perform daily maintenance of the cut and drain pipes. Typically, daily maintenance includes:
- keeping the incision site clean and dry
- changing the dressing daily
- taking any prescribed antibiotics
- applying topical creams to the incision site
A person will likely have a supportive wrap, binder, or compression garment for their abdomen to prevent swelling and reduce discomfort.
After a tummy tuck, you should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least 3 months. Tobacco and alcohol can adversely affect healing.
You should also:
- avoid lifting heavy objects, including small children
- temporarily stop exercising until told otherwise
- take time off from physically demanding work
After surgery, a person may have limited mobility and experience some pain. Usually, the surgeon will prescribe pain medication.
The incision will also usually feel tight, causing a pulling sensation when standing or moving.
Finally, a person will find that they can no longer do some of their usual activities immediately after the procedure. However, they can return to activities slowly as they begin to recover.
How soon a person can return to normal activities will vary.
The ABCS suggest the following guidelines:
- up to 2 to 3 weeks for tasks such as cooking, driving and shopping
- about 2 to 4 weeks to return to work
However, it is not uncommon for it to take up to 2 months before a person can return to normal activities.
Full recovery from a tummy tuck — also called a tummy tuck — can take several months. During recovery, a person should follow all post-operative instructions and advice, including:
- avoiding lifting anything heavy
- keeping the incision clean
- take time to return to normal activities
They should talk to their surgeon before the procedure about what to expect in their individual case.
