As a body contouring procedure, a tummy tuck is primarily geared towards helping you achieve a flatter and firmer midsection. The plastic surgeon of your choice will play a significant role in whether or not your desired surgical outcomes from a tummy tuck will be achieved. However, this is only half of the story. The other half is all about you taking steps to be properly prepared for the procedure. We have outlined a quick guide below!
Four to Six Weeks Before a Tummy Tuck
At around this time, we often recommend lifestyle changes to patients that will help accelerate their recovery. First, they can start off with a diet that is comprised less of junk foods that are void of nutrition and more of less processed foods. Second, they should start sticking to a regular exercise program that will not only help them lose weight but also improve their fitness levels.
In addition, this is also the best time to quit smoking. Smoking is strongly associated with an increased risk of complications post-surgery such as delayed wound healing, infection and pneumonia. We have a good number of patients who have successfully quit smoking by utilizing nicotine replacement products.
Two to Four Weeks Before a Tummy Tuck
It is best to avoid taking medications or herbal supplements that will increase your risk of bleeding during and after surgery. You might want to inform your general doctor that you are about to undergo surgery in a couple of weeks. On the other hand, alcohol consumption should be be pared down around this time too.
A Week Before a Tummy Tuck
The week before your tummy tuck surgery is the best time to prepare ahead for your recovery. First, if you have children at home, you might want to make sure that someone will be looking after them. Second, find someone that will drive you home from the clinic and who will stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours following surgery.
Third, take steps to make your home comfortable for recovery. Think of it as a recovery nest and make certain that you have everything you need — from toiletries to plenty of reading materials to prescription medications. Lastly, you need to wash your body with a liquid antibacterial soap that will help reduce the risk of infection during and after the procedure.
The Night Before a Tummy Tuck
Do not eat or drink anything the night before your tummy tuck procedure if you are using general anesthesia. Continue washing your body with liquid antibacterial soap.
The Morning Before a Tummy Tuck
Take loose and comfortable clothes such as yoga pants and buttoned-down shirts that you can wear following surgery. A light breakfast is allowed if local anesthesia will be used during surgery. Also, you might want to remove watches, contact lenses (you can use glasses), and jewelry before the procedure.
Planning for Your Tummy Tuck with Dr. Lavey
We invite you to get in touch with us to learn more about Botox and other injectables. We’d love to provide you with detailed information and answer all of your questions. Call 925.820.3633 or fill out this contact form to set up an appointment today. We look forward to your visit!
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