Are you considering a tummy tuck or already scheduled your surgery? Do you want to support a friend or loved one during their recovery? Below are 15 items or tips our patients find helpful when planning the recovery from this surgery. We hope you enjoy!
First and foremost, it is important to follow your plastic surgeon's recovery guidelines. If you have any questions, make sure to ask first. It is not worth compromising your results. If you speak to patients who have recovered from a tummy tuck, they will say to "trust the process." When to shower, how long to wear your compression garment, when to stop narcotics for pain, etc. are all examples. There are reasons for the recommendations which have been optimized over the last few decades of surgeries.
For the first two weeks, it will difficult to do daily chores beyond caring for yourself. A helpful spouse, cleaning company, babysitter or parent will be needed to ensure a great recovery.
This can be very helpful so you always have everything you need without getting up. A little rolling cart can contain all your wound healing supplies, healthy snacks, a little cooler with drinks, blanket, etc.
Dr. Albright in San Antonio, TX utilizes Marena garments. They seem to offer best compression for recovery. Your plastic surgeon may recommend another garment.
For the first couple weeks, you will probably want a walker with a seat attached. These can be fairly inexpensive for ~$60 it may be worth it to help you move around your house and at any outings.
After narcotics and anesthesia, most people need laxatives for a bowel movement. It is extremely important to start laxatives when your plastic surgeon recommends even if you do not think there will be an issue. You do not want constipation in addition to the normal tummy tuck recovery. You may also consider a squatty potty to help you achieve a bowel movement.
Make sure your refrigerator / freezer is stocked with healthy foods for after your surgery. Your body will be swelling so we recommend avoiding salty foods which may contribute to any additional swelling. In addition drink tons of water to help your body fight the swelling and recover.
To avoid addictions to pain medicine, most plastic surgeons will recommend stopping narcotics a few days after surgery. Typically they recommend alternating between Tylenol and ibuprofen for maximum pain coverage.
Many Plastic Surgeons will recommend not showering for 24-48 hours after surgery.
Consider a button up nightgown to easily remove for a shower or to wash. It should be loose and not restrictive. Pajama pants should be very loose and comfortable as well.
Consult with your plastic surgeon on what they recommend. Many scar treatments are expensive and the ethnicity is questionable.
