Swelling is an unavoidable part of the tummy tuck recovery process and will conceal your newly slimmed figure for a few weeks, but there are a few things you can do to keep swelling to a minimum and encourage a quicker, more efficient, and more complete resolution of your tummy tuck swelling. Here, premier Atlanta, GA plastic surgeons Dr. John Connors and Dr. Alexandra Hart of Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta offer five helpful ways to reduce swelling following your tummy tuck surgery.
The basics of tummy tuck surgery
To better understand what to expect during tummy tuck surgery, you’ll need to know a little something about how the procedure works, including the differences between each type of tummy tuck. Generally speaking, a tummy tuck involves making a horizontal incision on the lower abdomen, which allows the surgeon to trim away loose skin, repair abdominal fascia separation, and make other enhancements based on the patient’s unique anatomy, concerns, and goals. In many cases, liposuction is performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck to address stubborn fatty deposits on the mid and lower abdomen.
The type of tummy tuck you’ll need will depend on how much excess skin and fat needs to be removed, as well as what other concerns you have. Patients with only a very small amount of loose skin beneath the belly button may be candidates for the more conservative mini tummy tuck, while men and women with a significant amount of extra skin, including hanging skin folds, may require an extended tummy tuck. In a great deal of cases, the traditional (full) tummy tuck is an appropriate option for addressing mild to moderate complaints. Following the procedure, the incision is closed with sutures, and drains may be placed if necessary.
How can tummy tuck swelling be reduced?
One of the first things patients will notice during tummy tuck surgery is postoperative swelling and bruising. These side effects will simply have to run their course, which can take up to six weeks or longer, but there are some things you can do to aid the healing process and encourage your swelling to subside as quickly as possible. Five tips and tricks for minimizing tummy tuck swelling include:
- Wear your compression garments as directed
- Engage in light activity each day (once cleared to do so)
- Eat a healthy, balanced, low-sodium diet
- Drink plenty of water
- Rest, rest, rest
With these healthy habits, patients should notice the majority of their swelling subsiding after about 4 – 6 weeks, and the final results of a tummy tuck are typically noticeable after about 2 – 3 months. By continuing a regular exercise routine, maintaining a stable weight, and making healthy lifestyle choices overall, the outcome of tummy tuck surgery can last for years — or even decades.
Send loose skin packing with tummy tuck surgery in Atlanta, GA
If you are frustrated or embarrassed by loose skin and stubborn fat resulting from aging, pregnancy, or weight loss, you may be a tummy tuck candidate. With advanced tummy tuck surgery in Atlanta, GA, patients just like you have achieved stunning, life-changing transformations, and you can too. Start your journey toward loving your look once again by calling Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta to schedule your tummy tuck consultation!