Deciding to have a tummy tuck procedure involves more than just arriving on the day of surgery. Patients who do the research to find a qualified plastic surgeon, follow the proper steps to prepare for their tummy tuck procedure, and follow the post-operative instructions find themselves having an easier recovery. Dr. Erick Sanchez is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of the Sanchez Plastic Surgery center in Baton Rouge, LA. A Baton Rouge native, Dr. Sanchez has over 10 years of medical training and experience to help Baton Rouge-area patients get the best cosmetic results they deserve.
As part of the process of a tummy tuck procedure, knowing what to do post-op can be a game changer towards a smooth recovery. A tummy tuck can be an effective way to flatten and contour your abdominal area especially if you are struggling to regain your figure after maintaining a steady regimen of diet and exercise. Turning to an expert like Dr. Sanchez for some added help can be the solution you need when considering a tummy tuck procedure.
Your midsection can look like you always wanted. Here are some helpful tips on what NOT to do during your recovery so you can have a successful tummy tuck experience.
Guidelines of what NOT to do
Not taking the time to find the right surgeon
Not taking the time to research and find the right, qualified plastic surgeon can affect your overall experience. Most tummy tuck procedures are a two-part process involving some form of liposuction when necessary. Finding yourself in the wrong hands of an under-qualified plastic surgeon can have devastating effects. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sanchez has a state-of-the-art facility in the Baton Rouge area that provides his patients a comfortable atmosphere and peace of mind that they are in the right hands for their tummy tuck surgery. His medical knowledge and surgical experience with tummy tuck procedures gives his patients the results they want as well as an easier recovery process.
Not having a positive outlook
Being negative during the recovery process will only curtail healing and in some cases, cause it to take longer. It is key to have a positive mindset during your recovery. Being patient with the healing process and realizing your body needs time to heal will be beneficial to your final results. Surround yourself with a positive support system and accept help from others during your recovery. Keeping a positive frame of mind will only help you recover faster so you can love the way you look sooner!
Don’t expect immediate results
In keeping with a positive outlook, patients need to refrain from trying on clothes or seeing if their waistline is smaller until after you have fully recovered. Post-surgery, your midsection will be swollen and going through the healing process. Measuring your waistline after surgery will only make you feel negative about your results. You will be able to notice a difference after your tummy tuck procedure, but it’s important to realize that your true results will be apparent in 4-6 months, so give your body time.
Avoid heavy lifting…but don’t be inactive!
Being physically inactive after surgery is not recommended. During the recovery process, it is always advised to move soon after your surgery in order to improve blood flow and start the healing process. Light walking is important but not overdoing any activity is imperative to proper healing. Also, do not lift anything heavy or over 10 lbs. after your tummy tuck procedure. This could be anything from your children or even your pets. Lifting anything over 10 lbs. can cause complications with your surgical procedure and the recovery. You will be able to return to work after a couple of weeks, but if your occupation requires heavy lifting, it will be recommended to avoid that type of work activity for at least 4-6 weeks.
Avoid certain activities during recovery
It may sound strange to avoid such things like the sun, drinking, and smoking during your recovery from a tummy tuck procedure, but all of these activities can hinder the healing process. While recovering, you will be on pain medications, so it is always advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking such prescriptions. Avoid the sun, or at least exposure to your stomach area, in order to allow the surgical scars to heal properly. Sun exposure can actually make scars worse, so following proper incision care is key. Lastly, it is always recommended to avoid smoking before and after surgery. Smoking can inhibit proper blood flow which can compromise the healing process. Smoking in general has an adverse effect on staying healthy and giving patients the best possible results from any cosmetic procedure.
Not following your surgeon’s instructions
Your surgical care before, during, and after your tummy tuck procedure are all key components to having a smooth recovery. Your plastic surgeon is an expert so following their post-op care instructions and having an open line of communication will streamline your recovery process. Keeping up a healthy lifestyle, going to your follow up appointments on time, and following their general guidelines will lead to an easier recovery so you can start enjoying your new look.
Your post-operative care is just as important as the tummy tuck procedure itself. While every person heals at their own pace, following these guidelines can help with your recovery. One of the top plastic surgeons in Baton Rouge, LA area, Dr. Sanchez and his professionally trained staff are here to help you and get you the tummy tuck results you deserve. If you are interested in a tummy tuck procedure, call or schedule your consultation with Dr. Sanchez today!