Tummy tuck surgery or abdominoplasty is a major surgical procedure requiring some preparation to help ensure a safe and smooth surgery and recovery. The cosmetic surgeon will provide a list of do’s and don’ts to be followed as part of preparation. Dr. Paul McCluskey is an experienced plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck and other procedures to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.
Do’s
Create a Strong Support System around Yourself
When you undergo tummy tuck surgery, chances are that you may experience severe emotional ups and downs or mood swings. These emotions can range from a feeling of depression to elation. You should enlist the support of close family and friends who can devote some time and effort to take care of you.
Stay Committed to the Healing Process
Tummy tuck procedure will involve at least one to two weeks of downtime, depending on the surgical technique. It will take another several weeks for the swelling to subside completely and for the patient to feel completely “normal” again. Patience, focus, and follow-ups are essential through this journey for a sound and sustainable recovery.
Get Involved in Healthy Relaxation Activities
Read books and magazines, surf the Internet, watch movies at home and perform mild household activities in the first two weeks after tummy tuck surgery. Do not return to work too early, and maintain a relaxed schedule for a few days.
Maintain Close Communication with the Surgeon
Prior to the tummy tuck surgery, you should share all relevant health information, habits and other concerns frankly with the cosmetic surgeon. After the procedure, if you experience any abnormal pain or other signs, or have any doubts, do not hesitate to speak with the surgeon.
Eat a Healthy, Protein-rich Diet
Prior to abdominoplasty, start taking a high protein diet about two to four weeks in advance. Continue this diet even after the surgery for a few weeks under the guidance of a nutritionist. Make sure you are not constipated and avoid any crash dieting.
Don’ts
Use Any Form of Tobacco
If you consume tobacco in any form, stop using it at least four to six weeks before and after the tummy tuck surgery. Smoking and other forms of tobacco will create poor healing, and may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
Avoid Rapid Weight Loss
If you have been trying to lose weight through special crash diet formulas, weight loss drugs or other means, you will have to stop it several weeks prior to the surgery. Maintain a stable, healthy body weight as far as possible before tummy tuck surgery.
Don’t Use Herbal Meds and Aspirin
Stop the use of any blood thinners such as aspirin or motrin at least two weeks before tummy tuck surgery. If you are taking herbal medications, vitamin E supplements, or certain prescription drugs, they may have to be stopped as well.
Be Regular on Your Bowel Regimen
Eat plenty of fibrous foods and natural fruit and veggies, exercise daily, and stay regular on your bowel regimen prior to the tummy tuck surgery. In case you get constipated following the surgery from medications and the anesthetic, you can tolerate it for a while until your mobility improves.
Arrange for Transportation and Aftercare
Arrange in advance for someone to drive you back home after the tummy tuck procedure, and if possible, hire some help for a few days during post-operative recovery. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for tummy tuck.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: