Outstanding and astute preparation is vital to a major surgical procedure such as tummy tuck. A well-prepared patient will have much better chances to achieve their desired cosmetic goals with minimal risk of complications. The cosmetic surgeon will provide detailed instructions for preparation, including advice for the post-op recovery phase.
An experienced surgeon will invest in the pre-surgery preparation process and create a robust foundation for a successful tummy tuck procedure. Patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations have an opportunity to receive tummy tuck surgery from dedicated plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey.
Nutritious and Balanced Diet
A healthy and well-balanced diet is a basic part of the tummy tuck surgery preparation. Regular intake of good nutrients will help the patient to have a stronger immune system and face minimal risk of infection during and after the surgery. The cosmetic surgeon and their team will recommend the patient to have a diet rich in lean proteins in order to support post-op healing.
While a vitamin-rich diet is essential for the candidate, they may be required to avoid the intake of vitamin E for a few weeks before and after tummy tuck surgery. One of the benefits of following a healthy diet plan during the preparation process is that the patient will find it easier to continue with healthy eating habits even after the procedure. This will allow them to maintain the results of tummy tuck for a long time to come.
Exercise and Fitness
The patient should ideally begin a regular fitness and exercise regimen several weeks or months prior to the tummy tuck surgery. The muscle mass will improve with this regimen and the body’s metabolic activity will be more regular. The post-surgical recovery is usually easier and quicker for patients who have maintained good fitness levels. The body will be leaner and function more efficiently with regular exercise.
Another advantage of maintaining fitness is that the patient will gain minimal additional body weight in the days following the tummy tuck surgery when strenuous exercises have to be avoided. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and other communities in this part of the country for tummy tuck and various other innovative and advanced surgical procedures.
Things to Avoid
If the patient has a habit of smoking, they will be required to strictly avoid tobacco in all forms for a few weeks before and after the tummy tuck surgery. Nicotine in tobacco can cause constriction of the blood vessels, increasing the risk of surgery and slowing down the recovery.
If the patient is taking any prescription or non-prescription drugs, including blood thinners, vitamins and herbal supplements, the patient may be required to stop their use for a certain period of time before the surgery. The risk of clotting and excessive bleeding can increase with these medications.
Transportation and Aftercare
As part of advance preparation, the patient should also make arrangements for transportation and aftercare. Tummy tuck may be performed as an outpatient procedure, and the patient should have a responsible person to drive them back home after the surgery. Patients with little kids should particularly consider having professional aftercare for a few days after the surgery.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: