A tummy tuck may be perfect for you if you’re frustrated by loose, excess skin on your stomach. Even though a tummy tuck is considered a fairly routine cosmetic procedure, body contouring is still surgery that will require a recovery period. These helpful tips can help you get prepared before your surgery day to ensure that your recovery period stays as smooth and relaxing as possible.
1. Plan Ahead
You shouldn’t have to stress over daily tasks and responsibilities during your recovery, so plan ahead to take as many to-do items off your list as possible. Clear your schedule as much as is reasonable and arrange for someone to help out with children and pets. Fill your freezer with easy meals and stock up on take-out menus so you won’t have to worry about cooking while you heal.
2. Set Up a Recovery Area
After your tummy tuck, you’ll need to limit physical exertion and spend your days relaxing and resting in order for your body to heal properly. Make sure you have an area that is quiet, clean and cozy to ensure you’ll be comfortable.
3. Engage in Mild Activity
While it’s true that vigorous activity might hinder your recovery, gentle activities, such as walking, can actually help reduce swelling and speed up healing. If your surgeon says it’s okay, think about getting out once in a while to stretch your legs. Just be sure not to push yourself too hard, too soon.
4. Follow Doctor’s Orders
Failing to adhere to your surgeon’s post-surgery instructions can prolong your recovery period or even affect the aesthetic outcome of your tummy tuck. Following your doctor’s orders diligently is arguably the most important tip to ensure a stress-free recovery.
Dr. David Kaufman earned a bachelor of science degree from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, graduating with distinction, the highest academic honor. As an active duty naval special warfare officer, he served our nation for four years, including duty in Operation Desert Storm. He then attended Harvard Medical School, receiving his medical doctor degree in 1996. From there, he entered and completed postdoctoral surgical training in a combined general and plastic surgery residency at Stanford University Medical Center.
A board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Kaufman’s diverse surgical experience and skill enables him to choose procedures and techniques to best suit each patient. Consider him and his practice, Kaufman Plastic Surgery, if you are looking for a plastic surgeon in the Sacramento area.
