If you are having or considering having a tummy tuck, one of the biggest questions that comes up is tummy tuck recovery time. Read on to learn about the 3 phases and see some progression photos.
Tummy Tuck Recovery Time
I often get asked how long recovery is from a tummy tuck and the answer is that it truly depends. However, I will say that recovery is basically broken down into 3 phases.
Phase 1: Survival (Week 1)
I am not going to sugar coat this, the first days to week after your tummy tuck is going to be rough. Your main job is to stay on top of your medication, rest, get up as directed by your doctor, eat, rest, rest and hydrate.
It is pure survival and it is not the most comfortable of experiences. If you are looking for recovery tips, check out this post, it will make your recovery SO much easier. You will be sore, you will be exhausted, you will want to sleep, you will need help and if you skip your pain meds, you will regret that choice.
Phase 2: Adjustment (Weeks 2-6)
Once you get through survival, you will start to adjust to your new normal. That will include moving around more, standing up straighter, becoming more independent and overall you will start to get used to your new body. One thing that I noticed the most was that EVERYTHING felt tight.
Yes my abdominal muscles were constantly contracted, but also, my skin was tight, there were times when I would move and it would feel like it was pulling on skin that I didn’t know was tightened. If you had liposuction, the burning sensation that follows and the bruising will really show itself as well. At some point in these weeks, your surgical tape, belly button bandage and maybe even drains will come out as well.
During the adjustment period you will be in your binder that likely your doctor gave you (or you can buy one here). Most people will return to work sometime within this period, but I can assure you that you will be exhausted still. Your body is recovering from a major surgery, so please make sure to take it easy, again stay hydrated and just listen to your body.
Phase 3: Return to Normalcy (Week 6+)
This last phase can continue from week 6 on. I am two years post op and sometimes I still feel like I am adjusting to this new body and this new normal. Around this time your doctor may start allowing you to do some light exercise and you will probably start to wean off your binder.
The exhaustion should wear off as well, however, you may still feel like your abdominal muscles and skin are super tight. For me this lasted about 8 months. Many people will also start scar treatment at this point as your incision should be completely healed.
Swelling during recovery can be a massive concern for many patients. I managed to ward this off for the most part by staying away from salty foods, drinking tons of water and eating fibrous foods. Swelling can last for a long time and come and go with the day, so do not be alarmed, just remember that what you eat matters and that your body needs to still rest and recover.
What questions do you have about tummy tuck recovery time?
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