Austin Tummy Tuck Recovery

What to Expect After Abdominoplaty Surgery

Most of our Austin tummy tuck procedures are performed on an out-patient basis and patients are able to return home the same day of the surgery. However, patients will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive them home after the procedure and help them out during the tummy tuck recovery period for the first day or so after surgery.

During the first week of tummy tuck recovery, patients may experience minor bruising and swelling. Some pain and discomfort may be experienced in the first few days, which can be controlled with medication prescribed to you by your doctor. Your level of pain will depend on the extent of your tummy tuck procedure, as well as your individual pain tolerance. After a few days, pain and swelling will begin to dissipate. Some bruising may remain but this will go away with time as well.

You will be given instructions on showering and changing your dressings post-op. Most doctors will recommend that a surgical garment be worn the first few weeks after surgery to reduce swelling. You may also be instructed to wear compression hose for a period of time to reduce the risk of clots forming in the legs. Though you should minimize physical activity for the first few weeks, patients are encouraged to begin light walking as soon as they can to promote the healing process and prevent clots. However, too much exercise initially can actually hinder tummy tuck recovery.

As long as you follow your doctor’s post-op directions, your tummy tuck recovery should go smoothly and most patients are back at work within 10 days. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled for after your procedure. These appointments will provide your surgeon with feedback on your tummy tuck recovery and you can get answers to any questions or concerns you may have regarding your tummy tuck recovery period. The first follow-up appointment is typically for drain removal, which may or may not coincide with the removal of your sutures. Depending on the extent of your abdominoplasty procedure, your surgeon may require you to come in more or less frequently.

Your new figure may be visible within a week of your surgery and will continue to improve over time as swelling goes down. If you have any questions throughout your tummy tuck recovery period, please feel free to call our office at (512) 459-6800.

For information on some of the variables that affect the price of abdominoplasty procedures, you can visit our cost of tummy tucks page.

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