3 Common Questions Regarding Tummy Tuck Recovery
Many misconceptions exist regarding tummy tuck recovery, and they arise from a lack of understanding by potential candidates. Therefore, it is crucial to learn about abdominoplasty recovery as much as possible if you are thinking about undergoing the procedure. One thing you should know about tummy tuck recoveries is that they are never identical. Each recovery process is unique and depends on perceptions, nutritional choices, pain tolerances and sleeping habits. Still, it is crucial to ask your surgeon as many questions as possible about tummy tuck recovery to know what you are getting into. This post explores three common questions regarding tummy tuck recovery.
What Is the Typical Recovery Time?
Recovery time for a tummy tuck procedure varies from one patient to the other. Typically, most patients report feeling much better after a few weeks post-surgery. However, surgeons advise patients to allow a grace period of a few months for complete recovery. Some of the issues that dictate how fast or slow a tummy tuck wound heals are bruising and swelling. A patient is required to avoid physical strain to hasten the healing process. It gives the bruising enough time to dry and the swelling to subside.
How Painful Is the Recovery?
Abdominoplasty can be rather painful immediately after surgery, making it difficult to stand tall for a sustained period. It is why surgeons advise tummy tuck patients to spend as much time as possible lying down to prevent strain on the stitches. However, the taught skin adjusts over a couple of weeks, reducing the discomfort. Therefore, everything you do post-recovery concerning pain management should be targeted at preventing stretching of the stitches. For example, it is better to hire a wheelchair to help you move about rather than walk. Do not be too quick to get on your feet because patience is part of the healing process.
Will You Have Scarring?
Since abdominoplasty is a cosmetic procedure, most candidates worry about permanent scarring of the tummy area. Indeed, any incision made on the skin leaves some scarring, but the degree of visibility differs. Cosmetic surgeons understand the concern, which is why they carefully choose the location of the incision. Typically, tummy tuck incisions are made just above the pubic hairline, which means that the scarring is concealed by underwear and bathing suit bottoms. Moreover, tummy tuck scars fade over time, so you should not worry too much about them.
Contact a local plastic surgeon to learn more about tummy tucks.