Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Recovery

Abdominoplasty, which is commonly known as tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to achieve enhanced abdominal contours and restore a more youthful looking abdomen. At the time of initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss various aesthetics and other aspects of the procedure, including the estimated recovery.
Recovery period can vary, depending on the extent of surgery in a particular case and the patient’s innate healing ability. Board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Thomas Fiala, provides tummy tuck and other procedures to patients in Orlando, Altamonte Springs, FL, and surrounding locations.

Variations in Recovery

Depending on the patient’s aesthetics needs and anatomical factors, the surgeon will adopt a customized treatment and an appropriate surgical technique. In a conservative treatment approach, involving only excision of loose skin and fat removal, the recovery will be relatively faster. However, if the procedure involves muscle tightening as well, or requires a combination of tummy tuck with other cosmetic surgery procedures, the recovery will be longer.
Typical aspects of tummy tuck surgery are as follows:

• Surgical removal of loose skin and excess fat deposits.
• Tightening of underlying weak or separated muscles.
• Liposuction in the abdominal or buttocks area.

Liposuction of the hips may or may not be performed with tummy tuck, depending on the patient’s condition and the need to achieve harmonious results. As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Fiala will evaluate various factors carefully before recommending the appropriate approach for his patients in Orlando, Altamonte Springs, FL, and surrounding areas.

Duration of Recovery

A majority of patients will recover enough in about 10 to 14 days to be able to return to work or resume their regular activities. However, the full period of recovery may range from two to four weeks. After the first two weeks of recovery, the patient should continue to observe precautions in terms of avoiding heavy lifting of weights or performing vigorous exercises for at least four to six weeks.
In case, the patient is required to perform significant physical activities on the job, it may be a better idea to keep off from work for at least three weeks, or seek a temporary, less strenuous work position.

Recovery Experience

During the first five to seven days following tummy tuck surgery, most patients will experience mild to moderate pain in the treated areas. This can be managed with pain medications as advised by the plastic surgeon. Bruising and swelling will be more pronounced in the first week, but will reduce from the second week progressively. Lifting of weights should be restricted to 15 lbs during the first week and 30 lbs for the next two weeks.
Walking posture will be slightly bent during the first few days, but the normal posture will be regained as the healing improves from the second week. Mothers with little children may need to arrange for help to manage the household during the first one to two weeks.
In case the patient experiences any abnormal symptoms or intolerable pain, it is advisable to contact the surgeon urgently. Each patient’s recovery experience will be slightly different because each surgery has its own characteristics. Patients who adhere to the post-op instructions provided by the surgeon carefully can expect to achieve safer and faster healing.

For More Information on the Treatments and Procedures Offered, contact award winning Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Thomas Fiala at Fiala Aesthetics in Greater Orlando to Schedule Your Consultation:

 
 
Serving patients in and around Greater Central Florida: Orlando, Altamonte, Lake Mary, Maitland, Winter Park, Clermont, Casselberry, Lake Mary, Longwood, Celebration, Heathrow, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Sanford, Deltona, Deland, Daytona Beach, Melbourne, Cocoa Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Tampa, Jacksonville, Sarasota and more.
Voted the #1 Best Plastic Surgeon in Orlando, Florida by the readers of Orlando Magazine.