WHAT it is:
A Tummy Tuck, or Abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that tightens and contours stomachs from the ribs down to the pubic bone. Tummy Tucks has become one of the most loved procedures in my practice because of the confidence it restores in patients.
HOW it’s done:
A Tummy Tuck is done in the OR under general anesthesia. Dr. Politis starts by making an incision from hip to hip. She then works to tighten underlying muscles while removing tissue, fat and loose skin.
WHAT to expect:
After your tummy tuck you may experience temporary pain, soreness and numbness of the skin around your incision.
Maximum discomfort will occur the first few days.
You will have bruising and swelling of the abdomen and back after a tummy tuck. The majority of bruising and swelling will subside in 6-8 weeks.
You will leave the operation with drainage tubes. Expect soreness, numbness/tingling and swelling in areas of liposuction. This may last for 6-9 months.
You may feel tired for several weeks or months.
AWAKE or ASLEEP
Take a nap with general anesthesia
RECOVER, RESULTS & FREQUENCY:
You can expect to be fully recovered from a Tummy Tuck around 6 weeks. The results from this procedure are permanent. However, the results can change over time by significant fluctuations in weight. We recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
PRE-OP instructions:
Before you Tummy Tuck, have all prescriptions filled prior to your surgery. Do not take any Aspirin, Plavix, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10 or medications containing these compounds for 14 days before your procedure.
Begin your stool softener on the day prior to surgery to avoid constipation.
Wash with Hibiclens or antibacterial soap the night before surgery, as directed. Cleanse your belly button area with a Qtip and the antibacterial soap while showering.
Do not shave the surgical site within 2 days of surgery. This includes under arms for breast procedures and the pubic area for abdominal procedures. Hair may be trimmed with an electric clipper.
Avoid using body lotions, deodorants or perfumes on the day of surgery.
Do not wear any jewelry, piercings or contact lenses.
Refrain from vigorous exercise on the day before your surgery.
Have a regular meal on the evening before surgery, and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcoholic beverages on the evening before surgery. Do no eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
POST-OP instructions:
You may shower 48 hours after your tummy tuck, but no soaking in a bathtub.
Do not remove steri-strips.
Record drain output (milliliters) every 12 hours
Keep incisions clean and inspect daily for signs of infection.
Wear abdominal binder at all times
Compression garments are helpful to reduce swelling from liposuction
May pad incision with dressings for comfort.
Avoid exposing scars to sun for at least 12 months.
Always use a strong sunblock, if sun exposure is unavoidable (SPF 30 or greater).
Begin scar therapy approximately 2 weeks after your operation
Start walking as soon as possible, as this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots. May wear tight hose (compression stocking for 24-48 hours postop).
Do not drive until you are no longer taking any pain medications (narcotics).
Walk hunched over (like a little old lady) for 7-10 days
Sleep in a recliner with multiple pillows
Alternately sleeping on your side with your legs slightly bent at the hips for the first week will reduce tension on your buttock incision.
No lifting greater than 8 lbs. for 6 weeks.
Avoid strenuous exercise and activities for approximately 6 weeks.
Return to work in 2-4 weeks.
