Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Recovery

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Posted on August 31, 2017 under Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, clinically known as abdominoplasty, is a major cosmetic surgery procedure designed to reduce excess skin and fat from around the waist region and achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen. Dr. Franklin Richards and Dr. Dean Jabs are experienced plastic surgeons providing tummy tuck surgery through their offices in Bethesda, MD, and McLean, VA.

During the initial consultation with their patients in Fairfax, Alexandria, VA, Chevy Chase, Rockville, MD, and other areas, Dr. Jabs and Dr. Richards will discuss various aspects of the procedure, including the recovery process.

Varied Recovery

The recovery process following a tummy tuck surgery can vary from one patient to another. This will depend on the extent of surgery performed, and also the nature of surgery for a particular patient. Abdominoplasty cosmetic surgery may involve one or more of the following components:

  •       Excess fat tissue and loose skin to be removed from the abdominal area.
  •       Repair and tightening of loose and separated muscles.
  •       Liposuction procedure performed along with tummy tuck.

While preparing the treatment plan for a tummy tuck, the plastic surgeon will decide which of these components will be included as a part of the procedure. Dr. Jabs and Dr. Richards will decide these aspects in consultation with their patients in Fairfax, Alexandria, VA, Chevy Chase, Rockville, MD, and surrounding communities. Quicker recovery can be expected for patients that do not require muscle repair. However, if the patient needs all three components, the recovery is likely to take a longer time.

Recovery in the First Week

In the first week, the patient should stay home as far as possible, and engage in only light movements and activities. Exercising and lifting heavy materials should be avoided in the first week. Some surgeons advise patients to limit the lifting of weight to a maximum of 15 lbs. during the initial period. In the second week, this limit can be doubled.

While walking in the first week, the patient may slightly bend over for better comfort and allow the wounds to heal well. Women with smaller kids are likely to need help during the first week. For sleep during the initial days, the patient may preferably sleep in a recliner or have their bed propped up with pillows to mimic a recliner.

Recovery in the Second Week

During the second or by the end of it, most patients will be ready to go back to work. However, heavy lifting, pulling, or straining activities should be avoided for another two weeks. Aggressive physical activities and vigorous sports should be avoided for at least one month. By the end of the second week, the patient will be in a position to walk straight and drive comfortably.

The surgeon will most likely advise the patient to wear a compression garment to help reduce post-surgery swelling and expedite recovery. Patients should also enlist the help of their family members and friends to provide emotional support during the recovery phase. Positive distractions such as reading, watching movies, and keeping busy with friends and family can help ensure a better emotional and psychological recovery.

If you would like to learn more about plastic surgery procedures performed by Plastic Surgeons Franklin D. Richards, M.D. and A. Dean Jabs, M.D.  please visit https://cosmeticplastics.com/  or  http://breastaugmentationmd.com/

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Our Plastic Surgery Associates team includes Dr. Franklin Richards, Dr. A. Dean Jabs, and Dr. Keshav Magge. Each of our plastic surgeons is board-certified, and together they have over 60 years of combined experience. Drs. Richards, Jabs, and Magge are all highly qualified in procedures for the face, breast, and body, and pride themselves in providing excellent results through our state-of-the-art, Quad A certified operating centers