Brief Post-Operative Instructions after having
a Tummy Tuck

Rest quietly in bed after surgery and sleep with a pillow under the knees for five days. You may have an IV attached for 2-3 days and/or bladder catheter in place for 2-3 days. You are not to eat or drink anything until your doctor permits.

The amount of pain experienced varies considerably from person to person and your doctor will prescribe some medication to relieve pain to be taken ONLY when you have discomfort. You may also be given an antibiotic. DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN PRODUCTS OR IBUPROFEN for two weeks prior to surgery.

Expect your abdomen to be swollen and bruised. It is NORMAL for your skin to feel NUMB and/or sensitive. Expect your abdomen to also feel tight, especially when bending at your waist and turning from side to side. It is normal to feel tightness and a pulling sensation while healing. One may find it helpful to wear a panty girdle to give support during the day and/or night. You are encouraged to take deep breaths regularly and to move your legs gently while confined to bed.

It is important not to get your stitches wet until the third day following surgery. After that you may shower. Avoid all  strenuous activity  for the first four weeks following surgery. You may walk, shop, etc. You will be advised when all activities may be resumed during your appointment for suture removal. No bending or lifting of heavy objects. When you are allowed out of bed do not  straighten up completely for several days to avoid tension on the incision/wound.

Very important items for the healing process:
Do not drink any alcoholic beverages  for  the first two days following surgery. If you smoke, YOU MUST STOP your smoking for two weeks prior to surgery and two weeks following surgery. Future pregnancy is not advisable as this will cause further stretching and negate the effects of abdominal plastic surgery. Weight gain is also to be avoided.