Pregnancy will stretch your skin and muscles relatively rapidly. A significant weight loss can leave you with abdominal skin that has lost elasticity and with stubborn pockets of fat that do not respond to diet or exercise. And your natural body shape may include a rounded or paunchy tummy. If you have tried to achieve a flat stomach with all of the conventional methods, but cannot get the results you want, a tummy tuck might be the right choice for you.
You may choose a full abdominoplasty, a mini-abdominoplasty (or mini tummy tuck), or a tummy tuck as part of a “Mommy Makeover”. Your plastic surgeon can help you determine the most ideal procedure for you based on your current condition and your desired outcomes. Whichever procedure you choose, you will want to do what you can to maintain the amazing results achieved. Here is everything you need to know to keep your tummy flat after abdominoplasty.
Follow your Doctor's Orders
Following the orders of your plastic surgeon for post-operative care is the most important thing you can do to ensure quick healing and optimal results. These directives will include instructions for necessary medications and pain management, how long to rest and when to move, which activities to avoid, incision care, advice on compression and support garments, and what follow-up visits will be required. Your doctor will tailor these instructions specifically for you based on your personal health and the outcome of your specific surgery. This advice will help you recover as quickly as possible and ensure that your tummy tuck results to be the best they can be. Don’t hesitate to call your plastic surgeon if you have any questions or concerns as you heal.
Eat Smart
Standard tips for healthy eating are perfect for maintaining your tummy tuck results. In the days following your procedure strive to have plenty of protein-rich foods and lots of fluids. Your body needs these to support recovery. Your appetite may decrease during these early days due to medications, discomfort, and as your body adjusts to healing. In this case eat smaller meals and snacks of nutrient-rich, whole foods or try a protein shake. You need this energy to fuel your healing body.
For the long term maintenance of your tighter, flatter stomach, adopt a lifestyle of healthy, balanced eating. Don’t skip meals; eat smaller meals regularly throughout the day. Cut down on simple sugars. Choose healthy carbs (like those from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) and healthy fats (like fish oils, nuts, and seeds). These smart lifestyle choices will benefit you in every aspect of your life and keep your tummy toned.
Exercise
After your initial recovery period where movement and activity will be limited to slow and careful walking, you should incorporate a regular exercise regimen into your routine. One your surgeon clears you, consider a workout plan that incorporates cardio and core strengthening, but could also include yoga, swimming, pilates, and even sports. Aim for 30-60 minutes 3-5 times a week to avoid losing the tautness and firmness of your newly repaired abdominal muscles.
Stay Hydrated
Fluids are crucial to your recovery and your overall health. In the days post surgery, fluids will boost your immune system preventing infections and helping clear your body of the anaesthesia. Fluids can also support your healing by regulating your body temperature, transporting essential nutrients, and balancing your ph levels and electrolytes.
As part of your maintenance routine for the long term, staying hydrated will help maintain healthy metabolism, control hunger, give you energy, and aid digestion.
Making healthy choices and adopting an active lifestyle are really all you need to maintain the results of your tummy tuck for years to come.
Consult a Plastic Surgery Professional
If you would like to explore abdominoplasty and understand your options for achieving the toned and tightened tummy you desire, reach out to the team at Alberta Plastic Surgery. Dr. Adil Ladak is a top surgeon in Edmonton, Alberta and is highly skilled in providing patients with their desired results with full abdominoplasty, mini tummy tucks, and “Mommy Makeovers”. Dr. Ladak is a board certified plastic surgeon and his team is committed to providing patients with the information and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore all of your options for body contouring and surgical and non-surgical treatments to help you feel and look your best, visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at (780) 407-6691 or fill out the form below.
FAQs
Q: Can you be pregnant after a tummy tuck?
A: Abdominolasty will not affect your ability to become pregnant. But it is recommended to hold off on having the procedure until you are certain you do not want to become pregnant again. The results of your tummy tuck will likely not be maintained after the weight gain and weight loss of a pregnancy.
Q: How long is recovery after a tummy tuck?
A: The first few days after your procedure you will be focussed on healing and limiting most movement. After a couple of days, you should begin to move carefully to facilitate healing and avoid blood clots. Most patients can return to normal activities like work and driving after about two weeks. But strenuous activity should be avoided for 6-8 weeks post surgery. Your doctor will give you clearance as you get to each stage of recovery.
Q: Is a local or general anaesthetic used for abdominoplasty?
A: General anaesthetic is required for a tummy tuck.
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