How Long Does it Take to Recover From Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Recovering from tummy tuck surgery takes time and patience.  Tummy tuck surgery, especially full tummy tuck surgery, is serious surgery.  The abdominal muscles need time to heal without being used for extended periods of time.  It may sound simple, but you’ve probably never realized how often you use your abdominal muscles during every day activities. Everyone’s recovery period is different, but you can expect to dedicate up to 8 weeks for full recovery.  You will not be completely immobilized during those 8 weeks however.

Immediately following your tummy tuck surgery, you will be feeling groggy and tired from the anesthesia. Much of the first day or two is usually spent resting or sleeping. Your abdomen may be swollen and painful; it is good to start your pain medication right away, even if the pain is tolerable at first.

The first part of recovery involves a subsiding of swelling and pain. Bruises may appear but these will go away as well and are normal. Over the course of the next few days, you will have post-operative instructions to follow for caring for your incision site.  Your surgeon will instruct you on how to change your incision dressings as well as how often.  It is critical to keep this area clean.  Your movement and activity will be very limited for the first few days.  Showering or bathing will also be restricted; your surgeon will instruct you.

During tummy tuck surgery, some of your nerves are cut—therefore the skin on your abdomen may feel numb.  Again, this is normal and sensation will return over the next few months during the healing process.

Scaring is also a normal part of surgery and your tummy tuck scars will become lighter and flatter over time.

There are many important factors to consider before deciding whether tummy tuck surgery is right for you or not.  To learn more about tummy tuck surgery in NJ at the Lombardi Plastic Surgery Center, visit us online at http://www.doctorsofcosmeticsurgery.com/ or call 732-460-9555.

About Dr. Lombardi:

Dr. Lombardi is a Plastic Surgeon in NJ and the founding surgeon of The Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Center in Eatontown, New Jersey. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Dr. Lombardi has received highly specialized training in all aspects of cosmetic surgery including Breast Augmentation, Facial Rejuvenation, and Body Contouring procedures. He is trained in the latest cutting edge techniques of cosmetic surgery including laser surgery, Botox, Restylane, and all of the newest facial fillers. In addition, Dr. Lombardi is the first plastic surgeon in Monmouth County to perform Thermage, or the non-surgical Facelift.
To learn more about Dr. Lombardi, visit http://www.doctorsofcosmeticsurgery.com/