Mothers who have undergone one or multiple pregnancies often find that they are left with excess skin and fat on their abdomens, and their abdominal muscles may have become weak. Additionally, significant weight loss after pregnancy may leave excess abdominal skin. If you find yourself relating to either of these situations, a tummy tuck may be right for you.
Choosing to undergo a tummy tuck can be an exciting step, as it can be a life-changing procedure that can positively impact your self-esteem and how you feel about your body. Patients who choose to undergo this procedure and are excited for the final outcome should also be aware of the process associated with the procedure. Here is what to expect and how to prepare for the procedure and set yourself up for success.
Preparing for the Procedure: Household Support
Before undergoing any form of surgery, it is important to take some steps to prepare. Because you will require some downtime after the procedure, be sure to plan ahead when it comes to cleaning, child care, and cooking. Cleaning the house beforehand will create a tidy space for you to recover in. Also, preparing meals beforehand can help to reduce stress when you cannot get up to cook. Some patients find that cooking meals ahead of time and freezing them is a great way to have nutritious meals on hand. If you have small children, enlisting the help of a friend or family member can also be very helpful. The main goal of preparation is to take any potential stressors off you to make your recovery as easy and comfortable as possible.
Recovery from a Tummy Tuck: Planning Downtime
Following your tummy tuck procedure, you can expect to see bruising and swelling as the area heals. You will be given a compression garment to wear during recovery, which will help to minimize the swelling and ensure optimal outcomes.
While total recovery time will differ depending on the individual patient and the extent of their tummy tuck procedure, most patients can expect to take about two weeks off from work. After the first day, most patients are up and walking, though a gradual return to a normal routine is recommended.
If you are looking to improve the appearance of your abdomen after pregnancy or weight loss, a tummy tuck may be able to help. Patients in the Baltimore area can contact Plastic Surgery Center of Maryland today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rosenberg. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Rosenberg has extensive experience performing tummy tucks to create the tight, slim abdomen you desire.