Fat can accumulate around the midsection for a number of factors including poor diet, hormones, stress, or aging. Tummy tuck surgery from the Institute of Aesthetic Surgery will restore your midsection back to the shape you had previously and reduce your risk of health issues associated with belly fat. There are some dos and don’ts you should abide by before and after you undergo tummy tuck surgery, however.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Tummy tuck surgery should be taken seriously, so write a list of questions for the surgeon. There’s no such thing as a bad question. Some questions you may want to ask include their experience, who is a candidate for a tummy tuck, what to expect, payment plans, and if they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Wait Until You are Done Losing Weight
You should be within 15 to 20 pounds of your ideal weight before surgery. If you have lost an excessive amount of weight, you may have to wait longer for the procedure.
Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcohol
Tobacco products are not good for overall health, of course but they are especially likely to interfere with the results of a tummy tuck. Plan to stop smoking and tobacco products a certain amount of time before the procedure, and avoid alcoholic beverages. Alcohol and tobacco products delay healing from decreased blood flow and they could interfere with anesthesia.
Don’t Be Inactive, but Be Careful
A tummy tuck doesn’t mean you should sit all day. Exercise helps prevent blood clots, so try to get up and walk around the room every hour. However, avoid activities that strain you, and avoid heavy lifting, and prolonged standing for the first week. You won’t be able to lift weights, lift your kids, or do crunches for several weeks.
Do Follow Dietary Guidelines Before and After
Include more protein in your diet to promote healing and eat fiber to avoid constipation. Your surgeon may suggest that you take a laxative prior to the tummy tuck and to consume only liquids a day or several hours before the procedure. You will need to stop taking certain medications and supplements and ask the surgeon about blood thinners.
Do Prepare for Recovery
You will need help for several days after tummy tuck surgery, but buying food and supplies beforehand reduces stress and saves time. Prepare a recliner with several pillows, since it will make it easier to sit and stand. Have snacks, water, reading materials, devices, and the remote near you. Buy ready-to-eat meals to have when no one can be with you.
To make the results last, maintain diet and exercise. Learn more by scheduling a consultation with the Institute of Cosmetic Surgery today! We are conveniently located in Celebration, FL.
Dos and Don’ts for Tummy Tuck Surgery
