The tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a surgery that removed loose skin from the abdomen, tightens the abdominal musculature, and provides for a new belly button. Dr. Kenneth Hughes most commonly performs this tummy tuck surgery for patients after pregnancy or massive weight loss.
The recovery period after an abdominoplasty is usually well tolerated by patients. In most patients, the discomfort after the tummy tuck is controlled by oral pain medicine. The day after surgery patients should be able to perform daily living activities and should at the very least be up and ambulating to reduce the chance for the development of blood clots. Many patients may want assistance in the home or hotel for a week or two particularly if they have young children. Dr. Kenneth Hughes does offer nursing care to those patients who travel alone or for those would like nursing care after surgery.
After any surgery, the return to maximum activity should be gradual, especially for patients who engage in regular aerobic activity such as jogging or weightlifting.
A general guideline for returning to maximum activity after a tummy tuck is to use the comfort level as a guide. If the activity is comfortable, then the activity level is probably acceptable. Dr. Kenneth Hughes, Los Angeles plastic surgeon, advises that no strenuous activity be performed for at least 6 weeks following a tummy tuck.
Every patient will heal at their own speed, but that doesn’t mean the recovery process can’t be assisted. Following board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kenneth Hughes’ instructions is a good first step.
For more information regarding the tummy tuck, contact our Los Angeles office to set up a private consultation today.