This article has been reviewed and approved by Chief Medical Officer and Aesthetic Surgeon Dr. Ali Bagher on May 10, 2024.
Once you have decided to undergo a tummy tuck, it is important that you prepare as much as possible for your procedure. By reading up on abdominoplasty and booking a consultation with one of our experienced surgeons, you will get all the information you need to prepare in the best possible way. You will also get a clearer picture of the benefits, the risks and the recovery process. However, even before your consultation, you can build up a good amount of knowledge to get the best conditions for your surgery.
A tummy tuck can be performed in different ways depending on the conditions, your anatomy and the result you want. The most common reason for a tummy tuck is excess skin after pregnancy or severe weight loss, where the skin has not contracted as desired. A tummy tuck can also be performed if you have separated abdominal muscles and as a combination procedure with liposuction. You will be informed about what is best for you to achieve the desired result during your consultation.
Preparing for a tummy tuck
Preparing properly for a tummy tuck is important to get the result you want and to know what is expected of you as a patient. For example, in the case of a tummy tuck, it is very important that you refrain from smoking 4 weeks before the operation and 4 weeks after. You should also abstain from alcohol and try to stay as fit as possible.
After a tummy tuck, you may feel very sore around the operation area. Many people also find it difficult to walk and sit upright. If you don't have a partner who can do everything for you after your surgery, you may want to prepare your home to make your life as easy as possible after surgery. This could include preparing food boxes so you don't have to cook or making sure you take the rubbish out before you come to see us. Cleaning or making a clean bed can also be a good way to prepare, as well as checking with friends and acquaintances if someone can provide a ride after your tummy tuck.
Risks of abdominoplasty
There is no surgical procedure that is completely risk-free, but by choosing a reputable clinic with competent surgeons, you reduce the risk of complications. Having a serious complication after a tummy tuck is very rare, but there are always risks that are important to know about. In abdominoplasty, the more serious complications are infections or bleeding. In the worst case, an additional operation may be needed. In case of infection, you will be treated with antibiotics.
Some risks and side effects of abdominoplasty are more common than others. For example, if you are a smoker or diabetic, you are more likely to suffer from scars that are difficult to heal. Reduced circulation, fluid retention and blood clots are also common.
When is a tummy tuck suitable?
A tummy tuck is suitable for those who suffer from excess skin on their stomach. For example, your skin may not have retracted after pregnancy or after you have lost a lot of weight. It is also a good method for those who have split abdominal muscles or who want to get rid of annoying stretch marks on the skin.
Undergoing a tummy tuck is a relatively major procedure that requires both preparation and recovery. Therefore, it is important that you are in a period of life where you are in good health and have a BMI that meets the requirements for a tummy tuck. On our website, you can use our BMI calculator, which makes it easy for you to work out where you fall on the scale.
If you are planning to get pregnant in the near future, you should wait to undergo a tummy tuck. This applies to both full and mini tummy tucks. During pregnancy, the skin will stretch a lot and some weight gain will occur. After pregnancy, you may again have problems with stretch marks and excess skin. By waiting until you are finished with your pregnancies, you can ensure that you get a lasting and beautiful result from your surgery.
Mental preparation
Abdominoplasty is a relatively major operation that puts a strain on both the body and the mind, as the body is unbalanced after the procedure. Therefore, before undergoing a tummy tuck, you should ensure that your mental health is as stable as possible.
It is also important that you have a good basic self-image and that you understand that the surgery may have limitations that affect the final result. Looking at before and after pictures of tummy tucks can help you get a realistic idea of what the end result might be.
Also keep in mind that abdominoplasty has a relatively long recovery time and therefore it will take time before you see your finished result. Be prepared to wait around six months.
Recovery after abdominoplasty
Understanding the healing process and what to expect after surgery is important to prepare yourself and to fully understand your entire procedure.
After a tummy tuck, it is not unusual to feel both soreness and swelling. Many people also experience uncomfortable pressure from the girdle you will have to wear after surgery. The girdle ensures that your abdomen is well supported and that you get the best possible result.
During your first 1-2 weeks, it is important that you rest. It is important to move your body to avoid problems such as blood clots, but don't stop moving altogether and try to lean forward a little to reduce the strain on your skin. You should wait at least 8 weeks after your tummy tuck before doing any strenuous or heart rate increasing exercise, and you should also avoid smoking and alcohol for the first few weeks.
With us at Estetikcentrum , you always get 2-3 weeks of sick leave and free return visits. Most people can return to work after 2-4 weeks, but your individual recovery and occupation may be the deciding factor.
Want to know more about abdominoplasty? Read our guide to everything you need to know about abdominoplasty here, or book a consultation with a surgeon to discuss your options. We are happy to answer your questions.
