Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Recovery

Tummy tuck cosmetic surgery may be performed as a partial, standard, or extensive abdominoplasty. Recovery process will vary in each case according to the extent of surgery involved. The surgeon will discuss the recovery aspects along with various other issues during the initial tummy tuck consultation.

The patient should have a clear idea about the estimated downtime in order to make a well-considered decision about the type of tummy tuck surgery they want to receive. Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) is a board certified plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck and other procedures to patients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and surrounding locations.

Estimated Downtime

In case of a partial or mini tummy tuck, the downtime involved will be minimal. The procedure only focuses on the area below the navel, and the patient will have to go through about one week of minimized physical activity before they can resume more regular routine or return to work.

A standard tummy tuck plastic surgery may include treatment above the navel, but in other aspects it is similar to a partial tummy tuck. An extensive tummy tuck surgery will generally involve liposuction and other additional techniques. The treatment may extend to the flanks.

In both standard and extensive tummy tuck procedures, the downtime can be about 10 to 14 days. The patient can usually resume normal routine by the end of second week, but vigorous activities and exercises should be avoided for at least a month after the surgery.

Staying Active during Recovery

Patients should be aware that they are not expected to remain immobilized during the recovery phase. On the contrary, the cosmetic surgeon will encourage the patient to perform mild walks and simple day to day tasks from the first or second day after surgery. By remaining active, the patient can reduce their risk of blood clot formation.

Lifting of heavy weights, bending excessively or performing strenuous activities should be avoided, but the patient can perform simple tasks such as standing up and walking to the kitchen for a glass of water. Any physical action that places strain on the incisions should be avoided until the healing is completed.

Patients with sedentary jobs may be able to return to work in about one week after tummy tuck surgery, while those with more physically straining jobs may require about two weeks before returning to work.

Each patient’s case is different, but generally speaking, those who have sedentary jobs that mainly require sitting at a desk can return to work about a week after abdominoplasty. Those with more physical jobs will probably require at least two to three weeks before returning to their workplace. Dr. Q receives patients from Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and surrounding locations for tummy tuck.

Follow-up Appointments

The day after the tummy tuck surgery, the patient may have to visit the surgeon’s office for a review of the condition. At this time, the surgeon may fit the patient with a compression garment to help prevent blood clot formation. Further post-operative appointments will be scheduled during this visit to continually monitor the healing progress.

To learn more about the plastic surgery treatments and procedures performed by Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) please contact us at 760-324-2660. To learn more about Dr. Q’s Medical Spa please visit drqmedicalspa.com