Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery

Abdominoplasty, popularly known as tummy tuck surgery, is an important body contouring cosmetic procedure. Recovery is a significant component in such major procedures, and patients should take it with all seriousness. The surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions, which will make it easier for the patient to recover in time and with minimum risk of complications.

During the pre-op consultation, the surgeon will discuss all aspects of recover and the expected downtime. Working people and busy moms are usually more concerned about the downtime involved because they want to resume their regular routine as early as possible.

Dr. Landon McLain is a dedicated cosmetic surgeon providing tummy tuck and various other procedures to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities and cities in The Yellowhammer State.

Recovery at Home

Most patients can return home the same day after tummy tuck surgery. In the first week, they should stay confined to the home and take plenty of rest. Short walks and light activities during this period are encouraged to promote blood flow in the incision areas. Downtime in abdominoplasty can range from 10 to 14 days, but if muscle tightening is not involved, the patient may resume normal routine faster.

Working people should preferably apply for leave from the workplace well in advance so that they can have a stress-free recovery time at home. The patient should stay sufficiently hydrated and eat a balanced diet. Intake of lean proteins may be increased to support healing. Strenuous activities and exercises as well as heavy lifting of weights should be avoided during the early recovery phase.

Drains and Sutures

The surgeon will usually place temporary drainage tubes under the skin in the incision areas before the bandages are applied. The drains should be kept free from contamination. The patient should measure and empty the drain every day as instructed. If the surgeon has provided a compression garment, it should be worn at all times during the recovery phase.

If the surgeon has placed traditional sutures to close the incisions, these may be removed along with the drains in about a week to 10 days after the surgery. Thereafter, many patients are able to return to their workplace, but should go through another week of lighter physical activity at work. Judicious and focused on his craft Dr. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for tummy tuck surgery.

Diminishing Scar Appearance

Prior to choosing a procedure such as tummy tuck, the patient should have a clear idea that some degree of scarring will occur. However, a skillful surgeon will be able to minimize the impact by placing the incisions in discreet sites. On their part, the patient should avoid sun exposure in the incision areas during recovery. Petroleum jelly, silicone sheets, or silicone cream may be used to improve scar tissue appearance.

During the recovery period, the patient should be committed to refraining from smoking. Smoking can delay the natural healing process and increase the risk of post-op complications. The surgeon will give clear instructions about avoiding smoking during recovery.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.