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A tummy tuck provides incredible benefits to those seeking body contouring and body sculpting improvements.
Before your surgery, there are several lifestyle changes you can and should make to ensure your operation and plastic surgery recovery goes smoothly.
Preparing for plastic surgery is not an intuitive process. There are many factors to consider, many of which you may not think about.
A tummy tuck surgery may require some lifestyle changes in the weeks leading up to the operation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Stop Smoking Two Weeks Before Surgery
2. Stop Drinking Alcohol One Week Before Surgery
3. Stop Taking Specific Medications Two to Three Weeks Before Surgery
4. Complete Chores and Physically Demanding Tasks at Least a Day Before Surgery
5. Prepare a Recovery Location With Medications, Pillows, and Other Needs
6. Prepare Food and Entertainment Options in Advance
1. Stop Smoking Two Weeks Before Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, anyone preparing for a tummy tuck must refrain from smoking or consuming any nicotine products for at least two weeks before surgery. This includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and even nicotine patches.
Nicotine constricts blood flow, which can seriously complicate surgery and cause problems with anesthesia.
For this reason, Dr. Hochstein asks all patients to avoid nicotine products for at least six weeks before a tummy tuck.
2. Stop Drinking Alcohol One Week Before Surgery
Alcohol is a blood thinner that can cause complications during surgery.
For this reason, Dr. Hochstein asks that all his patients refrain from consuming alcohol for at least one week before an abdominoplasty.
3. Stop Taking Specific Medications Two to Three Weeks Before Surgery
Several types of blood-thinning medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins can potentially cause complications during surgery. Dr. Hochstein has compiled a list of medications that you should stop taking two to three weeks before surgery.
If any of these medications have been prescribed by your primary care physician, you should consult with your doctor. This will determine if it is safe for you to stop taking these medications.
If a primary care physician decides the risk of stopping these medications is too high, inform Dr. Hochstein immediately. He may be able to provide alternative techniques to suit your needs.
4. Complete Chores and Physically Demanding Tasks at Least a Day Before Surgery
After a tummy tuck surgery, you will not be capable of performing physically demanding tasks. This restriction will remain in place for several days to a few weeks.
For this reason, Dr. Hochstein suggests that patients complete chores and other rigorous activities in advance.
These may include:
- Cooking
- Cleaning
- Laundry
- Home repairs
- Moving furniture
If possible, bring in extra help. Any at-home assistance from a family member or friend can dramatically ease this process. Plus, a little company is always a good thing.
5. Prepare a Recovery Location With Medications, Pillows, and Other Needs
You will require a comfortable and stress-free place to recover after a tummy tuck.
Ideally, you should set up an area where you can rest for a few days in blissful peace. This tummy tuck recovery area should also allow you to rest/sleep in an upright position.
You will be asked to refrain from sleeping on your stomach for several weeks.
Pillows should be readily available, as they are beneficial to keep under your legs. Elevating your legs can help reduce swelling after surgery.
This recovery area should allow you to have easy access to your medications and other needs (especially water and healthy snacks).
Many patients will set up side tables with their medications and other needs immediately available.
We recommend that patients prepare their recovery location in advance so they can settle there as soon as they return home.
6. Prepare Food and Entertainment Options in Advance
You will need time to physically and mentally recover.
To prepare for this, you should arrange for entertainment around your recovery area to keep you busy and your mind occupied. This may include options such as television, movies, audiobooks, magazines, or other forms of entertainment.
Your tummy tuck recovery process can last weeks.
Additionally, you will not be physically capable of cooking for yourself after surgery.
To prepare for this, Dr. Hochstein suggests some of the following strategies:
- Cook food in advance
- Plan for a friend or family member to provide you with cooked meals for a few weeks
- Get in touch with local restaurants that deliver
- Ensure they can deliver food in a manner that is accessible to you
Looking for More Information About Preparing for a Tummy Tuck?
To learn more about steps you can take to prepare for your cosmetic surgery, contact us online or call Dr. Leonard Hochstein’s office at (305) 931-3338. We will be happy to answer your questions and schedule a consultation if you desire.
If you are thinking about body contouring surgery, consider if a tummy tuck is right for you or if a liposuction surgery can provide your ideal results.