5 Tummy Tuck Recovery Facts Every Patient Should Know

Tummy tucks are a great option for those who want to remove excess skin and fat and get that shape they’ve always wanted. But many people fear that getting these type of results will require a long and painful recovery.

But the recovery from a tummy tuck may be much quicker than you expect. In fact, most patients will be able to return to work within a month.

Here, we’ll answer some common questions patients have about the recovery process after a tummy tuck here in Orange County.

So, how long is the recovery after a tummy tuck?

Although many patients want an exact answer to this question, the answer will vary a lot depending on different factors. But in most cases, you’ll be able to get back to most of your daily activities after a few weeks.

One of the biggest factors in recovery time? The skill of the surgeon. A great surgeon does everything possible to minimize the impact on your body, reducing the recovery time.

If you choose a bad surgeon, however, you could be looking at a much longer recovery period. That’s because the incisions might be larger, putting more stress on your body.

It also depends on the type of tummy tuck you have. Mini tummy tucks will take just a week or so to recover from, whereas a standard tummy tuck can take a few weeks.

And what about pain management?

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure, so you can expect some pain and discomfort after the operation. However, this pain can be managed with medication.

Fortunately, you won’t have to take pain medication for much more than a few days, and the doses are always safe.

It’s also recommended that you wear a compression garment for about the first week of your recovery. This will reduce swelling and keep fluids from building up around the surgery site.

Many people may also take laxative during the early periods after the procedure. This is to reduce the chance of constipation, which can cause strain that stretches the incisions.

Standard recovery time after a tummy tuck

Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect for your recovery after a tummy tuck. Remember, the recovery period can vary a lot depending on the patient.

• Week 1: You’ll be able to walk around and perform very light walking exercises. You also won’t have to wear a compression garment the whole day, and drainage tubes will be removed
• Week 2: Incisions should be fully healed, and you shouldn’t have anything beyond mild pain and discomfort. Most patients will no longer need any prescription painkillers
• Week 3: You’ll be able to wear the compression garment only about half the time. And if your job doesn’t involve any heavy lifting, you can return to work
• Week 5: You can return to most physical activity. However, you should slowly return to your exercise routine, and lift only light weights

Although the recovery period can be tough for some patients, you should be back to your daily routine in around a month.

Complications from tummy tucks

Tummy tucks are a safe and effective procedure. But there can be occasional side effects. Here are some symptoms that all patients should be aware of:

• Pain or discomfort that doesn’t get better after a few days
• Incisions that open up
• High temperature
• Pus or any other discharge from the surgery site

These symptoms aren’t always serious. But you should alert your surgeon if you notice any of them, as they will want to keep an eye on them.

A great surgeon is there for you outside of the operating room

There are plenty of surgeons in Orange County who can get you great results. Unfortunately, many of them fall off the face of the earth as soon as the operation is done. If you have any questions, they are nowhere to be found.

You need a surgeon who sticks with you throughout the recovery process. Dr. Klicker is available for you every step of the way. Should you have any concerns about your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact him right away. He can answer any questions you may have and ensure that your recovery