A mini tummy tuck is a pared down version of an abdominoplasty and is best for people looking for more modest changes in appearance. Now you can enjoy the slimmer, more contoured body you’ve always wanted when meeting with board-certified plastic surgeon dr. jay shenaq. Ask your surgeon about safe cleaning solutions to use your abdominoplasty incisions. The tummy tuck recovery period can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
Note of caution: many mistakenly believe that hydrogen peroxide is an effective cleaning agent, but it can actually kill more than bacteria. Use this guide to manage your tummy tuck surgery recovery with ease and learn how to get the best results from your tummy tuck. Recovery after tummy tuck surgery can feel long and uncomfortable. Plastic surgery of houston will provide medications to help with any pain and inflammation.
Healing after surgery
These signs include: Call your doctor right away if you notice signs of infection in the belly button after a tummy tuck. There are two types of tummy tucks—full and mini abdominoplasty—which will impact how long it takes for your body to heal after the surgery. Here are 18 of the best night creams for all skin types, plus how… We’ve rounded up 18 of the best sea salt sprays around to help you find the perfect product. New cells begin to form a protective scab over the incision, and your scar will likely appear very red.
What is the recovery time for a tummy tuck?
However, how long your body takes to recover from a tummy tuck depends on several factors, including your age and overall health, post-op care, and type of abdominoplasty performed. The tissue beneath the skin is also tightened to create a slimmer appearance. Your doctor should give instructions on how to care for your belly button after a tummy tuck. Paying close attention to your body can also help you spot the signs of infection.
How does a tummy tuck work?
However, while the timeline for healing is much shorter, it’s still important to give your incision the same amount of attention and care. Call our office in houston, tx to get started. A severe infection can be life-threatening if left untreated. Rest assured that in most cases, the belly button won’t be altered or moved, instead the skin and muscle around it will be tightened.
Before and after pictures
However, after a few weeks, you’ll be able to return to work and pursue day-to-day life as normal. Hydrogen peroxide can damage new skin cells your body produces when wounded, which can slow the healing process and extend your scar healing time. A tummy tuck procedure creates space between your abdominal tissues and abdominal muscles, allowing fluid to collect in this open space. Keep an eye out for signs of infection, including: If you opt for a mini tummy tuck, the whole procedure will take place below the belly button, which is a good option for those who are just concerned about a small pooch in the lower belly.
When to see a doctor
As mentioned earlier, a mini tummy tuck is a less extensive procedure compared to a traditional abdominoplasty. This may include cleaning the area with warm water or a saltwater solution. Remember, tummy tucks are surgical procedures, so the incision made during the procedure will lead to scarring, regardless of the type of abdominoplasty you move forward with. It’s always a good idea to see before and after pictures from your surgeon and pay close attention to the belly button area when viewing them.
If it does, let the doctor know or their staff immediately. When you empty your drains, be sure to measure the amount of fluid that comes out with each disposal. During the procedure, it’ll stay attached to its “stalk.” in most cases, the surgeon will create a new opening for the belly button, especially if its shape has become distorted after weight gain or pregnancy. Adding night cream to your skin care routine can be a great way to boost moisture.
Check out the gallery of real patients below: If you’re healed from a tummy tuck and still dissatisfied with your belly button, you may consider an umbilicoplasty, which is a surgery to change the appearance of the belly button. Not taking the necessary steps to properly care for your tummy tuck incision can result in an infection that can further scar the surrounding skin. Experience customized breast reconstruction surgery to achieve fuller, natural-looking breasts after cancer. * Save 10% on all active scar defense products + an extra 20% on 60-day kits! Panniculectomies and tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) are surgical procedures that target the belly.
Six weeks after a tummy tuck
Fortunately, there are several ways you can speed up and even minimize the time it takes to recover from a tummy tuck. Or, if you find your mobility is too limited to head back to work, take more time off to rest. Your surgeon will likely recommend that you take three to four weeks off of work, but this timeline may change depending on your body’s ability to heal, your physical condition, and how much fat and skin were removed during the procedure. Let’s explore the two types of abdominoplasty procedures more in detail below.
Tummy tuck recovery: recovery stages and tips
Alternatively, you can use the links below to navigate the post. Keep reading to know what to expect during the abdominoplasty healing process and learn helpful recovery tips. A tummy tuck involves making a thin, horizontal incision between the belly button and pubic area to remove extra fat and skin from the abdomen. At this point, it’s safe to begin exercising and resuming normal activities.
Most patients find they can return to work and normal activity two weeks following the tummy tuck. The recovery after a mini tummy tuck is much quicker than that of a full abdominoplasty. Mini tummy tucks are intended to treat minor pouching out of the lower belly, which is often the result of stretched muscles in the abdominal area. For example, scarring and limited mobility.
Do not participate in any heavy lifting, strenuous activities, or exercises just yet. Your belly button is actually attached to the muscles below. Normally, an incision will be made around the naval and it’ll be lifted and put back in the appropriate place to fit the new shape of the stomach. Learn the difference between… Microneedling is a popular procedure using tiny needle pricks to treat acne scars, wrinkles, large pores, and more.
The recovery timeline after your tummy tuck will vary depending on several factors including your age, weight, and general health. To decrease swelling after a tummy tuck, use the following tips: It’s in your best interest to hinder swelling since the sooner you reduce it, the sooner you’ll be able to see the true results of your tummy tuck. Another incision will usually be made around the belly button. Tummy tucks come with numerous benefits, including a flatter abdomen and contoured waistline, improved posture, and excess skin removal; for many people, these benefits can translate to increased self-confidence.
