Deciding to undergo a tummy tuck requires careful consideration and preparation.
So, what are the necessary steps to take to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal surgical outcomes?
Continue reading for your six-month guide to planning a tummy tuck.
4-6 Months Before Your Tummy Tuck
During this time, diet and exercise will play a key role in planning a tummy tuck. Accordingly, patients should take care to eat nutritious foods, consume adequate amounts of water, and be as active as possible. This is especially true if you are trying to reach your goal weight prior to surgery.
Additionally, individuals who smoke, should initiate a smoking cessation plan, and those that consume alcohol regularly, should start decreasing their consumption. These precautions will help promote proper healing after your tummy tuck.
4 Months Before Your Tummy Tuck
Four months before your tummy tuck, you should be close to reaching your ideal weight and level of physical fitness, which will help your surgeon determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.
It’s also recommended that patients begin researching top-rated board-certified plastic surgeons and scheduling consultations for their tummy tuck. After discussing your concerns, goals, and expected results, you should select a highly-skilled and experienced surgeon that best matches your needs.
3 Months Before Your Tummy Tuck
Another important part of planning a tummy tuck is arranging time off from work and childcare as you recover. At this time, you should also ask a friend or family member for a ride to and from your surgery and to stay with you for the first 48 hours.
It’s also essential to discontinue use of all nicotine products at the three-month mark.
1 Month Before Your Tummy Tuck
As the date of your scheduled tummy tuck approaches, set aside a few days to meal prep and freeze food to eat during your recovery.
You should also take care to gather supplies that will aid in your healing and comfort post-procedure. These may include: Extra pillows, gauze pads, comfortable clothing and underwear that is easy to remove, ice packs and over-the-counter medication for discomfort, and compression clothing if prescribed.
Finally, follow all of your surgeon’s pre-op instructions and complete the checklist that he provides.
If you are considering a tummy tuck, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Navin Singh.
