If you’re considering getting a tummy tuck, you can look forward to striking results. You will have a newly contoured waistline with tighter core muscles and no loose skin or fat bulges. While you will achieve excellent results by the sole merit of your procedure, you should follow these suggestions if you want to achieve the best results with your tummy tuck procedure.
What to Do Before Surgery
Achieving the best results begins with your actions before you undergo surgery. Every candidate for tummy tuck surgery should quit smoking and avoid it entirely for at least one month before and at least six weeks after surgery. Additionally, candidates should prepare their bodies to handle the procedure and welcome the results. This means that regular exercise and a healthy diet must become a permanent part of your life. A tummy tuck is not weight-loss surgery; it is a procedure meant to improve the waistline of patients who are already at or near their ideal body weight. You should achieve and maintain a stable, healthy weight to prepare your body for the greatest results.
What to Do During Recovery
The next part in achieving the best results is what you do during recovery. Carefully follow all instructions and recommendations that your surgeon gives you. Avoid strenuous exercises for at least six weeks, and avoid abdominal exercises for a full 12 weeks. Take your medications as instructed, wait at least 10 to 14 days to return to work, and consult us if you have any questions.
How to Minimize Scarring
Some patients are concerned about how scarring after a tummy tuck will affect their results. The scar from your incision will be hidden by most clothing and will fade as time passes. To minimize your scar, take care to follow your recovery instructions. Avoid smoking and direct sun exposure so that your scar heals properly and does not darken. You can also use creams, lotions, or silicone patches as instructed to reduce scarring.
How to Maintain Your Results
Lastly, adopt healthy habits to maintain your results. Your results from tummy tuck surgery can be long lasting if you maintain your body weight. Continue to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet with lots of protein, fruits, and vegetables to have the greatest and longest-lasting results.
Following these recommendations will help you achieve and maintain the best results from your tummy tuck procedure. To learn more about tummy tuck surgery, schedule your consultation with Dr. Oliver or Dr. Jack. Call our office at (205) 298-8660 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your appointment today.