Tummy Tuck Surgery: How to Prepare

Are the sit-ups you’ve been doing continuously, along with a sensible diet, just not giving you those great abs you’ve been working for? It could be that extra skin isn’t going anywhere. If you feel like you’ve exhausted all other measures, it may be time to think about an abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck.)

Abdominoplasty is a procedure used to remove extra skin and fat from your abdomen, resulting in a flatter tighter appearance in the stomach area. A tummy tuck is serious surgery, so if you’re thinking about doing it, consider the following ways for you to achieve the best recovery:

Prepare your home. Start by cleaning your house. Your recovery will be less stressful if you come home to a place that is already in order, as housecleaning is out of the questions for at least the first week post-surgery. Also, be sure to stock your recovery area with plenty of ice packs, loose clothing, a telephone within reach and a bathroom chair with detachable shower head.

Stop smoking. If you smoke you’ll need to stop for at least two weeks before surgery, as smoking can up the risk of complications and slow the healing process.

Go shopping. Prepare and freeze meals ahead of time, and stock up on frozen dinners, Jell-O, pudding and other ready-to-eat foods.

Change your sheets. There’s nothing like the feeling of slipping into some clean sheets when you return home. While you’re at it, make sure you’re caught up on your laundry, as well.

Get medications beforehand. Your pain relievers, prescriptions, bandages and compression garments should be at the ready as soon as you begin recovery. Make sure to have them on hand ahead of time.

Arrange for a ride home. You will not be in any condition to drive yourself home, so arrange for someone to take you. You’ll also need to have someone stay with you for at least the first 24 hours after surgery to help you get to the bathroom, bring you food and take care of your general comfort.

Get help for kids and pets. To resist the urge to take on more than you should, have a friend or family member take care of your kids (and your pets) for the first few days after surgery.

Rest! Perhaps the most important thing you can do is relax. As each day passes, you will heal more and more. Keep your eye on the prize – you’re going to look fantastic when the recovery time is over. Patience is a virtue.

Please click here to view before and after images of a tummy tuck procedure. For more information about the benefits of abdominoplasty, contact Dr. Lalla today at 973-324-9455.