Commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, an abdominoplasty is a cosmetic body contouring surgery designed to make your abdomen smoother and firmer. The main focus of this procedure is to strengthen weakened stomach muscles, which can be caused by numerous factors, such as:
- Pregnancy
- Aging
- Significant weight loss
- Heredity
Safe & Effective Surgical and Non Surgical Body Contouring Treatments in Kelowna
At our private surgical clinic, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons are experienced and qualified to offer surgical body contouring procedures, such as an abdominoplasty, and non-surgical body contouring procedures, such as CoolSculptng, to help you achieve a smoother and more youthful figure.
Want to know how we can help you reach all your aesthetic goals?
Your Guide to Recovering From an Abdominoplasty
Unlike non-surgical body contouring procedures, an abdominoplasty does require considerable post-surgery care to ensure the safest and most satisfactory results. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions and raise any concerns you may have to lower your risk of complications.
Here is a comprehensive guide to help you stay healthy after your surgery and ensure your newly-refined shape continues to look its best:
Week 1
During the first week following your procedure, you will experience some pain, swelling, bruising and/or tightness in your abdominal area. To help make this period more comfortable, here are some things you should remember:
- Stick to a low sodium diet. This will help reduce any swelling you may have in the treatment area.
- Wear your compression garment AT ALL TIMES: The compression garment will promote healing and help you achieve your desired body contour. It should be worn at all times for the first week after your surgery.
- You’ll require the use of a drain. For the first 3-7 days, patients will require a drain that will direct excess fluid away from the incision.
- Change your bandages. When it comes to replacing your bandages, you must follow all instructions given by the surgeon. Typically, these should be replaced and the wound cleaned every other day.
- A sponge bath may be your best option for the first week. Generally, you may be able to shower 1-2 days following the procedure. However, if you have a drain, a sponge bath may be your best option.
Tips For Your First Week of Recovery
- Do not smoke, do chores, drink alcohol, exercise, or drive for the first week following your abdominoplasty.
- Stay hydrated and limit your movement.
- You may use an ice compress to minimize any pain or swelling.
- Take the pain medication as directed by your surgeon.
Week 2
During week 2 of your recovery, the bruising and tightness will have mostly subsided, however you may still experience some swelling in the treatment area. It is also recommended that:
- You start returning to your normal diet, but you must still limit your sodium intake.
- Gently massage the treatment area as this will help promote healing.
- Begin scar care. To minimize the appearance of your scars, apply Vitamin E or silicone sheets to the incision.
- Continue to wear your compression garment. This will ensure that you receive the best possible abdominoplasty results.
- You can begin to think about returning to work. Typically, patients will feel ready to return to work between 10-14 days after their surgery. It’s always important to check with your surgeon first.
Tips for Your Second Week of Recovery
- Drink lots of fluids and stay hydrated.
- Continue to wear your compression garment.
- You can start to take short walks throughout the day to promote blood flow.
Week 3-4
During this period, most patients will begin to return to their regular routine. While you can resume your normal diet, you must maintain healthy and well-balanced eating habits to maintain your ideal weight. In addition:
- Be careful about exercise. While you can engage in some light exercise, more strenuous activities such as sit ups and weight lifting until you get your surgeon’s approval. Typically, this will be 6-8 weeks after surgery.
- You may be required to wear your compression garment. For some patients, your surgeon may recommend that you wear the compression garment for at least 4 weeks after the surgery.
Call Today
To find out more about the costs and benefits of our abdominoplasty surgery or our non-surgical body contouring procedures, visit us at 401-3320 Richter St, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1W 4V5.
Alternatively, you can contact us at 250-868-9799 or fill in our online contact form.
