Are you considering undergoing an abdominoplasty? Here are some tips on how to prepare for this plastic surgery to ensure the safest and most satisfactory results.
An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a body contouring procedure which involves the removal of excess fat and skin to improve the shape and tone of the abdominal area. When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, this abdominal surgery will safely:
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Improve your figure
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Flatten, tighten, and firm up your abdomen
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Eliminate fat and skin that is resistant to diet and exercise
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Improve your overall health
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Boost your self-confidence
At our Kelowna private hospital, our plastic surgeons have extensive experience in abdominoplasty and can help develop a tailored treatment plan to fit your lifestyle and help you successfully reach all your aesthetic goals.
Customized Plastic Surgery Treatments at Our Kelowna Private Hospital
From cosmetic face surgery (facelifts, brow lifts, and neck lifts) to general surgery, the highly trained and qualified plastic surgeons at our Kelowna private hospital can help you achieve all your aesthetic and health goals in the safest and most efficient manner.
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How to Prepare for Your Abdominoplasty
One of the best ways to ensure that you receive the safest and most satisfactory results from your abdominoplasty is by following your surgeon’s pre-surgery instructions. Here are some ways that you can prepare for your plastic surgery:
Go for an Initial Consultation
During your initial abdominoplasty consultation, your plastic surgeon will evaluate your lifestyle and health status and discuss:
- Surgical goals
- Current medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
- Previous surgeries
- Lifestyle habits (e.g. drug use, alcohol intake, tobacco use)
- Likely outcomes of your plastic surgery and any associated risks
It is very important to book a consultation with your plastic surgeon prior to your abdominoplasty. This will ensure that you understand all aspects of the procedure and you’ll have a chance to raise any questions or concerns you have about the treatment.
SIGNS YOU ARE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR AN ABDOMINOPLASTY
Dos and Don’ts When Preparing for an Abdominoplasty
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Stop smoking. Your plastic surgeon will ask that you quit smoking at least six weeks prior to your abdominoplasty. This is important for lowering your risk of complications and to promote faster, more efficient healing.
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Eat nutritious foods. In the months prior to your abdominoplasty, make sure that you consume plenty of whole foods to strengthen your immune system (e.g. fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and low-fat dairy)
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Stop taking certain medications. Aspirin and some anti-inflammatory medications and herbal medications can increase your risk for bleeding more than necessary during surgery. Make sure to talk to your doctor about any medication you are taking and they can advise on which ones to stop prior to your treatment.
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Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water on a daily basis prior to your abdominoplasty will help flush toxins from your body and promote a safe recovery.
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Maintain a healthy body weight. Maintaining your current health and body weight will help keep your immune system strong so that your body can heal properly after the surgery.
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Wear comfortable clothes to the surgery. Make sure you wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off on the day of your surgery. Wearing clothes that require you to lift your arms or bend down could rupture incisions and result in pain following your surgery.
Prepare Your Home for Your Recovery
One of the most important things you can do prior to your tummy tuck is preparing your home for recovery following the surgery. Here are some things you should consider doing:
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Make arrangements for child and pet care. You will need a lot of rest following your surgery, so make sure you make arrangements for a family member or friend to help take care of your children and/or pets.
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Make transportation arrangements. You will not be able to drive yourself back from the tummy tuck surgery. Make sure you arrange for a family member or friend to drive you to and from the procedure.
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Prep your space for recovery. Keep your books, snacks, mobile phone charger, and other essentials nearby so that you can access them with ease.
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Keep ice packs on hand. This can help reduce any swelling or discomfort you may experience following your procedure.
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Prepare meals in advance. Prior to your treatment, consider stocking up on foods that are gentle on your stomach, such as soup, protein shakes, and yogurt.
Contact Us
Do you want to know more about the costs and benefits of an abdominoplasty? Our plastic surgeons can help discuss your goals, general health, and lifestyle, to determine whether this body contouring procedure is right for you.
To find out more, call us at (250) 868-9799 or fill out our online contact form.
