Tummy Tuck Surgery

Tummy tuck surgery begins with a relatively long incision across the abdomen from hip bone to hip bone. The shape of the incision is like a smile. The flat part of the smile is at the bottom part of the abdomen right above the pubic area. The sides of the smile form a gentle curve along the pelvis up to the top of the hip bone.

A second incision is made around the belly button to free it from the abdominal tissue. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall, up to the ribs, exposing the vertical abdominal muscles (rectus muscles). The rectus muscles are stitched into a new position, tightening the muscles and reducing the waistline. After the muscles have been repositioned and tightened, the excess skin is stretched and removed. The remaining skin is re-draped over the abdominal area and sutured in place. The belly button is then brought out through the overlying skin in its new location.

After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Some patients may not need an overnight hospital stay after tummy tuck surgery. Others may spend one or two days in the hospital, depending on the extent of the procedure. You will be prescribed pain medication for soreness of the abdomen.

Some surgeons allow you to shower two to three days after your tummy tuck surgery, while others only allow sponge baths until a week after surgery. If you are allowed to shower, you may have to wear your support garments, or shower under just a light trickle of water, or with your back to the shower spray.

The abdominal scars will appear to worsen during the first three to six months. Bruising and swelling are normal and may take nine months before they flatten and lighten in color. Creams or ointments are usually recommended for scars. Antibiotics are also prescribed to counter any infections after tummy tuck surgery.

Tummy Tuck Drains

As the tummy tuck incision heals, you will gradually need less and less bandaging. You will need to drain your incision wound two to three times a day. Tummy tuck drains are silicone tubes that are inserted into your abdomen either through specially made incisions, or through the tummy tuck incision. These tubes connect to bulbs that provide suction for excess fluid that accumulates during your recovery period.

Drains after tummy tuck procedures are used with most of the patients. The purpose of tummy tuck drains is to decrease the risk of seroma formation (fluid collecting between the muscle layer and the skin flap). A seroma could be the source of infection. The use of drains after tummy tuck surgery provides a point of exit for this fluid, which reduces the risk of complications. Usually, the patient measures the drainage each day, discarding the fluid and keeping track of the amount.

It may be possible to remove the drains after three to five days following tummy tuck surgery, though it may take as long as three weeks or more, depending on how much fluid is draining.

Tummy Tuck Follow-Up

You will need a follow-up visit with your tummy tuck surgeon about three or four days after your surgery. Your surgeon will check your drains, examine your incision, and generally check to see how you are doing. Your sutures may be removed five to 10 days after surgery or may be left in for two weeks or more. Parts of your tummy tuck incision may heal faster than other parts.

The stitches from your tummy tuck are usually removed within five to seven days of the surgery in stages. A nurse or your doctor may instruct you on how to bandage your incision. If you go home the same day as your tummy tuck surgery, you will be given instructions on how to change the bandages.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Patients who were in good physical condition at the time of the surgery will have a shorter tummy tuck recovery time. Your doctor will tell you when you can return to work and to regular activities. However, the more extensive your tummy tuck surgery, the longer the time off from work and other activities will be.

Recovery time from tummy tuck varies from person to person. You may need up to six weeks off for proper healing if you had a very extensive surgery. You will be encouraged to do a bit of walking every day in the first weeks and more as the weeks pass. Walking around helps prevent blood clot formation and eases swelling.

Many doctors agree that beginning a regular regime of light exercise about a week after surgery can help you heal faster and more completely. Walking is usually the best exercise to engage in after tummy tuck surgery, but other forms of non-aerobic exercise may also be acceptable. A gentle exercise plan that has been pre-approved by your doctor can help reduce swelling, prevent blood clots, and strengthen your immune system.

Tummy Tuck Healing Process

Your tummy tuck surgeon will give you guidelines for activities such as changing the surgical dressings, showering or bathing, and walking. While the tummy tuck incision is still open, do not smoke or use nicotine patches or gums because they interfere with your healing.

Your tummy tuck doctor may advise you to wear a support garment around your abdomen. Support garments or binders will compress your abdomen and help in healing and controlling the swelling. You may wake up after the tummy tuck surgery with an abdominal binder already on. They can be purchased at many pharmacies or surgical supply stores. You may also be required to wear elasticized stockings for a short period while you are healing from tummy tuck surgery to decrease the risk of blood clots in the legs.

You must have your head and shoulders elevated for the first week to 14 days when sleeping. Because of the extent of the soreness, you will probably stay in bed for a few days. Plenty of sleep is required and is good for you while you heal.

Full recovery after tummy tuck surgery may take several weeks. Average recovery time takes two to four weeks after your tummy tuck surgery.

Find Out More About Tummy Tuck Surgery

For more information on tummy tuck surgery, see the menu items to the left. To find a tummy tuck doctor near you, use our tummy tuck surgeon locator.