How to Keep a Tummy Tucked
Separation of the abdominal muscles, technically known as “distasis,” often occurs after pregnancy or weight gain. The tight, abdominal muscles that work like a corset to contain the midsection can become stretched apart, leading to a stubborn bulge that is difficult to remove through diet and exercise alone. When there is significant weight loss in addition to this, there is often excess skin as well as fat in the midsection. A tummy tuck works to tighten the abdominal muscles and remove excess skin to create a flat, more sculpted physique. Many who consider this procedure often ask how long the results will last. While the tummy tuck procedure does not stop the signs of aging, the slender shape created during surgery should last for years unless the patient gains a significant amount of weight or becomes pregnant.
To maintain the best results after surgery, follow these tips:
Wear Your Compression Garment
After surgery, it is normal for the body to accumulate fluid beneath the skin. The pressure of a compression garment will help “push” the fluid out of the tissues and encourage the body to absorb them naturally. This helps bruising and swelling to subside and will speed up the recovery process. The compression garment will also help the skin to conform to its new shape and can help scars to heal more smoothly. Most patients wear their compression garments day and night for at least two weeks or until the swelling has gone down.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Tummy tuck surgery is not weight loss surgery, nor does it prevent weight gain. A patient can expect to lose about four pounds of excess skin and fat from the surgery, but this can be re-gained over time with an unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle. If the patient gains weight, there is no way to determine where the fat will accumulate. To best protect their surgical investment, the tummy tuck patient should continue to exercise and monitor caloric intake after the procedure.
Follow Your Surgeon's Aftercare Advice
Your surgeon may have specific instructions for you to follow after surgery, especially if you have undergone another procedure like breast augmentation or liposuction along with a tummy tuck. You should closely follow your surgeon’s directions in regards to taking medications, avoiding certain activities, and wearing your surgical garments. Your surgeon will know just how invasive and detailed your particular procedure was, as well as how your body responded to itand can offer advice conducive to your unique situation.
If you are interested in tummy tuck surgery in the Columbus or Dublin, Ohio areas, call the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery at (614) 482-2123 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Shah looks forward to hearing from you.