A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a transformative surgery that requires careful post-operative care to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. Proper planning can make all the difference! Below are five essential recovery tips to guide you through the healing process by reducing discomfort, preventing complications, and helping you get back on your feet with confidence.
1. Maintain Mobility: Use a Walker for Support
After a tummy tuck, you’ll be advised to walk in a slightly bent-over position to reduce strain on your healing abdominal muscles and the tightened abdominal skin. This posture can feel unnatural and tiring, especially to your lower back.
🚶♀️Tip: Use a lightweight walker to help maintain balance and reduce strain while walking in the prescribed bent-over position. Short, frequent walks around your home will promote circulation, prevent blood clots, and aid in the healing process.
2. Prioritize Comfortable Sleeping: Use a Recliner or Foam Wedge
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for healing, but after a tummy tuck lying flat is not advised. How can you get good sleep while also protecting your surgical investment?
🛌 Tip: Many patients find a recliner (preferable) or a foam wedge pillow helpful for maintaining the recommended elevated posture while sleeping. If a recliner or wedge isn’t available, prioritize finding one. Do not rely on stacking pillows to achieve the prescribed sleeping position, they generally aren't supportive enough and can lead to unnecessary complications.
3. Wear Compression Garments: Abdominal Binder & Compression Socks
Post-surgical swelling is normal, and wearing the right compression garments can help manage it while providing gentle support to your healing abdomen.
🤍 Tip: Wear a gentle abdominal binder as recommended by your surgeon to support your core and reduce swelling. Compression socks are also important to promote circulation and prevent blood clots, especially during periods of rest.
4. Maintain Hygiene Safely: Use a Shower Chair
Taking a shower post-surgery can feel daunting due to fatigue, soreness, drains, and mobility limitations. Using a shower chair can help you bathe safely and comfortably.
🚿 Tip: Set up a shower chair before surgery so you can sit while bathing, reducing the risk of falls or overexertion. Keep necessary items within easy reach and have a caregiver available if needed.
5. Fuel Your Recovery: Easy Prepped Meals for Healing
A well-balanced diet plays a significant role in post-surgical healing. Focus on high-protein, nutrient-dense meals to aid tissue repair and keep energy levels up.
🥑 Easy Meal Prep Ideas:
-Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach on whole-grain toast, with a side of blueberries.
- Lunch: Spinach salad with goat cheese, walnuts, and grilled chicken, drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Dinner: Grilled salmon with a side of quinoa and roasted sweet potatoes.
🔹 Pro Tip: Prepare and freeze meals **before surgery** so you have nourishing options ready when you need them most!
Recovering from a tummy tuck takes time, but by prioritizing mobility, rest, compression, hygiene, and nutrition, you can set yourself up for a smoother healing journey. Listen to your body, follow your surgeon’s guidance, and give yourself the grace to heal at your own pace. 💕
Would you like additional product recommendations to support your tummy tuck recovery? Check out our Tummy Tuck Recovery Kit for essentials designed to keep you comfortable and supported during healing!