Choosing to undergo plastic surgery isn’t a decision to take lightly. Many of my tummy tuck patients in Sacramento want to know if the procedure is worth the financial and emotional investment. A tummy tuck requires time, patience, and endurance—but the results are definitely worth waiting for. In this blog post, we’ll discuss 3 important things you should keep in mind before you take the surgical plunge.
Your results won’t appear overnight.
It’s normal to feel excited about seeing your new look after tummy tuck surgery. However, it’s important to remember that you won’t be “swimsuit-ready” overnight. At first, your midsection will look very different than what you can expect from your final results. Post-operative swelling is common the first 3 weeks after surgery, and your scar will be red and tender.
You may not feel camera-ready in those early days, but don’t worry—this is all a normal part of the healing process. As you continue to recover, your swelling will subside and your scar will slowly fade. After 3 months, you’ll be ready to grab your swimsuit.
You may feel uncomfortable (but that’s OK).
The risk of major complications is low when your procedure is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Still, a tummy tuck is a major surgery, and you will experience some discomfort during the recovery process.
The abdominal muscles help us sit, stand, and walk, so even basic movements may hurt at first. Your doctor will provide you prescription medications to keep any pain to a tolerable level. The good news is that the worst of the pain will be during the first 1 to 2 days after surgery. After that, you should feel better each day and feel back to “normal” after a few weeks.
Invest in the healing process.
It’s important to remember that the healing process is a marathon, not a sprint. Patients who fully invest themselves in recovery get the best final results. Give your body the energy it needs to recover by eating healthy, balanced meals that are high in protein and low in salt. Take it easy and don’t push yourself back into exercise or strenuous chores if you’re not feeling up to the task.
Your doctor will give you specific directions about medication, scar care, and more. By making smart choices and following all your medical guidelines, you can enjoy your gorgeously toned body for years to come.
A tummy tuck may require some thought and preparation, but the results are certainly worth the effort. If you’re interested in talking about your best body contouring options with plastic surgeons in Sacramento, please request a consultation online or call my offices at (916) 929-1833 (Sacramento) or (916) 773-5559 (Granite Bay).
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