Becoming A Better You

Posted on: 13 August 2020

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your mid-section, you might be considering a tummy tuck procedure for a tighter, more toned look. With a good cosmetic surgeon in your corner, the procedure should go smoothly, but there are still a few things you will want to do in order to prepare.

1. Strengthen your abdominal muscles.

You may not be able to see your abdominal muscles very well through the excess skin and fat that are around your midsection right now — but they are in there! The stronger your abdominal muscles, the more quickly you will be able to heal from your tummy tuck. So at least a few weeks before your procedure, it is a good idea to start doing some ab exercises. Do some planks, crunches, and maybe some lunges to really tone that core. Stop about a week before the surgery so your muscles have some time to relax and recover fully.

2. Buy some elastic-waist pants.

For the first few weeks after surgery, you will have a bandage around your midsection, and you will probably also have a few drains to collect fluid from the incisions. You will want some loose, elastic-waist pants to wear comfortably over the bandages and drains. If you're comfortable wearing loose sundresses, that might be even better. 

3. Stop smoking and drinking.

Smoking and drinking alcohol both impair your body's healing ability. A tummy tuck is a major procedure, and it is performed in a very vital place — around your abdomen. Therefore, it is really important that you give your body the best possible chance to heal. This means stopping drinking and smoking as soon before your procedure as possible. Your doctor will likely tell you to quit a couple of weeks before your surgery, but if you're able to quit earlier, that's even better. If you struggle to quit, be honest with your doctor. They can recommend support groups, medications, and other methods that can help you quit.

4. Stock up on fiber-rich foods.

After a tummy tuck, having a bowel movement can be a little painful at first. Eating a really fiber-rich diet in the weeks following surgery can help soften your stool and reduce the pain. Stock up on foods like high-fiber cereal, fruits, and veggies so you are well prepared to eat right.

Ask your doctor for additional tips and information on preparing for a tummy tuck. Good preparation makes for a speedy recovery.