Did you know that the abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, has been performed since the early 1800s? Globally, it has gained popularity as one of the most common cosmetic procedures. Thankfully, in the last few years, there has been a significant advancement in the methods and equipment used to do modern tummy tucks. 

Fortunately, the most recent advances in plastic surgery allow for even better outcomes, a smoother, faster recovery, with relatively minimal discomfort.

Despite the popularity of this procedure, many patients often need to learn what to expect during recovery. Understanding the recovery process and timeline can help make the tummy tuck easier for many patients. According to Dr. Leena Jain, a renowned plastic surgeon in Bandra, Mumbai, various tummy tuck procedures are available, each with a different recovery time. 

The degree of correction required to get the desired results will define the course of your treatment. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure you adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and all aftercare instructions.

Although the recovery process may seem complicated, Dr. Leena Jain strives to provide the most remarkable outcomes for your tummy tuck in Mumbai with minimal discomfort.

In this article, we will discuss more about tummy tuck surgery in Mumbai and its recovery process.

Overview of Tummy Tuck Surgery

A tummy tuck is an elective cosmetic procedure. It involves removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles. The best abdominoplasty procedure for you will depend on your specific requirements and the regions you want to change. There are many different types of tummy tuck surgeries that may assist patients in obtaining a flatter, slimmer, and tighter abdomen over the long term.

Recovery from Tummy Tuck

The time to recover from a tummy tuck cannot be predicted. There is a basic time schedule, as with any surgical procedure, but individual recoveries depend on a range of factors, including the following:

    • Age

    • Overall health

    • Type of tummy tuck

    • Postoperative care

Your surgeon will review a more detailed recovery schedule after completing the treatment. But typically, people feel normal around the third-fourth week.

Why does the type of abdominoplasty matter?

There are various tummy tuck procedures available. You can choose between a “mini” tuck, which only targets a small area in the lower abdomen, and a complete or more thorough “extended tummy tuck.”

Your recovery time might be lengthier if your abdominal contouring was more comprehensive. This is particularly true if you want an extensive tummy tuck encompassing the flanks and lower back.

What can you expect during a tummy tuck recovery?

The most crucial thing to remember throughout this process is to pay close attention to your surgeon’s instructions. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

According to Dr. Leena Jain, one of the best tummy tuck surgeon in Mumbai, selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck is always advised because they have met stringent training and safety standards that other doctors have not. 

Your board-certified plastic surgeon can provide recovery guidance and support throughout the recovery process.

1. Immediately after the tummy tuck procedure

Your surgeon will cover your abdomen with a surgical dressing after a tummy tuck. Tiny, thin tubes will often be positioned around your incision to remove any accumulated fluid. This is typical and shouldn’t make you feel any worse.

For the first few days of recovery, you will need to rest at an angle and be told to move around to help prevent blood clots.

2. While you are at home

It is crucial to arrange assistance for at least the first few days after surgery when you are at home as you will need help for food, etc. You won’t be able to drive home and will need assistance for that.

You will be up and about and independent in mobility.

Once you get home, you could find it challenging to bend, lift, or remain still for a long time. Therefore, having help around the first few days after a tummy tuck can make recovery much simpler.

3. Regular maintenance

Most patients receive topical creams to put around the incision site, antibiotics, and anticoagulants for a predetermined period. 

It is crucial to wear your abdominal support wrap or garment for the prescribed number of hours each day for a minimum of three months to minimize swelling and discomfort as you recover.

Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided for at least three months after surgery because they can adversely hinder your recovery.

4. Returning to regular life

Avoid squatting or picking up children or heavy things for the first few weeks. However, driving, cooking, and shopping are usually manageable after a week or two.

For recovery, most people take up to two-four weeks off work. Having ample time off is essential to ensure your recovery is not compromised if you work in a physically demanding job. For the same reasons, you should also refrain from heavy exercising, however, walking can be resumed in 2 weeks time.

5. Long-term effects 

After a tummy tuck, some people may suffer numbness or a pulling sensation for a few weeks or months, although this is usually common and goes away over time. 

The swelling and bruising may go away entirely within one -two months. But it might take longer for your scar to fade away.

Recovery requires patience.

Your recovery can go more smoothly if you work closely with your plastic surgeon and the surgical team to understand and plan for life after surgery. You can reach your individual aesthetic goals with a tummy tuck. Do everything you can to recover fully from the surgery while keeping in mind to treat your body with kindness.

A tummy tuck can help people eliminate the extra skin, fat, and tissue that liposuction, diet, and exercise cannot remove on their own. When researching and getting ready for your surgery, it is crucial to understand your procedure’s recovery process and aftercare instructions.  A board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in body surgeries should be consulted if you are thinking about getting tummy tuck surgery in Mumbai so they can provide you with complete details about the process, risks, and recovery.