After an abdominoplasty, you will need to remain on your back with your head elevated and knees bent with a pillow underneath. This position will reduce strain on your abdominal area.
The doctors will insert one or two drains to help remove any fluids and blood that collects at the incision site. Expect a bit of pain and nausea during the first 1-2 days after surgery. The discomfort may be intense during this time, but know that it will pass.
Bruising, soreness and swelling may develop for the first few weeks following surgery.
Every person is different so the extent to which you will experience these symptoms depends on your particular body.
It is important to begin walking for short periods as soon as possible after surgery, to reduce swelling and lower the chance of developing blood clots in your legs. It may be difficult to stand straight with the compression bandages on, but try to get your legs moving for short periods anyway.
You may shower as normal after the drains are removed on day 3 or 4 after surgery. But stay away from swimming pools and bath tubs, as these can be breeding grounds for bacteria and infection in the early days after surgery.
When you get home on day 5 or 6, keep the wound clean and dry and attend to it at least twice a day. Avoid physical activities for a few weeks and strenuous activities for several months after surgery. Talk to your surgeon about what you can and can’t do during this time.
The doctor will remove your stitches after a week or so, and will give you a light surgical garment to wear for about 3 months to support the area that has been tightened.
You should feel recovered in about two weeks.
There may still be some swelling and bruising after this time, but most people are able to return to work after 4 weeks.
