When Can I Lie Flat? One factor determining how long you'll need to sleep in an elevated position is the type of abdominoplasty you receive. Generally, mini tummy tuck patients require 1-3 weeks of elevated sleeping, while full-tummy tuck patients require 4-6 weeks.
After a full tummy tuck, you'll typically be advised to sleep in an elevated position for at least two weeks and possibly up to four to six weeks. After a mini tummy tuck, you'll be instructed to sleep with your upper body raised for at least a week and possibly for two or three weeks.
The best position to sleep after your tummy tuck is on your back. This position might be uncomfortable if you usually sleep on your side or stomach, but most patients get used to this position quickly. Sleeping on your stomach or side can strain your incisions and result in post-operative complications.
Lying flat stretches out the abdomen while sleeping on your side allows you to bend your knees and avoid abdominal stretching. Most patients can lie flat again after roughly six weeks if their healing is going well.
Surgeons often recommend sleeping on your back while recovering from a tummy tuck, but you may be able to sleep on your side a few weeks after surgery. When you sleep on your back, you should elevate yourself with pillows. This can help make sleeping on your back more comfortable and easier to get used to.
The first three to five days are the most difficult period of tummy tuck recovery. You will spend much of this time reclining – often even sleeping in a recliner. During this first week when the pain is most severe, Dr. Slack will prescribe a combination of narcotics and muscle relaxers.
If you have a “mini tummy tuck” with a smaller incision, you'll likely need between one and three weeks of elevated sleeping. On the other hand, full-tummy tuck patients require about four weeks, with six weeks of limiting any strenuous exercise or lifting.
In general, you need to keep a straight abdomen with slight bending while recovering after your tummy tuck. You should avoid bending over too much (e.g. to pick up your child) for the first 4-6 weeks after your abdominoplasty.
In the first week after tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Patronella recommends patients take short walks of 10 minutes, gradually increasing this to one mile, twice daily by days 10 to 14 days after the procedure.
Most of the swelling will fade away two weeks after the surgery. At this point, you can start walking twice a day for fifteen to twenty minutes. Do not opt for any other exercises as your body is still in the initial phases of recovery. You can increase the duration of your walks after the four weeks marker.
You'll need to get up and walk every day to regain your normal movement. Between walks, move your feet and legs often. A tummy tuck leaves a long scar that will fade with time. You also may have a small scar around your belly button.
Does walking reduce swelling after abdominoplasty? Yes, undertaking very light walking in the first few weeks can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation. However, it is recommended you speak with your doctor about how much walking they feel is safe for you to do.
Stay mobile: While it is essential that patients get plenty of rest during tummy tuck recovery, it is also important to incorporate very light walking into your daily routine. This helps to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and minimize the risk of postoperative complications, such as blood clots.
It is recommended that you avoid sleeping on your stomach or side for at least two weeks after this cosmetic procedure, as this can put too much pressure on the incision site and cause pain.
When Can I Lie Flat? One factor determining how long you'll need to sleep in an elevated position is the type of abdominoplasty you receive. Generally, mini tummy tuck patients require 1-3 weeks of elevated sleeping, while full-tummy tuck patients require 4-6 weeks.
Be aware of “red flags.” If you experience shortness of breath, an irregular heartbeat, or chest pain, these could indicate complications. Also, if you notice an increase in redness, pain, swelling, drainage or bleeding, or if you experience nausea, vomiting, dizziness or fever, call your surgeon immediately.
Hydration is essential following a tummy tuck. The human body is made from 70% water, so it cannot function properly if it is dehydrated. You may think that drinking more fluid will worsen swelling, but it can help by flushing out your system. Aim to drink at least 2 litres of water per day to stay fully hydrated.
As with any other surgical procedure, swelling after tummy tuck is typical to occur in the lower abdominal area. Three weeks after surgery, most patients feel very swollen and even experience hardness around the belly button.
By the end of the week, you should be able to engage in light activity or household chores and walk without assistance. Week Two: By the end of week two, you should be able to walk twice daily for 10 to 15 minutes, a habit you can form now that will help you succeed in staying fit after your tummy tuck.
Whether you're contemplating a Mommy Makeover package or just want to undergo a tummy tuck, you'll be relieved to know that any pain from this cosmetic procedure is far less than that experienced after a C-section. *Individual Results May Vary.
It's not uncommon for people who have a tummy tuck to have a smaller appetite for the first three to six months following their surgery. The tightening of skin and muscles in your abdomen may cause your stomach to feel constricted, encouraging you to eat less.
The best sleeping position after tummy tuck surgery is on your back with your upper body elevated to create a slight bend or angle. Using pillows or sleeping in a recliner is ideal to achieve this position.
How soon can you walk after a tummy tuck? You absolutely can walk up and downstairs immediately after surgery. Once again use common sense. If you need someone to help you on the stairs then do so.
The first 4 weeks after your tummy tuck should be reserved for healing your body from surgery. Don't engage in any intense physical activity during this time. Stick to shuffling around right after surgery and eventually walking normally.