Tummy Tuck - Aftercare

In the first post-operative days, you will notice swelling and feel pressure and pain in the abdominal area. The swelling should subside within approximately 10-14 days. Feelings of numbness may also occur.^{13, 14}

On the first day after the operation bedrest is mandatory; the compression stockings which are normally placed on you serve to prevent blood coagulation. Stretching and bending the upper body should be avoided in the first few days. After about 48 hours, the drainages are usually removed.
After a two- to five-day in-patient stay you may usually return home and after 2-4 weeks you may return to your daily personal and work life.¹⁵

In the first 2-3 post-operative weeks, you should take it easy and refrain from placing physical demands on your body. Thereafter, you can take up very light sports activities again. You should not perform any weightlifting or strength training in the first three months.¹⁶

If the abdominal surface was reconstructed during the procedure, i.e. in a large-scale abdominoplasty, the rest period should be extended over a period of six weeks; during this time a compression garment should be worn at all times. In the six weeks thereafter, the garment only needs to be worn during the day. Please visit your doctor for regular check-ups in the first few weeks. After around seven days, the stitches around your navel will be removed and after approximately two weeks, the remaining stitches will be removed.¹⁷

However, aftercare activities also depend on your individual situation; please speak about this in detail with your doctor.