Preparing for Tummy Tuck

The road to getting a flat and toned abdomen with tummy tuck (also known as abdominoplasty) begins months before your scheduled surgery takes place. Preparing for tummy tuck well in advance not only helps you better understand what to expect from the surgery and recovery, it also helps enhance your results.

In this blog post, San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Carlos Chacon MD shares his top tips on preparing for tummy tuck.

Four to Six Months Before Surgery: Prioritizing Your Health

The best candidates for tummy tuck and plastic surgery in general are individuals who are in good general health and have a healthy and stable weight. Eating a well-balanced diet and exercising regularly puts your body in the best possible shape to heal quickly and safely. If you smoke, you will have to quit before tummy tuck. It is also a good idea to limit alcohol consumption.

Four Months Before Surgery: Selecting the Right Tummy Tuck Surgeon

You should begin scheduling in-person consultations with two or three plastic surgeons at least four months prior to your desired surgery date. When selecting your surgeon, take the time to look through their credentials, including education and surgical training. Your surgeon should have years of experience performing tummy tuck surgery, as well as plenty of before-and-after photos of and reviews from former patients.

Three Months Before Surgery: Making Arrangements for Surgery and Aftercare

Once you have selected your surgeon and have been cleared for surgery, it’s time to make arrangements for the day of surgery and recovery. You will need to take one to two weeks off from work to recover. Many patients find it very helpful to enlist a loved one to help them with child care, pet care, errands and housework in the first few days after tummy tuck. Having a loved one there to help you allows you to focus on healing.

One Month Before Surgery: Preparing Your Recovery Space

The month before your surgery should be dedicated to completing any last-minute things you need to take care of before your surgery, including blood tests, if your surgeon requires them. You should also take the time to stock up on items you will need during your recovery, including easy-to-prepare meals, cold compresses and plenty of water. Prepare your couch or bed with comfortable pillows and clean bed linens.

To learn more about tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with Dr. Chacon of Divino Plastic Surgery. Call (858) 633-7546 today.