I am 12 days post mini tummy tuck. Should I be this tired? (photos)

Question

My incision line looks good and is healing as expected. I have minor bruising, but am able to walk fine, not bent over. I am off pain meds, except an occasional ibuprofen. I am able to perform all necessary day to day functions... washing dishes, making my own meals, showering, light housekeeping. But my face looks tired and pale and I get fatigued very easily. Is this normal?

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question. It is not unusual to feel tired and not very energetic early after an abdominoplasty, which is really a major surgery. Most patients would get back to their normal selves within 2-3 weeks post op. Go back to your surgeon for an evaluation, and likely to have your blood count checked, and start iron supplements if needed. Best,

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello Lisa,Great question. However, you are very early in your recovery process. There would be a lack of energy due to the surgical procedure. There is still swelling involved. I will recommend following up with your surgeon as he know you best. If concerns persist, please consult with a board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed examination.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Your body is working hard to heal itself, it is normal to feel tired. Allow yourself to rest, don't overdo it. You will start feeling more normal in a few weeks. Be sure to follow all post operative instructions, and discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Lisa30793,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

It’s not uncommon to feel tired during the recovery period after a mini tummy tuck, especially in the first few weeks. Your body is healing, and this can require a significant amount of energy. Make sure to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. If your fatigue persists or worsens, it’s a good idea to consult your surgeon for guidance and reassurance.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes it is normal to be fatigued when healing from surgery.  Your body is very busy right now trying to mend you from surgery.  Be sure to listen to your body and take breaks as needed.  Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy balanced diet.  You should continue to improve as healing progresses.  Be sure to keep all post operative appointments and discuss all concerns with your surgeon.

Emily B. McLaughlin, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You appear to be healing well. As your body continues to heal you will begin to feel more normal. Most patients can return to full activity with no restrictions around 8 weeks and feel more normal with regular energy levels. Follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your body is using energy to heal itself, and you will not yet feel like your normal self during this initially healing phase. By 6 weeks, most notice a return to normal energy levels. What you are experiencing is completely normal.

Raffi Hovsepian, MD, FACS · Answer

Different recovery protocols are present for different patients. On average 12 days after surgery is early to the make a decision on ones final result, activity level and recovery; usually  2-3 months is required for return to full recovery on a mini-tummy tuck.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

talk to your plastic surgeon and ask if there was any significant blood loss during the procedure.  That would be the most common reason for feeling tired. The healing process will require some energy and it's not unusual to need more rest after surgery.  Best, Mats Hagstrom M.D.

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