Any Advice on How I Should Prepare Myself for a Tummy Tuck?

Question

I am so ecstatic about getting my tummy tuck done next week after having waited for a very long time.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

You will receive a list of things to do (and not to do)  in preparation for your tummy tuck surgery, from your surgeon.

I do however have a word of advice for you that you may not receive from your surgeon.

Patients who are about to undergo tummy tuck surgery spend a lot of time thinking about the physical preparation for the procedure (for example weight loss issues) but do not spend a lot of time thinking about the emotional aspects.
	It is not uncommon for patients who undergo the procedure to experience severe “mood swings”. These emotions may range from depression ( “why did I do this to myself”) to elation  (which may lead to over activity). I think it is helpful to be aware that these emotional swings do occur postoperatively. 
	Suggestions I have for patients undergoing this procedure: 1. Make sure you have a strong support system in place who have time/patience to take care of you. 2. Be patient with the healing process, understanding that it will take several weeks to months to feel “normal” again. 3. Be prepared to distract your mind with things of interest such as books, magazines, and movies. 4. Expect less of yourself; do not go back to work too early and let others take care of you (for a change). 5. Keep in close communication with your surgeon and do not hesitate to communicate questions/concerns and the emotional swings that you may experience. 6. Keep in mind the end result!

Best wishes.

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
First of all, in the preparing process for an abdominoplasty requires a healthy, high protein diet for at least 2-4 weeks pre-op and make sure you’re not constipated. 
  
The other important thing in the preparing process is being mentally prepared. For to achieve that, you should share your concerns with your surgeon in your consultation, if you have one. 
  
Your abdominoplasty may be performed in a hospital, an independent surgical facility, or an office-based surgical suite. 
  
In my practice, once you’re prepared for surgery, my medical team and I will follow the surgical plan you agreed on. Often a general anesthesia is used so you will be asleep during the procedure. Surgery typically takes between two to four hours depending on your size...

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. When preparing for any surgery being mentally prepared is very important. Its normal to be concerned when having any surgery. Heres some tips to ease your mind and help you prepare. -Get lab testing or medical evaluation-If you smoke, quit smoking to avoid any potential risks-You may be asked to adjust any current medications-Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding-Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is very importantDhaval M. Patel Double board certified Plastic surgeonHoffman EstatesBarringtonOakbrook Chicago

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Congratulations on making the choice to have a tummy tuck. You must be so excited! Here are some things that I generally advise my patients to do before their surgery:Eat and lead a healthy lifestyle.Stop smoking 4 weeks before surgery.Stop taking blood thinners 2 weeks before surgery.Take a multivitamin (without extra vitamin E) two weeks before surgery.Relax! Best of luck!

Rod J. Rohrich, MD · Answer

The key element in preparing for an abdominoplasty is to eat a healthy, high protein diet for at least 2-4 weeks pre-op and make sure you&rsquo;re not constipated. Avoid any type of crash or unusual diet and you will do well.

Any Advice on How I Should Prepare Myself for a Tummy Tuck?

Answers (10)

Answer: Preparing for tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Preparing for tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Preparing for An Abdominoplasty

Answer: Preparing for An Abdominoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Any Advice on How I Should Prepare Myself for a Tummy Tuck?

Answers (10)

Answer: Preparing for tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Preparing for tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Preparing for An Abdominoplasty

Answer: Preparing for An Abdominoplasty

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.