How much protein should I eat after surgery?

Question

I am a fairly fit person already but I am getting a tummy tuck to get rid of the loose skin on my stomach. I heard eating a high protein diet after surgery is very important to recovery. I track my food to fuel my workout routine so I have been on a high protein diet for the last three years, I average 130g protein a day. My question is should I increase my protein more after surgery since my body is used to a higher level? Or is that already sufficient? How long do you eat the extra protein?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Congratulations on your upcoming tummy tuck surgery! It's great that you are already conscious about the role of nutrition in recovery. Indeed, a high protein diet is essential after surgery to help repair tissues, reduce inflammation, and support wound healing.

Although it's important to consume sufficient protein after surgery, it's not necessarily recommended to increase your protein intake by a large amount if you're already consuming a high protein diet. Consuming too much protein can lead to other health issues such as kidney damage or weight gain. Instead, maintaining a protein intake of around 1-1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight per day is generally recommended.

Regarding how long to eat the extra protein, you should continue to prioritize protein-rich foods for the duration of your recovery, which can range from a few weeks to several months depending on the extent of the surgery and your body's natural healing process. Your plastic surgeon can provide you with specific guidelines on your diet and nutrition needs during your recovery period.

Thank you for your question and wishing you a successful surgery and speedy recovery.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Pioneering837538,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I go over an extensive postoperative protocol with my patients that includes eating 100 grams of protein each day and not being in calorie restricting mode. In the few cases of wound separation or extrusion, the patient was not consuming adequate calories and protein to heal. Recommend that patients follow the 100 grams of protein consumption each day for six weeks.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You want to eat a healthy, balanced diet after your tummy tuck.  In the early stages of healing it is common that patients have a decreased appetite.  Your current protein intake is very good.  Your surgeon will advise you if you should revise it based on your surgical plan.

Mark T. Boschert, MD · Answer

That is an excellent amount. I recommend 100-120 g per day for a couple weeks before and after surgery. You will be fine at 130g. Best of luck, Dr Boschert Renaissance Plastic surgery

Joshua T. Tieman, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Most surgeons typically recommend 1.2-2 grams of protein per kilogram of weight daily to recover following surgery. It sounds like you are probably already at that goal. I typically recommend increasing protein for 1-2 months postoperatively.

How much protein should I eat after surgery?

Answers (6)

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