When you schedule your surgery depends on both your schedule and your surgeon's schedule. Now to some content to help you make your decision regarding Tummy Tuck. First let me congratulate you for having the courage and honesty to consider this procedure. It is very difficult to come to the realization that it is not always possible to control how your skin and stomach tissues. In many instances, even the perfect diet and exercise regimen will leave you with unwanted stretch marks and poor skin tone. Tummy tuck provides an excellent solution to these issues (and works best when married to a great diet and exercise program.) In terms of recovery it is best to prepare for 3-4 weeks of downtime. I like to focus more on what patients can do rather than what they can’t do. The first 10 days are home time. Use this time to walk around the house, heal, and take care of you. The next 10 days you may be comfortable going back to work and starting light walking or housework. The third 10 days you will start feeling ready for a little bit more activity and exercise. Suggestions for Patients Preparing for Tummy Tuck: 1.Make sure you have a strong support system in place. This includes people who have the time and compassion to truly care for you. 2.Be patient with the healing process. It may take several weeks to months for all the swelling to resolve and incisional areas to soften. It takes a while to feel “normal” again…and this is totally okay and expected. 3.Be prepared to have things available to distract you mind and keep you company including books, magazines, movies, etc. Even if you might not look your best having a friend or two stop by during week two feels really great. 4.Carefully follow your post-operative instructions from your surgeon. Don’t hesitate to contact your surgical team if have any question or concerns. In my practice I share my personal phone number with my patients and their family so I can be reached anytime. 5.Remember that this can be an emotional experience. Your feelings may alternate. One moment you are elated and proud of your confidence and bravery to move forward and the next moment you may feel guilty for asking your family and friends to help you. This is normal and expected. Thanks for your question and best wishes!!! Dr. Steven Camp #HappyCamperMD