Acupuncture to Help with Post-op Tummy Tuck Recovery? (photo)

Question

Post-op acupuncture is said to increase vascular & lymphatic blood circulation, reduce pain, reduce swelling, and assist with nerve regeneration. Is there truly a benefit to post-op acupuncture? What timing in post-op recovery would you recommend? What else should I know about acupuncture which I may not be thinking about?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Acupuncture increases blood flow to affected areas. In addition, acupuncture can decrease inflammation and increase lymphatic bloodflow. Acupuncture has also been found to reduce pain. I see nothing wrong with doing acupuncture after a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty. The only thing I would caution you about is having your therapist keep the acupuncture needles from going directly into the incision. Also most patients after an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck have an area of numbness below the belly button but above the incision. This area should be noted because you may not have sensation to this area. Just mention this to your acupuncture therapist. Congratulations on your weight loss and your improved body shape. Sincerely, Dr.Katzen

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

As I cannot substantiate any purported benefit of acupuncture following tummy tuck, I cannot recommend it.  Kenneth Hughes, MD male tummy tuck Los Angeles, CA

Joseph A. Russo, MD · Answer

I dont know that anyone has done a well controlled study measuring the effects of acupuncture on the rate of healing after abominoplasty. Any information would be anecdotal. Listen to the advice give by your own doc

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

Without commenting on how successful this might be, I would only caution to wait until all your incisions are clean and free of any drainage. Usually that will be about 2 weeks for most. Best wishes.

Acupuncture to Help with Post-op Tummy Tuck Recovery? (photo)

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Answer: Acupuncture to Help with Post-op Tummy Tuck Recovery

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Acupuncture to Help with Post-op Tummy Tuck Recovery? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Acupuncture to Help with Post-op Tummy Tuck Recovery

Answer: Acupuncture to Help with Post-op Tummy Tuck Recovery

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Everything you need to know about Male Tummy Tuck

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