Tips for Aiding Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction Recovery?

Mommy Make Over Recovery Time - Tips and expectations:
Mommy Makeover Recovery for Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction is simultaneous. Nothing special about the breast reduction surgery other than not using you chest muscles/arms to lift things and wearing your surgical bra and garments and incision care if needed as directed by your plastic surgeon.

 

Following the tummy tuck procedure, you should be in a flexed position to minimize tension on the incision sites by to bending at the hips (waist) in order to reduce tension on the newly tightened skin. A recliner chair is perfect for this purpose but a pillow beneath your knees and several at the head of the bed will work well also.  Immediately after surgery, within the first few hours, the patients will walk in a slightly bent-over position. Start walking flexed at the waist (in a stooped position) for a few minutes every 1-2 hours the evening of surgery and continuing daily except when sleeping. This will minimize your risk for blood clots. Wear your TED stockings
In about one week you can gradually stand up straight. 
Gradually increase activity as tolerated. 
No sexual activity for 6 weeks after surgery.
Wiggle your toes and move your ankles in circles in bed every hour.
No heavy exercise, bending, lifting, baths, swimming, sun exposure, smoking, alcohol or sports
for 6 weeks following surgery after your surgeon has given you clearance to do so.
Limit napping to one short nap (less than an hour) per day to prevent sleep disturbance at night.
P O S I T I O N
Sleeping in a recliner chair with your legs elevated is helpful for the first several days. In bed
elevate head and back on 2-3 pillows and keep 2 pillows under your knees.
A 'reclined' or sitting position relieves tension on the incision. During the 6 weeks after surgery, strenuous activity and the lifting of more than ten pounds must be avoided.  Many patients are able to return to work and daily activities within 2 weeks of surgery.  Softening of the surgical scars, return of sensation, and loosening of the tight sensation may take several months. Abdominoplasty recovery can be in some cases slow and uncomfortable requiring more time for a full recovery. Light activity is comfortable in 10-20 days. Sports will be more comfortable after 6 weeks.

Abdominoplasty combined with a breast reduction is a large operation. Proper recovery is essential. Here are some keys that I find helpful for my patients:

1) Recover in a true surgical recovery facility for one to two nights after surgery if you can.

2) Fill and pick up all of your medications prior to surgery.

3) Nutrition after surgery is important for healing. Make sure that you have your meals planned out ahead of time so that you do not have to go shopping right after surgery.

4) Arrange to have a friend or family member available to help you at home. Especially if you have young kids, you will need the assistance.

5) Coordinate rides to your follow-up doctor appointments ahead of time. You will not be able to drive for the first couple of weeks.

Great question! I think that making your house ready for your arrival is one of the things that most patients don't consider. Sure, your doctor will tell you what medicine to take and what to wear, but very rarely does anyone consider home preparation. If you live in a two story house one great tip for the first few days is to set up downstairs.  This will help you from having to much activity. Also, you may find that you have some drainage after the surgery so having dark colored towels around can be very beneficial.  If you have pets or small children make sure they don't get too rough with you. Make sure to stock your fridge with a lot of healthy food and soups also water. Good Luck with your recovery, I'm sure you will do great!