Preparing for your tummy tuck

As with any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty) requires a degree of pre-op preparation to aid the surgery and avoid potential complications.  It is important to speak with your consultant prior to the operation to clarify any particular 'do's and don'ts' in consideration of your general health and the procedure.  It is also always beneficial to discuss your longer term objectives, as well as to meet with the consultant afterwards to discuss the healing and recovery process. 

Initially, your surgeon will check your general health and examine the extent to which your abdominal region is sagging.  It is important to inform the surgeon of anything which may be relevant in terms of existing medical conditions, complaints, and lifestyle habits (diet, smoking, etc.).  Even minor details could be helpful so it is wise to disclose as much information as possible at this stage.  It is also a good idea to discuss your expectations in detail, and take heed of the information your surgeon provides in terms of risks and alternatives before making your decision.  It is possible that you only require a minor abdominoplasty,  which is a significantly less complex (and less risky) procedure.  You may find you require additional liposuction to remove fatty deposits to improve your body shape.  Whatever the situation, your consultant should work to advise on the best procedure for your needs.

In these initial stages you will also learn the type of anaesthesia the surgeon will use, the location/facility that will be used to conduct the surgery, information about the exact nature of the procedure and the costs involved, if any.  This is an important time, and will certainly help to give you piece of mind before and after your procedure.

There are a variety of guidelines which will vary depending on your age, gender and physical condition in relation to eating, drinking, smoking, medication and vitamin consumption.  If you are a smoker considering a tummy tuck procedure, you must avoid smoking for a minimum of two weeks prior to the operation, and do not continue smoking for an additional two to three weeks after the procedure.  This will help to minimise the potential for blood clotting and infection which could result from lack of physical condition.  Additionally it is important to avoid over exposure to sunlight before and after the procedure as this can prolong the healing process.  The same can be said for strict dieting, and if you happen to develop a cold immediately prior to surgery, it is probable your operation will be postponed.

It is also important to ensure you have a suitable method of transport home from the hospital, as driving and exercise of even the mildest kind will be painful or even prohibited by your surgeon within the first few weeks or months of your recovery.  Above all it is important not to push yourself to hard.  Bear in mind you will have undergone a major procedure, and will require the same time as anyone to recover.  Take it easy, and ensure that any illness or discomfort you feel is reported to your surgeon.  This could prevent the necessity for further surgery, so it's a good idea to maintain constant contact in the aftermath of your surgery.

Tummy tucks news on the Web