Complete recovery after a tummy tuck usually occurs after two months from the surgery, if no complications occur. During this time, it is normal and natural for the patient to experience a certain level of pain and discomfort in the area. To alleviate the pain, medication will be prescribed and should be taken according to the doctor’s recommendation. Antibiotics will also be prescribed to keep the infections at bay, especially during the first week following the surgery.<br /><br />The first week after the tummy tuck is the most important in the recovery process, but also the most demanding on the patient. Before leaving the medical facility, the patient should make sure to get all information required for the following period: how to walk, how to sleep, how to alleviate the pain, and how to take care of the surgical wound.<br /><br />Recommendations for the first week after the tummy tuck include: <br />- Get as much rest as possible, but don’t stay in bed all day long.<br />- Don’t remove the girdle or compression clothing; it needs to be worn permanently at this point<br />- Take your anticoagulant medication if your doctor prescribed it<br />- Exercise lightly every two hours (short walk around the house)<br />- Walk with your body bent slightly forward from the middle to avoid opening the surgical wound<br />- When laying down, choose a position with your body bent forward as it will be easier to rise from the bed without putting too much pressure on the incisions.<br /><br />
