tummy tuck preparation

3 things to consider before undergoing a tummy tuck

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You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘failing to prepare is preparing to fail’ – and this can be applied to many things in life – including your cosmetic surgery journey. The preparation required by patients ahead of having cosmetic surgery is quite simple, but very important.

Do your research, don’t rush into your decision and ensure you ask lots of questions of your chosen cosmetic surgeon. Here we try and help the process of preparation for patients who are planning on having a tummy tuck, by outlining three important factors to consider before deciding to go ahead.

Tummy Tuck Preparation #1: Don’t underestimate the recovery time

Make no mistake, this is a significant operation. It is really important to prepare mentally and practically for the recovery time required to get back on your feet after a tummy tuck. The size of the incision is why this operation takes so long to recover from – it will be from hip to hip and will have cut through skin and tissue, as well as tightening the abdominal muscles, all of which will take time to heal thoroughly. You should expect to be off work to begin with and it is important to give due consideration to how you will cope around the house. It is sensible to try and arrange for friends, family or carers to come in and help you in the first couple of weeks.

Tummy Tuck Preparation #2: Understand that this is not a weight loss procedure

A tummy tuck is designed to help shift stubborn pockets of fat from directly beneath the skin, it also can remove excess skin, muscle and tissues which diet and exercise cannot shift. It is not a short cut to weight loss. Plastic surgeon Mr Alan Park will often recommend that you reach your target weight before going under the knife for a tummy tuck otherwise the results will not be as effective.

Tummy Tuck Preparation #3: Come to terms with the fact that you will have a scar

Mr Park will carefully plan your incision, but it is a large one, stretching from hip to hip so there will be a significant scar left afterwards. This will be most obvious to begin with but will quickly begin to fade over time. Massaging the scar with a product such as Bio-Oil can aid in scar healing, but only once you have been given the green light from your surgeon. The best thing for a new scar is to be left alone and, if possible, allowed to air as much as possible.

For more advice on how to prepare for your tummy tuck, call 01926 436341 to arrange a consultation.