Undergoing abdominoplasty can provide stunning results that are unlike any other plastic surgery. However, these results will only last if you put the effort into maintaining these results.
Below, we will discuss what goes into the tummy tuck procedure, what to expect from recovery, and how to maintain your results.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that targets skin laxity, stubborn fat pockets, separated abdominal muscles, and overall contouring of the midsection.
Patients who seek a tummy tuck typically have excess skin around the midsection due to weight loss or prior pregnancies. They may also have stubborn fat pockets in the same area.
Another reason to undergo a tummy tuck is if you suffer from diastasis recti, which is the separation or laxity of the abdominal wall. If a patient suffers from diastasis recti, strengthening these muscles without surgery can be almost impossible.
A tummy tuck is the only cosmetic procedure that can target one or all of these issues, as your surgeon can surgically tighten the abdominal wall, remove loose skin, and even incorporate liposuction to remove excess fat pockets around the area.
A tummy tuck provides a smooth, contoured abdomen with tighter skin and a flatter surface.
Why Is It Important to Maintain the Results of My Tummy Tuck?
While abdominoplasty can relieve concerns that diet and exercise cannot, this procedure is not intended to be a weight loss solution. Before your procedure, it is recommended that you be close to your ideal weight — a tummy tuck targets excess skin and loose abdominal muscles, but it is not intended to reduce your weight.
It’s helpful to think of a tummy tuck as a body contouring procedure: your surgeon will contour and sculpt the areas you cannot, but it’s up to you to get close to your ideal weight.
Therefore, you will have to maintain your results through healthy lifestyle choices.
When Can I Start Working Out After My Tummy Tuck?
You will also have to balance your recovery period with your exercise routine. Cosmetic surgery is still surgery, so your recovery is incredibly important. Be sure to listen to the aftercare instructions of your board-certified plastic surgeon so you can ensure a healthy and successful recovery.
As abdominoplasty centers on the abdomen and midsection, your recovery entails avoiding bending at the waist and lifting.
You must rest as much as possible for the first few days following your procedure. Once you start to feel better, you should walk around to increase blood circulation. This will improve your healing process.
Depending on the amount of correction made, it can take up to two weeks before you can engage in light cardiovascular exercise.
Once your surgeon clears you, you can focus on bringing up your heart rate through light exercise that does not engage your core.
Weeks 3 and 4
You should be able to start weight training your arms and legs while still avoiding your core.
Weeks 5 and 6
Your surgeon may clear you to begin engaging your core through yoga and pilates. Be sure to gradually acclimate in intensity and focus on taking it slow. Do not push yourself, and always check with your surgeon before beginning any new exercises.
Weeks 7 Through 10
You should be cleared to resume your normal exercise routine, including those to improve and strengthen your core and abdomen.
You should also follow a nutrient-rich diet to help the healing process. It’s helpful to keep up with healthy eating habits post-surgery and beyond to boost results of your tummy tuck further.
Abdominoplasty can be a life-changing experience, providing patients with a smooth, flat abdomen that they can continue to improve and hone through diet and exercise.
Interested in Tummy Tuck Surgery in Shreveport, LA?
If you think a tummy tuck is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bridges to create a custom treatment plan that is ideal for your needs and goals. ]
To schedule your consultation, call Bridges to Beauty in Shreveport, Louisiana, at (318) 219-8555. We look forward to hearing from you!