Trust. Experience. Results.
Trust. Experience. Results.
9/30/2023
Each year, our board-certified plastic surgeons perform hundreds of tummy tuck surgeries in Northern Virginia at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery to help patients achieve or restore their desired physique and self-esteem. For patients considering tummy tuck surgery, it is important to know what to expect during the recovery period, what limitations you may have, and when your results will begin to materialize. Read on to learn more about tummy tuck recovery expectations and, more specifically, how long your post-tummy tuck swelling may last.
Tummy tuck surgery is highly customizable and offers several different approaches, each of which is designed to meet the unique needs, goals, and concerns of the patient. Generally speaking, tummy tuck surgery is used to reverse the unwanted cosmetic side effects of life events like pregnancy, weight loss, and aging. Some of the most common issues that are addressed and corrected with Reston, VA tummy tuck surgery include:
Tummy tuck surgery is performed via a horizontal incision on the lower abdomen, which can run from hip to hip in some cases, depending on how much excess skin needs to be removed and other individual case factors. Additionally, tummy tuck surgery usually involves a number of techniques used in conjunction – like liposuction, skin removal, abdominal muscle repair, and others. With this in mind, patients should expect their recovery to take several weeks, with strenuous physical activity, exercise, and other routines potentially being off-limits for a few months. Based on your specific case, our doctors will help you understand how long your recovery may be expected to last. We are proud to say that the majority of our patients do not require drains following their tummy tuck surgery. With a drainless tummy tuck, patients enjoy a more comfortable recovery and a lower risk of postoperative infection.
One of the primary symptoms patients experience after tummy tuck surgery is swelling, which is a normal part of the healing and recovery process. For most patients, swelling will be greatly reduced after about three weeks, at which time they should begin to notice their newly slimmed and smoothed contours taking shape. Residual swelling can linger for a while longer, with the full results of a tummy tuck often becoming visible after about 3 – 4 months. To encourage an efficient recovery and resolution of tummy tuck swelling, patients should adhere to a healthy diet and lifestyle, avoid strenuous physical activity, stay hydrated, and sleep with their upper and lower body slightly elevated. Our doctors will provide you with detailed tummy tuck aftercare instructions to help further enhance your experience and boost your results.
If sagging skin, a belly pooch, abdominal stretch marks, or another imperfection are having you feeling less than confident about your midsection, a tummy tuck may be the transformative solution you’ve been searching for. Take the first step toward reinventing your look with tummy tuck surgery by calling Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Northern Virginia to schedule your private consultation with one of our esteemed board-certified plastic surgeons today.
Our four, board-certified plastic surgeons have over 100 years of combined experience & work together in our dedicated, luxurious center providing combined knowledge on all procedures. Schedule your consultation today to learn how our surgeons can guide you on your journey to aesthetic harmony.
