Nips and Tucks and Sit-ups
Sometimes, a little nipping and tucking is the best way to overcome the changes that have occurred over time. Yes, we can diet, and we gain a lot from eating healthy. The body also benefits from a good workout several days a week. However, if you’re one who struggles to get that midsection tight and toned, you may realize that there is more to this game than saying “no, thank you” to that extra cookie or that glass of wine. Falling short of your ideal shape doesn’t mean you have to settle. As you continue your healthy lifestyle, a tummy tuck could be exactly what you need to get over the finish line.
A Slimmer Waistline, and then what?
You probably know that abdominoplasty is just a compliment to your healthy living habits. This procedure had helped many men and women attain the taut tummy they lost when weight was gained, or when pregnancy occurred. So, following that nip and tuck, sit-ups seem like the logical next step, right? Yes, but not so fast. Let’s talk timing.
Abdominoplasty Recovery – Month 1
During the first month after abdominoplasty, there may be very little desire to work out. This is fine! Feeling poorly for lack of activity won’t do you any good. What you can do in the first several weeks after your procedure is fueled your body with healthy foods that are easily digested. Clearly, the blues can cause you to want to eat processed foods or other unhealthy options. For this reason, pre-cooked, home-made meals that you love are highly recommended. Just heat and serve, it doesn’t get much easier.
Regarding exercise, the most you may want to do is walk on a level surface. This does not mean hopping on the treadmill for hours on end – or at all! Pain medications could create a bit of instability, and the last thing you want is to take a tumble.
Abdominoplasty Recovery – Month 2 and Beyond
After about 4 to 6 weeks, some patients are rocking and rolling down their road to recovery. On the one hand, this is great, because who likes to feel sore and limited? On the other hand, though, feeling so good could be deceiving. You see, physical sensation is not a very good indicator of healing when it comes to abdominoplasty. The muscles and connective tissue that has been tightened will require up to 6 months to get back to 100% usability. And until these muscles are completely healed, they should not be used.
Your Best Bet
The safest protocol to follow after a tummy tuck is the one provided to you by your surgeon. If you have questions, we are here to support you in your recovery. If you want to learn more about the tummy tuck procedure, call our Bryn Mawr office at 610-527-4833.
