Patients seeking a male tummy tuck are often so excited to see their results that they forget they’ll need to go through a tummy tuck recovery time. Fortunately, the initial recovery time for a tummy tuck usually only lasts a few weeks at most. But during this time, it is important that you attentively care for your incision sites, take it easy but still stay mobile, and stay in touch with your surgeon regarding your symptoms and how you’re healing.
To help make this experience smoother and ensure the success of your plastic surgery procedure, be sure to follow these 13 male tummy tuck recovery time tips.
Tummy Tuck Recovery Time Tips for Men
- Follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely! These are what matter most, and they will be catered to you as an individual, so be sure to read through them carefully. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask at any time.
- Wear your tummy tuck procedure compression garments as directed. Most tummy tuck patients will need to wear a compression garment, which will help reduce swelling and improve comfort as you mend.
- Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities. This means no physical exercise, like running, jogging, cycling, sports, or lifting weights. You should not be overexerting your abdominal muscles. You must also refrain from lifting anything heavy in general, which means you cannot pick up babies or animals.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. After a male tummy tuck procedure, it’s important to keep up your strength with plenty of water and nourishing foods. Eat plenty of protein, including fish, meat, Greek yogurt, eggs, and other protein-rich foods. Also include lots of fiber for digestion by way of whole grains, fruits, and veggies.
- Take prescribed pain medication for discomfort. Whether you undergo an extended tummy tuck, a traditional tummy tuck, or a mini tummy tuck, you will have some discomfort following surgery. Take your pain medication as prescribed and stop as soon as you don’t
need it anymore. - Avoid smoking and alcohol to promote healing. Both of these substances can limit your body’s ability to heal well after male tummy tuck surgery. Smoking must be avoided altogether, and quit if and when you can. Alcohol can safely be resumed in moderation once your surgeon clears you.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your board certified plastic surgeon. These are essential for maintaining open communication with your surgeon and ensuring your steady progress.
- Practice proper wound care to prevent infection. After the excess skin and fat has been removed, you’ll have a hefty wound that will need to heal. Take good care of this incision site by following your surgeon’s wound care directives.
- Sleep with your upper body elevated to reduce swelling. After abdominoplasty surgery, all patients will need to sleep on their backs with their upper bodies (including the abdominal area) elevated slightly. Tummy tucks require a slight hunch and bend at the waist, so this position will need to be maintained for a while even while sleeping.
- Gradually reintroduce light exercise as approved by your surgeon. Exercise is great for you, but you have to wait to reintroduce it until your body is ready. Male tummy tucks can be hard on your body, so don’t go back to these activities too soon.
- Stay mindful of your posture to avoid straining the incision area. During the recovery process, you may get tired of walking with a slight hunch, but don’t worry — you’ll be able to walk regularly again soon. For the time being, allow yourself to have that slight bend at the waist, and do not make sudden movements or posture changes.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid pressure on the abdomen. During the healing process, do not choose tight or complicated clothing. Loose-fitting clothes that can easily be put on and taken off are best. Don’t choose tops that must go over the head. Zip-ups are best.
- Be patient and allow your body ample time to heal. Cosmetic surgery recovery requires a lot of patience, but if you can maintain these tips for the duration, you’re going to love your results!
need it anymore.FAQs: Recovery Time for Tummy Tuck
What is the recovery time for a tummy tuck with liposuction?
What is the recovery time for a tummy tuck with liposuction?Your tummy tuck recovery time will vary depending on your age, overall health, and the extent of your surgery. Most tummy tucks are performed alongside liposuction, so this is normal. Most initial recovery periods last between one and two weeks.
What kind of scars will I have after a male tummy tuck?
Male tummy tuck scars are typically the same as female tummy tuck scars. In order to remove excess skin, most patients require a full tummy tuck, which means one incision around the belly button and another running horizontally on the lower abdomen.
To see examples of these types of scars, look at tummy tuck recovery time photos or male tummy tuck before and after photos.
How much does a male tummy tuck usually cost?
Your male tummy tuck cost estimate will be determined at your consultation appointment. It will be based on the amount of loose skin and fat you have, your desired goal, and your surgeon’s particular fees.
Arrange for a Consultation with Dr. Schulman
If you are a man with excess skin on your upper or lower abdomen and you desire a tighter more toned abdomen, you may benefit from male tummy tuck surgery. Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation appointment with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Schulman.
