Do not forget to take stool softeners – you WILL regret it if you forget.ģ) For the first week post – op, having the following items will make your recovery much easier and more comfortable: I added prunes to my diet (around 7 per day) and my stools are finally feeling normal.

I started taking 3 stool softeners a day (morning mid-day and evening) after that night, and it barely helped. I have never felt a pain like that, I was so worried that I might have popped stitches. The pain medications make you extremely constipated and I needed to use an enema, by far the worst experience of my life. I made the mistake of taking one on the 8th day post – op…around day 10 I had the worst pain in my life. The directions say to take 1-3 a day, so I would take one in the evening and one at night. If you are having your surgery in Chicago, the only place I found that would deliver to the city was:Ģ) Stool Softeners! If your doctor doesn’t prescribe any, make sure you get them over the counter at your local pharmacy. It cost me around $150 a week (plus delivery and pick up) to rent the recliner which was TOTALLY WORTH IT. I am so thankful that I had the electric recliner the first week and not sure what I would do without it. Being short (around 5’1) it was very hard for me to get into the bed all together, let alone to find a comfortable position. A lot of people simply use a million pillows to get comfortable, but for me a bed was difficult. It will stand you all the way up and is much more comfortable than a bed. To learn more about what to avoid after tummy tuck or more about the procedure itself, please give us a call or send us an email today.1) Renting a medical electric recliner will help the first 1-2 weeks post tummy tuck. Dumanian will make himself available to you during your tummy tuck recovery to answer questions and address any concerns. Contact Our Chicago Tummy Tuck Surgeonĭr. The abdominal surgery site should be fairly pain-free before activities with a partner, and this can take three to six weeks after surgery. Like all other types of strenuous activity, sexual activity after a tummy tuck requires common sense. Avoid foods that are high in sodium or overly processed (i.e., soft drinks, frozen meals, fast food). On the other hand, salty foods can hinder your recovery by worsening swelling. Eating lots of fresh produce and lean protein will help fuel your body as it recuperates. Proper diet is essential after tummy tuck surgery. Dumanian will give you a clear timeline of when it is OK to enjoy a cocktail again after surgery. Alcohol is also off-limits during recovery, as it interferes with proper healing, dehydrates you and does not mix well with pain relievers. Smoking can not only delay your recovery but also interfere with your final result and cause prominent scars. But strenuous activity or vigorous exercise is off-limits for at least four to six weeks. Recruit a loved one to help out around the house and go to the store if you need anything.Īs your energy slowly returns, light walking is encouraged to promote circulation and healing. Do not place any needed items in spots where you would need to bend or stretch to reach them.

Try to set up your space near your kitchen and bathroom for your comfort and convenience.

Prior to surgery, run necessary errands and place all of your recovery essentials (e.g., pain relievers, ice packs) where they are easy to grab from your bed or couch. Make it easier on yourself by prepping your recovery space ahead of time so you can stay off of your feet. At first, you may not have much of a choice: your energy will probably be limited, and it may be uncomfortable to move around a lot. Plan to lay low right after your tummy tuck surgery. Gregory Dumanian reveals four things to avoid during tummy tuck recovery. Avoiding certain risky habits and behaviors can help ensure a smooth, safe recovery and a stunning result. But tummy tuck is a major operation, and you want to be careful not to rush the recovery process. Preparing for tummy tuck is an exciting time - it’s thrilling to think about the beautiful results you will soon enjoy.

Tummy tuck recovery must haves