While a tummy tuck can accomplish dramatic changes when it comes to reshaping and sculpting the midsection, it is a major surgery that requires the proper preparation to be successful. Having a pre-surgery checklist can eliminate uncertainty and anxiety, making sure that your treatment journey is seamless and stress-free. In this blog, our team of body contouring experts at Studio Plastic Surgery in Toronto, Canada, have put together some guidelines that will help make your preparation process before abdominoplasty smooth sailing.
Several Weeks Prior to Abdominoplasty
Several weeks before surgery, you will need to begin making some changes that will support your well-being and safety throughout the treatment process. Guidelines are as follows:
- Stop smoking – On the top of your preparation list should be to stop smoking. Your surgeon may want you to do this 4-6 weeks before your tummy tuck. Smoking can have a disastrous effect on your healing process, increasing the risk of complications. In addition to stopping smoking, you should also avoid nicotine patches and products.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications – Steer clean of anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, estrogen supplements, and oral contraceptives in the weeks leading up to your procedure. These products can increase your risk of bleeding after surgery and make you more vulnerable to other complications.
- Keep your weight stable – A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure and should only be performed if the patient is at a healthy, stable weight. Don’t diet before your abdominoplasty, and also don’t put on extra weight. Simply follow a wholesome plan of eating and a regular exercise regimen to stay fit. Avoid processed foods, alcohol, sugar, and hard fats. If needed, work with a dietician or nutritionist who can help you find a plan of eating that is neither too restrictive nor too lenient.
One Week Prior to Abdominoplasty
The week before your tummy tuck is a critical juncture. During this time, you will need to be extra vigilant to make sure you are properly prepared for the recovery process. The following tips can help:
- Stock up on essential items – Having everything you need on hand prior to recovery will help reduce stress and keep you focused on healing peacefully. You might want to buy a reclining armchair, a wedge or body pillow, compression garments, alcohol wipes, stool softeners, comfort foods, water, over-the-counter painkillers, books, magazines, towels, and anything else you think you might need or want. Your surgeon will also provide you with a detailed list of what to purchase prior to the recuperation phase of your journey.
- Schedule a helper to assist with childcare and pet care – After a tummy tuck, you will be unable to bend or lift anything over five pounds. If you have kids or pets, you should schedule some assistance for your daily chores. You may need help with cooking, cleaning, and other household duties as well. On the day of your procedure, you’ll need someone to drive you home from surgery, as you will still be groggy from anesthesia when you are released.
- Take time off from work – To properly heal after a tummy tuck, you’ll need to make sure you get enough rest and downtime. Schedule at least 7-10 days off from work to give yourself the best chance at healing. In our busy, active society, it can be tempting to start working before you’re truly ready, but doing this can compromise the significant investment you have made in your appearance and quality of life. Give your body the sleep and mental break it needs after abdominoplasty. You have plenty of time to work ahead of you.
The Day Before Your Tummy Tuck
As your tummy tuck surgery gets closer, you may feel excited and anxious at the same time. Here are some essential things you will need to do to make sure you are ready for the procedure:
- Pack post-surgical clothing – You should have on hand your most comfortable outfits that are easy to put on and take off. Your support person can hand these to you as needed without having to figure out what you like and don’t like. Having your clothes at your fingertips also helps you avoid having to bend over to pick things up or reach into closets when you’re supposed to be resting during recovery.
- Drink plenty of water – Make sure you take in plenty of fluids prior to surgery. Being well-hydrated helps you prepare for the dehydration and dryness that typically accompany the recovery process after surgery.
- Get enough sleep and rest – While you might feel on edge prior to your tummy tuck, try your best to get a good night’s sleep before your surgery. Keep your bedroom dark and cool, don’t drink caffeine, and limit screen time, all of which will help set the mood for restorative rest.
The Day of Your Tummy Tuck
The day is finally here! Follow these important instructions to ensure your surgery goes off without a hitch.
- Avoid eating or drinking – Your surgeon will tell you exactly when you need to stop eating and drinking to safely undergo your procedure. Usually, patients need to stop consuming starting at midnight on the night before their tummy tuck.
- Take a shower – You will need to do a shower prior to surgery using antibacterial soap. This is an extra step toward reducing the risk of complications, and it’s an important one. On your way to surgery, don’t use any cosmetics, moisturizers, perfumes, creams, or hair styling products.
- Arrive at your appointment early – Leave enough time to get to your surgery without having to stress or tense up. You want to be in a good mental and emotional space going into your procedure. Arriving early also ensures that there is ample time to fill out paperwork, ask questions, and go over any last-minute details.
Get Started With a Private Tummy Tuck Consultation in Toronto Today!
If you are interested in learning more about the process of undergoing abdominoplasty and how to best prepare, contact our team of board-certified body sculpting experts at Studio Plastic Surgery in Toronto to schedule a private and informative consultation. We are excited to present you with a personalized treatment plan that leads to a flatter belly, expanded clothing options, and a major boost in self-confidence.