ABDOMINOPLASTY AFTERCARE RECOVERY

Aftercare
The patient may remain in the hospital or surgical facility overnight, or return home the day of surgery after spending several hours recovering from the procedure and anesthesia. Before leaving the facility, the patient will receive the following instructions on post-surgical care:
• For the first several days after surgery, it is recommended that the patient remain flexed at the hips (i.e., avoid straightening the torso) to prevent unnecessary tension on the surgical site.

• Walking as soon as possible after the procedure is recommended to improve recovery time and prevent blood clots in the legs.

• Mild exercise that does not cause pain to the surgical site is recommended to improve muscle tone and decrease swelling.

• The patient should not shower until any drains are removed from the surgical site; sponge baths are permitted.

• Work may be resumed in two to four weeks, depending on the level of physical activity required.

Surgical drains will be removed within one week after abdominoplasty, and stitches from one to two weeks after surgery. Swelling, bruising, and pain in the abdominal area are to be expected and may last from two to six weeks.

Recovery will be faster, however, in the patient who is in good health with relatively strong abdominal muscles. The incisions will remain a noticeable red or pink for several months, but will begin to fade by nine months to a year after the procedure. Because of their location, scars should be easily hidden under clothing, including bathing suits.