An abdominoplasty might be performed for cosmetic reasons. It is a more involved procedure than liposuction of the abdomen and addresses more issues such as loose skin and muscle separation. Consequently, healing will vary depending on the extent of surgery required. Fortunately, there are some things that you can do that will help keep you comfortable and ensure that you make the swiftest and most straightforward recovery possible.  

Here are our top tips for recovering from your abdominoplasty procedure.

• Follow the instructions given to you by your surgical team

You will be given extensive and thorough advice and instruction by your surgical team before you leave the surgical facility. We advise you to closely follow these instructions; we have developed them over many years and they are designed with your comfort and safety in mind.

Your surgical team has the training and experience to be able to give you the best advice regarding your post-operative care. They also have a duty of care towards you, and so will give you all of the necessary instructions required that will help reduce the likelihood of complications during your recovery. If your doctor advises you to do certain things, it is for a good reason!

• Plan for a sufficient period of time away from work and strenuous activities

One of the most common mistakes made when recovering from any surgery is failing to book enough time off of work. This leads to a rushed and problematic recovery. We generally advise approximately two weeks off of work for an abdominoplasty. However, it is wise to allow 3-6 week before returning to your full level of activity at the gym to ensure your muscle repair has fully healed.

• Prepare your home

No-one wants to come home from surgery to a messy house, outstanding bills or chores still to be done. One of the best things that you can do is to prepare for your recovery period is to prepare for your return prior to your procedure. This could include things such as:

⁃ Getting the house clean and tidy

⁃ Preparing and freezing meals ahead of time

⁃ Getting comfortable clothing such as pajamas, drawstring pants and loose-fit t-shirts clean and ready.

⁃ Getting your lounge and bedroom ready so that you will be comfortable. This may mean fresh bedding, extra cushions and pillows and books/magazines nearby.

⁃ Arranging for any assistance around the home that you might find useful

⁃ If you have children, arranging help so that they get the care they need during the early days of your recovery where your movement may be limited.

• Take your pain relief regimen as directed

It is very important to keep your pain under control while you recover from your abdominoplasty. Medications and other strategies to minimize your discomfort will be discussed with you during the perioperative period. Keeping any discomfort at a manageable level will make your recovery much smoother. You will be able to eat, drink and move around, all of which will help with the healing process. Medications and other strategies to minimize your discomfort will be discussed with you during the perioperative period.

We will work with you to ensure that you are taking the minimum amount of pain medication that will appropriately control your level of discomfort. It is also very important to follow the recommended anti-constipation regimen while taking narcotic pain medication.

• Keep an eye on your incision

It is important for you to keep an eye on how your incision is healing. While very uncommon, you may notice signs of infection, and these should trigger a call to our office. Check to see if the incision site is pink or red, if it is oozing or smells bad. If you are at all concerned about how well your wound is healing, speak to our  office as soon as possible.

If you would like to find out more about any of the male body contouring procedures mentioned above, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with our friendly team, please do not hesitate to call our office in Manhattan, New York at 212-249-7500 or emailing us at reception@drmatarasso.com.