Tummy tucks, also known as abdominoplasty, is now one of the top five cosmetic surgical procedures in the UK and are performed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen with the desire for a flatter stomach and a smaller waist. Around 130,000 tummy tucks Manchester are performed annually, a figure that is growing at a rapid rate due to the high demand and popularity of contouring the body to adhere to contemporary social trends.

Immediate Aftercare

As you wake from your surgery, you can expect to be wrapped in various dressings and bandages which are applied where the incisions have been made. You will also be wearing a compression wrap to reduce swelling and inflammation. This is also used to reduce the risk of blood clots and acts as a support for your midsection, so your healing is smooth and contoured. Typically, you will wear your compression wrap for up to four to six weeks post-op.

Drain Care

Small tubes are inserted into your abdomen during your surgery to assist in the removal of fluid that collects after your surgery, allowing for a faster healing process. You will be instructed on how to empty the drain tubes and keep the area clean. Generally, you are expected to empty the drains around three times a day.  You may be given antibiotics whilst your drains are in place to stop the chances of infection.

Personal Hygiene

You are able to shower around 24 hours after your surgery unless you have drains. If this is the case, then you are instructed to take sponge baths until the drains have been removed. When showering, be sure to remove your dressings expect the skin tapes that are stuck directly onto your incisions which are water resistant. It is advised to avoid still water for two weeks post-op for hygiene reasons as this run the risk of infection. This includes baths, swimming pools, hot tubs and the sea.

What will you feel?

You are likely to feel moderate pain in the abdominal area which will be swollen and bruised post-surgery. It is important to spend the first few days at home in order to rest as this will minimize pain. Your pain can be managed by taking medication which is provided to you. For maximum comfortability, it is advised to position your bed so that your upper body is slightly raised, and the knees are at an angle. It is also important to manoeuvre around your house for the first few days in order to maintain healthy circulation.

The surgery may leave you finding it difficult to stand up straight for several weeks. This is completely normal and limiting the about of movement in the incision area is crucial to your healing. As your healing process starts, you will begin to feel more mobile.

Top Tips

• Drinking green tea will boost your immunity and antioxidant levels
• Drink plenty of water to flush your body of toxins and keep hydrated. This will also help reduce swelling
• Eating pineapple will help reduce bloating and inflammation