If you’re considering a tummy tuck in Houston, TX with Dr. Leo Lapuerta, you’ll want to start preparing yourself physically and mentally to get the best results possible. Dr. Lapuerta is an experienced plastic surgeon who has performed dozens of these procedures. He can help you achieve your goals, but you must also prepare for this major surgery with what you do and what you avoid. You may decide to have a tummy tuck as part of a Mommy makeover or choose it as a single procedure.
How to Prepare for a Tummy Tuck
Start preparing for tummy tuck surgery as soon as you begin contemplating it. You’ll want to develop healthy eating habits, start exercising regularly, and drink plenty of water. If you smoke, you’ll want to start the process of quitting to help you be even healthier.
Since this is major surgery, you want to be as healthy as possible. It’s also important to develop these good habits now, so you can maintain your new look after the tummy tuck. Weight gain can impact how long the results last, which is why it’s smart to develop lifestyle changes and positive habits that you’ll want to keep after the procedure, especially if you are having a tummy tuck after weight loss surgery.
If you haven’t already booked a consultation with Dr. Lapuerta, start by scheduling one now. This is the first step: you will be able to meet with Dr. Lapuerta and go over your goals. He’ll answer any questions you have about getting a tummy tuck and help you understand what to expect with recovery.
Things to Do Before a Tummy Tuck Surgery
Once you’ve had your consultation and have an idea about the results you can achieve and what to expect during recovery, you will need to schedule time off from work and make arrangements for help with any day-to-day activities you might need. For instance, you may need help with childcare or have someone come in to feed and walk your pets after surgery.
If you live alone or don’t have someone to take care of you, think about food for after surgery. Many tummy tuck patients stock up on frozen dinners or buy things that are easy to prepare. Don’t forget to make sure you have extra pillows to make you more comfortable post-op. Buy ice packs if you don’t have them along with plenty of supplies for pain relief, which your doctor can advise you on.
You’ll also need to find someone who can drive you to your procedure and drive you home. They or someone else should stay with you the first night after surgery. You won’t feel like doing much early in your recovery, so plan accordingly. Create a comfortable area with books, the TV remote, and other tummy tuck essentials nearby to reduce the need to get up and down for the first few days, especially if you will be alone some of the time.
Tummy Tuck Pre-Op checklist
Here is a quick checklist of everything you need to do before your tummy tuck.
- Arrange childcare/pet care
- Plan ahead for meals and hydration
- Buy extra pillows, gauze pads, ice packs, and OTC pain medication
- Have several comfortable, loose-fitting, and easy to take on and off outfit options
- Find a driver for your procedure
- Create a recovery space with snacks, books, and other essential items.
FAQs
What should you not do before a tummy tuck?
Ideally, you are a non-smoker, but if you are, make sure you do not smoke for the weeks leading up to your procedure. Don’t take any aspirin, herbal supplements, or new medications without discussing them with your doctor first.
What do I need to know before getting a tummy tuck?
You should discuss the procedure with your doctor, who will help you determine if you need a full tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck. Find out the expected recovery time. You will need to wear a compression garment for at least 48 hours after the surgery. Ask your doctor how long they expect you to be off from work, so you can let your employer know. You should also find out about any other restrictions.
How painful is a tummy tuck recovery?
The pain experienced during recovery from a tummy tuck will vary by patient. Each person has their own threshold of pain and what they can tolerate. Many patients compare the discomfort from a tummy tuck to that felt after doing an intense abdominal workout.
What are the do’s and don’ts after a tummy tuck?
The dos after a tummy tuck include the following:
- Do make sure you have plenty of support for the first few weeks.
- Do communicate any questions or concerns with your doctor before and after the procedure.
- Do eat healthily and drink plenty of water to promote healing.
- Do stop taking any medications that could interfere with your procedure, but always talk to your doctor first.
- Do provide a complete medical history to your surgeon and let them know of anything new that pops up, such as a cold or flu.
The don’ts following a tummy tuck include the following:
- Don’t go back to smoking during your recovery because it can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Don’t take any medication without talking to your doctor first.
- Don’t go to the procedure alone.
Contact Us Today to Find Out If a Tummy Tuck is Right for You
If you’ve decided you want a tummy tuck to improve your abdominal area but haven’t taken the next step, contact us today to find out how Dr. Lapuerta can help you reach your goals. Dr. Lapuerta has extensive experience in performing body contouring in Houston. Schedule a consultation where you can have your questions answered and start looking forward to the new you.