Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Patient Preparation & Recovery Guide
- Schedule a consultation with your plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations.
- Complete all required lab tests and medical evaluations (blood work, ECG, etc.).
- If you smoke, stop smoking immediately. Smoking severely impairs healing and increases complication risks.
- Maintain a stable, healthy weight. Large weight fluctuations can affect your results.
- Stop taking blood thinners, aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and herbal supplements unless otherwise instructed.
- Arrange for a trusted adult to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for at least 48-72 hours.
- Prepare your recovery area with necessities:
- Pillows for elevation (especially under knees and back)
- Loose clothing
- Post-op medications
- Bottled water and healthy snacks
- Compression garment (provided by Grandville)
- Confirm your surgery time and instructions with Grandville.
- Stock up on healthy, easy-to-prepare meals.
- Minimize alcohol consumption and hydrate well.
- If your surgeon recommends pre-surgical bowel preparation, follow those instructions closely.
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight, unless otherwise directed.
- Take a shower with antibacterial soap.
- Get a good night’s sleep to be well-rested for your surgery.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing with a front-opening top.
- Remove all jewelry, piercings, makeup, and nail polish.
- Bring your photo ID and any necessary paperwork.
- Bring your compression garment, if previously provided.
- Arrive at your scheduled time.
- Our team will review the procedure, answer last-minute questions, and ensure you are comfortable.
- Your surgeon may make markings on your abdomen before surgery.
- You will be moved to the recovery room, where you’ll be monitored.
- You’ll have dressings on your incisions and be wearing a compression garment.
- In some cases, surgical drains will be placed to remove excess fluids. Our team will teach you how to manage them.
- You may go home the same day or stay overnight, depending on your specific case.
- Expect swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort (managed with prescribed medication).
- You’ll need help with daily activities.
- Sleep in a reclined position or with pillows under your knees and back to reduce tension on your incision.
- Walk around every few hours to improve circulation and prevent blood clots.
- Empty drains as directed, and record the output.
- Wear your compression garment at all times (except when showering) to minimize swelling.
- Sutures or staples may be removed (if not dissolvable).
- You may begin light activities but avoid lifting anything heavy or straining your abdominal muscles.
- Swelling and bruising will gradually subside.
- Continue wearing your compression garment.
- Most patients return to work and light activities after 3-4 weeks.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks, or until cleared by your surgeon.
- Scars will start to fade but may still be pink or firm.
- Continue following a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
- Swelling continues to diminish.
- Scars begin to flatten and lighten.
- You’ll notice improved abdominal contour and tightness.
- Final results are typically visible after 6-12 months.
- Scars may continue to fade over time.
- Maintain a stable weight to preserve your results.
- Keep the incision site clean and dry.
- Apply scar creams or silicone sheets (as advised).
- Avoid sun exposure on the incision to prevent darkening of the scar.
- Do not submerge incisions in water (baths, swimming pools) until cleared.
- Fever over 38°C
- Excessive redness, swelling, or pus at incision sites
- Persistent or severe pain not relieved by medication
- Sudden swelling or pain in the legs
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Drain output that changes in color or increases suddenly
- Wear your compression garment as instructed.
- Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich meals (high protein for healing).
- Walk short distances frequently.
- Take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
- Smoke or use nicotine products.
- Lift heavy objects or engage in vigorous exercise until cleared.
- Skip wearing your compression garment.
- Expose scars to sunlight or tanning beds.
- Rush your recovery—healing takes time.
- Lekki Clinic: 0817 153 0599
- Surulere Clinic: 0816 454 8279, 0812 020 8868
- Abuja Clinic: 0817 323 3025
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