Abdominoplasty Aftercare and What to Expect

This guide explains what to expect after a tummy tuck. It is important that you read this information carefully and completely.

Tummy tucks are usually carried out under a general anaesthetic (so you would be asleep). The operation usually takes about two hours, and typically it is a daycase surgery.
When you wake up from your operation you may have a drip to give you fluid while you are not drinking.
You might be given antibiotics to keep the wound clean. Also, you may have drainage tubes in your lower tummy to drain away any fluid or blood. These tubes will be taken out when the fluid or blood has stopped draining, usually a day or two later – we do not routinely use drains but if needed they do not typically hurt.
Your tummy will feel tight and sore. Simple painkillers should be enough to keep you comfortable.

You will have some shower proof dressings on your tummy. You may need to wear a well-fitting support garment, usually for 4-6 weeks after the operation.
The garment is not essential, but some patients enjoy the added support.
You will be asked to keep your knees and hips bent whenever possible to take the strain off your stitches, you will also find it hard to stand up straight initially.
Do not use hot water bottles or hot packs to sooth the tummy discomfort – you will have numbness and may not feel heat and get burnt.

You will be out of bed on the same day as your surgery, and doing light activities after two weeks. You should be back to normal exercise in eight weeks.
You will be given blood-thinning injections, and support stockings, to reduce the risk of a clot in the leg (DVT) or the lung (PE).
Avoid strenuous activity for 10 to 12 weeks. Most patients take up to 3-4 weeks off work after the operation, depending on their job.
Your tummy will be sore and swollen for weeks to months after the operation. Do not lift heavy things for several weeks, and avoid sex for at least three weeks. With all activities, start gently.
Do not drive until you feel safe and are comfortable wearing a seatbelt. Check your insurance documents if you are not sure.
At first your tummy skin may seem too tight. This usually settles down within six weeks of the surgery.
Most patients are pleased with the final result, but some find their new shape difficult to get used to. This may happen to you.
You may have more or less sensation in the skin on your tummy, and this can change over time.

Bleeding after surgery can cause swelling, a change in colour, and pain, usually just on one side. The signs of an infection are pain, redness, swelling and pus in the wound, and you may also have a temperature.
A blood clot in the leg can cause swelling and pain in the calf. If the clot goes to the lung, you might be breathless or have pain in your chest.
If the wound is not healing well, it may be sore and weep.
If you have any worries after your operation, speak to the team or go to A and E.