How to Prepare for Tummy Tuck Surgery

Your Initial Consultation

The first step in your journey to a slimmer and more youthful figure or physique starts with an in-depth consultation.

• Dr. Patronella, who is a board-certified plastic surgeon, will listen carefully to your specific concerns and goals, examine the treatment area, and explain the various aspects of this procedure, including potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. He uses visual aids such as before-and-after tummy tuck photos to help you understand your potential outcome.
• Dr. Patronella will review your medical history and ask about your lifestyle habits. Medical clearance from your primary care physician may be necessary to ensure that you are in good overall health and a good candidate for abdominoplasty.

At the end of your consultation, you can expect to receive an inclusive cost estimate for your tummy tuck surgery.

Assessing Your Lifestyle and Making Improvements

Make the following lifestyle adjustments if instructed by Dr. Patronella:

Nicotine Use

• Smoking and tobacco use of any kind significantly increase your risks of complications during and after surgery. It can lead to increased bleeding and interfere with wound healing, which ultimately affects your results.
• Quit smoking well in advance of your surgery and continue to abstain during your recovery to avoid these issues.

Weight Stability, Diet and Exercise

• Adopt a balanced, nutritious diet and exercise routine, and maintain a stable weight for at least six months before abdominoplasty to avoid further weight fluctuations and support your body’s healing process.
• Staying well-hydrated in the weeks leading up to surgery reduces physical stress and helps your body tolerate surgery and recovery more easily.

Adjusting less-than-ideal lifestyle habits prepares you for surgery and recovery and will help you maintain your results and improve your overall well-being.

Planning Your Tummy Tuck Recovery

Careful preparation for your recovery period will ensure a more positive experience and lower your complication risks.

Home and Support Arrangements

• Prepare your living space for a comfortable recovery, including setting up a comfortable resting area with necessary supplies within arm’s reach.
• Consider purchasing extra-long charging cords for your devices.
• Arrange for a ride to and from the surgery center on the day of your procedure and assistance from friends or family during the first two days of recovery.

Wardrobe and Comfort

Lay out loose and comfortable clothing so they are easily accessible.

• Choose bottoms with elastic waistbands to avoid irritating incisions.
• Tops with button-down or zippered openings are also recommended to prevent straining when removing them.

Meals

Pre-cook nutritious meals that can be reheated to avoid having to prepare them during your downtime.

Prescriptions

Pick up any medications prescribed by Dr. Patronella before your surgery date.

Preoperative Instructions

Following Dr. Patronella’s pre-surgical instructions is essential to avoid delays and reduce health risks.

Preoperative Labs and Imaging

Complete all preoperative testing ordered by Dr. Patronella.

Medication Adjustments

Dr. Patronella will advise you to discontinue taking aspirin, NSAIDs, and any other non-crucial medications and supplements that may increase bleeding a few weeks before surgery.

The Night Before Your Tummy Tuck

The night before surgery is a good time to check that all your preparations are in place and you will be coming home to an environment conducive to optimal healing.

• Confirm your ride to and from your procedure and adhere to the fasting guidelines provided by our office to minimize potential complications or possibly having to postpone your procedure.
• Shower the evening before your surgery or in the morning if your surgery is scheduled for later in the day. Remove any jewelry, and do not apply deodorant, creams, or fragrances of any kind.

Day of Surgery

Arrive at the surgical facility at the designated time, allowing for preoperative assessments and preparations. If you are experiencing any anxiety, use deep, measured breathing and other calming techniques to ease your mind. You are in good hands with Dr. Patronella.

Immediate Postoperative Period

Expect to be closely monitored in our surgery center’s recovery area before being discharged. You will find that a compression garment has been placed over the surgical area to aid in healing and accelerate swelling reduction over the next six or so weeks.

Anesthesia will still be in effect, so you should not be in any significant pain.

When you are discharged, your designated friend or family member can drive you home after surgery and help you get settled.