How Much Time Off Work Is Needed After a Tummy Tuck?

No area of the body is as frustrating as the abdomen. As women experience changes, such as weight fluctuations and childbirth, excess fat and loose skin accumulate around the middle. Sometimes, diet and exercise are not successful in reclaiming our pre-baby bodies. This is why board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rolando Morales offers tummy tuck surgery to patients in Houston, TX.

So how does tummy tuck surgery work, and how long is the recovery time after a tummy tuck? As with any surgery, it is essential for patients to do their homework and understand what goes into their procedure. Even though tummy tuck surgery is highly beneficial, there are some recovery requirements that need to be followed. Learn when you can return to work after tummy tuck surgery by scheduling a visit with Morales Plastic Surgery.

Am I a candidate for tummy tuck surgery?

A tummy tuck creates a slimmer waistline for patients after pregnancy or significant weight loss. As wonderful as the results are, Dr. Morales wants to make sure patients recover as safely and quickly as possible. So if you are interested in this procedure, you should begin the process by scheduling a consultation and a detailed examination.

During this appointment, Dr. Morales can determine if you are a candidate for tummy tuck surgery based on your personal health history and body contouring goals. Patients should also have realistic expectations to be satisfied with the outcome. By the end of the recovery period, you should have a flatter belly and a better-defined waistline.

How does tummy tuck surgery work?

Preparing to get tummy tuck surgery is an important part of the process. Patients are encouraged to schedule their procedures at least several weeks before any social events or activities. Dr. Morales may also give you some instructions to follow, such as avoiding certain supplements or blood-thinning medications to avoid complications. A tummy tuck usually takes 1 – 3 hours while the patient is under general anesthesia.

So how does tummy tuck surgery work? Although the details of the procedure vary, the incision is generally placed just above the pubic area. The incision length is based on how much excess skin and fat needs to be removed. Any future scarring, however, may be covered with a simple pair of underwear. Once the skin is eliminated and the underlying muscles are tightened, the staff at Morales Plastic Surgery will bring you to a recovery area for careful monitoring.

How long is the recovery time after a tummy tuck?

Many of our plastic surgery patients want to know – how long is recovery time after a tummy tuck? The first week following surgery should consist of rest and relaxation. Dr. Morales recommends having a responsible adult at home to help with household chores since you will not be able to lift heavy objects or participate in strenuous activities. Aftercare for tummy tuck surgery includes staying hydrated and taking pain medications to manage any discomfort.

At Morales Plastic Surgery, we recommend resting for 10 – 14 days before considering going back to normal activities. This gives patients plenty of time to heal and regain their strength. This timeline may also change based on your age, personal health history, and extensiveness of the procedure. Remember to attend any follow-up appointments with Dr. Morales as needed so we can monitor your tummy tuck healing progress.

When can I return to work after a tummy tuck?

So, when can patients return to work after tummy tuck surgery? After the 14-day recovery period, patients can consider going back to work based on the nature of their job. For example, individuals who work from a desk can return to work sooner than someone who must meet certain physical demands as part of their career.

It is important for patients in Houston, TX, to not pressure themselves to return to work too soon. At our clinic, we want patients to have a fast and safe recovery process following their tummy tuck surgery. Rest assured that our staff is with you every step of the way. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about returning to work.

Discover more about tummy tuck healing

Tummy tuck surgery is one of the most successful body contouring procedures we perform at Morales Plastic Surgery. Due to the nature of the procedure, recovery may be longer than you expect. Of course, the most effective way to reduce recovery time is to follow all instructions as given by our team. When you schedule a visit with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rolando Morales, we can give you specific details about what to expect in Houston, TX. Learn more about aftercare for tummy tuck surgery by reaching out for your private consultation today.