What Lifestyle Changes Should You Make Before Undergoing a Tummy Tuck?

When it comes to achieving the most desirable and longest-lasting tummy tuck results possible, it is helpful to prepare your mind and body — and even your home — prior to surgery. Here, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe and the knowledgeable team at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX outline helpful tips on what things to do, what to avoid, and what lifestyle changes may give you the best possible chance for a successful tummy tuck, efficient recovery, and lasting results.

Is a tummy tuck right for me?

First, it is helpful to better understand what a tummy tuck does, how it works, and whether it may be an appropriate and effective procedure for you. While there are several different types of tummy tucks available — including the full, extended, mini, and drainless tummy tucks — the procedure generally involves the removal of excess skin from the midsection to create a smoother, slimmer new contour. Depending on the specific tummy tuck approach used, a procedure may involve skin excision, skin tightening, repositioning of the belly button, liposuction fat removal, and other techniques.

What do I need to do to get ready for a tummy tuck?

Some of the key lifestyle modifications and preparations that can help you get the most out of your tummy tuck surgery include:

• Get to a healthy, stable weight
• Be certain you are done having children
• Wait at least 6 - 12 months after having children and breastfeeding
• Establish a healthy diet and regular exercise routine
• Quit smoking
• Make arrangements for help with the house, children, chores, etc., for at least 2 – 3 weeks after surgery
• Plan ahead to take up to 2 – 3 weeks off of work during recovery

Why should I lose weight prior to a tummy tuck?

Among the pre-tummy tuck must-dos listed above, achieving and maintaining a healthy target weight is one of the most critical things patients can do ahead of their surgery. Ideally, patients should be at or near their goal weight at the time of abdominoplasty surgery and have maintained that weight for at least 6 –12 months. Not only can this help reduce peri- and postoperative risks and make recovery more comfortable and efficient, but it can also help patients achieve the most desirable and longest-lasting outcome possible — as additional weight fluctuation after a tummy tuck can significantly compromise or even reverse the procedure's initial results.

What happens if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

Patients are strongly encouraged to defer their tummy tuck surgery until they are done having children. However, Dr. Dauwe understands that plans can change and life can sometimes be surprising. If you do find that you become pregnant again after a tummy tuck and experience unwanted stretched skin and other cosmetic changes after delivery, a repeat body contouring surgery may help to restore your pre-baby body once again.

Treat yourself to a transformation with tummy tuck surgery in Dallas, TX

With its ability to address a wide array of concerns almost anywhere on the midsection, customizable tummy tuck surgery has helped many men and women achieve stunning before-and-after transformations and change their lives in more ways than one — and you can join them. Take the first step toward regaining a slimmer, more youthful-looking figure and restoring your self-confidence by calling Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery to schedule your Dallas, TX abdominoplasty consultation with esteemed board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe today.