Tummy tuck surgery is no walk in the park. It is a major investment in both yourself and your future. The majority of men and women who decide to undergo cosmetic surgery do so because they want to feel better about themselves and boost their confidence (while ridding themselves of some “frustrating” trouble spots). Since surgery is such an investment, considering the initial strain on your body, recovery time, and financial cost, it is important that you be prepared for what may be required after the procedure to maintain your ideal results. Doing these things will ensure that the benefits always outweigh the cost.
Avoid Weight Gain
As you gain weight, your skin stretches to accommodate that weight, and though you can lose the fat beneath, the skin doesn’t always go away. This leaves you with excess, hanging skin that can be both emotionally damaging and aesthetically unsightly. Since this is the reason that many people decide to have surgery in the first place, it goes without saying that you will want to avoid any major weight gain after your procedure. Because of this, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen is necessary. Avoid heavily processed foods that are high in sugar, sodium, and saturated fat. Instead of these types of foods, focus on adding vegetables, fruits, and lean protein to your diet. Find an activity or sport you love to do and stay active. These practices will help to ensure that you enjoy your results for years to come.
Avoid Future Pregnancies
While this isn’t saying that you “cannot” get pregnant after your procedure, pregnancy after tummy tuck surgery can be detrimental to your results. Pregnancy is the second reason patients cite for undergoing tummy tuck surgery. Pregnancy strains and tears the abdominal muscles, which stretches the skin and leaves much to desire in the way of improvement. While a tummy tuck can “fix” what pregnancy left behind, any additional pregnancies will undo your results. This is why it is recommended to hold off on surgery until after you are done having children.
Don’t Smoke
Before your surgery, you will be advised to stop smoking. The best thing you can do for yourself and for maintaining your results is not to start again. Smoking not only increases surgical risk factors during your procedure (as it limits blood flow) but it also hinders your ability to heal and recover. Additionally, smoking prematurely ages you. With all the good you are doing for yourself, don’t let smoking-related health problems hold you back.