When Does The Tummy Become Flat & Heal After Tummy Tuck?

One has to undergo strenuous exercise and a proper diet to get a flat tummy, which can take years to produce results. However, if you are someone who has chosen a tummy tuck to get rid of stubborn fat, then you must be wondering when you will see yourself with a flat tummy. The journey to a flatter tummy after surgery involves a period of healing and gradual improvement. Here’s a quick guide to what to expect after tummy tuck seattle surgery, what influences the recovery and healing process, and how you can maximize the results. Let’s dive in.

Tummy Tuck Recovery And Results: Influence of Swelling

Post-surgery you will notice some swelling, because of which the tummy may not look flat. It may take three to four months for swelling to gradually disappear and a complete year to fully recover. Other factors like skin, muscles, and fat are repaired during surgery and need time for healing. This delays the visible result of tummy tuck for a few months. 

One can’t deny the fact that, if good care is taken, the results of tummy tuck will appear soon and last for longer.

Healing In Tummy Tuck Surgery: Three Phases

Tummy tuck tests your patience to fully show the results. The recovery has three healing phases. Let’s see it one by one.

Phase One: The Resting Mode

1. Immediately after surgery: Just after surgery, you will experience swelling and bruising. 
2. First week: This is the most difficult phase of the whole recovery phase. The swelling may slowly reduce but not fully disappear. At this phase, you will mostly rest and be asked to avoid vigorous activities.
3. Two weeks: By two to three weeks, most people can return to their desk jobs. You can resume daily activities within six to eight weeks. At this phase, swelling will start disappearing.
4. After 3 weeks: You can resume driving after three weeks, but you will need assistance with heavy items. Swelling, discomfort, and bruising decrease greatly by this stage.

Phase Two: The Healing Mode

By this time, you have seen three months and your tummy shape is finally visible. As the swelling disappears and your body heals, you will experience no pain. However, the scars of surgery will still be red.

Phase Three: The Final Result

You have completed one year of recovery and healing by this phase. The scars of incisions will continue to heal and fade away by this time. You are free to enjoy your flatter belly by now.

Tummy Tuck Results: Get The Best

This is as plain as day, when you take good care of yourself, you can maximize the benefits of tummy tuck surgery. Here are three key points to remember for a better and longer lifespan of surgery:

1. Keep your weight ideal. Weight gain can affect the results, and you may lose your flat belly. 
2. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. 
3. Protect incision from sun exposure. Apply sun protection cream whenever you are heading out.

How Much Weight Can You Lose With Tummy Tuck Surgery?

As evident, tummy tuck surgery can help to lose a significant amount of weight due to the involvement of liposuction and skin removal. Mostly, patients lose weight drastically, which is the most dramatic change anyone notices after surgery. Typically, patients might go down to 2- 4 pant sizes after the tummy tuck surgery.

Journey to Flatter Tummy

The journey to a flatter tummy after a tummy tuck is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate every milestone, from the initial decrease in swelling to the gradual improvement in your abdominal definition. Remember, a healthy approach to weight management and exercise is key to maintaining your results in the long run.

Depending on your starting anatomy, a truly flat stomach may not be possible. However, Dr. Sajan will discuss this with you before surgery and it is fairly rare. To schedule a consultation, give us a call at 206-209-0988. You can also reach out online via Price Simulator®, chat, or contact form.