What is the Downtime for a Tummy Tuck?

There are multiple considerations when you decide to get a tummy tuck. Although the procedure for a tummy tuck sounds simple, it is still regarded as major surgery, and you need to plan and prepare for some recovery time. Different people heal at different speeds, so to provide an exact amount of time it will take for you to heal is difficult. However, your New York City plastic surgeon, Dr. Aviva Preminger, is providing some information that may assist you in calculating an approximate time for your tummy tuck recovery.

First, your healing time will depend on your specific surgery. As all cases are not the same, if you require extensive work, it could take much longer for your body to heal. With the possibility of your tummy tuck ranging anywhere from a mini tuck to a full tuck, our certified plastic surgeon on the Upper East Side of Manhattan should be able to estimate your recovery time based on the extent of your surgery. Dr. Preminger will discuss this with you during your consultation.

Second, your job is another factor in determining the downtime you may experience while healing. If you work in an office setting where you are mostly sedentary throughout the day, and no lifting is required, you could possibly return to work with your doctor’s approval within two weeks after the procedure. Now, if you are on your feet for most of the day and more active at work, you may need to request additional time off. However, if you have a very physical job, you will need to abstain from any strenuous physical activity for four to six weeks, depending on your body’s healing process. It is always a best practice to consult your plastic surgeon before returning to work to ensure you are adequately healed.

Third, your pain tolerance is critical in getting back to normal everyday activities. As each person heals differently, their pain tolerance follows the same rules. Pain is a subjective thing, and some may experience more intense pain than others. Of course, your pain level could be determined by the procedure that you choose.

Fourth, your body may quickly heal. If your body recovers faster than expected, you may be able to return to work and your regularly scheduled activities. However, if your body heals slower or there is a pre-existing health condition that could cause a delay in your healing process, it may take extra time to recover to the point that you can return to work. Some health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, certain medications, and the use of tobacco or alcohol could impact your body’s healing process.

Tummy Tuck – Upper East Side of Manhattan and New York City

The key to healing from a tummy tuck is to follow the instructions provided by your board-certified plastic surgeon on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Dr. Aviva Preminger, so your healing process goes smoothly without complications. The downtime for a tummy tuck has several factors in the healing process. Still, the best way to determine an approximate amount of downtime is to call (212) 706-1900 or request a consultation online so your particular situation can be appropriately evaluated.