Are you thinking about getting a tummy tuck?
There are a lot of benefits to this procedure, especially if you’re unhappy with how you look. Following surgery and recovery, you’ll have the body you’ve always wanted with less belly fat, firmer skin, and better muscle tone. You’ll look and feel better than you ever have before!
However, you need to know that this surgery comes along with a lot of preparation so you can get the best results. So keep reading to find out how to prepare for a tummy tuck.
Consult With Your Cosmetic Surgeon
When preparing for a tummy tuck, it is essential to consult with your cosmetic surgeon before you do anything else. During the consultation process, it is important to discuss the specifics of the procedure. You should ask about the type of anesthesia that they will use and any medical conditions you have that could interfere with the procedure.
The best tummy tuck surgeons should discuss risks and benefits, the recovery period, and any potential side effects of the surgery. So ask about the length and specifics of the surgical procedure.
Your surgeon should provide you with paperwork that outlines the details of the procedure. You should also address any financial arrangements related to the surgery. And you should have clarity of the costs associated with the procedure.
Your cosmetic surgeon will be able to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. They can help you anticipate any potential risks related to a tummy tuck procedure.
Stop Taking Medications or Supplements
You need to stop taking medications and supplements before a tummy tuck. This includes all types of over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, and supplements. Many of these can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding and bruising after surgery.
Refrain from Smoking
Smoking reduces blood circulation in the body. It can create dangerous adhesive scarring, making healing more difficult. Additionally, nicotine passives in the lungs and can reduce the amount of oxygen the body receives and needs during surgery.
Quitting smoking as early ahead of time as possible is the ideal approach to ensure a successful and healthy surgery recovery. To better prepare for a tummy tuck, you should stop any smoking habits altogether for a minimum of six weeks prior to the surgery.
Avoid Alcohol
Drinking alcohol can lead to a longer recovery and increased chances of complications after surgery. The best way to avoid alcohol is to abstain from it entirely. This means avoiding all drinks that contain alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits.
It also means avoiding any food or drink that contains alcohol, including desserts, sauces, and medications. If giving up alcohol is not possible, it is important to let your surgeon know in advance so that they can plan accordingly.
Eat Fruits and Vegetables Rich in Vitamin C
Eating a diet full of east fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C can be an incredibly helpful way to supplement your physical preparation. Vitamin C helps boost the immune system and fight off colds and other illnesses. It also helps keep the skin strong, elastic, and hydrated and can aid in healing after the tummy tuck procedure.
So eat plenty of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, berries, and peppers. You can also supplement these with other fruits and vegetables such as pineapple, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.
Avoid Processed Foods
Processed foods have fat, sugar, and sodium, all of which can lead to unhealthy weight gain. They can prevent you from achieving the best results from your tummy tuck.
To avoid processed foods, it’s important to focus on consuming fresh, whole foods. Eat fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Minimize Your Carbohydrates Intake
When you lower your carb intake, you will help decreases bloating. This can reduce the size of your abdomen before your procedure.
So start by identifying all the foods and beverages in your usual diet that contain carbohydrates. Then begin to reduce their consumption gradually. This will help you to adjust your body gradually to a low-carb lifestyle.
Start focusing on consuming healthy proteins and fats such as fish, eggs, and avocados. Make sure to also add plenty of fiber and vegetables to your diet, as these help to reduce bloating and flush out toxins from your body.
Don’t Eat Foods High in Sugar
Sugar can cause inflammation and water retention, both of which can lead to a more difficult surgery and recovery period. So avoid white sugar, cookies, cakes, candy, jams, and ice cream. Cut down on added sugar, like high-fructose corn syrup, breakfast pastries, and energy drinks.
Avoid fruit juice as well; some can have more sugar than cola. Be sure to check food labels and opt for low-sugar varieties.
Drink Beverages Rich in Electrolytes
Electrolytes keep fluid levels balanced. They also help prevent dehydration, muscle cramps, and low energy levels. So drink at least eight glasses of fluids each day, with a focus on beverages that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks and coconut water.
To maximize the benefits, it is best to spread out your fluid intake between meals so your body has enough time to absorb electrolytes. Don’t forget to monitor your fluid intake the week before your plastic surgery procedures. This is important so that you can ensure that your body is adequately prepared for the surgery.
Follow Our Guide on How to Prepare for a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is a decision you should not take lightly. So you need to prepare by talking to a surgeon, avoiding vices, and eating healthy before getting it. With the right approach, you can be prepared for your tummy tuck and, hopefully, see the desired results.
So if you’re considering a tummy tuck, be sure to go through the necessary preparations. And follow the tips in this guide on how to prepare for a tummy tuck to get the best possible results.
Was this article helpful? If so, check out the rest of our site for more.
