Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Fasting: No food or drink (including water, mints, or gum) for 8 hours prior to surgery.

Transportation: Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and remain with you for at least 1–2 days. Rideshare services are not permitted.

Medications: Stop aspirin, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic, etc.) as directed.

Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Avoid nicotine for 4 weeks before and after surgery.
• Reduce or stop alcohol for 2 weeks before and after.

Day of Surgery:

• Shower with mild soap the morning of surgery.
• Do not apply lotions, deodorant, or makeup.
• Remove jewelry, piercings, and valuables.
• Wear loose, front-opening clothing.
• Bring compression garments if instructed.

Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Positioning & Mobility:

• Walk slightly hunched at the waist for the first 5–7 days after abdominoplasty.
• Walk indoors (room to bathroom, around the home) beginning the day of surgery.
• Sleep on your back with your head elevated 30–40° and knees supported by a pillow.
• Avoid lying on your stomach or side for at least 4 weeks.

Compression Garments:

• Wear abdominal compression garments as instructed.

Your Recovery Bra:

• A supportive surgical bra is required 24 hours a day for the first month (with short daily breaks). The bra should not be overly compressive or have underwire. 
• Having two bras is recommended so you can alternate for regular cleaning. 
• We will provide your first garment, and you may purchase an additional one if you’d like. 
• For full details, please see the complete instructions below (in the PDF link).

Medications:

• Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe for pain.
• Narcotics may be prescribed; take with stool softeners/laxatives.
• Zofran may be prescribed for nausea.
• Antibiotics should be taken as directed. 
• Sinnech (Arnica montana) may be used to reduce bruising/swelling.

Activity Restrictions:

• Limit arm movements (lifting, reaching) for 4–6 weeks.
• Avoid lifting more than 5 lbs until cleared by your surgeon.
• Resume light physical activity after 4–6 weeks; more intense activity after 6–8 weeks.
• Return to work in 5–7 days, depending on your job and procedures performed.

Incision & Drain Care:

• Incisions are sealed with surgical glue; stitches are dissolvable.
• JP drains may be placed; follow separate drain care instructions.
• Apply antibiotic ointment to the belly button/incisions as directed.

Bathing:

• Shower 24–48 hours post-op with assistance.
• Avoid hot tubs, pools, or soaking until cleared (usually after 2 weeks).

Sexual Activity: Resume when incisions are well-healed, typically after 4 weeks. Avoid pressure on breasts or abdomen until cleared.

Special Considerations:

• Breast implants may appear high and firm initially; they will settle over weeks.
• Taping may be applied to breasts for swelling reduction. It is generally removed after 6 days.
• Lymphatic drainage massage is recommended to aid recovery.

Recovery Expectations

Bruising & Swelling: Normal for 2–3 weeks; swelling may persist for several months.

Pain: Tightness, soreness, and fatigue are expected for several weeks.

Skin Sensation: Temporary numbness or tingling is common.

Implant Position (if applicable): Implants may sit high before settling naturally over 3–6 weeks.

Sounds/Feelings: Crackling or sloshing sensations are normal in the first week.

Bras: Wait 8–12 weeks before purchasing new bras.

Emotional Recovery: Mood changes are normal during healing; support is available if needed.