What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Tummy Tuck

Hartford, Greenwich, Waterbury, Glastonbury - Connecticut

Your Consultation

Your tummy tuck process will begin at your initial consultation with Dr. Foster where you will discuss your short and long-term goals and expectations, the risks of the procedure, as well as any alternative treatments that may also work for you. Abdominoplasty can be a very intensive procedure. If a simpler procedure such as a liposuction might be more appropriate, Dr. Foster will let you know. It is important to mention that a tummy tuck is not an alternative form of weight loss. Dr. Foster will not perform abdominoplasty on severely obese individuals. If Dr. Foster determines that you are a good candidate for abdominoplasty, then you will arrange a date for your surgery at this time.

The Surgery

You will be given detailed pre-op instructions to follow. Dr. Foster performs most abdominoplasty procedures on an outpatient basis. More extensive procedures may require the procedure be done in one of the local hospitals. General anesthesia is used for most procedures, though local anesthesia and sedation are appropriate for some individuals. You can expect the surgery to last anywhere from two to three hours depending on the amount of work that needs to be done. Either way, you will feel no pain and minimal discomfort during the surgery itself.

Your Recovery

Most tummy tuck patients are able to go home shortly after surgery. This will depend on the extent of work that is done. For some patients, an overnight stay in the hospital is advised. You should expect some swelling, bruising, and limited movement in the hours and days following the surgery. Pain medication will be prescribed for you. You will be given an abdominal binder that must be worn for a month to ensure proper healing, as well as have drains placed. This is not a bulky dressing, and is easily concealed under regular clothing.

Low-impact exercise is strongly encouraged as soon as possible after surgery. This will help aid the healing process, and will significantly lessen the risk of complications during recovery. Keep in mind that several months may need to pass before all the swelling goes down and the final results of the abdominoplasty are apparent, so it is important to be patient.

If you live in or near Hartford, Waterbury, Greenwich, or Glastonbury Connecticut and wish to restore your youthful abdominal contours, or if you have any further questions about tummy tuck surgery, please contact Dr. Foster today.

1389 West Main Street
Waterbury, CT. 06708

Glastonbury, CT

1345 E. Putnam Ave.
Greenwich, CT

800.576.7151