How to prepare for a tummy tuck surgery

The decision to have a tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is often a process that takes months or more. You might try weight loss regimens or exercises before choosing to go forward with this procedure to see if you can achieve the look you want without getting surgery.

You will want to ensure that you are at a somewhat stable weight before you schedule your tummy tuck surgery so you can maximize the procedure’s benefits. Your surgeon will order preoperative testing and medical clearance to ensure that you can safely have this procedure. This testing may comprise blood work such as a complete blood count (CBC) or electrolyte (chemistry) test.

If you have a preexisting medical problem such as heart disease that puts you at high risk during surgery, you may need an electrocardiogram or other tests to be safe.

How to prepare for a tummy tuck surgery

A tummy tuck is performed in an operating room, surgical suite, hospital, or surgical center. Most people get discharged on the day of the surgery. But an overnight hospital stay may be needed if a medical issue comes up and closer monitoring is needed. An overnight stay is also needed if a complication arises during surgery, or if your pain is not controlled with oral medication.

What to wear

You can choose to wear whatever you would like to your surgery appointment. You will be required to change into a gown when you arrive at the hospital or surgical center.

What to eat and drink

Generally, your healthcare provider will recommend you not to eat and drink after midnight the night before your tummy tuck surgery. However, you may choose to follow your surgeon’s instructions sparingly as the science behind this recommendation evolves.

What medications you should avoid

Your healthcare provider might ask you to stop taking blood thinners several days before your procedure. If you take oral steroids or medications for diabetes, you might need to follow a modified dosing regimen in the days before your tummy tuck surgery.

Patients are advised to stop most vitamins and herbal supplements a few weeks before surgery.

Lifestyle changes after a tummy tuck surgery

You will need to be at a healthy weight and sustain good nutrition before your procedure so you can maximize the chances of a good recovery.

In the weeks before your surgery, your healthcare provider or a nutritionist may discuss dietary issues with you. If you tend to gain weight or diet excessively, you might start on a nutrition plan to ensure that you are getting the nutrients and calories you need to stay healthy for a better recovery.

Your healthcare provider may also ask you to quit smoking if you are a smoker since smoking hinders recovery.