Abdominoplasty FAQ's

How long does the tummy tuck procedure take?: An abdominoplasty is an outpatient surgery that usually takes 2-1/2 hours.
Where is the incision made for the tummy tuck surgery?: Your incision will span from hip bone to hip bone, dipping down into your panty line.
How long is the recovery period for a tummy tuck?: You will need to take 10-14 days off of work. Dr. Lamb will discuss your job with you & tell you how much time you can expect to be off work. During your recovery time, you will need to stay relaxed. After the first week, you will be feeling good & may think it’s a good time for a home project. This is not the time to clean out closets or re-arrange furniture. You can walk around your home to do daily tasks for yourself, but do not start any major projects. Also, do not climb steps more than twice a day for the first few weeks.
Will I have to wear any special clothing after the surgery?: You will be in a velcro binder for one week after surgery. We will supply this for you and you will be wearing this starting the day after your surgery. After the first week, you will be in a full garment for 6-8 weeks. There is a specific type that Dr. Lamb uses & we will tell you what kind & where to get it. You can take the garment off only to wash it & to take a shower.
Are there any restrictions on activity following the procedure?: You will be walking bent over for a week or so after surgery. This takes the tension off the incision. Your body will tell you when standing upright is o.k. After the first week, you may start the day standing up straight, but become slightly bent over as the day progresses. This is normal and is expected.
Are there any sleeping restrictions following a tummy tuck?: You will need to sleep in a recliner for the first 7-9 nights. Recline it to the second notch, so that you are flexed at the hip. This is a must, so if you do not have a recliner, call Rent-A-Center and have one delivered the day before surgery. They will put it in any room you want & will pick it up a week later.
What can be done to relieve the pain following tummy tuck surgery?: You will have pain pump catheters in place for 3 days following your tummy tuck. You can pull these yourself at home. If you are not comfortable with doing this yourself, you can come in and we’ll pull them for you.
What can be done to minimize scar damage?: For best scar quality, do not sun your scar or expose it to a tanning bed light for 6-8 months after surgery. If you are going to be in the sun, place 3 layers of over your scar.
Will there be any fluid discharge following the tummy tuck procedure?: You will have a suction drain for 5-7 days. This will be pulled when you are no longer draining substantial amounts of fluid.