According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 130,000 abdominoplasty procedures were performed in 2017, making it one of the top five most popular surgical procedures in the U.S. Also known as a tummy tuck, this procedure helps patients achieve their desired body goals by removing excess fat and tissue in the abdomen area. Those who consider undergoing an abdominoplasty should know that plastic surgery is a major decision and investment that may require several lifestyle changes for better and more long-lasting results. Here are some key changes that will help maintain the results of tummy tuck surgery.

Diet and Exercise

Weight gain causes the skin to stretch in order to make room for the excess weight. The end result is extra skin that hangs off of the body, which may not be aesthetically pleasing for many people. This is usually the reason why people opt for tummy tuck surgery in the first place, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight following the procedure in order to prevent the “undoing” of plastic surgery. The most obvious steps to prevent excessive weight gain are proper diet and exercise. As the body heals, it is especially important to avoid carbonated drinks or foods high in sodium that can cause bloating and fluid retention because the stomach area will be sensitive to excess swelling. Patients should also try to reduce or avoid the intake of foods high in saturated fats, carbohydrates, and sugars to encourage a healthier lifestyle. Individuals should find exercises that they enjoy—such as walking, jogging, and biking—and make it a regular workout routine.

Wait Until You’re Done Growing Your Family

Since a person should try to avoid weight gain, and since many women consider surgery following physical changes after a pregnancy, women should also try to avoid becoming pregnant after undergoing a tummy tuck. As a pregnancy progresses, the muscles in the abdomen will begin to strain and tear, resulting in the skin being stretched, therefore “undoing” the desired results of an abdominoplasty. This is why women who are still unsure about their family planning goals should consider putting off cosmetic surgery until after they’re sure that they are done having children. At this time, patients may consult with Dr. Franckle about the benefits of combining a tummy tuck procedure with other surgical options for a mommy makeover procedure.

Quit Smoking

Those who smoke are usually advised to quit before surgery, and for better results, it’s best to not start again after the procedure. Since studies have shown that nicotine can hinder the healing process, smoking can interfere with the body’s ability to recover after surgery. Smoking is also known to affect blood flow, which can increase surgical risk factors. Additionally, smoking increases a person’s chances of heart attacks, stroke, and some cancers. This is not just about the physical results of a tummy tuck; this is also about the overall health of a person, which is just as important for self-improvement.

If you are considering an abdominoplasty, William Franckle, MD, FACS offers a range of options, including both mini and full abdominoplasty procedures, as well as liposuction. View our tummy tuck gallery to see how we have helped patients across South Jersey achieve their desired results. While results will vary depending on your unique body and goals, we recommend you start by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Franckle to answer all of your questions and learn more about this procedure.