In this blog post, we review some common questions about the tummy tuck recovery process.

How Much Weight Will I Lose after Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Patients should not expect to lose a large amount of weight from the tummy tuck procedure. The excess skin that is removed will result in some weight loss, but it is typically no more than five pounds. Tummy tuck is a body shaping procedure rather than a weight loss method. Patients will have a noticeable flatter tummy, and folds of excess skin will be permanently removed.

How Long Does Numbness Last After Tummy Tuck?

Numbness is a common side effect of tummy tuck surgery. Many patients find that the lower abdomen is numb for as long as a year and a half after surgery. Sensation will begin to return on the sides of the lower stomach first, and then gradually return to the center of the stomach. However, if nerves were severed during surgery, patients will experience permanent numbness just above the incisional, or scar, line.

How Long Should I Wear a Binder or Compression Garment after Surgery?

Compression garments offer a number of benefits to tummy tuck and liposuction patients. They minimize swelling and pain, improve blood circulation, and help maintain the new body shape. Compression garments and binders should be worn anywhere from two weeks to six weeks after surgery, depending on the individual patient's case.

How Long Should I Wait to Have Intercourse after Surgery?

Tummy tuck surgery is a serious operation, and patients need to allow some time to heal before engaging in sexual intercourse. In general, patients should wait at least four weeks before having sex after tummy tuck surgery.

Should I Undergo Tummy Tuck Surgery Right After a C-section?

No. It is important that you take time to heal after having a child and allow time for your skin to shrink as much as possible. This takes a minimum of six months. Once you have lost your baby weight and your skin has contracted, you may consider surgery.

Can I Have a Baby After a Tummy Tuck?

Although there are no health reasons that will prevent you from getting pregnant again, it is recommended that you wait to have a tummy tuck until you are finished having children. Getting pregnant will stretch out the abdominal skin again and may result in the need for re-treatment. If you do decide to get pregnant after tummy tuck surgery, you should wait at least six months before trying.