• Depending on your job, you should be able to return to work within 2 to 4 weeks after the operation;
• You can recommence driving once you are able to move freely with no pain and can wear a seat belt comfortably, usually 3 to 4 weeks following surgery;
• Generally exercises such as swimming, aerobics and so on can be recommenced at 6 to 8 weeks following surgery;
• Should you experience undue pain, redness, excessive swelling, a high temperature or feel unwell, please contact the hospital where you had your procedure or your Consultant directly if they have requested you to do so;
• When in bed, 2 to 3 pillows should be placed under your knees to relieve strain from the abdominal muscles;
• When getting out of bed, or from a lying to a sitting position, roll onto your side or front then lift yourself up. This will avoid straining the abdominal muscles;
• The abdominal support garment should be worn day and night for 4 to 6 weeks, as specified by your Surgeon. This may be removed for washing;
• You will find it uncomfortable to cough and laugh. Supporting your abdominal wound with a folded towel can help;
• Avoid constipation by keeping well hydrated and by eating a diet containing roughage (fruit and vegetables);
• Take painkillers as directed, these are usually Paracetamol-based. Please avoid taking any Aspirin-based medications as these can cause bleeding;
• It is important to complete the course of antibiotics provided, if prescribed;
• Initially following surgery you should walk slightly bent forward, to take the strain off the abdominal muscles;
• Gradually over a week you can start to walk more upright. Gentle daily exercise is recommended;
• Please refrain from smoking as this prevents good wound healing;
• Domestic chores such as vacuuming and ironing, plus heavy lifting should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks;
• Your abdomen will be swollen and bruised initially. This will gradually disappear. Swelling can take up to 6 months to completely dissipate;
• A lack of sensation to the abdominal area is normal, with sensation returning over a period of several months;
• Wound dressings should be kept intact and dry until your follow-up appointment;
• Advice about showering/bathing and care of the wound will be given at your follow-up appointments;
• Dissolvable stitches are usually used to the main abdominal scar;
• Sutures around the umbilicus (navel) may need to be removed. This will be done at your follow-up appointment.

Are you unhappy with the current shape of your tummy? Contact our team today to find out more about Abdominoplasty, and to book your consultation or to find out more about our Abdominoplasty discharge advice.