Mini Tummy Tuck

Postoperative Instructions for Mini Tummy Tuck

General Overview

A mini tummy tuck involves removing excess skin and fat below the belly button while tightening abdominal muscles. It is a less extensive procedure than a full tummy tuck but requires following detailed postoperative instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

Activity Guidelines

    1.    Walking:

    •    Walk every 2 hours for 2 minutes at a slow pace to improve circulation and prevent blood clots.

    •    Stay slightly bent at the waist (about a 30° angle) for the first 3–5 days to reduce tension on the incision.

    2.    Sleeping Position:

    •    Sleep at a 30° angle in a recliner or with pillows under your back and knees.

    •    Avoid lying flat until cleared by Dr. Farzaneh.

    3.    Avoid Prolonged Sitting:

    •    Do not sit for extended periods in positions where the skin in the treated area folds over itself, as this can cause depressions or irregularities.

    4.    Getting Out of Bed:

    •    Avoid using abdominal muscles to get in and out of bed. Have a caregiver assist you as needed.

Diet and Hydration

    1.    Hydration:

    •    Drink water slowly to stay hydrated and prevent nausea.

    •    Include electrolyte drinks like Gatorade to maintain hydration.

    2.    Diet:

    •    Start with low-residue foods (e.g., crackers, plain toast) until bowel movements resume.

    •    Gradually return to a regular diet, focusing on protein-rich foods to aid healing.

    3.    Stool Softeners:

    •    Use a stool softener like Colace if needed. For severe constipation, take Dulcolax (one pill per day) after consulting us.

Medications

    1.    Antibiotics:

    •    Keflex 500 mg: Take every 6 hours for one week (if no allergies).

    •    Clindamycin 300 mg: Take every 8 hours for 7–14 days if allergic to penicillin.

    •    If You Have Drains: Continue taking antibiotics until the drains are removed.

    2.    Pain Relief:

    •    Use over-the-counter Tylenol (do not exceed 2000 mg in 24 hours).

    •    Narcotics are rarely needed but are provided for severe pain.

    3.    Muscle Relaxants:

    •    Take Diazepam as prescribed for tension or discomfort.

Lymphatic Massage

    1.    Benefits of Lymphatic Massage:

    •    Lymphatic massage is highly recommended to reduce swelling, improve the smoothness of your results, and help avoid irregularities after surgery.

    2.    Timing:

    •    The timing of when to start lymphatic massage will be determined during your follow-up visits. Dr. Farzaneh will advise when it’s appropriate to begin.

    3.    Specialized Provider:

    •    Secure a qualified provider for lymphatic massage before your surgery to ensure smooth scheduling after your procedure.

Dressing and Compression Garments

    1.    Compression Garments:

    •    Wear your compression garment tightly as directed to help reduce swelling and support smooth healing.

    2.    Dressing Changes:

    •    Change dressings with sterile gloves and supplies as instructed.

    3.    Binder:

    •    Wear an abdominal binder or compression garment as directed to support muscle repair and maintain results.

Hygiene and Showering

    1.    Showering:

    •    Use antibacterial soap. Do not scrub the incision or treated areas; let soapy water gently run over them.

    •    Dry the incision with sterile pads—do not use towels.

    2.    Clean Environment:

    •    Ensure fresh linens, clean clothing, and disinfected bathrooms. Avoid pets near the surgical site.

Activity Restrictions

    1.    Physical Activity:

    •    Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for 6 weeks.

    •    No abdominal exercises for 3 months.

    •    Avoid prolonged sitting or positions that compress the abdomen.

    2.    Smoking:

    •    Refrain from smoking for 2 months before and 1 month after surgery to prevent complications like skin loss or prolonged healing.

Scar Management

    1.    Silicone Scar Treatment:

    •    Begin using silicone scar tape or gel (e.g., Silagen) once the incisions are fully healed and scabs are gone.

    2.    Advanced Scar Treatments:

    •    Consider options like microneedling or laser therapy for scar improvement after 6–12 months.

Signs of Complications

Contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:

    •    Difficulty breathing or chest pain.

    •    Excessive bleeding or abnormal pain.

    •    Signs of infection (e.g., redness, warmth, or foul-smelling drainage).

    •    Diarrhea, which may indicate antibiotic-related colitis.

In emergencies, call 911 if you cannot reach Dr. Farzaneh directly.

Contact Information

    •    Dr. Babak Farzaneh

    •    Direct Communication: Call or text Dr. Farzaneh directly on his cell phone.

    •    Virtual Assistance: Utilize Dr. Farzaneh’s virtual clone on our website for immediate answers.

We’re Here for You

Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns during your recovery. Thank you for choosing TrueCare Cosmetic Surgery & Med Spa.