An abdominoplasty is quite an extensive, significant procedure, which can require some careful preparation time. In fact, how you prepare for any type of plastic surgery beforehand can make a difference to your recovery, your results and how well you minimise risks.
A consultation with your plastic surgeon will be the most helpful way to prepare for your abdominoplasty, as you’ll be able to discuss the procedure according to your individual needs and receive tailored advice.
Before you book your consultation, you can do some research on what preparing for the procedure typically entails to get one step ahead of the journey. In this blog, we’ll go over the common aspects of preparation and explain why each step is important.
Step 1: Follow your plastic surgeon’s specific preparation instructions
Before your abdominoplasty procedure, you’ll likely be given a set of pre-operative instructions to follow. It’s really important to follow them closely, as they are generally put in place to help you minimise surgical risks.
Some examples of specific instructions may include fasting (no food or drink) for a set period of time before your procedure, quitting smoking in the weeks leading up to the procedure, and avoiding or switching some types of medications.
You should always make sure that you have a good understanding of your instructions, and feel comfortable to reach out to your surgeon’s team if you have any questions.
Step 2: Have any required pre-op checks
Before your abdominoplasty, your plastic surgeon will determine your suitability for the procedure during a consultation. One of the most important parts of assessing your suitability will be carefully assessing your current health and health history.
It’s highly important to disclose any health conditions you have, any medications you take and any previous surgeries you have had. In particular, if you have any chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, these will need to be well-managed before you go ahead with the surgery.
Sometimes, candidates are then asked to undergo some pre-op tests. For example, you may need a blood test, an ECG or another kind of assessment to support your overall suitability for the surgery. If you’re instructed to do so, making sure that you complete these tests will be an extremely important part of your abdominoplasty preparation process.
Step 3: Make some lifestyle adjustments to ensure that your body will be in good health
In the weeks leading up to your abdominoplasty, making some positive changes to your lifestyle can support your general health, which is highly helpful when preparing for an extensive procedure.
Firstly, if you smoke, your surgeon will usually require you to stop well in advance and continue to quit during recovery after surgery. Smoking affects blood flow and can seriously slow down healing, increasing the risk of complications like or infection.
It’s also a good idea to cut back on alcohol in the lead-up to your surgery. Drinking can affect your immune system and interact with anaesthesia, so most surgeons recommend limiting alcohol for at least a couple of weeks before and after your procedure.
Eating a healthy, balanced diet and staying reasonably active can also help to prepare your body for the physical demands of surgery and recovery.
Step 4: Make sure that your home is a suitable and comfortable place for recovery
One of the most practical things you can do before your abdominoplasty is to set up your home so that it’s suitable and ready for your recovery. It is a good idea to have a comfortable space where you can rest, with everything you need within easy reach.
After an abdominoplasty, standing fully upright can feel uncomfortable at first, so many people find it easier to sleep in a reclined position for the first few days. Setting up a recliner chair or using extra pillows to create a slight bend at your hips and knees can help.
You can also make sure that you have items like loose and comfortable clothing that won’t put pressure on the abdomen, pre-prepared meals, medications, bandages and other wound care supplied, as well as anything else you may need during recovery.
Step 5: Organise for someone to help you after your procedure
While you’re resting early on in recovery, particularly within the first one to two days, it can be very helpful to have someone stay with you and help you around the house. You also won’t be able to drive yourself home after surgery, so you’ll need someone to drive you home.
If you have any dependents (such as young children or pets) or any other responsibilities, it can be helpful to plan for extra help during the early recovery period. You’ll need to avoid lifting, bending, and strenuous activities for several weeks, so having a support system in place can make the process a lot easier.
Step 6: Be prepared to follow your plastic surgeon’s recovery instructions
To help you heal after an abdominoplasty, your surgeon will need to give you a list of instructions that particularly consider your individual needs and how your procedure was performed.
To prepare, it’s helpful to understand you may need to make some adjustments to your normal routine or daily life to accommodate these instructions.
For example, you will likely need to take some time off work to get sufficient rest, have someone help you with certain chores at home earlier on in the recovery process, and reduce your physical activity levels.
While it may feel like something to worry about later, it can be a good idea to begin researching what recovery may involve before having your first consultation. Your surgeon will need to ensure that you have realistic expectations and can accommodate a successful recovery period, so it’s a helpful step in ensuring you know what’s involved in the process.
Book an abdominoplasty consultation at Vie at Fraser-Kirk, Sunshine Coast, QLD
As the lead of Vie at Fraser-Kirk, Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Grant Fraser-Kirk has undergone years of extensive study and training to perform various breast and body procedures.
He takes a patient-focused approach to achieving effective results and a supportive surgical experience. Dr Fraser-Kirk is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS) and a qualified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who has trained in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
To schedule a consultation for an abdominoplasty in Sunshine Coast, QLD, please contact our team.