Diet and Exercise After a Tummy Tuck

Sporty young woman eating healthy while listening to music

You’ll want to take good care of your body after tummy tuck surgery to maintain your slimmer figure, both during the initial recovery period and the months and years beyond. By following your doctor’s post-op instructions and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, you can significantly lower the chances of needing a follow-up treatment in the future.

Tummy Tucks by Dr. Kaye

Outside of adjusting your daily habits, one of the best ways of ensuring you have a successful tummy tuck in Hopkinsville is to have it performed by triple board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mitchell D. Kaye. At the Advanced Cosmetic Surgery Center of Kentucky, Dr. Kaye regularly performs this procedure in his private, fully accredited, in-office surgery suite. 

During your initial consultation, Dr. Kaye will review your symptoms and medical history to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. If approved, he will go over the details of your treatment, including important instructions for before and after.

What Should I Eat During Tummy Tuck Recovery?

Avoid alcoholic beverages while on pain medications prescribed by Dr. Kaye, and be sure to abstain from smoking for at least six weeks. Your body also needs the right vitamins and nutrients to reduce inflammation during surgical recovery. Dr. Kaye might recommend:

  • Plenty of water
  • Green tea
  • Vitamin A and Vitamin C supplements
  • Pineapple, papaya, and other fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Low-fiber foods like yogurt, cooked cereal, and eggs
  • Proteins like tender chicken and fish
  • Avoiding fatty, spicy, and gassy foods

What Will My Physical Limitations Be While I Heal?

You’ll likely be advised to do some occasional light walking during your first week of recovery in order to minimize the risk of blood clotting. Apart from that, Dr. Kaye will ask you to refrain from all intense physical activities after surgery. Additionally, you will probably need to take a week off from work. Skip the gym until otherwise directed.

What Should My Post-Tummy Tuck Diet Consist of?

Once your surgical recovery is complete, it’s all about keeping your new appearance by avoiding future weight fluctuations. Continue eating the healthy foods described above and watch that calorie intake! Staying away from sugar as much as possible is always a great idea, as well as trying intermittent fasting. 

How Do I Keep My Toned Appearance?

Once cleared to return to the gym by Dr. Kaye, consistent exercise is essential to maintaining results. If your abdominal muscles were not tightened during the surgery itself, working these muscles in the gym with crunches or sit-ups can be beneficial. It is also crucial to stick to a balanced routine consisting of cardio and strength training. 

Instructions Based on Your Body

Your instructions after your tummy tuck in Hopkinsville, KY, will be customized based on the details of your procedure, specific anatomy, and treatment goals. To get more information on your potential candidacy for a tummy tuck, contact Advanced Cosmetic Surgery Center of Kentucky today to set up your initial consultation!