A tummy tuck offers several life-changing improvements for patients wanting to enhance their abdomen, whether for aesthetic or functional reasons. While the body sculpting results possible with abdominoplasty are powerful, taking the necessary steps to prolong the longevity of your final results is key to your long-term satisfaction. Dr. David Bottger, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Philadelphia, explains that men and women who have received a tummy tuck can help maintain the outcome by following a few simple tips:
- Keep your weight stable: Major weight fluctuations can alter tummy tuck results by re-stretching the skin and abdominal muscles. Try to maintain a consistent weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Manage stress: High stress levels can impact your hormonal balance and contribute to weight gain. Finding effective ways to manage stress through yoga, meditation, or other active hobbies. These activities can also minimize weight fluctuations that may potentially change your body contours.
- Follow aftercare instructions: Stick to all post-operative guidelines provided by Dr. Bottger. This includes attending follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and following instructions on when and how to resume physical activity.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking can impair wound healing and increase the risk of complications post-surgery. Additionally, it can affect skin quality and lead to additional laxity and sagging, which could negate the benefits of a tummy tuck.
- Regular Exercise: Staying active is not only great for managing stress, but also helps maximize the integrity of your abdominoplasty results. Incorporate both cardiovascular and strength training into your routine. Cardio helps maintain weight, while strength training — especially core exercises — can help maintain the strength of the abdominal muscles.
Dr. David Bottger is passionate about providing Philadelphia patients with the high-quality, long-lasting results they’re looking for when considering plastic surgery procedures. Feel free to reach out to a friendly member of our office to learn more about the body contouring options that can help you feel more confident, or to schedule a consultation.