A tummy tuck is a serious medical procedure that many men and women undergo each year. Your commitment to recovery and self-care will ensure that your body has the best chance for full recovery. Following your physician's instructions for post-operative care is the most important thing you can do for tummy tuck recovery.

After your tummy tuck, you will rest in a recovery room, or you might even be admitted to the hospital overnight. In either case, your physician will be monitoring you as you come out of general anesthesia, or the local anesthesia wears off. You will have swelling in the abdominal area, and it will be sore. You will be given antibiotics and painkillers to assist in your tummy tuck recovery. It is important that you communicate any allergies you have and any other vitamins, herbs or medications you take so that the medications prescribed for your recovery will be right for you. As with all antibiotics, it is important to take the full course of medicine, as prescribed.

Once you are released, most physicians will prescribe two to three days of bed rest. While they may seem like three very long days, it is crucial for your tummy tuck recovery that you follow your surgeon's instructions. If possible, have a friend or family member stay with you for those initial days at home so that they can help you and keep an eye on you as you recover. You will receive personalized instructions on medication, compression, elevation and rest during this time. Your physician may even be able to give you advice on ways to minimize scarring.

After your initial tummy tuck recovery, you will slowly be able to return to your normal activities. Your level of fitness will ultimately determine how long your tummy tuck recovery takes. For most people, it takes about 6 months for full recovery. After your initial weeks of recovery, your physician will prescribe a diet and exercise routine to follow for optimal tummy tuck recovery. At any time, it is important to call your surgeon's office if you experience excessive pain, swelling or bleeding. The office will be able to make suggestions, or schedule an appointment if necessary.

After your recovery is complete, scar tissue will continue to fade and your abdomen will have the flat, tight look that you desire. Great results are typically visible about 8 months after the operation.