Tummy tuck surgery usually heals quickly. Most people are able to return to work within about 7 to 10 days after the surgery takes place. However, you’ll still want to get your affairs in order before going through surgery. Being prepared can help ensure that the experience will be positive, and your healing can start right away.
1. Designate a Helper
Most of the time, tummy tuck surgery is an outpatient procedure that heals quickly. Most people go home on the same day as the surgery, although some people have an overnight stay. You’ll need someone to drive you home on the day of the surgery. If you live alone, someone should stay with you that night to help out.
Find a “helper” who can pick you up from your surgery, stay with you the night of your surgery, and help out in the weeks following surgery. You won’t be able to lift anything over 5 pounds for several weeks following your surgery, so you may need someone to help with chores and household tasks.
If you have a pet, you may need this person to take your pet out for bathroom breaks and walks, or your helper may need to play with your pet.
2. Communicate with Your Employer
Let your employer know that you’ll be getting a medical procedure and you’ll be unable to come in to work for at least one week following your surgery. Get things caught up at your workplace. Find someone who can take over your shifts or cover urgent matters that need to be handled. Do not plan to work from home.
Leave your return date open-ended. Every recovery is different, and your doctor may have reasons to insist that you stay home the full 10 days (or possibly longer) following your tummy tuck. If you lift heavy objects for your work, talk to your employer about getting special accommodations.
3. Get Paid Up on Bills
The week following your surgery, you should be focusing on recovery. Pay bills that come due shortly after your surgery is over, so you won’t have to focus on deadlines.
4. Catch Up On Chores Before Surgery
Do the chores you can before your surgery, so you’ll feel no pressure to be working at home. Make meals and freeze them, or buy frozen meals, so you’ll have little food prep and little clean up to do in the days following your surgery. Do your laundry, vacuum, clean your bathrooms and do other household tasks before surgery.
5. Work with Your Surgeon
Work with your surgeon as you prepare for your tummy tuck. If you’re looking for the best surgeons for a tummy tuck in Houston, you should visit Memorial Plastic Surgery — their practice consists of experienced plastic surgeons!
