Many of the questions that Dr. William LoVerme receives from his patients are about the plastic surgery recovery process and what life is like after surgery. An important part of the recovery and post-surgery life is comfortably dressing a newly re-shaped figure. In this blog post, Dr. LoVerme, a Boston plastic surgeon at Accurate Aesthetics, shares what tummy tuck patients should plan to wear after surgery.
Going Home from the Surgicenter
Immediately following tummy tuck surgery, your abdomen will be wrapped in bandages and a compression garment may be placed to control swelling. Dr. LoVerme advises patients to wear loose, baggy clothing to and from surgery. Pick a pair of drawstring pants and a zip-up or button-up top or jacket that can easily slip over the compression garment, bandages and possible drains. Avoid tops that go over your head, because reaching overhead immediately after surgery is discouraged.
First Week of Recovery
As your abdomen heals, you may have soreness and swelling. For comfort, continue to wear soft, comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Some women opt for roomy dresses instead of pants and a top. It’s up to you whether you feel more comfortable in a dress.
The abdominal compression garment should be worn at all times (except while bathing). It helps minimize swelling and promote optimal wound healing and scarring. Dr. LoVerme will let you know how long to wear your compression garment. Some patients are advised to wear the garment (or a similar Spanx garment) for up to six weeks or longer.
After Healing
After you have healed from surgery and the swelling has completely resolved, you will probably find that your wardrobe fits differently — namely, that pants and shorts are looser around your smaller abdomen. Most people go down a size or two (or more). You may opt to have your existing clothing altered by a tailor to perfect the fit, or you may treat yourself to a shopping spree for new options.
Even if you still wear the same size after surgery, your clothing should fit and flatter you better. You shouldn’t have a “muffin top” or a “spare tire” around your waist that hangs over jeans or pants. Your waist should look leaner and flatter, allowing you to try styles you never thought possible.
Some patients opt to accentuate their newly sculpted waist by adding stylish belts. A wrap dress is a classic piece that hugs a woman’s curves after tummy tuck. Skinny jeans and shorts are also more flattering with a firmer and leaner waist.
Do You Have Additional Questions about Tummy Tuck?
To learn more about tummy tuck surgery, please contact Dr. LoVerme at Accurate Aesthetics today by calling (877) 603-7874.
