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Tummy tuck surgeries, which are used to remove deformities occurring in the abdominal region for various reasons, are one of the primary operations that people abstain. Plastic and Reconstructive Specialist Surgeon Derya Aytop states that 6 months is enough for the tissues to fully heal, contrary to popular belief.

*** This release is originally published in Turkish.
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ISTANBUL (TR) - Factors such as excess weight, excess fat, birth and excess skin can cause various deformations, especially sagging in the abdomen. While methods such as diet and sports are often insufficient in removing these deformations, tummy tuck surgeries are on the agenda. Many people abstain from these surgeries in terms of anesthesia, incision and healing process. Aesthetic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist Derya Aytop says that sometimes it takes 2 years for patients to decide on the surgery, but if the expert advice is applied, it is possible in a shorter time than 6 months compared to the time spent for the decision. She points out that the first 6 months should be programmed meticulously.

Corset use is mandatory for the first 6 weeks

Stating that the abdominal stretching operations last approximately 3-4 hours and the first days after the surgery are passed with mild symptoms or without pain under the control of a doctor with control of painkillers and anesthetic drugs, Dr. Derya Aytop said, “We see that the main drawback in abdominal surgeries is pain. However, it is possible to eliminate pain with medications, regularly recommended recommendations and auxiliary apparatuses to be used. At this point, especially in the first days, it is recommended to lie down by slightly raising the legs, head and waist, and to reduce the pain by preventing the tension on the seams. Similarly, the shoulders are low for the first 10 days, and walking forward slightly is important as it provides the same effect. In order for all of these to be applied comfortably, a surgical corset extending from the abdomen to the chest is worn while the patients are taken out of the operating room and it is necessary to wear it regularly for the first 6 weeks.”

Attention to nutrition and abundant movement while resting

Pointing out that the time spent at home after surgery plays an important role in the course of recovery, Dr. Derya Aytop said that to prevent clot formation and to remove edema from the body, it is necessary to act and consume edema-removing foods: “The best way to prevent blood clots that may occur in the lower leg is to rest every two hours, for 10-15 minutes. It is also important to eat foods that will reduce the feeling of edema and pressure in the abdomen, to eat without salt and drink plenty of water. In this process, it is recommended to stay away from gaseous foods for 2-4 weeks and to consume grilled meat alongside salads with abundant greenery. On the other hand, it is recommended to stay away from herbal teas and black tea for the first 10 days after surgery due to its blood thinning effects, and to have a Turkish coffee instead”

Vitamin C and zinc supplements are important in the healing process

Stating that food supplements are of great importance in the next period up to 6 months, Dr. Derya Aytop said, “Usually 5-7 days after the surgery, the first check-ups are renewed and the patient is allowed to take a warm shower and the healing process officially begins to speed up. At this point, there is no longer any need to use drugs, and all bandages are taken 10-15th days as well. Local dressing may be recommended, as only the belly button is a region that heals later. In the 3. week, the scar treatment begins, which is necessary for the discoloration of the healed incision and for the recovery of the tissue. First payments decreased in 1.5 months and 6. vitamin C and zinc supplements play the biggest role in accelerating recovery, while they are noticeably lost up to the month. After the first month is over, recovery is supported by sports such as walking and swimming that are not too heavy. Thus, all the burdens of the surgery except for the scar treatment are lifted over the patients at the 6. month, all tissues are healed and the desired appearance can be achieved in a healthy way.”