What to Expect
Some tummy tucks
are more invasive than others: for example, some individuals may be candidates for a mini
tummy tuck, while others may need an extensive approach. The procedure is performed with the
patient under deep sedation or a light general anesthetic and can take anywhere between 2-3
hours depending on the nature of the surgical case. During surgery, drains and pain pump
catheters will be placed. The pain pump catheters infuse local anesthetic into the surgical
area for the first three days, while the discomfort tends to be most significant, and thus
takes away the need for any narcotic medication. Tummy tuck surgery requires a slow approach
to recover, and it is important to note that recovery to the point that full physical
activity can be resumed may take up to 6 weeks and the scars will take 12 to 24 months to
fade completely.
