Case #1696 · Manhattan Beach, CA
Tummy Tuck
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This 45-year-old patient from Manhattan Beach, CA had two children and suffered from rectus diastasis. Dr. Cassileth performed a rectus diastasis repair and a tummy tuck. She now loves her post-baby body and has a new level of confidence.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Tummy Tuck.
- Abdominal binder continuously for 6 weeks
- Walking bent forward at the waist for the first week to protect the muscle repair
- Drains typically removed at days 5–10
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy when recommended — improves perfusion at the closure
- Medical-grade silicone sheeting along the hip-to-hip incision
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for scar healing
- SPF 50+ on the scar for 18 months
- Body hydration protocol on the new abdominal contour
- Laser or microneedling along the abdominal scar after 3 months
- Indiba radiofrequency for skin tightening
- Lymphatic drainage starting week 2
- Coordination
Recovery medications calibrated to nursing status; hormone panel rechecked if symptoms warrant.
Post-pregnancy hormonal shifts influence healing and skin behavior.
Why this approach
The decisions that shaped this surgical plan.
- Plan built around the structural and skin changes from pregnancy, not just the visible contour. Each layer addressed in the technique sequence.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Discontinue blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) two weeks out. Acetaminophen remains safe; the full list is reviewed at pre-op.
- Full nicotine cessation 6 weeks pre- and post-op. This includes vapes and nicotine replacement products; the constriction effect is the same.
- Plan the first week so nothing needs to be lifted or reached. Most patients also pre-cook simple meals or arrange delivery.
- Confirm a driver for surgery day and a companion who can stay through the first night.
- Hormone status confirmed stable; if nursing, scheduling waits until cessation. Sleep, nutrition, and iron levels reviewed pre-op.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Rest, hydration, and short ambulation. Most patients are off prescription pain medication by day 4.
- Week 2
Walking distance doubles. Showering rules relax. Compression garments transition to the long-wear schedule.
- Week 4
Return to most low-impact activity. Scar massage, compression, and skincare protocols pick up.
- Week 6
Most physical restrictions lift. Return to strength training, full-impact cardio, and overhead lifting.
- Month 3
Shape is 80–90 percent of final. Scars are still pink and will continue to lighten through month 12.
