Case #1700 · Scottsdale, AZ
Tummy Tuck
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This 48-year-old patient from Scottsdale, AZ previously had a tummy tuck but wanted additional fat removed from her torso. Additionally, she wanted to smooth out her thighs. Dr. Cassileth performed an abcominoplasty and liposuction to the thights and lower back to give her the sm
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
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil discontinued 14 days pre-op to reduce bruising risk. Acetaminophen is allowed.
- No nicotine for 6 weeks before through 6 weeks after surgery. The vascular impact directly affects skin healing.
- Set up a recovery zone with easy access to water, medication, and comfortable seating. Avoid stairs when possible the first 72 hours.
- Day-of transport and an overnight companion (24 hours minimum) are required for discharge.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Short walks every couple of hours, no lifting over 5 lb, and full nights of rest. The worst of the swelling peaks around day 3.
- Week 2
Activity ramps up cautiously: longer walks, no lifting yet. Most patients return to desk work this week.
- Week 4
Light cardio and most desk-work activities cleared. Lifting limit increases to 15 lb. Scar massage typically starts now.
- Week 6
The "back to normal" week for most patients. Final compression schedule transitions to optional.
- Month 3
Most patients consider this the "final result emerges" milestone. The remaining 10 percent of refinement plays out through month 6.
