For the first few days, your abdomen will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort. We will ensure that you have adequate pain medication, and you will be monitored very closely and seen regularly to ensure maximum comfort.

Following abdominoplasty you will have dressings covering your wound which will restrict your ability to shower in the first week. During this period you are limited to a sponge bath. You will be required to wear an abdominal binder garment for four weeks following surgery. From week two you will be allowed to shower.

It is also important that, although you may not be able to stand straight at first, you start walking as soon as possible help to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and maintain muscle tone. You're not to lift heavy objects, strain, bend or overdo things during your recovery. It is recommended that patients take two weeks off work after the surgery. If your job involves any form of lifting, bending or exertion, the time will increase. If you take longer to heal provision needs to be made for additional time off. While some people return to work after two weeks, others may need take three or four weeks to rest and recuperate. You should avoid vigorous exercise for about six weeks.

You will be reassessed in our clinic 7 days after surgery when the umbilical sutures are removed. The remaining sutures will be removed 14 days after surgery (the deeper sutures will be reabsorbed). You will subsequently be seen at our clinic 6 weeks and 3 months after surgery.

There are a number of factors to consider with abdominoplasty surgery. This information will be explained to you during your consultation appointment. At Cosmetic Image Clinics we understand the issues involved in making such an important decision and we are happy to discuss your concerns at any time.