Do you need help from a family member or friend after a tummy tuck?

Yes: Yes, you must have someone with you for the first 24 hours following surgery or we can not perform the surgery. If you do not have a family member, most plastic surgeons can provide a list of nursing services who can be hired to stay with you. Additionally, it is best to have someone with you for several days if possible.

Yes: A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a major surgery and afterward you will need to plan for some help for at least 24 hours. Though a safe operation when done by a qualified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility, the post-operative period is critical for your safety and comfort.

Yes: Especially if you have small kids. My patients typically have their parents or in laws in town to help with their small children. Recovery is no cakewalk for this surgery.

Yes: I think it is a good idea to have someone stay with you for the first 2-3 days - you will be mobile but it's a good idea to have someone help if you need it.

Yes: You will be unable to care for yourself for the first few days to a week. Help is optimal.

Yes: It is advisable to have some help around the house for at least a few days to help you recover.

It is helpful!: It is generally very helpful to have a friend or family member available for a few days after surgery but not always necessary. Simple things like getting medication or assisting in and out of bed are a nice comfort. If you remain on narcotic medications, it is essential that you have a driver take you to and from the doctor for post-operative visits as well.

Yes: Tummy tuck surgery is a major operation with recovery time often underestimated by patients and inexperienced surgeons. I suggest patients have help available for the first 2 weeks after the procedure is performed. Many patients are at about 70 to 80% energy level even 1 month after the procedure is performed and may take several months before they are back to their preoperative energy….