Maintaining Results: Post-Abdominoplasty Diet and Exercise Tips

Following an abdominoplasty, to achieve your desired results, the work does not end in the operating room. It continues through post-operative care, including mindful choices in diet and exercise.

Your body’s response to abdominoplasty involves a remarkable process of healing and adaptation. However, to optimize and maintain the procedure’s outcomes, adopting practices that support your body’s recovery and long-term well-being is essential.

Double-board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Suma Maddox is here to support you through every stage of your abdominoplasty journey. From diet tips to the importance of staying active, read on to learn more about Dr. Maddox’s patient-first approach to abdominoplasty in New Orleans.

What Is Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to restore the abdominal wall contour by removing excess skin and fat while realigning the widened space between the rectus muscles, which often results from pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging. This popular cosmetic surgery is sought after by individuals who struggle with abdominal bulges, loose skin, or weakened abdominal muscles that are resistant to diet and exercise.

Dr. Maddox meticulously tailors each procedure to suit your needs and goals and has years of experience helping patients achieve their desired results.

During your abdominoplasty procedure, Dr. Maddox begins by making an incision along the lower abdomen, typically concealed within the body’s natural contours. Excess skin is excised through this incision, and underlying abdominal muscles may be tightened and repositioned to create a firmer, more toned appearance. In cases where significant fat deposits are present, liposuction may be performed to further refine the contours of the abdomen.

Once the desired modifications are made, the incisions are closed, and the abdomen is carefully bandaged to support the healing process.

From the initial consultation to post-operative care, Dr. Maddox prioritizes your comfort, confidence, and satisfaction, ensuring that your unique goals and preferences guide every step of the process.

The Importance of Rest and Recovery After Abdominoplasty

Early active motion is crucial to your recovery from abdominoplasty. On the night after surgery, you are encouraged to be out of bed walking to the bathroom and eating at the dining table. This avoids muscle tightness and encourages healthy circulation of blood flow, which in turn reduces narcotic medication requirements. Exparel, a long acting local anesthesia, can be injected directly into the muscles and incision sites during surgery to help this process. 

Dr. Maddox recommends taking 5-14 days off from work and avoiding strenuous activities like exercise for at least four weeks.

During the initial stages of recovery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which are normal parts of the healing process. Following Dr. Maddox’s post-operative instructions, including proper wound care and wearing compression garments as advised, can help minimize discomfort and promote optimal healing.

Dr. Maddox will schedule follow-up appointments throughout your recovery journey to monitor your progress and ensure you’re healing properly. These appointments allow you to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with Dr. Maddox.

Develop Healthy Eating Habits

Nourishing your body with wholesome foods is not just about maintaining the results of your abdominoplasty — it’s about embracing a lifestyle that supports your overall well-being. Dr. Maddox encourages her patients to cultivate healthy eating habits that promote vitality and sustainability.

Healthy eating isn’t necessarily deprivation or strict dieting; it’s about finding balance and nourishing your body with protein-rich foods that fuel your energy and enhance your health. Embrace a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats to give your body the essential nutrients it needs to thrive during recovery.

While it’s crucial to prioritize nutritious choices, Dr. Maddox also understands the importance of enjoying the foods you love without guilt or restriction. Indulging in occasional treats or splurges is a natural part of life and can contribute to a healthy relationship with food when enjoyed mindfully and in moderation.

It’s essential to recognize that developing healthy eating habits is a lifelong journey — one that requires patience, consistency, and self-compassion. Avoid falling into the trap of crash diets or extreme measures that promise quick fixes but often result in unsustainable outcomes and potential harm to your overall health.

Instead, focus on nourishing your body from a place of love and self-respect, embracing the ups and downs of your body image journey with kindness and acceptance.

Prioritize Movement and Exercise

Incorporating regular exercise into your lifestyle is important for maintaining the results of your abdominoplasty and promoting overall health and well-being. Dr. Maddox advocates for the importance of movement and physical activity as key components of a balanced life.

Exercise plays a pivotal role in sustaining the contours of your newly sculpted abdomen by promoting muscle tone, enhancing circulation, and supporting overall body composition. Part of Dr. Maddox’s recovery plan is aligning you with a private pilates instructor to help retrain your newly aligned core musculature for strength and support. 

By prioritizing movement in your daily life, you not only contribute to the preservation of your abdominoplasty results but also reap a myriad of other benefits for your physical and mental well-being. According to the CDC, regular exercise has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

Learn More About Abdominoplasty in New Orleans

Ready to take the next step toward reaching your body aesthetic goals?

Book your abdominoplasty consultation in New Orleans with Dr. Maddox today.

During your consultation, Dr. Maddox will take the time to understand your unique goals and concerns, providing personalized recommendations tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re considering abdominoplasty or exploring other cosmetic surgery options, Dr. Maddox’s compassionate approach and expertise ensure that you feel informed, empowered, and confident in your decision.

Contact us today to learn more about abdominoplasty in New Orleans.