A catheter is usually placed during surgery for use on the first day. The catheter, which will be removed when you stand up, will be removed.
In the post-operative period, you will be required to lie down in a “V position” (knees bent, head up) without interruption. This helps reduce tension in the affected area. This position elevates your torso approximately 45 degrees from your waist. You will be asked to walk for the first hour after surgery. A compression garment will also be applied to your abdomen after surgery.
You will have drains in place when you wake up from surgery. You will wake up wearing a pelvic girdle and appropriate dressings. The drains were measured and removed by the authorities each morning after surgery. The drains will be removed when the amount of drainage is appropriate (approximately a few days later). Drainage is not painful and is performed.
Bruising in the surgical area is normal; this will gradually diminish over the next few days. If the bruises are very extensive, Hirudoid or Arnica cream will be given and shown to be applied on the size bruises.
Diet Recommendations
In the first 24 hours after surgery, it is recommended that you consume light and easily digestible foods such as jelly, soup, or similar foods. Try to drink as much water or liquid as you can tolerate without feeling nauseous.
You can continue with a liquid diet for the first four hours. After 6-8 hours, you can gradually transition to solid foods.
To prevent constipation, be sure to consume high-fiber foods, especially fiber.
Protein intake is important for the recovery process; the daily recommended protein intake is approximately 2 g/kg of body weight. Lean meat, chicken, fish, eggs, and dairy products are good sources of protein.
To prevent gas and bloating after surgery, avoid carbonated drinks and high-fat foods.
Eat frequent, balanced meals with small portions whenever possible.
Pain Management and Antibiotic Use
The first day after surgery is usually the most painful. Patients may complain of pain, particularly at the drain exit sites. This pain is caused by the stitches securing the drains and usually subsides quickly after they are removed.
It is important to take the painkillers prescribed by your doctor in the prescribed dose and for the prescribed duration. If pain is severe or unusual, be sure to inform your nurse or doctor.
If you are taking blood-thinning medications during or after surgery, the anesthesia team will adjust the duration and dosage of these medications.
Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent the risk of infection. Take your antibiotics regularly for the prescribed period and never stop them prematurely.
Drink plenty of water to support antibiotic use.
Consult your doctor if side effects (nausea, diarrhea, rash) occur.
Pain and antibiotic monitoring are important for a smooth recovery.
Dressing
Your post-operative dressings will be applied by our nurses throughout your stay in the country.
Upon your return to your country, if the dressing is intact, remove the strips after your first shower after returning home. Gently dry the wound areas and apply new strips to the incision line.
You can use these strips until the 14th postoperative day. After the video consultation on the 14th day, you can remove the strips completely and proceed with the application of silicone tape.
Bleeding and Pain
Bleeding may occur after surgery and for several weeks. If bleeding is severe, hospitalization may be necessary.
A small amount of bloody discharge from the drain sites is normal for the first few days and after drain removal.
Widespread edema, swelling, and pain in the abdominal area are normal. However, if you experience severe, stabbing pain concentrated in a single spot in the abdomen, notify the nurse or patient coordinator immediately.
Lymphatic massage is recommended for faster resolution of abdominal edema.
Exercise, Activity, and Sexual Life
Strong sports and exercise are prohibited for the first 6 weeks; however, you can resume walking two weeks after surgery.
One of the most serious complications of abdominoplasty is embolism. To prevent embolism, blood-thinning medications and compression stockings are applied to the legs if necessary. If you or your family has a history of embolism, be sure to inform your doctor. Prolonged inactivity increases the risk of embolism.
Dizziness and feeling faint when first getting up are common. To prevent this, sit on the edge of the bed for a while and then get up slowly.
In the first few days, walking slightly bent over instead of standing upright and stretching will reduce the tension in your abdomen.
Sexual intercourse is prohibited for the first 4 weeks after surgery; this period is sensitive for healing and may increase the risk of complications.
Scars
Scars are initially red, turning pink and fading over time.
The fading process usually takes 6-12 months.
Emergencies
Contact your doctor or hospital immediately if the following occur:
High fever and chills: A fever above 38.5°C (100.5°F) or chills or shivering may be signs of infection.
Excessive pain: Sudden, severe, and unusually severe pain.
Excessive bleeding: A large amount of blood from the drains or surgical site, dark red or clotted discharge.
Severe swelling, redness, or tenderness at the surgical site: Increased pain or warmth to the touch.
Thick discharge or foul odor: If you notice any unusual discharge or foul odor during a dressing change.
Shortness of breath or chest pain: This may indicate the risk of an embolism or clot.