Tummy tuck in NYC is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure that addresses excess fat and sagging skin which diet and exercises cannot resolve. For smooth recovery from tummy tuck surgery, patients need to carefully follow all the pre- and post-operative care instructions prescribed by their surgeon. One of the first steps in preparing for this procedure is maintaining a healthy diet. A proactive approach to recovery with foods to help the body heal is crucial to smooth recovery after a tummy tuck. Good nutrition will boost the immune system, promote overall health, and instill good food habits in patients.
Candidates would be required to shed excess weight in order to become eligible for the procedure. A light diet composed of healthy foods would be the right choice to achieve this goal. The idea behind proper nutrition is to make healing easier. Here are some dietary tips for tummy tuck candidates:
- Protein is one of the most important nutrients for healing. Patients should increase intake of lean protein in their diet by including chicken, fish, eggs, yogurt, and light cheese. These protein-rich foods will support better and faster healing. They should also include lots of vitamin-rich foods, vegetables, and fruits to improve overall health.
- It is best to stick to low sodium foods before surgery. Salty and junk foods do not have any beneficial nutrients that the body needs to heal.
- Zinc is important for wound healing. Zinc is found in grains, nuts, and many types of meat. It helps your body build new cells and will promote recovery after surgery.
- Consuming plenty of fruit and vegetables is important as these would provide a variety of vitamins and nutrients such as fiber and antioxidants. This is necessary for the body to continue functioning normally and fight against infection.
- Patients are advised to eat dark leafy greens along with pineapple and vitamin C-rich foods, and to avoid foods that may cause gas such as cabbage and beans.
- Surgeons advise patients to avoid vitamin E supplements for some time before and after tummy tuck surgery. This is because vitamin E can cause complications during recovery.
- Avoiding foods that contain caffeine and alcohol prior to surgery is also recommended as it can interfere with the anesthesia and other drugs that are prescribed by the surgeon.
- Patients will also be advised on water consumption after tummy tuck surgery. Drinking sufficient amounts of water is critical to maintain good oxygenation in bloodstream, which will promote healing and help in all aspects of recovery.
Patients are also advised to avoid painkillers and medications that have aspirin as they can thin the blood and increase bleeding.
To ensure long-lasting results, healthy habits should be started before the treatment. Though patients are advised to shed their excess weight in order to be a candidate for the procedure, going in for a crash diet or extreme weight loss before a tummy tuck is not advised. These regimens will deprive the body of nutrients that are essential for healing.
Like pre surgery there certain foods that has to be included in your diet after surgery. The aim of a post-surgery diet is to promote healing, avoid infection, and reduce surgical side effects. As such, most everything you should eat before and after plastic surgery will be the same. While tummy tuck can provide dramatic results, future weight gain can alter the results. It is believed that patients who choose a balanced and proper diet will be more comfortable with continuing the healthy eating habits during the recovery and beyond. This will help to extend the results of tummy tuck for many years to come.
Leading AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery practices offer tummy tuck in NYC. The experience and skill of the surgeon matters a lot when it comes to safe treatment and optimal outcomes. A reliable surgeon will also provide proper guidance on pre- and post- operative preparations, including dietary recommendations. Following your surgeon’s advice will reduce risks of infection and other complications and help in smooth recovery after surgery.