The best thing you can do once you have made your decision to have surgery is to learn as much as you can about the procedure and how to best take care of yourself post-operation.

- Ouch! Pain!

Because a tummy tuck involves skin, fatty tissue, and muscle tissue, you should be prepared for some pain and discomfort immediately following your surgery. While your pain and discomfort can be alleviated through the use of pain medications, it is important to understand that some level of pain post-operation is to be expected.

In addition, you can plan on the muscles of your stomach area feeling tighter than they were before your procedure.

Immediately after your surgery is completed, you will be wrapped in a compression garment.

Additionally, you will likely have some small drainage tubes which have been placed under your skin to help prevent fluids in your body from collecting in the area and causing swelling. These drainage tubes will be removed within the first week of your healing time after your surgery.

- Walk it Off!

While you will be sore and uncomfortable standing, you will be encouraged to get out of bed and walk around as soon as possible after your surgery. Movement of your body helps to promote blood circulation which prevents clots and helps to speed healing.

Even if you are unable to stand upright, and this is a definite possibility immediately following your tummy tuck, walking around and getting out of bed are still very critical steps for helping to heal your body and so you must make the effort.

- No Lifting!

During the first two weeks after your tummy tuck you should not be bending over and lifting up anything as this could cause damage to your fragile abdominal area. In this time you will also be asked to schedule a post-operative appointment with your plastic surgeon's office. At this appointment any stitches will be removed and your healing will be evaluated by your surgeon.

- The New You!

In the several weeks which follow your tummy tuck you can assume that your body will begin healing and any bruises and swelling will subside. Your surgeon will advise you as to what your level of activity should be and when you can return to your regular exercise routine.

Interestingly, it will take a few months for you to get a really clear picture of your new abdomen following your tummy tuck surgery. At this point, any residual tightness or numbness will subside and your incision will fade from its red color to that of your more natural skin tone. While your scar is healing you will want to avoid exposing it to excessive sun as this will prevent it from fading and may cause it to become painfully sunburned as well.

By doing everything you can to take care of yourself after your tummy tuck surgery, you can ensure that your results will last for a very long time.

While you may want to "push yourself" to do more and more, by following the instructions of your plastic surgeon, you can heal with the least amount of pain and complication possible.