Mini Tummy Tuck Recovery Guide

A mini tummy tuck is an excellent body contouring option for those with excess skin and unwanted fat in the lower abdominal region. While recovery is less intensive than a full tummy tuck, there are a few things you should know in order to prepare for this procedure. This blog will discuss what to expect during mini tummy tuck recovery and provide a general timeline for healing and resuming activities.

Table of Contents

• Before Your Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery
• One Day After Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery
• One Week Post-Op
• Two Weeks After a Mini Tummy Tuck
• One Month Post-Op
• Six Months and Beyond
• Looking for a Mini Tummy Tuck in Temecula, CA?

Before Your Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery

Mini tummy tucks have a shorter recovery period than full tummy tucks. However, preparation is key to a smooth experience. Before your procedure, plan to take at least 5 days off work to ensure a safe recovery. You will also need to arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home after your surgery. Stock up on groceries, meal prep with vitamin-rich foods, and purchase any necessary medications beforehand so that you won’t have to leave the house during those first few days of recovery.

One Day After Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery

Immediately after the surgery, your trusted adult will take you home to rest while your body starts to recover. You might feel tired and out of it for a few hours as the anesthesia wears off. When you feel less groggy, begin to take short walks around the house to reduce swelling and increase blood flow.

When you undergo a mini tummy tuck with Dr. Kelly O’Neil in Temecula, you will be sent home in a compression garment to help with swelling, but you will not need drains with this procedure.

Dr. O’Neil may prescribe pain medication to help you deal with any discomfort. Avoid tobacco, alcohol, heavy exercise, and sexual activity.

One Week Post-Op

One week after a mini tummy tuck, you will begin to feel more like yourself and can resume most parts of your daily routine. Dr. O’Neil will likely clear you to engage in light physical activity, but avoid strenuous exercise. Continue to drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet.

Minimal discomfort is expected at this point in recovery. However, if you experience excessive swelling, redness, intense pain, or other concerning symptoms, call Dr. O’Neil’s office immediately.

Two Weeks After a Mini Tummy Tuck

Once two weeks have passed, most patients can return to work, resume driving again, engage in mild exercise, and complete regular chores. The swelling and discomfort should be significantly reduced. By this point, you will be able to walk upright again.

One Month Post-Op

After one month, all of the pain and swelling should be gone. During this time, you can work, drive, exercise, and bathe like normal. You will notice your flatter, more toned stomach with visible but discreet scars that will fade over time with proper care.

Avoid sun exposure as much as possible to ensure your scars heal as best they can. If you wear a bathing suit that exposes your abdomen, make sure you protect your scars with plenty of sunscreen.

Six Months and Beyond

By six months, you can fully enjoy the benefits of a mini tummy tuck. You’ll have a flatter stomach and improved contours, which can boost your self-confidence and encourage you to wear your favorite swimsuit. The scars will also gradually fade until they’re barely visible.

Looking for a Mini Tummy Tuck in Temecula, CA?

The friendly, compassionate team at O’Neil Skin & Lipo Medical Center is here to make you feel comfortable and supported before, during, and after your mini tummy tuck procedure. If you’re interested in getting a mini tummy tuck, fill out our online form or call (951) 296-1690 to get in touch.