Q: I know this is a hard question to answer. But, I’m looking for the most realistic answer. Should I expect to be laid up for 2–3 days? When can I shower? And how should I expect to get around the house for the first few weeks after? Is there a general timeline of when I can expect to feel normal again (the new normal)?
Front and side view pictures would have been helpful. Before answering your question, I would like you to realize that mini tummy tuck is not very common procedure, especially if you have delivered children. The more common surgery would be full tummy tuck.
Mini tummy tuck on a person who needs full tummy tuck is a regrettable compromise because it will eventually cause you to have the full tummy tuck surgery, later on, doubling the cost and recovery time. I hope that you consulted with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, who indeed judged you to be a good candidate for mini tummy tuck.
As far as recovery time, it depends if you are getting skin tightening only or, your muscles are tightened as well. The two options require pain medication for 2–3 days, and you should avoid driving during that period. Afterwards, you should avoid any physical activity for 2 weeks. But do not stay in bed; rather, walk and drink lots of fluids to avoid blood clots. Strenuous activity should be avoided for one month in case of skin surgery only, or 6 weeks for skin and muscles surgery.
