Tummy Tuck Amarillo: What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Procedure

A tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, is a proven flat stomach surgery that removes excess skin and fat while tightening weakened abdominal muscles. If you're considering a tummy tuck in Amarillo, knowing what to expect helps you make informed, confident decisions.

Before Your Surgery: How to Prepare

Your preparation begins with a consultation at Plastic Panhandle Surgery. Your provider will review your medical history, discuss your goals, and guide you through essential pre-op steps. This may include stopping medications, avoiding nicotine, and preparing your home for recovery. Good nutrition and hydration before surgery support better healing outcomes.

During the Procedure: What Happens in the OR?

A tummy tuck typically lasts two to four hours under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a horizontal incision just above the pubic area, removes excess fat and skin, and tightens underlying abdominal muscles. In some cases, the belly button is repositioned. Surgical drains are often placed to help reduce fluid buildup in the first week of healing.

After Surgery: Your Recovery Timeline

Days 1–7: Expect soreness, swelling, and a hunched posture. Compression garments are worn to reduce swelling and support healing. Gentle walking is encouraged, but you’ll need help with basic tasks.

Weeks 1–2: Most patients regain energy and begin standing upright more easily. Many can return to light duties, but physical strain should still be avoided.

Weeks 3–6: Swelling continues to decrease, and your abdomen becomes more defined. Light exercise may resume with your surgeon’s approval.

Months 3–6: Your results become more visible as internal healing continues. By six months, most swelling is gone, and scars begin to fade. Full recovery can take up to a year.

Understanding Risks and Best Practices for Healing

As with any surgery, there are potential risks including fluid buildup, infection, and scarring. Closely following your surgeon’s recovery plan—including wearing compression garments, staying hydrated, and avoiding nicotine—helps reduce these risks and support lasting results.

Why Choose Plastic Panhandle Surgery

Our team at Plastic Panhandle Surgery provides expert, compassionate care tailored to each patient. Whether you're seeking a tummy tuck after pregnancy or significant weight loss, we walk with you every step of the way.

Ready to begin?

Contact Plastic Panhandle Surgery today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward a smoother, more confident you.

Sources

• American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Your Guide to a Tummy Tuck

• Mayo Clinic: Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Overview

• Tummy Tuck Overview