Abdominoplasty & Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
What to expect after combined abdominoplasty, ventral hernia repair and/or rectus divarication reconstruction.
The first few days
Tightness, swelling, bruising and discomfort are expected after abdominal wall reconstruction. The abdomen may initially feel quite tight, particularly when standing fully upright.
Pain relief
Take your prescribed pain relief as directed. Pain should gradually improve as swelling settles and movement becomes easier.
Posture
It is often more comfortable to walk slightly flexed at first. Gradually stand more upright as the abdominal tightness improves.
Walking & mobilisation
Walking is encouraged early after surgery and is an important part of reducing the risk of complications such as blood clots.
Looking after your wound
A long lower abdominal scar is expected following abdominoplasty. Swelling, bruising, numbness and firmness around the wound are common.
Follow the dressing and wound-care instructions provided when you leave hospital.
Contact the rooms if you develop increasing redness, wound separation, discharge, worsening swelling or increasing pain.
Drains
Drains may be used after larger abdominal wall reconstructions or abdominoplasty.
If you go home with a drain, you will be given specific instructions about caring for it and recording the amount of fluid.
Abdominal binder or compression garment
A binder or compression garment may be recommended after surgery for comfort and support while swelling settles.
Wear it according to the instructions you were given. It should feel supportive rather than excessively tight.
Activity & lifting
Walking
Walk regularly and progressively increase distance as comfort improves.
Heavy lifting
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous abdominal exercise for approximately six weeks unless you have been given different instructions.
Exercise
After the initial healing phase, strength and exercise should be reintroduced gradually rather than returning immediately to maximal effort.
Core work
Abdominal and core exercises are reintroduced progressively once the repair has had adequate time to heal.
Driving & returning to work
Driving
Drive only when you can move comfortably, wear a seatbelt, perform an emergency stop safely and are not taking medication that impairs driving.
Work
Return to work depends on the extent of your reconstruction and the physical demands of your occupation. Physically demanding work usually requires a longer recovery than desk-based work.
Swelling, numbness & sensation
Swelling can take several weeks or longer to fully settle.
Numbness or altered sensation of the lower abdominal skin is common after abdominoplasty and may improve gradually over many months.
Some areas of altered sensation can persist long term.
Bowels & straining
Constipation is common after major abdominal surgery, particularly when stronger pain medication is required.
Keep well hydrated and avoid excessive straining. Use stool softeners or laxatives as recommended if needed.
When to seek medical advice
Contact the rooms or seek medical assessment if you develop:
Increasing or severe abdominal pain • persistent vomiting • fever or chills • increasing wound redness or discharge • wound separation • rapidly increasing swelling • marked shortness of breath • calf swelling or pain
If you are severely unwell, attend an emergency department.
Follow-up
At follow-up we will review your wounds, swelling, drains if present, activity progression and the recovery of your abdominal wall reconstruction.
Questions after your operation?
If you are unsure about your wound, drains, binder, lifting, activity or recovery, please contact the rooms.
Contact the rooms