The Best Foods to Eat Pre and Post Tummy Tuck

Tummy tuck surgery treats unwanted loose skin and fat pockets in your midsection. Even though a plastic surgeon should review the operation in detail, it’s important to learn what to expect, especially during recovery. Knowing what to eat before and after body contouring surgery in Houston, TX is an often overlooked part of the process.

Even minor surgery can take a toll on your body. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jay Shenaq is here to make your time in recovery as seamless as possible. Learn more by reading below or scheduling a tummy tuck consultation at Plastic Surgery of Houston. Our dedicated professionals are happy to discuss which foods will benefit you the most.

About body contouring surgery

A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery that slims down the abdominal area. Dr. Shenaq removes loose or hanging skin caused by pregnancy or significant weight loss. Liposuction is also employed to treat small amounts of fat. Different tummy tuck treatments are recommended based on the area that needs to be tightened. For example, a mini tuck manages mild to moderate loose skin, while a full tummy tuck is for more advanced cases.

During your consultation in Houston, TX, our clinic creates a custom treatment plan. This means our dietary requirements may change based on your needs and personal health. However, we recommend the following as a general set of guidelines to follow.

What to eat before tummy tuck surgery

Patients should be careful about what they eat before undergoing tummy tuck surgery. Your diet should contain the daily recommended amount of fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, and protein. This is because leafy greens reduce inflammation, while protein builds and repairs tissues that have been damaged during surgery. Grains and nuts help your body produce new cells. The most important part of meal planning during this time is making sure all of your nutritional needs are filled.

What to eat after tummy tuck surgery

There are no specific restrictions about what to eat immediately after a tummy tuck. Patients should try to keep their diets light for the first several days. Continue to eat nutritious meals that are easy on the stomach. Whole-grain cereals, yogurt, soups, and soft cheeses are always good choices. Protein shakes are also packed with the protein you need to support your recovery. Try to develop smart eating habits you’ll be able to stick with on a long-term basis. This includes avoiding processed food and learning about portion control.

Other tips that help with recovery after body contouring surgery:

• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can put you at risk for complications and stall your recovery. Keep a full water bottle by your rest area at home.

• Avoid salty foods: Salty foods cause unnecessary bloating and inflammation, which can make recovery uncomfortable.

• Avoid sugary foods: Foods high in processed sugar do nothing to help recovery. Patients craving something sweet can eat something fruit-based instead.

Learn what happens after tummy tuck surgery

After tummy tuck surgery in Houston, TX, you may be eager to see your results. Before you celebrate your new abdomen, there is still a good deal of recovery to be done. A healthy diet is one of the best ways to speed up the process. To discover the benefits of body contouring surgery, schedule a visit with Dr. Jay Shenaq. The professionals at Plastic Surgery of Houston are happy to discuss these details and more.