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The Best Diet Before and After a Tummy Tuck

Abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgery designed to flatten your stomach by eliminating excess skin and fat and strengthening the abdominal wall. The operation is a sought-after solution among mothers who struggle with the after-effects of pregnancy or anyone who has lost a dramatic amount of weight.

Before the Procedure

Preparation can make or break your surgical outcome. In addition, it heavily impacts the results of the procedure and its recovery. Follow Dr. Claire Duggal’s instructions to ensure you achieve your cosmetic goals and have a successful recovery. Generally, it’s best to eat properly in the weeks and days leading up to your tummy tuck.

To keep a healthy diet leading up to your surgery to maintain a healthy weight or lose 10 to 15 pounds, avoid crash diets or other trends like keto.

In the weeks preceding tummy tuck, it’s essential to eat fresh fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C, like guavas, kale, parsley, kiwis, and broccoli. Studies show that vitamin C speeds up the body’s natural healing process by improving collagen synthesis and decreasing oxidative stress, helpful for healing after a tummy tuck.

Avoid processed foods and minimize your carbohydrate intake by cutting down on bread, pasta, rice, and potatoes to reduce inflammation. Instead, eat omega-3-rich foods like mackerel, salmon, and walnuts. Refrain from eating foods high in sugar to avoid a spike in blood sugar that can lead to weight gain.

In the days leading to surgery, get your body prepped with the necessary fluids. Drink electrolytes, like Gatorade, Powerade, or Smartwater. Eat low-fat, high-protein meals, like grilled chicken salad, turkey, or fish.

During this time, you should also get ready for your recovery. Cook high-protein, low-fat meals you can freeze and microwave. Make protein shakes for when you don’t want to eat solid foods. Avoid eating or drinking on the day of your surgery.

What Should I Eat After Surgery?

There are no restrictions immediately after abdominoplasty, but you should eat light meals. Start with drinking water before moving on to raw fruits and vegetables, then whole-grain cereals, soft cheeses, yogurt, soups, and pudding.

If none of these appear appetizing because of your pain meds, try a protein shake as your body adjusts to the medications.

To maintain your tummy tuck results, eat a balanced diet. You can start by curbing your processed food and takeout intake. Then, incorporate healthy, fresh foods into your daily meals.

Similar to the pre-surgery diet, you should continue vitamin C and omega-3 and avoid sugary, fatty, high-sodium foods.

Call (410) 266-7120 today or schedule your consultation online with Dr. Claire Duggal and take the first step toward a flat and taut tummy!