Deciding to have an abdominoplasty – a body shaping procedure to reinforce your abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat – is a significant commitment. Part of that commitment involves becoming more conscientious about what you eat before and after your surgery. By dedicating yourself to a healthy diet, you will put yourself in a position to enjoy optimal results and maintain your tummy tuck benefits for years to come.
What constitutes a healthy diet? While the answer to that question might be somewhat subjective, Dr. Ritacca advise avoiding specific foods when preparing for and recovering from a tummy tuck. So here is some food for thought on a proper diet before and after an abdominoplasty.
What to Eat Before a Tummy Tuck
Before surgery, we recommend you stop taking any medications or supplements that could increase your bleeding risk. If you smoke, quit. Also, maintain a stable weight with the following guidelines:
- Eat foods high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Manage carbohydrate consumption and calories.
- Avoid overly processed foods
- Limit white bread, pasta, and high-sugar foods.
You should also avoid sugary and carbonated drinks, opting instead for fresh water.
What Should You Eat Following a Tummy Tuck?
Following your abdominoplasty, we recommend you eat light for a week or so. Begin with liquids like water and broth, then gradually incorporate soft, digestible foods. These include fresh vegetables and fruits, soft natural cheeses, and homemade, low-sodium soup. If you find your stomach too sensitive as it adjusts to solid foods, supply your caloric needs with protein shakes.
Track how you feel daily. Once you’re ready, return to solid but healthy foods. Since your remaining fat cells could still expand following surgery, stick to a healthy diet to sustain your tummy tuck benefits. Make realistic lifestyle changes like exercising more and eating whole, minimally processed foods. Stay active and be mindful of foods and beverages high in sodium and sugar.
Maintain Your Results With a Healthy Diet
While it may seem restrictive to be health-conscious before and after your procedure, the impact of shifting over to healthy eating can lead to additional benefits that will help you maximize your surgical results.
There are many delicious diets to try. For example, the Mediterranean and paleo diets reduce inflammation and make weight management easier and more enjoyable.
Support your decision of having an abdominoplasty to look and feel great by pursuing a healthy diet. To learn more about eating healthy before and after a tummy tuck, contact RL Center for Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa.
