One of the most common questions that people have about their tummy tuck recovery is, “What should I eat?” Certain foods can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to optimize the healing process, while others have the potential to hinder or slow your recovery.
Similarly, once you are fully healed, it is important to keep up with healthy eating habits to maintain your results long-term. Here are a few of Dr. Davis’s best diet tips for after a tummy tuck.
Best Foods to Eat After a Tummy Tuck
In the first few days after your tummy tuck, Dr. Davis often recommends sticking with liquids like broth or soup and/or soft foods. As you start to feel better, you can begin reintroducing a more regular diet.
In general, try to eat as much whole, fresh food as you can while recovering after your tummy tuck, as opposed to processed or packaged foods. Some key nutrients your body needs during this time include:
- Protein. Lean meats, fish, eggs and legumes are high in protein and can aid in tissue repair, wound healing and maintaining muscle mass while recovering.
- Antioxidants. Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E are important nutrients that help to combat oxidative stress, promote wound healing and boost your immune system for a smoother tummy tuck recovery. Fresh fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of a wide range of antioxidants.
- Fiber. Anesthesia and pain medications can lead to constipation, so it’s crucial that you are getting enough fiber in your diet to help counteract this. Fiber is found in foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Probiotics. Probiotics can help to counteract any negative gut effects of antibiotics that you may have been given before or after surgery. Low-sugar yogurts, kefir, sauerkraut and miso are good dietary sources of probiotics.
- Hydration. Staying hydrated is crucial as you heal from a tummy tuck. Focus on drinking enough water throughout the day, and keep sugary drinks like juices and sports drinks to a minimum.
Foods to Avoid After a Tummy Tuck
After your tummy tuck, it’s best to avoid these types of foods and drinks, as they can contribute to inflammation and swelling:
- Processed foods
- Salty foods
- Sugary foods and drinks
- Simple carbohydrates, like white bread, white pasta, cereals, cakes and cookies
Diet Tips to Maintain Your Results
Tummy tuck results can be very long-lasting, though it is important to continue making healthy diet and exercise choices to maintain those results long-term. Otherwise, it is possible to regain fat and potentially reverse some of your results.
The best long-term diet advice after a tummy tuck is to focus on eating whole foods vs. processed foods whenever possible and to manage portion size. You can certainly indulge in a treat or comfort food every now and again, as long as it is done in moderation and balance.
If you have more questions about tummy tuck recovery or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Davis to see if a tummy tuck could be right for you, please call our Nashville office at 615-327-7407 or get in touch online.
Author: Dr. Stephen M. Davis
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen M. Davis and his experienced team are committed to total patient satisfaction and excellent results. Green Hills Plastic Surgery first opened its doors in Nashville, TN in 1998 and continues to provide patients with time-honored plastic surgery procedures at TriStar Centennial Medical Center.
