How Painful Is a Tummy Tuck? What To Expect & How To Stay Comfortable

How painful is a tummy tuck? It’s a fair question—and an important one to ask if you’re considering the procedure. The great news is that most patients are surprised by how manageable tummy tuck recovery can be with today’s pain management options, advanced surgical techniques, and personalized aftercare. In this post, we’ll explore typical pain levels, what to expect during recovery, and how to stay as comfortable as possible every step of the way.

What To Expect After a Tummy Tuck

The first 48 to 72 hours after surgery are usually the most uncomfortable, with noticeable soreness and tightness. On RealSelf, many patients rate the pain at this stage between 4 and 8 out of 10, depending on the extent of the surgery and their personal pain tolerance.

Swelling and bruising, which typically peak 3 to 5 days after surgery, will gradually improve over the following weeks and improve your comfort and mobility. Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed postoperative instructions regarding how to sleep after your surgery, care for your drains, wear compression garments, and more.

How Painful Is a Tummy Tuck?

You will be comfortably asleep and anesthetized during your procedure, and Diaz Plastic Surgery takes additional steps to ensure your comfort and a seamless recovery experience. Most patients find that a tummy tuck brings more soreness than pain, often comparing the sensation to overdoing it at the gym when you haven’t been in a long time. We consistently hear at our practice that the pain is not nearly as bad as a C-section or hysterectomy.

Here’s what you can expect after your procedure:

Pain Relief Options

In addition to a general anesthetic during surgery, we often use local analgesics at the surgical site. Some patients opt for EXPAREL®—a longer-lasting anesthetic that can reduce or eliminate the need for opiate pain medications. EXPAREL provides pain relief for up to 3 days after surgery, helping to minimize side effects typically associated with opiates.

Postoperative Care

Our personalized care includes a nurse check-in on the evening of your surgery to ensure you’re healing well and not experiencing excessive discomfort. You’ll come into our office for a follow-up visit the day after surgery so we can make sure everything is progressing smoothly.

How Combining a Tummy Tuck With Other Procedures Affects Recovery

When your tummy tuck is part of a multi-procedure operation like a Mommy Makeover or a body lift, the recovery process may involve additional discomfort, swelling, and bruising. These combined procedures can extend the recovery period and may require more considered pain management. Discussing your recovery expectations with your surgeon can help you understand how combining surgeries will impact your experience.

For additional tips on recovery after a Mommy Makeover, check out our 5 Tips for a Smoother Mommy Makeover Recovery.

Tips on How To Relieve Pain After a Tummy Tuck

Here are a few strategies to help you stay comfortable after surgery:

1. Follow postoperative instructions.
   Stick to your surgeon’s guidelines for activity restrictions, rest, and medications to minimize discomfort and support healing.
2. Take pain medications as directed.
   Take prescribed pain medications as directed in the early stages of recovery, transitioning to over-the-counter options as pain decreases.
3. Wear compression garments.
   Wear compression garments to help reduce swelling and support your abdomen during healing.
4. Rest and avoid overexertion.
   Resting is essential for recovery. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities to allow your body to heal properly.

Take the Next Step

Don’t let the fear of temporary discomfort hold you back from a life-changing transformation. Get started on your body contouring journey today by requesting a consultation or calling our office at (321) 951-2639.