Last Updated: January 2026

Recovery & Healing

Understanding what to expect during recovery helps you prepare mentally and practically. Every woman heals differently, but here is a general timeline.

Your Recovery Journey

Days 1–3

Immediate Recovery

Focus on rest and pain management.

Bed rest with assistance
Pain medication needed
No lifting or driving

Days 4–7

Early Healing

Regaining some independence.

Short walks around house
Drains may be removed
Transition to Tylenol

Weeks 2–3

Turning Point

Returning to light routine.

Return to desk work
Swelling peaks then drops
Scar care begins

Weeks 4–6

Gradual Return

Most daily activities resume.

Light exercise cleared
No heavy lifting yet
Results becoming visible

After 6 Weeks

New Normal

Full recovery and results.

Full workouts resumed
Final swelling subsides
Enjoy your new contour

Recovering in Las Vegas, Summerlin & Henderson

Whether you're healing in the quiet neighborhoods of Summerlin or the hills of Henderson, our desert climate requires special attention.

•Hydration is Critical: The desert air dehydrates you faster. Drink 20-30% more water than you think you need to help tissues heal and reduce swelling.
•Avoid Heat: High temperatures increase swelling. Stay in air-conditioned environments for the first 2-3 weeks.
•Dry Skin Care: Incisions can get itchy in dry climate. Ask your surgeon about safe moisturizers (like cocoa butter) once incisions close.

Healing & Self-Care Guide

1Prepare your recovery space before surgery with everything within reach

2Stock up on loose, comfortable clothing that opens in front

3Prepare easy meals or arrange meal delivery in advance

4Have entertainment ready—books, shows, podcasts

5Accept help from family and friends

6Follow your compression garment schedule

7Stay hydrated and eat protein-rich foods for healing

8Take short walks to promote circulation

Emotional Ups & Downs

Recovery isn't just physical. Here's what many women experience emotionally:

The 'Swelling Blues'

Weeks 2-4 often feel discouraging as swelling peaks. This is normal and temporary.

Patience Is Key

Final results take 6-12 months. Try not to judge your outcome too early.

Hormonal Changes

Surgery and recovery can affect mood. Be gentle with yourself.

Celebrate Small Wins

Each week brings progress. Notice the improvements.

Recovering If You're Traveling to Las Vegas

Many women travel to Las Vegas for tummy tuck surgery. If you're coming from out of town:

Plan to stay at least 7-10 days before flying home (some surgeons require longer)
Book a comfortable hotel or recovery retreat near your surgeon's office
Bring a travel companion to help during the first week
Confirm your surgeon's protocol for out-of-town patients
Arrange follow-up care with a local doctor if needed after you return home

Recovery by Type

Mini tummy tucks have significantly shorter downtime than extended procedures. Compare the differences.

Compare Types

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers about drains, sleeping positions, and returning to the gym in our FAQ.

Visit FAQ

For more recovery guidelines, visit the ASPS Recovery Page.

Ready to learn about safety?

Understand how to choose a qualified surgeon and what to expect.

View Safety & Expectations Guide