Days 1–3: hospital and first steps
You wake up in a compression garment and a support bra. Most women stay one or two nights in hospital. Pain is controlled with medication, and you are helped to walk a few steps on the first day to protect your circulation. After a tummy tuck you walk slightly bent forward for several days; this is normal and eases as the skin relaxes.
Days 4–10: hotel rest and check-up
You rest at the hotel, walk short distances several times a day and drink plenty of water. If drains were used they are usually removed in this period. Your surgeon checks the wounds and changes the dressings before clearing you to fly, typically after 7–10 days.
Weeks 2–3: back home
Swelling and tightness are still noticeable. Most women return to desk work after about three weeks. You continue to wear the garment day and night and avoid lifting anything heavy, including children.
Weeks 4–6: more freedom
Daily life becomes easier. Light exercise such as brisk walking is usually allowed. Around week six the garment can often be reduced, and lifting children becomes possible with your surgeon’s approval.
Weeks 8–12: sport and scar care
Most women return to sport, including abdominal exercise, after about eight weeks. Scars are pink and firm at this stage; silicone gel or sheets and sun protection help them mature.
Months 3–6: the final shape
Residual swelling fades slowly, especially on the lower abdomen. The final contour settles around six months, while scars continue to fade for 12–18 months.
Preparing help at home
- Arrange help with children and housework for at least two weeks
- Keep everyday items at waist height so you do not bend or reach
- Prepare loose, front-opening clothes
- Plan the school run and shopping before you travel
New City Clinic
Why patients choose New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an Istanbul health-tourism company authorised by the Turkish Ministry of Health. Every part of your mommy makeover, from the first photo review to the last check-up, is organised by one accountable team.
- 01
Ministry of Health authorisation
New City Clinic holds the Health Tourism Authorisation Certificate of the Turkish Ministry of Health and is registered with HealthTürkiye.
- 02
Licensed partner hospitals
Surgery takes place at Acıbadem, Medicana, Medipol, Medical Park or Biruni University Hospital, named in your plan before you travel.
- 03
A named plastic surgeon
Op. Dr. Fatih Kılıç, plastic, oncology and reconstructive surgeon, plans and performs your operation and you meet him before surgery.
- 04
Certified processes
TÜRSAB licence No. 17659 and ISO 9001, ISO 10002, ISO 27001 and ISO 31000 certificates cover travel, quality, complaints, data security and risk.
- 05
Complication insurance and a written contract
Every New City Clinic package includes complication insurance; the contract and informed consent are prepared by the clinic’s legal department.
- 06
All-inclusive, in writing
Hospital, hotel, transfers, coordinator, interpreter and compression garments in one written, itemised quote, usually within 24 hours.
Questions about this topic
How painful is a mommy makeover?
The first three to five days are the most uncomfortable, mainly because of the tummy tuck. Pain is managed with medication and improves day by day.
When can I lift my child?
Usually after about six weeks, once your surgeon has checked the muscle repair.
When can I sleep on my side?
Most women sleep on their back, slightly raised, for the first two to three weeks and then gradually turn to the side.
24h
Get your personal plan and price
Send a few photos and your questions. The surgeon’s assessment is free and your written quote usually arrives within 24 hours.
- Free assessment by the surgeon
- Package with hotel, transfers and interpreter
- Compression garments and complication insurance included
- One coordinator from start to finish
Ministry of Health authorised health-tourism agency · licensed hospitals · transparent written prices.
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