There are several things a patient can do to ensure the tummy tuck surgery is successful and that recovery goes smoothly. Patients should: Quit smoking: Smoking interferes with the body's natural healing abilities and can cause complications during and after surgery. I advise all my surgical patients to quit smoking for at least 4 weeks prior to their procedures. Talk to family: Recovery from abdominoplasty can take up to 2 weeks. Though I encourage patients to resume light activities such as walking as soon as possible, they'll still need help with household chores, errands, and childcare. Having the support of family and friends during this time can make a world of difference. Stop taking some medications: Certain drugs, including over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and herbal supplements, can increase the risk of bleeding. You may be asked to temporarily stop taking some or all of these drugs prior to your surgery. For additional ways to prepare, see Your Tummy Tuck Preparation Checklist in our blog.