Bespoke Plastic Surgery in Charlotte, NC blends exceptional surgical technique with straight-talk guidance. Led by Dr. Broc Pratt—University of Florida–trained (Ambrose Paré Award), former Carolinas Medical Center faculty, and fellowship-trained at UNC Chapel Hill—our team emphasizes preparation and recovery as much as the surgery itself. With our advanced in-office operating room and optional ACLS-certified overnight nursing, we focus on safety, comfort, and results that look refined and natural. Here’s our practical, food-first guide to help you heal well after a tummy tuck.
Your At-a-Glance Recovery Nutrition Game Plan
Prioritize protein daily
- Most surgery patients benefit from ~1.2–2.0 g of protein per kg body weight to support tissue repair.
- For a 150-lb person, that’s ~80–135 g/day.
- Source it from lean poultry, fish, eggs, dairy/Greek yogurt, tofu/tempeh, and beans.
Stay ahead on hydration
- Fluids help manage swelling, support circulation, and prevent post-op constipation—common when pain meds are used.
- Sip water steadily; broths and electrolyte drinks can help if your appetite is low.
Front-load fiber (smartly)
- Aim for fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains as your appetite returns, especially if you’re on opioids.
- Add fiber gradually and keep fluids up.
Food first for micronutrients
- Vitamin C, A, zinc, and iron support normal wound healing.
- Focus on produce, lean meats/legumes, nuts, and seeds.
- Supplement only if your clinician recommends it.
What to Limit (For Now) and Why
- Alcohol: Dehydrates and can interact with pain meds—skip it while recovering.
- Ultra-processed foods: They crowd out protein and fiber and don’t support healing. Choose whole foods most of the time.
- Nicotine in any form: Cigarettes, vaping, nicotine pouches—these all impair wound oxygenation.
General Healthy Eating Tips to Support Healing
Good nutrition doesn’t just help you recover; it sets the foundation for how well your body responds to surgery, stress, and daily life. Here’s how to keep that foundation strong:
Complex carbohydrates
- Quinoa, brown rice, oats, and lentils provide slow, consistent energy that helps maintain a balanced immune system and metabolism.
- Limit refined sugars and white flour, as they can increase inflammation and cause fluctuations in energy levels.
Omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats
- Found in salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseed, omega-3s support circulation and may help reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Avocados and olive oil contribute to monounsaturated fats, which help with tissue regeneration and hormone balance—key factors for recovery and overall wellness.
Support your digestive system
- Your digestive system influences everything from nutrient absorption to immune response.
- Incorporate probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, or sauerkraut, along with prebiotic fibers (bananas, onions, garlic, oats).
- A balanced gut microbiome can enhance how your body responds to medications and manage inflammation.
Consistency over perfection
- Eat when you’re hungry, hydrate throughout the day, and listen to your body’s cues.
- Small, intentional choices—such as swapping soda for sparkling water or adding spinach to your eggs—create steady improvements over time.
Keep your kitchen stocked
- Maintain nourishing staples like pre-washed greens, cooked grains, lean proteins, and frozen vegetables.
- Having healthy options within reach makes it easier to maintain good habits when your energy levels dip after surgery.
Have Questions About Your Specific Plan?
Achieving optimal recovery requires careful preparation, consistent effort, and personalized care. At Bespoke Plastic Surgery, your healing process is as personalized as your surgical procedure. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Pratt or connect with our team during your pre-operative visit to develop a nutrition strategy that aligns perfectly with your surgical plan.