Returning To Exercise After Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery
Mon 22nd Aug 2022
If you are researching Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery, you will likely be wondering how long it will take before you can return to your normal routines. You may specifically be wondering when you can begin exercising again, this article will cover everything you need to know about returning to exercise after having Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery. It is important to note that this article should guide your recovery and should not replace your surgeon’s guidance.
A Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is a rather significant procedure involving a hip-to-hip incision wound, abdominal wall muscle tightening, and significant internal surgical wounds that take time to heal. The postoperative recovery process after Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery will take some time. It is recommended that a minimum of three weeks will be required before you return to a non-physical occupation, and six weeks until you can return to light exercise.
It is important to know that it can take a few months before you can fully return to more intensive workout routines. Throughout your recovery process, it is essential that you let your body guide you as to when you can attempt new activities and not overstrain your body.
Summary:
- No heavy lifting or activities where you are straining at all for the first six weeks.
- Walk from day one post-op. However, you will be sore, very slow, and need assistance.
- You should be able to walk unassisted from one week.
- Increase the amount of walking you can do between weeks one to three.
- Very light lifting and manual tasks from weeks three to six. Listen to your body and use common sense.
- From six weeks on, you can officially return to attempting normal activities and exercise.
- Light body weight training. Light jogging. Gradually go heavier and longer with your training sessions. Week by week (not day by day) you will get stronger.
- It takes at least three to six months before you are back to normal.
Everyone’s Recovery Is Different
Whilst this article covers the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) recovery process in-depth, your first choice for advice regarding your specific recovery process must be with your surgeon, Dr Dona. Every Tummy Tuck patient’s recovery can vary depending on the individual and the variation of Tummy Tuck performed.
During your initial consultation, Dr Dona will provide you with an individualised surgical plan that will include a post-operative plan. Your post-operative plan will be very detailed and will involve three weekly in-clinic post-operative care visits with our nursing team, that will continue for a minimum of three weeks. We integrate light-based therapy into your post-operative wound healing journey. In addition, light therapy will promote healing cells, used to mature your surgical scars much faster thus, providing the best possible scar formation.
Walking and Running After Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery
During the first day after your surgery, you will be encouraged to walk around slowly with assistance. Of course, you would expect to be uncomfortable, so you can take this at your own pace.
You will continue to be encouraged to take short, intermittent walks, which will further accelerate your recovery process. Depending on how comfortable you are feeling and your fitness levels prior to surgery, it is likely that you can resume brisk walking four weeks post-surgery. This of course, is something that you can discuss within your regular post-operative appointments.
Lifting Weights and Working Out After Tummy Tuck Surgery
Six weeks after your Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure, you can return to the gym. You may choose to start with some light weights or cardio. From there, listen to your body and train based on how you are feeling.
Think of the first six weeks after surgery as RECOVERY, and beyond six weeks your mindset changes to REHABILITATION. This means that you can essentially attempt any physical activities that you want, listen to your body, and week by week you will get more comfortable and stronger. Eventually, typically at least six months post-surgery, you will be back to your usual self.
If you have any further questions about the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) recovery process or would like to request a consultation with Dr Dona, please send us a message using the enquiry form at the bottom of this article or call 1300 373 662.
