Exercise after a tummy tuck is strictly prohibited until your surgeon allows it. Why?
Because you can seriously injure yourself if you exercise too soon after surgery. And you can also spoil or alter your results.
In this article, we’ll explore when most patients should be able to exercise following a Beverly Hills tummy tuck surgery. We’ll also look at some recommended exercises as you ease back into physical activity, plus other guidelines regarding healing after your tummy tuck.
What Is Tummy Tuck Surgery?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty surgery, is a plastic surgery aimed at reshaping the midsection. The procedure removes excess skin and unwanted fat, tightening the abdominal muscles and contouring the area overall for a smoother appearance.
Patients who seek tummy tuck procedures usually wish to address sagging skin, stubborn fat deposits, and weakened abdominal muscles caused by factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging. A tummy tuck procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and is outpatient, which means patients can go home the same day as their surgery.
When Can I Exercise After Tummy Tuck Surgery?
After undergoing abdominoplasty surgery, it’s important to prioritize proper healing and adhere to your surgeon’s postoperative guidelines. This is essential when it comes to physical activity.
During the initial recovery period, which are the worst days after tummy tucks usually lasting for a few weeks, patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting exercises and other types of exercise.
This means no sports, running, weight training exercises, or other strenuous activities. It specifically means no abdominal exercises such as sit ups. Instead, light activities like walking are encouraged to promote blood circulation and prevent blood clots.
As the body continues to heal, patients can gradually reintroduce exercise into their routines. Hiring a personal trainer to help you adhere to a safe regimen and target the appropriate muscle groups could be helpful.
This usually doesn’t start for at least one to two months, however. In truth, everyone’s tummy tuck recovery exercise timeline will look different and be unique to them.
Exercises Following Tummy Tuck Procedure
Recommended cardiovascular exercises and exercise routines during your recovery from tummy tuck procedures may include:
1. Gentle Walking
This is usually the one regular exercise routine that can be done right after surgery, or within the first few days. Taking short gentle walks, (even just a brief tour around your house) will get your blood flowing and ensure good circulation.
2. Stationary Cycling
After around a month of recovery, some patients may be ready to do a bit more. Stationary cycling done at a low speed and low intensity can get you ready for more targeted exercises down the line. You won’t strain the abdomen but can strengthen the legs and improve circulation.
3. Stretching
As you regain movement and strength, you can start to stretch your legs, arms, and upper body gently. Continue to avoid straining the abdomen and your incision areas too much. But gentle stretching is a great exercise after a tummy tuck.
What Not to Do After A Tummy Tuck
After your procedure, in addition to avoiding weight lifting and other strenuous activities, here are some other important things to avoid during your healing process.
1. Don’t Ignore Postoperative Instructions
Plastic surgeons will provide you with specific postoperative instructions to follow during your recovery process. These may include wearing compression garments, taking medications, and attending follow-ups with them. Ignoring these instructions may delay your healing and increase your risk for complications.
2. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol can have negative effects on your healing. Smoking reduces blood flow to the surgical site, and alcohol can increase bleeding and cause other complications. It’s best to avoid these habits and to only resume them once you are fully healed.
3. Avoid Tight Clothing
Lastly, wearing tight clothes, such as waist trainers or other restrictive garments, should be avoided, especially right away after surgery. These garments can put pressure on your incisions in the wrong ways and cause problems. Choose loose, comfortable clothes as you recover instead.
FAQ: Exercising After A Tummy Tuck
Can I do pushups or squats after tummy tuck surgery?
After your surgery, you’ll need to avoid pushups and squats until your surgeon says it’s okay to perform these movements
Instead of these exercises, choose light activities like walking or gentle stretching during the initial recovery period. Only do what your surgeon allows you to, and gradually introduce more intense exercise like very light weights with your surgeon’s advice.
How can I tone my stomach after a tummy tuck?
To tone your stomach after a tummy tuck, consider incorporating exercises such as side bends, planks, and crunches. In addition, be sure to keep up with a healthy diet, and learn how to maintain a steady weight.
When can you work out after tummy tuck with muscle repair?
Exercising after a tummy tuck with muscle repair shouldn’t start until your surgeon says it’s okay. Those who have muscle repair often need to wait longer for their bodies to heal following surgery.
Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation Appointment
Exercise after a tummy tuck demands patience and a strict adherence to post-surgery guidelines. This will help you achieve the best possible tummy tuck results. Over time, you can resume light weight training, cardio exercises, more targeted movements, and finally, a normal exercise routine.
If you are contemplating a tummy tuck procedure, contact us today to arrange a consultation appointment with experienced and board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Charles Galanis.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-tummy-tuck-recovery
