How Soon Can You Work Out After Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Unwanted fat and loose skin in the abdomen can be disappointing, especially if you have invested time and energy exercising and making healthy dietary choices. Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can provide dramatic results, which is one of the main reasons why patients can't wait to show off their new figures.
Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso performs this skin removal surgery for Miami, FL men and women looking to achieve a flatter, tighter, more fit-looking stomach. During a one-on-one consultation, he will answer any questions and thoroughly explain the procedure, healing time, and what to expect after a tummy tuck.
Can a tummy tuck help address my concerns?
If you feel self-conscious about your waistline or are unhappy about your midsection area, a tummy tuck may be the right solution. A tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure that addresses issues, such as sagging skin, stretched underlying abdominal muscles, and pockets of unwanted fat, or a "pooch." Men can have a more toned, fit-looking midsection, or women can streamline their profile by smoothing out their lower abdomen and tightening underlying tissues and muscles. A tummy tuck provides the dramatic results of a flatter stomach and contoured waist, giving patients a more toned, balanced appearance.
When can I exercise after tummy tuck surgery?
So, when is it okay to exercise after tummy tuck? Within the first 24 hours after tummy tuck, patients, with help from another adult, need to move or gently walk around their recovery space at home to promote blood circulation and facilitate the healing process. Each day that follows, patients should walk a little bit longer and farther, increasing their strength, and getting their endurance back. Most patients will be able to follow the exercise routine below, with their doctor's approval.
1 – 2 weeks
In most cases, patients can begin more light cardio, such as walking outdoors. Mobility will be limited, but stamina should increase, making it easier to walk shorter distances while maintaining a flexed posture at the hips. By walking in a flexed position, the surgical area and abdominal muscles are protected and not pulled. Lifting any objects is still prohibited at this time.
3 – 4 weeks
As swelling dissipates and the body continues to heal, Miami, FL patients can walk further distances outside or ride a stationary bike at the gym. Strenuous exercise, strength training, yoga, or core-based programs should still be avoided.
4 – 6 weeks
Taking it slow, tummy tuck patients can incorporate lower impact activities, such as water aerobics, and even begin light strength training for the arms and legs without putting a strain on the abdominal wall.
6 – 8 weeks
Patients are typically cleared at this point by Dr. LaGrasso to resume most types of cardio or aerobic activity. Moderate swimming, running outside, and even spin class are not out of the question. Upper and lower body strength training with free weights can be incorporated, limiting the core or target area.
8 – 12 weeks
Even after two months, be patient as prolonged inflammation or swelling can occur around the waistline if core work is performed too soon following tummy tuck surgery. Waiting 1 – 2 weeks longer, or well into the third month, after surgery to target abdominal muscles with core workouts reduces the risk of altering the results or increasing symptoms of swelling or inflammation in the midsection.
Learn more about tummy tuck in Miami, FL
Patients concerned about the recovery process can take steps to speed up the healing process while preventing complications by carefully returning to an active lifestyle and following their plastic surgeon's instructions. Talk to your doctor about a general timeline for returning to physical activity before your tummy tuck to know what to expect before your procedure. If you have additional questions or are interested in this body contouring treatment, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso in Miami, FL.