Blog Article
From Rest to Reps: Easing Back Into Exercise After a Tummy Tuck
Recovery after a tummy tuck is just as important as the procedure itself. When it comes to reintroducing exercise, timing is everything. To enjoy those long-term tummy tuck results—and avoid setbacks—it’s essential to be careful how and when you reintroduce exercise after surgery. At our Denver plastic surgery practice, we guide patients through every stage of the recovery process, including how to safely return to physical activity.
Weeks 1 to 2: Rest!
Immediately after your tummy tuck, rest is your best friend. The first two weeks are all about allowing your body to heal. You’ll be dealing with swelling, bruising, and soreness, and your abdominal muscles need time to recover from the surgical repair. During this period, lots of rest is recommended, but you should also avoid being sedentary for extended periods. Raise and flex your legs while resting and go walking for a few minutes at a time to support circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Otherwise, anything beyond light movement should be avoided. This includes avoiding any resistive exercises and lifting more than 5 pounds with each hand.
Weeks 3 to 4: Light Activity
By the third or fourth week, you may be feeling more like yourself and anxious to get back to your routine. At this point, light physical activities—like walking longer distances and doing basic household tasks—can typically resume. However, any strenuous physical exercises (like running), abdominal exercises, and heavy lifting are all still off-limits. As you reintroduce any physical activity, listen to your body and avoid any movement that causes discomfort or strain.
Weeks 6 to 8: Gradually Getting Back to Fitness
Most patients can begin easing back into more structured workouts around the 6- to 8-week mark, with their surgeon’s approval. Low-impact activities such as stationary biking, gentle yoga, or swimming (after incisions are fully healed) are good options to start easing your body back into it. It’s important to build back strength slowly and avoid targeting the abdominal area too soon. Rushing into exercise can lead to complications with the healing process, but pacing yourself carefully will ensure a healthy return to your steps and reps.
When to Resume Core Workouts
Core exercises like crunches, planks, and sit-ups should be avoided until at least 8 to 12 weeks post-op. This includes any strength training for the arms, legs, and other areas that can tax the abdominal muscles. Because your abdominal muscles were repaired during surgery, overexerting them too soon could compromise your results or lead to complications. With your surgeon’s approval and depending on how your body is healing, you can gradually start to introduce core workouts and strength training after this point.
Let Your Recovery Set the Pace
Everyone heals at their own pace, and the most important thing to remember is to listen to your body. Always follow your surgeon’s guidance and check in if you’re unsure about whether it’s safe to start doing a particular physical activity. With patience, smart choices, and a gradual return to exercise, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying—and maintaining—your new figure.
For more information on tummy tucks or to book an appointment with Dr. Mouchantat, call (303) 232-8585 or contact us online today.
